21 Days Enjoy the Scenic Yunnan and Mighty Yangtze

Day 1

Arrival Beijing
Arrive in Beijing, the capital city of China. Be met at the ansferred to your hotel. Free at leisure for the rest of the day.
Meals: No Meals 
Accommodation: In Beijing

Day 2

Beijing
Depart from your hotel in the morning to visit Tian'anmen Square, the World's largest urban square and the Forbidden City, the largest and most complete ancient imperial palace in the world. Then visit the Temple of Heaven in the afternoon. Peking Opera is available for your optional night entertainment.
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch
Accommodation: In Beijing

Day 3

Beijing
Today you will have the opportunity to traverse the ancient steps of Mutianyu Great Wall first, then have a short visit to Ming Tombs (Changling Tomb), the once lavish burial chambers of 13 emperors of the Ming Dynasty. Peking Roasted Duck will be a good choice as your optional dinner.
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch
Accommodation: In Beijing

Day 4

Beijing    Xian
In the morning, take a relaxing Hutong Tour by rickshaw to visit the ancient lanes and alleyways of Beijing. Be transferred to the airport for the flight to Xian in the afternoon.
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch
Accommodation: In Xian

Day 5

Xian
Enjoy your full day visit to the Terracotta Warriors, one of the world's most important archaeological finds, with troops, horses and carriages in battle formation. And then, visit the massive Xian City Wall. After that, you can take a short tour to the famous Big Wild Goose Pagoda. There is also the option to attend fantastic Tang Dynasty Show with Dinner.
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch
Accommodation: In Xian

Day 6

Xian    Guilin
Finish up your Xian tour by visiting the famous Shaanxi History Museum. After lunch, you will be transferred to the airport to board a short flight to Guilin, a well-known scenic city in southwestern China.
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch
Accommodation: In Guilin

Day 7

Guilin    Yangshuo    Guilin
In the morning you will be driven to the Pier for the Li River Cruise (about 4 hours, lunch served on board). Savour the fairy-tale scenery while cruising down the meandering river to Yangshuo. After disembarkation, have a walk along the famous West Street. In the late afternoon, be transferred back to Guilin.
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch
Accommodation: In Guilin

Day 8

Guilin    Kunming
Today before you flight to Kunming, you will have a short city tour to Elephant Trunk Hill, the symbol of Guilin City and then the colorful Reed Flute Cave, the showcase of distinctly-colored stalactites and stalagmites. After the tour, be transferred to the airport for your short flight to Kunming.
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch
Accommodation: In Kunming

Day 9

Kunming    Dali
In the morning, you will be transferred to the airport for a short flight to Dali, the ancient political, economic and cultural center of Yunnan area. Upon arrival, visit Dali Ancient Town and Three Pagodas, the symbol of the history of Dali.
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch
Accommodation: In Dali

Day 10

Dali
Today, after breakfast, you will first be transferred to the pier and take an Erhai Cruise for relaxing. Then in the afternoon, then visit Xizhou Bai's Houses (Yan's Courtyard included) where you can see what the Bai people's houses like.
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch
Accommodation: In Dali

Day 11

Dali    Lijiang
Spend about 4hours driving, you will reach Lijiang, and then take a short visit in Lijiang Ancient Town to walk down the cobblestone streets over 700 years and see the Naxi way of life which chaned little over time.
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch
Accommodation: In Lijiang

Day 12

Lijiang
In the morning drive about half an hour to visit Jade Dragon Sown Mountain (cable car and green vans available in the scenic area). After lunch, visit Yufeng Temple and Baisha Mural in the ancient capital of Naxi Kingdom in Baisha village.
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch
Accommodation: In Lijiang

Day 13

Lijiang    Shangri-la
In the morning, take another 4hours driving, the famous lost paradise Shangri-la is waiting for you, a place with stunning scenery, the azure sky and the hospitality of unsophisticated people. You will visit Dukezong Ancient Town upon arrival.
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch
Accommodation: In Shangri-la

Day 14

Shangri-la
Today, begin your exciting tour with a visit to Songzanlin Lamasery, the largest Tibetan Buddhist monastery in Yunnan, then visit Potatso National Park (green vans available in scenic area) after lunch.
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch
Accommodation: In Shangri-la

Day 15

Shangri-la    Kunming
After breakfast, you will take an early flight back to Kunming. You can then enjoy a visit to the Stone Forest, created by ancient winds and water erosion over millions of years. After the tour, you will be driven back to Kunming.
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch
Accommodation: In Kunming

Day 16

Kunming    Chongqing
Enjoy your free time then be transferred to the airport for your flight to Chongqing, from where, you will start your enjoyable Yangtze River Cruise.
Meals: Breakfast
Accommodation: On Yangtze cruise boat

Day 17

Yangtze River Cruise
Enjoy your Yangtze cruise! You will have a shore excursion to Fengdu, the “Ghost City”. An excursion to Shibaozhai will be an optional activity for you today
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Accommodation: On Yangtze cruise boat

Day 18

Yangtze River Cruise
Today pass through Three Gorges that namely Qutang Gorge, Wu Gorge, and then, you will have a excursion to Lesser Three Gorges (or Shennong Stream according to the river condition). The optional excursion today will be the White Emperor City.
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Accommodation: On Yangtze cruise boat

Day 19

Disembark, Yichang    Shanghai
Then it is time to pass through the locks of Three Gorges Dam. You could really feel the might of the dam. After the visiting, disembark at Yichang and be transferred to the airport for your flight to Shanghai. Arrive in Shanghai and be transferred to the hotel to catch up on some rest.
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch
Accommodation: In Shanghai

Day 20

Shanghai
A full day of sightseeing starts with Jade Buddha Temple and Yuyuan Garden, a Chinese classic garden in city downtown. Continue the trip to Shanghai Oriental Pearl TV Tower. After that, you can have a walk along the Bund, Shanghai’s famed waterfront promenade. In the evening, the breathtaking Acrobatics Show is available for your optional night entertainment.
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch
Accommodation: In Shanghai

Day 21

Departure Shanghai
The vacation is over all too soon as you're transferred to the airport to board the homebound flight, bidding a fond farewell to China, and we know you'll be back.
Meals: Breakfast

Service Ends

Day 1

Arrival Beijing
Arrive in Beijing, the capital city of China. Be met at the ansferred to your hotel. Free at leisure for the rest of the day.
Meals: No Meals 
Accommodation: In Beijing

Beijing, China's capital and one of the great travel destinations of the World, offers sights and cultural relics found no where else on Earth. The city has a character all its own; there are quadrangles, small alleys, tricycle, boiled mutton, roasted duck, arts and crafts, Peking Opera, The Great Wall, the 2008 Olympics venue and a vibrancy that is the distinctive flavor of Beijing.

Day 2

Beijing
Depart from your hotel in the morning to visit Tian'anmen Square, the World's largest urban square and the Forbidden City, the largest and most complete ancient imperial palace in the world. Then visit the Temple of Heaven in the afternoon. Peking Opera is available for your optional night entertainment.
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch
Accommodation: In Beijing

As the biggest city center square in the world, Tian’anmen Square covering 44 hectares in the heart of Beijing. It is the place where history-changing events and ceremonies occurred. A few steps away, come to visit the Forbidden City, which was the Imperial Palace for 24 emperors during the Ming and Qing Dynasties and, it is one of the largest, and certainly the most completely restored, ancient architectural complex in the world. Walk in the footsteps of Emperors; come to the museum and see with your eyes, and feel with your hearts; you’ll begin understand what life in this richest of feudal realms was like for the Imperial Rulers, their concubines and their slaves.

After enjoying a delicious lunch, continue on to the Temple of Heaven. Departing from the Imperial vermilion and gold hues of the Forbidden City, The Temple of Heaven is decorated in blue, the color of the Heavens. The perfect harmony between the architectural environment and nature can be felt here; you might easily imagine the vivid spectacle of a great sacrifice to the Heavens for a good harvest. The magnificent Hall of Prayer of Good Harvest is one of the most important and impressive building in China.

In the evening, we offer you an opportunity to enjoy Peking Opera. Expert performers convey powerful emotions to the audience through song, dance, facial make-up, exquisite masks and costume, skilled use of body language and sympathetically integrated musical accompaniment.

Day 3

Beijing
Today you will have the opportunity to traverse the ancient steps of Mutianyu Great Wall first, then have a short visit to Ming Tombs (Changling Tomb), the once lavish burial chambers of 13 emperors of the Ming Dynasty. Peking Roasted Duck will be a good choice as your optional dinner.
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch
Accommodation: In Beijing

Mutianyu Great Wall was first built in the mid-6th century during the Northern Qi, making it older than the Badaling section. It is connected with Jiankou in the west and Lianhuachi and Jinshanling in the east. In 1569, the Mutianyu Great Wall was rebuilt, mainly with granite and is one of the best-preserved sections with the largest construction scale and best quality among all sections of Great Wall, being 7-8 meters high and 4-5 meters wide with 22 watchtowers on this 2,250-meter-long section. It served as the northern barrier defending the capital and the imperial tombs.

Then, you will have chance to visit the The Ming Tombs which located in the northern suburbs of Beijing. Altogether there are thirteen tombs of Ming Dynasty Emperors from the period after the capital was moved from Nanjing to Beijing. You’ll visit the Changling Tomb, burial site of Emperor Yong Le, the biggest and first built at this historic site. The Lingsi Palace in Changling Tomb's second yard really deserves a visit. This is unique, a magnificent palace made of camphor wood. The ceiling is colorfully painted and supported by sixteen solid camphor posts. The floor is decorated with gold bricks.

For today’s optional dinner, how about taste the famous Peking Roasted Duck, as it is the best-known dish in Beijing. It is very tender and unforgettably delicious. You’ll visit a local restaurant to enjoy a full meal and learn the proper way to experience Peking Roasted Duck. From the whole roasted duck to the soup of duck bones, you'll enjoy a banquet made from every part of the duck. Moreover, the chef will demonstrate his skill of cutting the skin of the duck for your entertainment.

Day 4

Beijing    Xian
In the morning, take a relaxing Hutong Tour by rickshaw to visit the ancient lanes and alleyways of Beijing. Be transferred to the airport for the flight to Xian in the afternoon.
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch
Accommodation: In Xian

If exploring the Forbidden City has improved your understanding of the lifestyles of China’s ancient Imperial Court, then this Hutong Tour will give you an insight into the lives of ordinary Chinese people and reveal their social culture in today's Beijing City. The narrow streets of old Beijing are known as Hutongs. You’ll take a pedicab tour along the Hutongs and see the 100-year-old houses, courtyards and a vanishing way of life in today’s Beijing.

Wonderful time always passes so quickly, in the afternoon, you have to take a flight to Xian, the city that steeped in history and still giving up secrets, is your gateway to ancient Chinese civilization. In its 3,100 recorded years of evolution, it has been home to 13 dynasties. Xi'an was also the end of civilization for those setting out on the famous Silk Road. Today's Xian is a vibrant, modern city, but surrounded by history, even underfoot! So there can be no underground railways due to the obligation to preserve the wealth of ancient treasure still awaiting discovery.

Day 5

Xian
Enjoy your full day visit to the Terracotta Warriors, one of the world's most important archaeological finds, with troops, horses and carriages in battle formation. And then, visit the massive Xian City Wall. After that, you can take a short tour to the famous Big Wild Goose Pagoda. There is also the option to attend fantastic Tang Dynasty Show with Dinner.
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch
Accommodation: In Xian

As an ancient capital city to 13 dynasties, Xian has a rich recorded history, frequently enhanced by the evidence of new discoveries, like the 1974 unearthing of the fabulous Terracotta Warriors, the long forgotten army created to guard Emperor Qin Shihuang's tomb. In accordance with ancient beliefs, this grand project was mounted at enormous cost by the cruel and tyrannical Emperor, only to be attacked, plundered, burnt and buried after his funeral by the peasants who’d labored under the whip to build it. Then, over two thousand years later, this “Eighth Wonder of the World” was rediscovered by farmers digging a well. The fine troops, horses and carriages in battle formation are a National ancient art treasure. Three excavation pits are now opened to the public and a fourth is nearing completion. You can, like US President Clinton, now gaze in wonder upon this historic site, listed by UNESCO in 1987 as a world cultural heritage.

The first landmark visitors will encounter in Xian is the ancient city wall, which stretches round the old city. Xi'an was always a walled city, and today’s wall represents one of the oldest and best preserved Chinese city walls, as well being one of the largest ancient military defensive systems in the world. The first city wall of Chang'an was begun in 194 BCE. The existing wall was started during the Ming Dynasty in 1370; it is massive, measuring 13.7 km in circumference, 12 m in height, and 15–18 m in thickness at the base. The South Gate and North Gate are the two main entrances to the inner city. The city itself is neatly arranged along the city wall. This impressive structure is just a precursor to the remarkable discoveries awaiting visitors to Xi’an.

The Big Wild Goose Pagoda was built in 652 during the Tang Dynasty and originally had five stories, although the structure was rebuilt in 704 during the reign of Empress Wu Zetian and its exterior brick facade renovated during the Ming Dynasty. One of the pagoda's many functions was to hold sutras and figurines of the Buddha that were brought to China from India by the Buddhist translator and travelers Xuanzang. Now this well-preserved holy place for Buddhist has been the symbol of Xi'an.

Tang Dynasty Show with Dinner that was created for “emperors only” in ancient China. You'll enjoy the sumptuous dinner while watching a fabulous dancing and singing performance of the Tang Dynasty. This is not only a performance of Chinese traditional dancing and singing, but a re-enactment of Chinese ancient ceremony and culture.

Day 6

Xian    Guilin
Finish up your Xian tour by visiting the famous Shaanxi History Museum. After lunch, you will be transferred to the airport to board a short flight to Guilin, a well-known scenic city in southwestern China.
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch
Accommodation: In Guilin

As the regional capital and doorway to the Silk Road, Xian was one of the richest, most well-protected cities in all of China. The famous Shaanxi History Museum introduces the visitor to area’s rich culture, from Emperor Qin Shihuang to the present day in this walled city. The museum is house in a striking Tang Dynasty-style pavilion and features an enormous collection of 113,000 historic and cultural relics. This is where you experience history, with chronological dynasties exhibits that take you through the ancient dynasties.

After the tour in Xian, you will have a different experience for the visiting in Guilin, which is famous for its serene landscape, Karst limestone formations, mist-covered hills and bamboo groves. It is home to more than ten ethnic groups. On the way from the airport to your hotel, you will find dozens of pretty hills everywhere in the city of Guilin. It is a city of hills and green trees and boasts one of the most photographed areas of China.

Day 7

Guilin    Yangshuo    Guilin
In the morning you will be driven to the Pier for the Li River Cruise (about 4 hours, lunch served on board). Savour the fairy-tale scenery while cruising down the meandering river to Yangshuo. After disembarkation, have a walk along the famous West Street. In the late afternoon, be transferred back to Guilin.
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch
Accommodation: In Guilin

In the morning, be driven to Pier for your Li River Cruise. A double-decker river boat is waiting for you. The landscape from Guilin to Yangshuo is truly a masterpiece of nature. The crystal waters, straight-out-of-a-painting mountains, peaceful farm fields, hard-working-but- ever-smiling fishermen and wandering water buffaloes inspire poetic musings of Guilin’s charming life. Under the blue sky, your river boat transports you in an unending daydream.

You will end up your cruise in Yangshuo, which is a small oriental but Western-influenced town with a history of 1000 years. The West Street in the town earns its name since almost every one in West Street can speak fluent English and every restaurant or bar offers menus in several languages. You’ll feel no borders or distance here and will soon fall under the spell of this charismatic, welcoming small-town atmosphere. Moreover, West Street is flanked by fascinating little shops and vendor stands selling a broad variety of superior quality souvenirs, perfect gifts for friends and relatives. West Streets charms increase when night comes; countless bars, cafés and bistros open till midnight with dynamic music and live bands to ensure you can have a really memorable night with your new-found friends.

Day 8

Guilin    Kunming
Today before you flight to Kunming, you will have a short city tour to Elephant Trunk Hill, the symbol of Guilin City and then the colorful Reed Flute Cave, the showcase of distinctly-colored stalactites and stalagmites. After the tour, be transferred to the airport for your short flight to Kunming.
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch
Accommodation: In Kunming

Elephant Trunk Hill, or Xiangbishan, is the symbol of Guilin. Observed from a distance, you’ll see an elephant-like form standing majestically at the confluence of the Li and Yang Rivers, with its trunk arching into the clear waters, a fantasy elephant eternally quenching a gargantuan thirst; lifelike in shape and energetic in posture.

Reed Flute Cave is named for the special reeds, used for making flute instruments that grow near the cave entrance. The caves are a feast for the eyes. The natural beauty of a profusion of stalactites and stalagmites, stele, stone pillars, stone curtains and stone flowers creating an infinite variety of extraordinary scenes, creatively illuminated, is bound to evoke gasps of admiration. It is fitting then, that Reed Flute Cave is commonly praised as Nature’s Grand Art Palace.

Kunming is the capital city of Yunnan in southwest China. Located in the middle of the Yunnan-Guizhou Plateau just north of the Tropic of Cancer, at an altitude of 1,900 meters above the sea level, Kunming enjoys a year-round temperate climate and is often called the 'Spring City’.

Day 9

Kunming    Dali
In the morning, you will be transferred to the airport for a short flight to Dali, the ancient political, economic and cultural center of Yunnan area. Upon arrival, visit Dali Ancient Town and Three Pagodas, the symbol of the history of Dali.
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch
Accommodation: In Dali

Dali is located on a fertile plateau between the Cangshan Mountains to the West and Erhai Lake to the East. It has traditionally been settled by the Bai and Yi minorities. Dali is the ancient capital of both the Bai kingdom Nanzhao, which flourished in the area during the 8th and 9th centuries.

Dali Ancient Town is 13km (8 miles) away from Dali City. The city’s history can be traced back to the early Ming Dynasty (1368-1644). According to ancient literature, the City was a gateway to the ancient Silk Road in Southwestern China. Because of its history and wealth, Dali Ancient city was surrounded by the wall which is over 6km in length, 7.5 meters high and 6 meters thick. In 1982, the northern and southern city wall towers were rebuilt to offer visitors a glimpse into the ancient wall’s grandeur. The architecture of Dali Ancient City is in the traditional Bai ethnic style and gives the city a very distinct feel. Dali Ancient City is well known for its traditional arts and crafts. It is particularly famous for its marble and hand woven handicrafts.

With a history over 1,800 years, the Three Pagodas is the symbol of Dali, and the witness of the development of Buddhism in the area. The Three Pagodas are at the East foot of the tenth peak of Cangshan Mountains and face the West shore of the Erhai Lake of the ancient Dali Town. They are an ensemble of three independent pagodas arranged on the corners of an equilateral triangle, with the main pagoda 69 meters in height. Three Pagodas together with Zhaozhou Bridge in Hebei Province and Great Wild Goose Pagoda in Xi'an are known as the three curiosities of Chinese ancient architecture.

Day 10

Dali
Today, after breakfast, you will first be transferred to the pier and take an Erhai Cruise for relaxing. Then in the afternoon, then visit Xizhou Bai's Houses (Yan's Courtyard included) where you can see what the Bai people's houses like.
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch
Accommodation: In Dali

Erhai Lake is the second largest lake in Yunnan after Dianchi Lake, and one of the seven biggest fresh water lakes in China. On sunny days, the crystal water of the lake and the snow mantled Cangshan Mountain create a beautiful scene described as silver Cangshan and jade Erhai. The surrounding isles, temples and villages of Erhai Lake are also worth visiting. The Golden Shuttle Island and the nearby fishing community of Bai people with Bai's culture and lifestyle are charming attractions. You can also enjoy the Three Courses Tea of Bai people on the isles.

You will regret it if you miss Xizhou Bai's Houses 18km north of Dali. Green mountains, winding creeks and fertile land make life here lyrical and carefree. The history of Xizhou dates back to the Sui Dynasty (581-618AD). People nowadays regard Xizhou as a town famous for the Bai culture. The old houses and streets are well preserved and visitors may still find traces of past glory. The houses of are characterized by a traditional Chinese rectangular courtyard with a screen wall facing the gate. On the screen wall usually are four Chinese characters reading 'Qingbai Shijia' (innocent family) or 'Ziqi Donglai' (Auspicious air comes from the East). Around them are landscape paintings and decorations with colors in profusion. The doors and windows are full of grills with auspicious paintings.

Day 11

Dali    Lijiang
Spend about 4hours driving, you will reach Lijiang, and then take a short visit in Lijiang Ancient Town to walk down the cobblestone streets over 700 years and see the Naxi way of life which chaned little over time.
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch
Accommodation: In Lijiang

Lijiang Ancient Town is well-preserved and known as a centre for the Naxi people's brilliant culture. With a history of more than 800 years, the town was built in the interval as the Song Dynasty changed to the Yuan Dynasty, and occupies an area of 3.8 square kilometers. It is built along the lie of mountains and the flow of rivers with the ancient water-supply system which is still in use today, providing a precious example for research on ancient architecture. As a result of selective adoption of ideas from other cultures by the Naxi group, the buildings in town incorporate the best of the architectural styles of Han, Bai and Tibetan, developed into the unique Naxi style. The layout of the town is free and flexible, the houses are close and diverse and the lanes are narrow and meandering. Along both sides of the lanes, there are shops selling superb handicrafts. Here you also have the chance to trace the ancient Tea-Horse Road.

Day 12

Lijiang
In the morning drive about half an hour to visit Jade Dragon Sown Mountain (cable car and green vans available in the scenic area). After lunch, visit Yufeng Temple and Baisha Mural in the ancient capital of Naxi Kingdom in Baisha village.
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch
Accommodation: In Lijiang

Jade Dragon Snow Mountain nestles near Lijiang. It is the southernmost glacier in the Northern Hemisphere, consisting of 13 peaks with the highest one, Shanzidou, at an altitude of 5,600 meters. Looking from the town, the mountain resembles a jade dragon laying in the clouds, hence the name. The view of the massif from the gardens at the Black Dragon Pool in Lijiang is noted as one of China's finest views.

Built in 1756, Yufeng Temple is located at the southern foot of the Jade Dragon Snow Mountain, 13km from Lijiang. The temple is surrounded by a verdant forest and river with the snow mountain at its back. It displays a harmonious mix of architectural styles of Han Buddhism, Tibetan Buddhism, Taoism and local Naxi Dongba Religion. It is witness to the peaceful coexistence of multinational cultures and religions. It still plays an important role in local residents' religious life.

Baisha Mural is located at Baisha Villages, 10km north of Lijiang. Although the traditional houses do not look impressive, this was the cradle of the Naxi culture and ancient capital of the Naxi Kingdom. The valuable murals are protected inside Dabaoji Palace and the colored glaze temples. The originality and figures within the murals reflect the different religious cultures and artistic forms of Buddhism, Lamaism, Taoism and local Naxi Dongba religion's development into Naxi School. Each painting includes at least one hundred portraits, which are not only Buddha, but also ordinary people such as bureaucrats, farmers, citizens and even criminals. Many of the scenes and subjects are drawn from people's daily life showing fishing, riding horses, weaving, dancing and casting iron.

Day 13

Lijiang    Shangri-la
In the morning, take another 4hours driving, the famous lost paradise Shangri-la is waiting for you, a place with stunning scenery, the azure sky and the hospitality of unsophisticated people. You will visit Dukezong Ancient Town upon arrival.
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch
Accommodation: In Shangri-la

Shangri-la is a primarily Tibetan county in northwestern Yunnan and the capital of Diqing Tibetan Autonomous Prefecture. The county was formerly called Zhongdian but in 2001 was renamed after the fictional land of Shangri-La, from the James Hilton novel Lost Horizon. With many miles of beautiful vistas to discover, this region offers unique hiking and horse trekking opportunities to those who make the journey down to Northern Yunnan. At an altitude of 3,200 meters, Shangri-La is the start point of the Tibetan world in Northern Yunnan. The small town once was the frontier trading post on the doorstep of Tibet.

Dukezong Ancient Town, at the southeast corner of Shangri-La, offers sanctuary to all those seeking refuge from the cares of city life. Its authentic Tibetan dwellings, gilded prayer halls and pagodas, and lanterns of various shapes lighting the way along narrow, winding lanes are permeated with the grace and mystique of antiquity that enchants visitors the moment they set foot in. Dukezong means the town of moonlight in Tibetan language. With a history of over 1350 years, it has experienced both the flames of war and prosperity of frontier trade as a key stop on the Ancient Tea-Horse Trail and a focal point for Han-Tibetan exchanges. 

Day 14

Shangri-la
Today, begin your exciting tour with a visit to Songzanlin Lamasery, the largest Tibetan Buddhist monastery in Yunnan, then visit Potatso National Park (green vans available in scenic area) after lunch.
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch
Accommodation: In Shangri-la

Not far from Shangri-la, Songzanlin Lamasery is the largest Tibetan Buddhist lamasery in Yunnan, and one of the 13 large lamaseries in the joint area of Tibet, Yunnan and Sichuan. Constructed in 1679, it took about three years to complete. Built against the mountain with a magnificent appearance, Songzanlin is a faithful imitation of the Potala Palace in Lhasa Tibet. The most famous treasures in the lamasery are the eight gold-covered sculptures of Sakyamuni, bronze sculptures, the Ganzur scriptures hand-written in liquid gold, gold lamps, and many exquisite gilded silver incense burners.

Pataso National Park is located 22km away from Shangri-La, about half an hour's driving. As China's first national park, it mainly consists of two lakes- Shudu and Bita, the distance between takes about half an hour's driving by green van.

Day 15

Shangri-la    Kunming
After breakfast, you will take an early flight back to Kunming. You can then enjoy a visit to the Stone Forest, created by ancient winds and water erosion over millions of years. After the tour, you will be driven back to Kunming.
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch
Accommodation: In Kunming

Stone Forest is a notable set of karst formations in Shilin Yi Autonomous County, approximately 85km from Kunming. The tall rocks seem to emanate from the ground in the manner of stalagmites, with many looking like trees made of stone, creating the illusion of a forest of stone. It has been known since the Ming Dynasty as the first wonder of the World. Approximately 270 million years ago this region was a vast ocean. Over time, the waters retreated and the limestone landscape was left. Due to a process of weathering and erosion, nature has created an art gallery of stone sculpture- present-day Stone Forest. The magnificent, strange and steep landscape creates labyrinthine vistas around each corner. Each formation has a story about animals or people associated with it.

Day 16

Kunming    Chongqing
Enjoy your free time then be transferred to the airport for your flight to Chongqing, from where, you will start your enjoyable Yangtze River Cruise.
Meals: Breakfast
Accommodation: On Yangtze cruise boat

Chongqing, the largest inland city of China, is a booming metropolis located in the southeast of the Sichuan Basin at the confluence of the Yangtze and the Jialing rivers. Surrounded by waters on three sides, and by the mountains on four sides, Chongqing is known as 'mountain city’, 'foggy city’ and ‘furnace city’.

Over 6,300 kilometers long, the Yangtze is the largest and longest river in China, surpassed only by the Nile of Africa and the Amazon of South America. Born of the melting snows and ice in the Tanggula Mountain chain in the Qinghai-Tibetan Plateau, the torrent flows from west to east through provinces of Qinghai, Tibet, Sichuan, Yunnan, Sichuan, Hubei, Hunan, Jiangxi, Anhui and Jiangsu and the city of Shanghai, finally emptying into the East China Sea.  Between the town of Fengjie (Sichuan Province) and Yichang (Hubei Province) are the magnificent Three Gorges.   

Day 17

Yangtze River Cruise
Enjoy your Yangtze cruise! You will have a shore excursion to Fengdu, the “Ghost City”. An excursion to Shibaozhai will be an optional activity for you today
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Accommodation: On Yangtze cruise boat

Today you will stop for a visit to Fengdu, is located on the northern bank of the Yangtze 176km downstream from Chongqing. Fengdu received its reputation in the Eastern Han Dynasty. A plethora of demon-decorated temples, buildings and statues in this river town earned it the moniker “Ghost City”-the carved facades are truly fascinating. The temples built on Mt. Mishan display punishing instruments and wild demon images, which vividly depict the Chinese people’s imagination of Hell. Another classic site – Shibaozhai may for your optional visiting.

Day 18

Yangtze River Cruise
Today pass through Three Gorges that namely Qutang Gorge, Wu Gorge, and then, you will have a excursion to Lesser Three Gorges (or Shennong Stream according to the river condition). The optional excursion today will be the White Emperor City.
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Accommodation: On Yangtze cruise boat

This morning, rise early to see the dawn light the Yangtze River before the boat enters the first gorge- Qutang Gorge, the shortest (8 km), narrowest and the most dramatic one of the three gorges. Two mountains, Chijia (Red Passage) and Baiyan (White Salt), guard the entrance to this gorge like giant castle doors.

A few hours later you see the second gorge -Wu Gorge, the middle gorge which is best known for its quiet beauty, sheer cliffs and twelve unique peaks. Often veiled in swirls of mist, six line the north side of the river and six staggered peaks stand to the south. The most famous, Goddess Peak, resembles a kneeling maiden.

Lesser Three Gorges is one of the exciting and famous stops in the Yangtze Three Gorges. It is often called the "highlight" of the cruise, even the whole China trip. It always refers to the three separate valleys of the Daning River, namely "Dragon-Gate Gorge", "Misty Gorge" and "Dicui (Emerald) Gorge".

With an area of 160 hectares of forest, it lies on the lower reaches of Daning. Here sheer cliffs and steep mountains rise on either side, creating one of natural fine arts gallery as natural scenic wonders unfold on both banks of the river.

Day 19

Disembark, Yichang    Shanghai
Then it is time to pass through the locks of Three Gorges Dam. You could really feel the might of the dam. After the visiting, disembark at Yichang and be transferred to the airport for your flight to Shanghai. Arrive in Shanghai and be transferred to the hotel to catch up on some rest.
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch
Accommodation: In Shanghai

Today you will take a visit to the great Three Gorges Dam. It is 2,335-meter long, 185-meter high, 18-meter wide on the top and 130-meter wide at the bottom. The dam will raise the river to a level of 175 meters above sea level, creating a 600km long reservoir with storage capacity of 39.9 billion cubic meters extending from the dam site all the way to Chongqing. It is the largest water conservancy project ever undertaken.

Then, return to your boat and have a nice lunch, it is really the time for you to say goodbye to the crews. You will take a flight from Yichang airport to Shanghai. For Shanghai, you have a lot to expect.

Shanghai is a city unlike any other in China. It is the bustling economic heartbeat of China that enjoys all of the comforts and amenities of a fully modern metropolis. Shanghai today looks to regain its former position at the turn of 20th of being one of the largest financial centers in the world behind New York and London. It is a city that seamlessly blends East and West.

Day 20

Shanghai
A full day of sightseeing starts with Jade Buddha Temple and Yuyuan Garden, a Chinese classic garden in city downtown. Continue the trip to Shanghai Oriental Pearl TV Tower. After that, you can have a walk along the Bund, Shanghai’s famed waterfront promenade. In the evening, the breathtaking Acrobatics Show is available for your optional night entertainment.
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch
Accommodation: In Shanghai

Today you'll find a Buddhism shrine - Jade Buddha Temple, which is located in a crowd of Shanghai City. It was first built in 1882 in Jiangwan on the southern outskirts of Shanghai. In order to make it convenient for the adherents to visit, it was bodily moved to Shanghai City at the present sire in 1918. It is named for its two bejeweled white jade Buddha. It receives thousands of visitors and worshipers everyday while keeps its sanctity and charming. Carved from a whole piece of white jade, the sitting jade Buddha statue is translucent with a solemn expression, displaying the excellent skill and extraordinary art of Chinese people.

Yuyuan Garden has a lot of stories for it was severely damaged in the 19th century and was restored in 1961. This garden was first built in the 16th century by provincial governor, Pan Yunduan, in honor of his father who was the then government minister. It has many scenic courtyards decorated with baroque rockery, pools, and flora that are all connected by corridors and passageways. The delicate design and exquisite layout of the whole garden reveals a strong impression of 'garden in the garden, whole in the part.

Shanghai Oriental Pearl TV Tower completed in 1995 to a highly innovative design, Shanghai Oriental Pearl TV Tower includes 15 spheres of different sizes at different levels creating an artistic conception of "large and small pearls dropping onto a jade plate" in ancient Chinese poem. It has become a symbol of excellence in architecture and is a favourite sight for tourists in Shanghai. Viewed from the Bund at night, the tower's three-dimensional lighting creates an enchanting, brilliantly coloured display. At 468 meters, it is the third tallest TV and radio tower in the World. Two of the six tower elevators can reach the highest sphere in 40 seconds; here the visitor will discover shops, a rotating restaurant and a sightseeing floor. The view of Shanghai from here is breath-taking.

Then it comes to the Bund, the showcase with the old buildings of colonial-era leftover along Huangpu River. The renowned waterfront district is the city's most famous landmark. The word BUND is of Anglo-India origin meaning embankment on the waterfront. It is also the popular site to enjoy the night view of the city.

Shanghai offers colorful recreations with rich contents and creative form. Your night may be filled with an interactive old form of art known as the Acrobatics. Those professional performers have been trained of as early as age six or seven so that they can play so well and excellent. It definitely will be an unforgettable night in your memory.

Day 21

Departure Shanghai
The vacation is over all too soon as you're transferred to the airport to board the homebound flight, bidding a fond farewell to China, and we know you'll be back.
Meals: Breakfast

Service Ends

Full price of this tour (per person in US$):

Recommended Hotels:

City	Standard Hotel ★★★	First Class Hotel ★★★★	Deluxe Hotel ★★★★★
Beijing	Holiday Inn Express Beijing Temple of Heaven	Royal Phoenix Hotel Beijing	Crowne Plaza Hotel Beijing
Xian	Skytel Hotel Xian	Days Hotel & Suites Xinxing Xian	Sofitel Xian on Renmin Square
Guilin	Guilin Eva Inn	Guilin Bravo Hotel	Sheraton Guilin Hotel
Kunming	Kunming Jinjiang Hotel	Kunming Hotel	Kaiwah Plaza International Hotel Kunming
Dali	Landscape Hotel	Dali Gurong Hotel	Dali Gurong Hotel
Lijiang	Lijiang Sanhe Hotel	Lijiang Wangfu Hotel	Lijiang Guanfang Hotel
Shangri-La	Shiner Hotel Shangri-La	Gyalthang Dzong Hotel	Paradise Hotel Shangri-La
Kunming	Kunming Jinjiang Hotel	Kunming Hotel	Kaiwah Plaza International Hotel Kunming
Shanghai	Holiday Inn Express Shanghai Putuo	Courtyard by Marriott Shanghai Puxi Hotel	Sheraton Shanghai Hotel, Hongkou

Optional Local Specialties & Night Shows:

City	Local Specialties	Nights Shows
Beijing	Beijing Roasted Duck	See the Peking Opera
Xian	Dumpling Banquet	Tang Dynasty Show with Dinner
Guilin	Rice Noodle Banquet	See the Cormorant Fishing Show
Kunming	Bridge-crossing Noodle	Yunnan Impression Show - Dynamic Yunnan
Kunming	Bridge-crossing Noodle	Yunnan Impression Show - Dynamic Yunnan
Shanghai	Tea Ceremony	Acrobatics Show