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The Great Itinerary: 20-day China Tour
Shanghai, Suzhou, Beijing, Xi'an, Guilin,
Chengdu, Chongqing,
Yangtze River Cruise
Experience the best of
China, both old and new!
Highlights:
• This tour takes you to all the essential spots in China. You’ll travel to Beijing, China’s capital city, Xi’an, China’s ancient capital and home to the Terracotta Warriors, and Shanghai, China’s biggest and most cosmopolitan city
• You’ll sail down the mighty Yangtze on a Yangtze River Cruise, going on shore excursions along the way, with your cruise culminating in a trip to the gargantuan Three Gorges Dam
B=breakfast;
L=lunch; D=dinner Departure:
Upon booking
Package Price
Price is based on the time of
travel and number of customers. Please inquire through the form
on the left side of the page, we'll quote the best price we can
get. As this tour package involves domestic transfers, the
package price will vary from time to time because of the
changing airfares and hotel rates. |
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TOUR ITINERARY |
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Tour
code:
EXCHINA20 |
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Day 1: arrive in Shanghai
You will fly to Shanghai, and upon arrival you will be met by your English-speaking guide. Shanghai, China’s largest metropolis, is a dazzling mixture of old and new. Traditional and classic Chinese gardens and temples sit side by side with modern sky scrapers and shopping plazas. Currently hosting the 2010 World Expo, Shanghai is on the minds of all international travelers this year.
After meeting your guide, you will be taken to your hotel, the 4 star Courtyard Marriott Hotel, located in downtown Shanghai. You will have the rest of the evening to relax and unwind from your flight. |
Day 2: Shanghai Expo (B)
Today you will have a full day to visit the expo, and your tickets will be provided. While transportation will be on your own, there is a multitude of ways to get o the expo site. You can go by subway, taxi, or bus. The hotel will provide you all the information you will need on how to get to the expo.
The theme of this year’s expo is “Better city-better life”. In terms of gross numbers, this year’s expo is expected to be the most visited in its history. The Shanghai Expo features the participation of over 190 countries and companies, with many having their own pavilions. In addition, there are five central theme pavilions exploring different aspects of urban life: Urban Footprints, Urban Planet, Urban Dwellers, Urban Beings, and Urban Dreams. In addition, many countries have their own pavilions with their own take on the theme of “Better city, better life”. |
Day 3: Shanghai Expo (B)
Like yesterday, today will be a full day for you to go to the World Expo. Travel will again be on your own, and expo tickets are provided. |
Day 4:
Shanghai Expo (B)
This will be your final day to go to the expo. Like the previous two days your expo tickets will be provided, and transportation will be on your own. |
Day 5: Shanghai-Suzhou (B, L)
Following breakfast, you will be taken by car to Suzhou, a city renowned for its classical garden and canal towns, and is regarded as the “Venice of the East”. Your first point of attraction in Suzhou, will be the Humble Administrator’s Garden. The garden is the best representative of Chinese classical gardens, constructed in the Ming dynasty, which focuses on a central pond with pavilions, terraces, chambers, and towers located nearby, the garden is divided into three parts: the eastern, middle and western parts. At 5 hectares the largest of these beautiful gardens, it is one of the most famous one. You should wear comfortable shoes, as there's a lot of walking here.
After strolling through the garden, we will make our way to the monument to Suzhou’s famed export, silk, in the Silk Museum. The entire museum design is dignified and elegant - yet unconventional - combining a sense of ancient civilization with modern style. The Suzhou Silk Museum is divided into several parts: the Introductory Hall, the Ancient Exhibit Hall, the Silkworm-Rearing Room, the Silk Weaving Workshop, the Neoteric (1840 - 1919) Exhibit Hall, and the Modern (1919 - 1949) Exhibit Hall. There are also retail stores for purchasing silk.
We will then head over to the Panmen Gate. Lying to the southwest of Suzhou, Panmen Gate was built on the base of some historic sites by using the architectural structure of classical gardens. It is famous for its numerous historic relics and abundant human landscapes and has been listed as the National AAAA Tourist Area. Now, Panmen Gate has become a tourist resort showing the unique historic and cultural features of Suzhou. The scenery area, which is centered on Panmen City Gate consists of many scenic spots. Amongst them, Ruiguang Pagoda, Panmen City Gate and Wumen Bridge are praised as 'three fine sceneries'.
We will cap off day in Suzhou with a cruise on the Grand Cana of the Jiangsu Riverl. The river houses and red lanterns along with the calm water and sounds of crickets will transport you back in time to a far simpler and remote China.
After the canal cruise we’ll make the 2 hour drive back to Shanghai, and you’ll stay at the same hotel. |
Day 6:
Shanghai-Beijing (by air) (B, L)
After breakfast, you will be driven to the airport for your flight to Beijing. Upon arrival, you will be met by our English-speaking guide and taken to your centrally located 4 or 5 star hotel.
Your first attraction in Beijing will be the Summer Palace. Having the largest royal park and being well preserved, the Summer Palace is ranked amongst the most noted and classical gardens of the world. In 1998, UNESCO listed it as one of the World Heritage Sites. Like most of the gardens of Beijing, it could not elude the rampages of the Anglo-French allied force of 1860 and was destroyed by fire. In 1888, Empress Dowager Cixi embezzled navy funds to reconstruct it for her own benefit, changing its name to Summer Palace (Yiheyuan). She spent most of her later years there, dealing with state affairs and entertaining. Highlights not to be missed are climbing Longevity Hill, viewing the Empress Dowager Cixi’s extravagant Marble Boat, and talking a walk down Suzhou jie, a canal meant to resemble the river city of Suzhou. After visiting Suzhou you will be able to compare the two and judge its authenticity!
You’ll then be taken to the Olympic Park, the center of the event that captivated the world for two weeks in August of 2008. The highlights include the Bird’s Nest (officially known as the Beijing National stadium) and the Water Cube (the Beijing National Aquatics Center). The stadium gets its nickname from its outward design, which originated from the study of Chinese ceramics, implementing steel beams in order to hide supports for the retractable roof, thus giving the stadium the appearance of a "Bird's nest". The Bird’s Nest hosted the Opening and Closing Ceremonies, athletic events, and football final of the 2008 Summer Olympics, from 8 August to 24 August 2008. Since the Olympic end, the Bird’s Nest has been used to host events from opera to a ski park.
Despite its nickname, the Water Cube is not a cube but a cuboid, (a rectangular box). The outer wall of the building is based on the Weaire–Phelan structure, a structure devised from the natural formation of bubbles in soap foam. The complex Weaire–Phelan pattern was developed by slicing through bubbles in soap foam, resulting in more irregular, organic patterns than foam bubble structures proposed earlier by the scientist Kelvin. The Water Cube hosted the swimming, diving, and synchronized swimming events during the Olympics, and was the sight of Michael Phelps’ record breaking Olympic triumph.
After dinner tonight, you will be treated to a performance of traditional Chinese acrobatics. |
Day 7: Beijing (B, L, D)
After breakfast we will take a short drive outside of Beijing to explore China’s most famed attraction, the Great Wall. Our tour will be at the Mutianyu section. As one of the best-preserved parts of the Great Wall, the Mutianyu section of the Great Wall used to serve as the northern barrier defending the capital and the imperial tombs. First built in the mid-6th century during the Northern Qi, Mutianyu Great Wall is older than the Badaling section of the Great Wall. In the Ming dynasty, under the supervision of General Xu Da, construction of the present wall began on the foundation of the wall of Northern Qi. In 1404, a pass was built in the wall. In 1569, the Mutianyu Great Wall was rebuilt and till today most parts of it are well preserved.
Compared with other sections of Great Wall, the Mutianyu Great Wall possesses unique characteristics in its construction. Watchtowers are densely placed along this section of the Great Wall - 22 watchtowers on this 2,250-meter-long stretch. The Mutianyu Pass consists of 3 watchtowers, one big in the center and two smaller on both sides. Standing on the same terrace, the three watchtowers are connected to each other inside and compose a rarely seen structure among all sections of Great Wall. To get on and off the wall, a round-trip cable car ticket is included.
After a delicious lunch we will make the short journey by minibus to the Ming Tombs. The Ming Tombs, about 50 km/31 miles from Beijing, are where 13 emperors of the Ming Dynasty (1368-1644) are buried. This site was carefully chosen for its feng shui principles by the third Ming emperor Yongle (who also moved the capital from Nanjing to Beijing and began construction on the Forbidden City). The tomb we will visit, Dingling, is the tomb of the Wanli Emperor. It is the only one of the Ming Dynasty Tombs to have been excavated. It also remains the only imperial tomb to have been excavated since the founding of the People's Republic of China. After viewing the tombs, we will head to the “Shenlu”, or the Spirit Way. The Spirit Way leads into the complex, lined with statues of guardian animals and officials, with a front gate consisting of a three-arches, painted red, and called the "Great Red Gate". The Spirit Way, or Sacred Way, starts with a huge stone memorial archway lying at the front of the area. Constructed in 1540, during the Ming Dynasty, this archway is one of the biggest stone archways in China today.
For the evening you will enjoy a delectable dinner of Peking Duck, Beijing’s signature culinary dish. |
Day 8: Beijing (B, L)
Following breakfast we will embark on a leisurely stroll through the hutongs of old Beijing in Xicheng district. Hutongs are courtyard homes grouped together around narrow alleys, and served as the lifeline and center of everyday life in old Beijing. The hutongs were a critical component in the development and evolution of Beijing folklore and culture. Going on this hutong tour, you will feel like you have traveled back in time to a far different China, one where there was still an emperor sitting in the Forbidden City, and where there was still enough time to enjoy the simple pleasures of common life.
After your hutong tour we will go to visit the Lhama Temple. Other than the temples in Tibet this is the best Buddhist temple in China. Work on the Lhama Temple originally began in 1694 during the Qing dynasty. It served as an official residence for court eunuchs. It was then converted into the home of the Prince Yong, a son of the Kangxi Emperor and himself the future Yongzheng Emperor. It was converted into a lamasery after his ascension to the throne in 1722. Today the Lhama Temple still functions as a monastery and temple of the Geluk School of Tibetan Buddhism. Walking through the temple your senses will be enveloped by the incenses and the chanting of the visiting monks and other followers. The rear Pavilion of Ten Thousand Happinesses features a 26m tall statue of the Maitreya Buddha cared from a single piece of white sandalwood. It is one of three artworks in the Lhama Temple that were included in the Guiness Book of World Records, and it is not to be missed on your visit.
After lunch at a local restaurant, we’ll make the short drive to the Temple of Heaven park. The complex was visited by the Emperors of the Ming and Qing dynasties for annual ceremonies of prayer to Heaven for good harvest. The Temple of Heaven park is best known for the Hall of Prayer for Good Harvests, an iconic building famed for its magnificent triple-gabled circular roof. You will also have an opportunity to walk the same imperial walkway that the same emperors walked hundreds of years ago in their holy rites. You will also see Beijing’s senior citizens using the park grounds for everything from tai chi and ballroom dancing to bullwhip practice!
The rest of the evening can be spent at your discretion. |
Day 9 : Beijing-Xi’an (B, D) (by air)
In the morning you will be taken to the Beijing airport, and you will fly on to Xi’an, China’s ancient capital, that serves as the country’s “valley of the kings”. Upon arrival you’ll be met by your guide, and you’ll first be taken to Big Wild Goose Pagoda.
The Big Wild Goose Pagoda is one of the most famous Buddhist pagodas in China. The Pagoda was built in the Tang Dynasty (618-907) for the study of Buddhist scriptures. Although it has been attacked by centuries of weather, war and seismic activity, which destroyed most of the original material of the structure, a pagoda by this name and style still exists on the site. The Tang regime gave orders to build a chamber for the translation of Buddhist scriptures in an effort to have the then widely renowned Master Xuanzang agree to be the head of the temple. Xuanzang was a Buddhist monk who traveled to India, translated Sanskrit scriptures and developed theories of consciousness, karma and rebirth that were adopted by some later popular schools of Buddhism.
The hallowed pagoda is an architectural marvel. It was built with layers of bricks without any cement. The bracket style used in traditional Chinese architecture was also used in the construction of the pagoda. The seams between each layer of bricks and the " prisms' on each side of the pagoda are clearly visible. The grand body of the pagoda with its solemn appearance, simple style and high structure, is indeed a good example of Chinese traditional architecture.
Then you can unwind a bit by taking a leisurely stroll on the Xi’an City Wall. It's the most complete city wall that has survived in China, as well being one of the largest ancient military defensive systems in the world. Xi'an City Wall was erected in the 14th century Ming Dynasty, under the regime of Emperor Zhu Yuanzhang. When Zhu Yuanzhang captured Huizhou, long before the establishment of the Ming Dynasty, he was admonished by a hermit named Zhu Sheng, who told him to "build high walls, store abundant provisions and take your time in proclaiming yourself emperor." If you like, you have the option of renting a bike or a rickshaw on the wall in order to cover more ground in a shorter time.
For dinner, dinner, you’ll be treated to an evening of culture and entertainment in the form of the Tang Dynasty Music and Dance Show. The Tang Dynasty Music and Dance Show, a wonderful performance of the ancient music and dance, is a must when you visit Xian. The city, which was formerly known as Chang'an has a very long history, and was the imperial capital during 13 dynastic periods. Of these, the Tang Dynasty (618 - 907) was the most prosperous and glorious of all.
The Tang Dynasty Music and Dance Show is an outstanding exponent of this ancient stable and prosperous society, keeping alive its splendid culture and providing an insight into the peaceful life style of the period. As an art form, the show has its roots in folk fetes, when dances were first performed by people as part of rituals of prayer for a good harvest or a better life. Combining poetry with the skilled playing of musical instruments, singing, dancing and also stunning costumes, the modern presentation is certain to give you an impressive view of ancient China including its splendid history, brilliant arts, distinct traditions and customs.
For the night you will stay in a centrally located 4 or 5 star hotel. |
Day 10 : Xi’an-Guillin (B, L) (by air)
After breakfast you’ll be taken to Xian’s signature attraction, the Terracotta Warriors. The Terra Cotta Warriors and Horses Museum is the result of the most significant archeological excavations of the 20th century. Work is ongoing at this site, which is around 1.5 kilometers east of Emperor Qin Shi Huang's Mausoleum. It is a sight not to be missed by any visitor to China. Upon ascending the throne at the age of 13 (in 246 BC), Qin Shi Huang, later the first Emperor of all China, had begun to work for his mausoleum. It took 11 years to finish. It is speculated that many buried treasures and sacrificial objects had accompanied the emperor in his after life. A group of peasants uncovered some pottery while digging for a well nearby the royal tomb in 1974. Life size terracotta figures of warriors and horses arranged in battle formations are the star features at the museum. They are replicas of what the imperial guard should look like in those days of pomp and vigor.
The museum is divided into three sections: No. 1 Pit, No. 2 Pit, and No. 3 Pit respectively. They were tagged in the order of their discoveries. No. 1 Pit is the largest, first opened to the public on China's National Day, 1979. There are columns of soldiers at the front, followed by war chariots at the back. No. 2 Pit, found in 1976, contains over a thousand warriors and 90 chariots of wood. It was unveiled to the public in 1994. Archeologists came upon No. 3 Pit also in 1976. It is the command center of the armed forces. It went on display in 1989, with 68 warriors, a war chariot and four horses.
After lunch, you’ll be taken to the Xi’an airport, where you will fly to Guillin, which is located in Guangxi province in southwest China. Upon arrival at the Guillin airport, you will be met by your guide, who will take you to your centrally located 5 star hotel. |
Day 11: Guillin (B, L, D)
Today you will be cruising down one of the world’s most stunning rivers, the Li. Gorgeous karst peaks give you surprises at each bend of the limpid river under the blue sky. Water buffalo patrol the fields, peasants reap rice paddies, school kids and fisherman float by on bamboo rafts. With its breathtaking scenery and taste of a life far removed from the concrete metropolis, the scenery along the Li River become one of China's top tourist destinations. Some of the highlights you will see on your 7-8hour cruise will be Elephant Trunk Hill, a hill resembling an Elephant taking water from its trunk, Pagoda Hill, just a few minutes away from the Elephant Trunk Hill, Daxu Town, an ancient river town, and of course you will also see local fisherman and workers over their normal course of work. The cruise down the Li River offers a fascinating insight into the lives of the local population here.
Our cruise will terminate at Yangshuo, a lush and exotic county that includes minority groups from all over Asia. After walking along Yangshuo’s streets for a while, we will drive back to Guillin for the evening. |
Day 12: Guillin-Chengdu (B, L) (by air)
After breakfast we’ll head to view the Elephant Trunk Hill. Located at the confluence of the Li River and Peach Blossom River in the south central area of Guilin City, it looks like a huge elephant stretching its trunk and drinking water, hence the name. Elephant Trunk Hill is the symbol of Guilin and its karst landscape.
Then we’ll head for the Reed Flute Cave, a fascinating gallery of natural sculpture (limestone cave formations), now enhanced by multicolored lighting. It has been one of Guilin’s most interesting attractions for over 1200 years. It rates as one of the top four tourist sites in the city. The cave is about 240 meters long and a tour lasts about one hour. Along the u-shaped route, you will have ample time see the oddly shaped rocks and stone pillars while the guide narrates interesting stories about them. Illuminated by the colored lights, the cave looks like a dazzling underground palace. That’s why the cave is also known as the Nature’s Art Palace.
You’ll then be taken to the Guillin airport, where you will fly on to Chengdu , the capital of Sichuan province in southwest China. Upon arrival you’ll be met at the airport by your local English-speaking guide. You will be lodging at a 4 or 5 star hotel that is locate din downtown Chengdu. |
Day 13: Chengdu (B, L)
Today’s activities will revolve around seeing the Leshan Buddha, the largest representation of Buddha in the world. We will make the 160km (100 mile ) drive in the morning.
The Leshan Giant Buddha is a statue of Maitreya (a Bodhisattva usually represented as a very stout monk with a broad smile on his face and with his naked breast and paunch exposed to view) in sitting posture. The Buddha is located to the east of Leshan City, Sichuan Province, at the confluence of three rivers, namely, Min River, Qingyi River, and Dadu River. The statue makes itself the most renowned scenic spot in Leshan City. In December, 1996, the location of the Buddha was included by UNESCO on the list of the World Heritage sites. Begun in the year 713 in the Tang Dynasty, and finished in the year 803, the statue took people more than 90 years to carve. During these years, thousands of workers had expended their efforts and wisdom on the project. As the biggest carved stone Buddha in the world, Leshan Giant Buddha is featured in poetry, song and story.
We’ll then drive back to Chengdu to visit the Wuhou Memorial Temple. It is the most famous and influential of the temples dedicated to Zhuge Liang who lived from 181 until 234 AD. He is one of China’s famous historic figures, and he was a renowned minister and military strategist for Emperor Liu Bei (161-223) of the Shu Kingdom during the Three Kingdoms period in China. The temple is also dedicated to Emperor Liu Bei. It was built during the Qing dynasty in 1672. Because Zhuge Liang was granted the title of “Wuxiang Hou” (Marquis Wuxiang) in his lifetime, this temple is known as the Wuhou Memorial Temple. The temple is one of Chengdu’s major attractions and contains numerous statues to Emperor Liu Bei, Zhuge Liang and other officials of the Shu Kingdom, and there are ancient inscriptions and tablets that are famous in China.
Chengdu is known throughout China for its tea house culture, and in the evening we’ll visit a local tea house to understand why no one does tea like Chengdu. |
Day 14: Chengdu (B, L)
Following breakfast we’ll set out for the Dujianyan Irrigation Ditch, which is one of the marvels of Chinese science. Over 2,200 years ago, the city was threatened by the frequent floods caused by flooding of the Minjiang River (a tributary of the Yangtze River ). Li Bing, a local official of Sichuan Province at that time, together with his son, decided to construct an irrigation system on the Minjiang River to prevent flooding. After a lengthy study and a lot of hard work by the local people, the great Dujiangyan Irrigation Project was completed. Since then, the Chengdu Plain has been free of flooding and the people have been living peacefully and affluently. Now, the project is honored as the 'Treasure of Sichuan', which still plays a crucial role in draining off floodwater, irrigating farms and providing water resources for more than 50 cities in the province.
Dujiangyan is the oldest and only surviving no-dam irrigation system in the world; and a wonder in the development of Chinese science. The project consists of three important parts, namely Yuzui, Feishayan and Baopingkou scientifically designed to automatically control the water flow of the rivers from the mountains to the plains throughout the year.
After touring Dujiangyan, you’ll get to visit Chengdu (and China’s) signature animal, the panda, at the Bifeng Gorge Panda Reserve. In the May 12th 2008 the Wenchuan Earthquake dealt the pandas a crushing blow and over fifty giant pandas living in captivity became completely homeless. In order to save these national treasures, the Wolong National Natural Reserve has, since May 15th, carried out an evacuation plan. Twenty-seven giant pandas were transferred in batches to Fuzhou and Beijng, and the rest were moved to Bifeng Gorge Base of China Panda Protection and Research Center, located in the northern suburbs of Chengdu.
The pandas are assured of healthy growth in their new home, and good news continually flows from Bifeng Gorge Base. In the morning on July 6th, 2008, the panda "Guo Guo" gave birth to the first twin cubs in the base. The center is divided into the giant panda breeding zone, baby giant panda care zone, research center, bamboo woods and office area.
The rest of the night is up to your own leisure. From traditional teahouses, theaters to modern pubs and clubs, Chengdu people know how to enjoy the night. Every corner in Chengdu offers the warmest welcome, and you are sure to find something to pique your interest during your time on the town. |
Day 15: Chengdu-Chongqing (by air) (B)
In the afternoon, you will be taken to the Chengdu airport, and you will make the short flight to Chongqing, the city where you will start your Yangtze River cruise. Upon arrival at the airport you’ll be met by your guide, and you will be taken to your Yangtze Cruise luxury ship. You will have a welcoming dinner on the cruise ship, and you will spend your night on the ship. You’ll have the rest of the night to walk around the ship. |
Day 16: Yangtze River Cruise (B, L, D)
Today will be a full day sailing down the Yangtze River. The Yangtze River is the longest river in China and the third longest in the world after the Amazon and Nile. The Yangtze River along with the Yellow River is renowned as the "Mother Rivers of China" as it has nourished China's long and splendid culture. The evidence is seen in the varied cultural heritage that you will see along the river.
Yangtze cruise ships travel slowly for passengers to enjoy the beautiful scenery. Broadcasts from the ship’s PA system, transmitting information on shore excursions or from guest lecturers to your cabin, ensuring that you will not miss a chance to see any special scenery, even if you are relaxing in your cabin.
Here is the cruise ship’s schedule of events:
7:00-Music morning call
8:00-Breakfast (buffet)
9:30-Brief introduction about the itinerary and cruise’s facilities
10:30-Chinese calligraphy performance
12:00-Lunch
14:00-16:30- Shore excursion to Fengdu Ghost City: It used to be a burial area with scores of temples and shrines and a small ancient town. Due to the construction of the 3 Gorges Dam, the ghostly city is underwater. However, a hill and dozens of temples remain in the big artificial lake behind the dam. So that part can still be visited. It is a large burial and temple area. The area above the “Door of Hell” remains. It is interesting that Chinese have traditional conceptions of hell that are somewhat similar to Western ideas. At the site, you can see statues and frescoes about hell with brightly painted images of demons and other eerie items.
18:00-Welcomgin banquet hosted by the Captain
20:00-karaoke |
Day 17: Yangtze River Cruise (B, L, D)
Today will be the second day of your Yangtze River cruise. Here is the day’s schedule of events:
6:30-Music morning call
7:00-You will sail into the most impressive section of the Yangtze River, the Three Gorges area, which is comprised of Qutang Gorge, Wuxia Gorge and Xiling Gorge. The gorges of this mighty river climb hundreds of meters (thousands of feet) on both sides, and it is truly breathtaking to witness. At this time you’ll pass through Qutang Gorge.
7:30-Breakfast (buffet)
8:30-10:00-From the cruise ship, more sightseeing of the Three Gorges Rea, this time you’ll pass through Wuxia Gorge.
12:00-Lunch
13:00-17:00-Shore excursion to Shennong Stream. Shennong Stream is a tributary of the Yangtze River, and its fast-flowing, crystal clear water runs southwards through deep gorges. The stream races past large and small karst caves, flocks of swallows, sheer cliffs, deep gorges, waterfalls, three-colored springs, rapids, the ancient plank path, a suspended coffin in the cliff, groups of ancient tombs and marvelous karst formations. There are displays of Chinese art and of artifacts saved from the construction of the Three Gorges Dam and the artificial lake. It instructs on the Three Gorges region, the Three Gorges Dam, the history of Chongqing and the surrounding area, Chinese history, and prehistoric times.
18:30-Farewell banquet hosted by the captain
20:30-Party on the cruise ship |
Day 18: Yichang-Shanghai (B, L) Flight Information: CA1974 (16:45/18:15)
Here is the schedule for the last day of your cruise:
7:00-Morning music call
7:30-Breakfast (buffet)
8:00-10:00-Shore excursion to Three Gorges Dam: Construction was begun in the 80's, and was completed in 2008. It backs up the Yangtze River for 550km, making it the world's largest dam. Due to the fact that the water rises to a level of 185m behind the dam, millions of people have had to be resettled, bridges moved and historical relicts secured. The energy production capabilities of the dam are estimated at 84.7 billion kilowatts, equivalent to 18 nuclear reactors. The three single stage locks guarantee that ship traffic is not delayed.
The Three gorges Dam is the largest water conservancy project undertaken by man, and various Chinese officials have dreamed about the project for hundreds of years. It is 2,335 meters wide on the top, and 130 meters wide at the bottom. The views from the top of the dam are stunning, so don’t forget to bring your camera!
10:10-11:00-Sailing through Xiling Gorge: You’ll sail into the western section of Xiling Gorge, the longest of the Three Gorges (at 66 kilometers, compared to Wu Gorge at 44 kilometers and Qutang Gorge at 8 kilometers). Xiling Gorge was renowned for its winding waterway that suddenly narrowed into treacherous rapids or skirted over dangerous shoals. In spite of the risks (Xiling Gorge was dubbed as a "death passage"). Ships were compelled to pass through its waters regularly, as there was little alternative. It was also for this reason, among many others, that the Three Gorges Dam project was justified.
11:30: You will disembark at the town of Yichang, and you’ll be met by your guide, who will take you to the Yichang airport, and you will fly on to Shanghai.
Upon arrival in Shanghai you’ll be taken to your hotel, the one you stayed at before, the Courtyard by Marriott hotel.
The rest of the night can be spent at your own leisure. |
Day 19: Shanghai (B)
Today you will have a free day on your own to explore Shanghai, and here are some places you might want to visit:
The Bund:
Shanghai’s most famous and recognizable landmark, the Bund is a waterfront embankment and has been regarded as the symbol of Shanghai for hundreds of years. It affords marvelous views across the river of the Pudong district and its numerous towers. The most famous and attractive sight which is at the west side of the Bund are the 52 various buildings of different architectural styles including Gothic, Baroque, Romanesque, Classicism and the Renaissance.
Yuyuan Garden:
Yuyuan Garden is a famed classical garden, and even though it may be small, it contains numerous pavilions, halls, rockeries, ponds and cloisters, and all have unique characteristics. There are six main scenic areas in the garden: Sansui Hall, Wanhua Chamber, Dianchun Hall, Huijing Hall, Yuhua Hall and the Inner Garden. Each area features several scenic spots within its borders.
Shanghai Museum:
The Shanghai Museum is a world famous museum of ancient Chinese art and culture. The exterior design of the round dome and the square base symbolizes the ancient idea of a round heaven and a square land. The museum is divided into eleven galleries and three exhibition halls. The eleven Galleries cover most of the major categories of Chinese art: Ancient Bronze, Ancient Ceramics, Paintings, Calligraphy, Ancient Sculpture, Ancient Jade, Coins, Ming and Qing Furniture, Seals, and Minority Nationalities. The museum is a wonderful primer on ancient Chinese culture, and is a must-see when coming to Shanghai.
Nanjing Road:
Near the Bund, Nanjing Road is Shanghai’s most famed shopping street. In addition to high-street fashion and the usual outlets and stores, open-air bars, abstract sculptures, and lingering sounds from street musicians will enhance your experience. At night flashing neon signs illuminate the magnificent buildings and spangle the night skyline of this lively city. |
Day 20: Shanghai-departure (B)
You will be taken to the Shanghai airport, and you will fly on to your next destination, ending your tour. |
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Tour Inclusions：
1. Hotels with daily western
breakfasts;
2. Meals in accordance with
that listed on the itinerary.
3. professional local guide
& driver;
4. Private air-conditioned
car or van for transportation;
5. Admission of the first
gate.
6.Two bottles of mineral
water per day.
Tour exclusions：
1. Tip of the guide
2. Personal costs
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