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

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.

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Venture to the Mutianyu Great Wall today! Take the cable car to easily climb the Great Wall, then enjoy the panoramic views of the watchtowers along the way. Rolling verdant hills and undulating mountains extend as far as the eye can see. As you sit in silence and soak in the splendor of your surroundings, an indelible memory is formed. Then head to the Ming Tombs, surrounded by lush mountains and pine forests. The stone carvings on the Sacred Road lead you to Chang Tomb. In such a serene and picturesque environment, contemplating the mortal remains of these domineering rulers is truly awe-inspiring.

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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.

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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.

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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.

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Come and embark on an adventure to the Stone Forest, an ocean of limestone pillars that stands silent in a grizzled expanse. Formed by the elements over eons, these karst formations resemble petrified trees in a rocky wilderness. Your guide will reveal the geologic secrets behind this dreamscape. Afterward, embark on a scenic 3.5-hour drive to Jianshui overnight.

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Once a frontier military outpost, Jianshui retains its historic charms. Stroll through the Chaoyang Gate, then explore the Temple of Confucius. Secluded yet sublime, this Confucian retreat offers a glimpse into a scholarly life in harmony with nature. Wander around Zhu's Family Garden, an oasis of pavilions, streams, and stone bridges encapsulating the idle charms of peaceful reclusion in lush Yunnan. Stand on the Twin Dragon Bridge and gaze down at the river below, where each of the 17 arches is perfectly mirrored in the rippling surface. After enjoying the picturesque scenery of Jianshui Town, drive 3 hours to Yuanyang, home to spectacular rice terrace vistas.

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. Note: If you like, rise early (around 5 am) to catch the spectacular sunrise at Duoyishu Terraces.

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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.

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.

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Ready for an Erhai Lake cycling tour? As you pedal around the lakeside, the azure waters and surrounding mountains offer a feast for the eyes. Circling the lake, you may pass secluded temples, pagodas, and timeless villages, accompanied by birdsongs and the sounds of nature. If you'd prefer more tonight, an optional Acrobatics Show is recommended.

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Your first destination 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.

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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.

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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.

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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.

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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.

Gallery: Li River Cruise

This morning, picturesque countryside awaits to enchant you in Yangshuo. Set off to explore the Yangshuo countryside. You have the option to amble, bike, or drive 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.

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. After that, 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. Cap off today at the Shanghai World Financial Center. Ascend to its observatory deck in the sky and behold a scenic panorama of this visionary metropolis.

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