China Family Adventure

Huan ying, welcome to China! Airport arrival transfer and hotel check in. Remainder of the afternoon at leisure.

Tiananmen Square is essentially the heart of Beijing. A patriotic vision of grandeur, Tiananmen Square is a square for the public and home of the mausoleum of Chairman Mao and the striking Monument to the People's Heroes. Dominating the city centre is the Forbidden City, a centre of power for five centuries and seat of the emperors. Entering through the Gate of Heavenly Peace (replete with Chairman Mao's portrait), we enjoy a guided tour of this old city within a city.

Later, we take a rickshaw ride through the Hutongs of Beijing. As our trusty rickshaw driver peddles us through the network of alleys and old back lanes, we gain a fascinating snapshot of the city's traditional way of life. After a break for lunch we travel to the Pearl Market - an Aladdin's Cave of souvenirs, handbags and gadgets for a spot of shopping.

Tonight, after a traditional dinner we attend a Chinese acrobatic performance. (B/D)

Today, we drive beyond Beijing to Badaling, to walk a section of the famous Great Wall. A symbol of total Chinese genius, the Great Wall is a cultural icon. At least 20 dynasties were involved in its construction. Stretching some 6700 kilometres, we walk along just a small chunk of this massive masterpiece of human endeavour.

Afterwards we enjoy lunch and visit a Jade Carving Centre, before boarding the overnight sleeper train (4 berth soft sleeper cabin) to Xi'an. (B/L)

Arrive Xi'an, hotel check in and free morning. Today we visit one of the 20th century's greatest finds - the Terracotta Warriors! Comprising of more than 7,000 life-sized soldiers which stand in military formation in excavated pits under the cover of a modern protective hanger. Made of local clay, no two faces are alike. We also visit a workshop where warrior figurines are made. (B/L)

This morning we visit the Tang Culture Museum. We get a brief introduction to the Folk Art of Shaanxi, traditional painting and calligraphy. Afterwards we get the chance to try our hand at calligraphy using a brush and some ink!

Encircling Xi'an's old city is the 15km in length and 6 metres wide medieval wall. This afternoon we'll take a leisurely bicycle ride along the wall (solo or tandem). Looking down offers delightful views of the city hubbub and daily life. Afterwards we spend some time in the down town area, giving an opportunity to enjoy a western meal if you choose before boarding our overnight sleeper train to Shanghai. (B)

Good morning Shanghai! Perhaps China's most modern city, its amazing Pudong skyline is stunning. Spend the morning at leisure and later this afternoon we take a drive along the Bund and through old Shanghai before departing on a sunset cruise along the Huangpu River with dinner afterwards. (B/D)

Today offers free time to independently explore. Perhaps visit the Oriental Pearl TV tower, the Jade Buddha Temple, French Quarter, Shanghai Disneyland or take a more interactive approach and discover Shanghai's Science and Technology Museum with IMAX 3D, IWERKS 4D and space theatres, it's a top spot for kids! (B)

It's time to take your little Warriors or Dragons home. Our tour concludes after breakfast, hotel check out is at 12 noon and included departure transfer to the airport. Happy Travels! (B)