TASTE OF ESSENCE OF CHINA:

HIGHLIGHTS:

Experience the essence of this vast country-exploring Beijing, China's imperial capital city, plus historic Xi'an and the vibrant city of Shanghai.

DAY 1: ARRIVE BEIJING

Upon arrival in Beijing, you will be greeted and transferred to your hotel. The remainder of the day is at your leisure to explore this fascinating city. We recommend a visit to Silk Alley where you'll find bargains galore! Overnight: Beijing, Holiday Inn Central Plaza (Standard), Hilton (First Class) or Shangri-La China World (Deluxe) for 3 nights.

DAY 2: TIANANMEN SQUARE & TEMPLE OF HEAVEN

Walk through enormous Tiananmen Square and continue to the massive Forbidden City. Built during 1405-1420, the complex consists of endless halls and palaces, divided into political, living and recreational areas. In the afternoon, visit China's largest temple and altar complex as well as the city's symbol-The Temple of Heaven. Tonight, enjoy China's number one specialty, the Beijing Roast Duck Dinner , at a local restaurant. (B,L,D)

DAY 3: MING TOMBS & GREAT WALL

Your guide will bring to life the Ming Tombs and its Sacred Way, also called the Way of the Spirit this morning. From here, travel further northeast for what will be the highlight of your trip, the Great Wall of China at the Mutianyu section. Here you will enjoy a barbecue lunch at a local fishing farm. (B,L)

DAY 4: BEIJING - XI'AN

In the morning, visit the Summer Palace favored by royal families in the Qing Dynasty (1644-1911 AD). Take an afternoon flight to Xi'an (flight included). Xi'an is also known as Chang'an, which means "Everlasting Peace." Overnight: Xi'an, Bell Tower (Standard), Hyatt Regency (First Class) or Sofitel on Renmin Square (Deluxe) for 2 nights. (B,L)

DAY 5: TERRA COTTA WARRIORS, GREAT MOSQUE & TANG DYNASTY DINNER SHOW

You will be mesmerized by the enormity of the Terra Cotta Warriors & Horses. Once buried for 2000 years and found during a local farmer's sinking of a well, this is an awesome sight. Your afternoon tour includes the Great Mosque- one of the four most famous in China and the ancient City Wall. Enjoy the Tang Dynasty Dinner Show in the evening. (B,L,D)

DAY 6: XI'AN - SHANGHAI
Visit the Provincial Museum, devoted largely to the history of the Silk Road and one of China's first modern museums. Continue to the Big Wild Goose Pagoda, originally built 1,300 years ago to house Buddhist scriptures brought back from India. Take an afternoon flight to Shanghai (flight included). On arrival, you'll be met and transferred to your hotel. Overnight: Shanghai, Holiday Inn Downtown (Standard), Jinjiang Hotel (First Class) or
Radisson New World (Deluxe) for 2 nights. (B,L)

DAY 7: JADE BUDDHA TEMPLE, YU GARDEN & ACROBATIC SHOW

See many of Shanghai's highlights today. Wander through the Shanghai Museum, continue on to the Jade Buddha Temple and later visit the Yu Garden with its intricate design complete with pavilions, lakes and bridges. Enjoy the world-class acrobatic show at the Grand Theatre in the evening. (B,L)

DAY 8: DEPART SHANGHAI

Enjoy time at leisure this morning before being transferred to the airport for your onward flight
(flight not included). (B)

Departs: Daily