Essential China with Hong Kong

Welcome to China's historic capital city. Hotel rooms are available for mid-afternoon check-in.

Meet your Tour Director and travel companions prior to morning sightseeing in Beijing. Begin at vast Tian'anmen Square, one of the largest public squares in the world, followed by a guided visit inside the Forbidden City, the former imperial palace of China's emperors for over 500 years. The afternoon is at your leisure; consider joining an optional excursion to the Temple of Heaven. This evening, enjoy a welcome Peking duck dinner, a signature dish of Beijing.

The Great Wall of China once stretched 4,000 miles across China's barren northern terrain from the Bohai Sea to the Gobi Desert. Head north to a village where the Great Wall is well preserved and walk along this iconic landmark to enjoy sweeping vistas.

Today, board a high-speed train to Xi'an, the former ancient capital. One of the largest and wealthiest cities in the world when China dominated the silk trade, Xi'an today is an archaeological treasure trove. The remainder of the day is at your leisure.

Sightseeing begins with one of the most extraordinary archaeological discoveries of the 20th century—the Terracotta Warriors. Accidentally uncovered by local farmers in 1974, this immense underground army was created to stand watch over the tomb of China's first emperor, Qin Shi Huangdi. Marvel at the legion of life-size clay soldiers, horses, and chariots that have been guarding the burial site for 2,000 years.

Catch a bullet train to Chengdu, capital of Sichuan and home of the giant panda. Enjoy some time at leisure before dinner at your hotel.

Journey through the mountainous scenery to the Wolong Giant Panda Nature Reserve, home to over 170 pandas. Learn how this area protects and rehabilitates these beautiful animals. This evening is yours to explore Chengdu, renowned for its bold, flavorful cuisine. Try a bite on an optional excursion featuring Sichuan hot pot, followed by a traditional face-changing performance, an iconic culinary and cultural experience of the city.

Fly to Shanghai, China's largest city and a global center of commerce and culture. The balance of the day is yours to explore this dynamic metropolis.

Sightseeing today includes a stroll through the Old Town and beautiful Yu Yuan Garden, a place of peace and tranquility in this bustling city. Walk along the famous Bund with its colonial architecture, then enjoy lunch at a local restaurant.

Spend the day at your leisure, or join an optional excursion to Zhujiajiao Ancient Water Town. With a history of more than 1,700 years, this little town is the best-preserved among ancient towns in Shanghai, featuring graceful stone bridges over quiet canals, willow-lined waterways, and traditional courtyard homes. Tonight, join your Tour Director and traveling companions for a special farewell dinner featuring Shanghai's famous xiaolongbao dumplings.

After breakfast this morning, transfer to the airport for your flight to Hong Kong.

Please Note: Your Tour Director does not accompany you to Hong Kong.

Sightseeing with your Local Guide begins with a cable-car ride up Victoria Peak to Lion Peak's Pavillion for panoramic views. Then, explore the Old Town Central neighborhood and Avenue of Stars. Visit historic Man Mo Temple, then savor a Michelin-awarded dim sum lunch. Enjoy free time this afternoon.

Enjoy a full day at your leisure. Head over to Lantau Island to view the Giant Buddha, or take a full-day optional outing to historic Macau.

Your tour ends with breakfast this morning.