Highlights of China With Yunnan

Upon your arrival in Beijing, you will be met by your guide and driver at the airport. Transfer to your hotel to unwind or venture out to explore this dynamic city on your own.

Your Day in Detail

Today, unfold the mysterious Imperial City. Commence at Tiananmen Square, then enter the Forbidden City, the Chinese imperial palace complex of the Ming and Qing dynasties. Wander through the sprawling palaces and courtyards, and admire the scarlet defense walls, exquisite glazed tiles, majestic halls, and countless ancient and expensive collections.

Afterward, ascend Jingshan Park to be rewarded with a panoramic view of the golden rooftops of the Forbidden City.

Your Day in Detail

Today, venture to the Mutianyu Great Wall. You'll take the cable car to easily climb up, then enjoy the panoramic views from the watchtowers along the way. Rolling verdant hills and undulating mountains extend as far as the eye can see, you can stop and take a break whenever you like. With the fresh mountain breeze and wide-open views around you, it's the perfect moment to simply relax and enjoy the scenery.

Your Day in Detail

Start your day by visiting the Temple of Heaven, where ancient emperors conducted ceremonial sacrifices. Stroll through ornate gates to the Hall of Prayer for Good Harvests, a rotunda with a 3-tiered blue roof, the symbolic center of the temple.

In the afternoon, fly to Xi'an, the starting point of the Silk Road and a melting pot of cultures. Your guide will welcome and escort you to your hotel.

Your Day in Detail

Today, behold the magnificent Terracotta Warriors, a life-size legion of soldiers made over 2,200 years ago, each with a distinct expression and standing in battle formation within massive underground vaults.

End your day immersed in the sights and sounds of the Muslim Quarter, an enclave of bustling vendor stalls wafting delicious aromas. Infused with the vibrant pulse of Islamic culture, it is a feast for all the senses.

Your Day in Detail

Before leaving Xi'an, visit the magnificent Hanyang Tomb, the final resting place of Emperor Jing. A treasure trove of ancient Chinese artifacts, the mausoleum is renowned for delicate stone-carved sculptures, vividly painted murals, and life-size terracotta figures that provide a glimpse into the glory of the Han dynasty.

Then fly to Kunming, the City of Eternal Spring. Nestled in the fertile Yunnan plateau, Kunming enjoys a mild climate all year round. Your local guide will meet you at the airport and transfer you to your hotel.

Your Day in Detail

In the morning, head to the Stone Forest, part of Yunnan's karst plateau and a remarkable example of nature's craftsmanship. The strange and varied rock formations take on different shapes as you follow the trails, and from different angles, you may see animals, people, or even entire scenes. You may not remember what the landscape looked like hundreds of millions of years ago when it lay beneath the sea, but you'll remember the fun of letting your imagination decide what each rock looks like.

Afterward, embark on a scenic 3.5-hour drive to Jianshui for overnight stay.

Your Day in Detail

Begin the day at Chaoyang Gate, one of the landmarks of Jianshui's old town, then visit the Temple of Confucius and its peaceful courtyards. Continue to the Zhu and Zhang Family Gardens, where traditional homes, gardens, ponds, and old trees offer a glimpse into how wealthy families once lived in Jianshui.

Later, stop at the Twin Dragon Bridge, a graceful 17-arch stone bridge spanning the river. Take a walk across the bridge and admire its reflection in the water before leaving Jianshui behind. A scenic three-hour drive takes you to Yuanyang, where the famous rice terraces await.

After enjoying the picturesque scenery of Jianshui Town, drive 3 hours to Yuanyang, home to spectacular rice terrace vistas.

Your Day in Detail

Today, hike to the Bada and Shengcun Rice Terraces and be mesmerized by their beauty - rice terraces that cascade down the mountainsides in waves of emerald and gold, portraying living art.

After lunch, explore the Duoyishu Rice Terraces before watching the sunset ignite the Laohuzhui Rice Terraces in a fiery glow.

Bid a fond farewell to Yuanyang's rural wonders and drive back to Kunming. You can take the rest of the time to unwind at the hotel, recharging for the adventure that awaits on the morrow.

Your Day in Detail

This morning, board a train to Dali, a paradise nestled between mountains and Erhai Lake. As you wander in Xizhou Town, intricate Bai homes surround you. Overlapping arches and carved gates at every turn display their artistic gifts. In this village snuggled between lake and mountain, discover the creativity that flows in the Bai blood.

Then, Dali Ancient Town is waiting for you. As you stroll down the stone slab streets, whitewashed houses with sloping rooftops and richly carved eaves unfold before your eyes. As the sun dips behind the Cangshan Mountains, take a wooden boat onto the rippling waters of Erhai Lake. Majestic peaks and old villages are mirrored in the peaceful lake, a static picture suddenly comes alive.

Your Day in Detail

Today, enjoy a cycling tour around Erhai Lake, one of the best ways to take in its beautiful scenery at a leisurely pace. Pedal along the lakeside with the mountains rising beyond the blue water, stopping from time to time to enjoy the views and take photos. The ride offers chance to pass secluded temples, pagodas, and timeless villages, accompanied by birdsongs and the sounds of nature.

Your Day in Detail

Your first stop is Shaxi Ancient Town, a well-preserved relay station on the ancient Tea and Horse Road. The white walls and gray-tiled buildings along the river showcase a distant historical memory. The ancient stone roads and bridges connect the stores, highlighting simplicity and antiquity.

Then arrive at the Lijiang Ancient Town, with 800 years of history solidified here. Atop Lion Hill, the panorama of the town unfolds before your eyes, while Jade Dragon Snow Mountain stands aloof in the distance. Visit the Museum of Naxi Dongba Culture, a stove housing a large collection of Naxi cultural relics, providing an in-depth look into the lives, religions, and customs of this mysterious ethnic group.

Your Day in Detail

Your journey continues with Jade Dragon Snow Mountain, where majestic peaks, stretching as far as the eye can see, stand over a sea of rolling clouds and fog with their snow crowns glistening in the sun. Near the foot of the mountain, explore the rustic Baisha Village. Today's journey ends with Black Dragon Pool Park, with its crystal water reflecting the gallant snow mountain.

Your Day in Detail

Start your day's exploration with the Iron Chain Bridge at Stone Drum Town. Walk the creaking planks of the iron chain bridge and gaze at the churning waters below.

Afterward, head to the First Bend of the Yangtze River. Gazing into the distance, the Jinsha River appears as a gently fluttering silk ribbon, emerging and disappearing in the cyan canyon. At the farthest end of your vision stands the towering Jade Dragon Snow Mountain, half hidden in the clouds and mist.

Then you will move next to the Tiger Leaping Gorge. As you stand amid the gorge's depths, pristine azure waters swirl around verdant hills, creating a primeval yet ethereal scene of natural splendor.

You have the morning free to explore at your leisure. In the afternoon, be transferred to the airport for your flight to Guilin. Upon arrival, your local guide will meet you and escort you to your hotel to help you check in. If time allows, you may head to the Reed Flute Cave.

Your Day in Detail

Take a leisurely cruise down the Li River, flanked by lush green foothills and dramatic karst peaks reflected in the crystalline waters. Don't forget to capture the iconic scene depicted on the 20 yuan note of craggy mountains.

Disembark at Yangshuo, a charming town amid postcard-perfect scenery. When twilight falls, take a stroll on West Street, shop for handicrafts, and snack on local fare.

Your Day in Detail

This morning, the picturesque countryside awaits to enchant you in Yangshuo. Set off to explore the Yangshuo countryside. You have the option to walk, cycle, or take a comfortable car ride through the scenic surroundings at your own pace. Stroll down winding paths through green paddies and lush hills, awash in golden sunlight. Breathe in the crisp, clean air scented with country fragrance. Time flows unhurriedly here like the tranquil river currents.

If you would like to visit a local farmer's house to experience their daily village life, please check with your guide in advance.

After feasting your eyes on the beauty of Yangshuo, drive back to Guilin and board your flight to Shanghai, a bustling metropolis pulsating with modern energy.

Your Day in Detail

After breakfast, start your exploration of Shanghai. First, visit the Shanghai Museum which houses a large collection of ancient Chinese artworks. Peruse the calligraphic characters and pore over vivid silks and porcelain.

Afterward, take a stroll in the Yu Garden and experience the charm of traditional Chinese garden architecture. The nearby Yuyuan Market is a great place to snack on local specialties and experience local life.

Later, head to the Bund. On the street, over twenty historical buildings of various styles stand like sentinels guarding the bustling traffic, exuding an air of old-world extravagance and grandeur.

Finish the tour at the Shanghai World Financial Center. Ascend to its observatory deck in the sky and behold a scenic panorama of this visionary metropolis.

Have some time at leisure before your guide takes you to the airport for your return flight.