16 Days Tour to Dynamic Highland

Day 1

Arrival Beijing
Arrive in Beijing, the capital city of China, be met at the airport and transferred 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
In the morning, take a driving for 75km to visit the Great Wall (Badaling Section) first, then Ming Tombs (Changling Tomb), the once lavish burial chambers of 13 emperors of the Ming Dynasty. Peking Roasted Duck is available for your optional dinner.
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch
Accommodation: In Beijing

Just 75km North-west of Beijing, along a smooth and comfortable highway is the Badaling Section of the Great Wall, which is one of the best-preserved and most accessible sections. The Great Wall is an internationally admired structure, symbolic of the cruelty of the ancient rulers, and the stoicism and determination of the Chinese people. The construction of the Great Wall began in the 5th century BC.

Then, you will have chance to visit 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 half-day 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 half-day 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 rickshaw tour along the Hutongs and see the 100-year-old houses, courtyards and a vanishing way of life in today's Beijing.

Xian, 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. Xian 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
Today, take your time and enjoy the visits to the Qin Terracotta Army, one of the world's most important archaeological finds, with troops, horses and carriages in battle formation and then to see the Big Wild Goose Pagoda, and the massive City Wall.
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 Qin Terracotta Army, 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 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 Xian. 

Continue the trip to the nearby Ancient City Wall. Actually, it is the first landmark that visitors will encounter in Xian, which stretches round the old city. Xian 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. 
 

Day 6

Xian    Lhasa
In the morning, you will take a short visit to Shaanxi History Museum, and then, be transferred to the airport for the flight to Lhasa, then be transferred to the hotel to adjust your body to the thin air.
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Accommodation: In Lhasa

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 Han, Wei, Jin, Sui, Tang, Song, Yuan, Ming and Qing dynasties.

Lhasa is the capital of Tibet. Located at the foot of Mt. Gephel, Lhasa's altitude is 3,490 m and the air contains only 68% of oxygen compared to sea level. Traditionally, Lhasa is the seat of the Dalai Lama, and the location of the Potala Palace and Norbulingka Palace. In Tibetan Buddhism the Jokhang Temple in Lhasa is regarded as the holiest centre in Tibet.
 

Day 7

Lhasa
Today, you will have a full day wonderful visit covering Tibet Museum (if the Museum closed for restore, you will take a visit to Norbulingka instead), Tibetan Family Visiting and Sera Monastery after lunch.
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch
Accommodation: In Lhasa

The Tibet Museum houses a rich collection of prehistoric cultural relics including Buddha statues in different postures, imperial jade seals, gold albums, gifts granted by emperors, colourful tangkas, and various printed Sanskrit and Tibetan scriptures. Visitors can also see variety of folk art such as unique Tibetan handicrafts, costumes, jewellery, and adornments made of gold, silver, and jade, as well as fine Chinese pottery.

In the afternoon, the Sera Monastery will be a good choice as well. It is the last of the three principal Yellow Sect monasteries built in Lhasa. The setting itself is very beautiful with cobbled alleyways, temples and colleges. The highlight of visiting Sera Monastery will be watching monks debating inside the shady courtyard behind the main temple. Every day, hundreds of red-robed monks assemble in small groups and practice their debating skills.

Norbulingka means Jewel Garden. First built in 1751, it borrowed architectural style from the inland areas of China while maintaining local ethnic and religious features. Norbulingka served as a traditional summer palace and residence starting with the 7th Dalai Lama, and now it is the largest garden in Tibet.
 

Day 8

Lhasa
Depart from hotel in the morning, you will have another full day trip that covering the visit to Potala Palace, Jokhang Temple and Barkhor Street in Lhasa.
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Accommodation: In Lhasa

The awe-inspiring Potala Palace, perched high above much of Lhasa, is the landmark of the city. The palace which consists of the Red Palace, the White Palace and some attached buildings was a complex of political and religious function. Now it is a huge treasure house for materials and articles of Tibetan history, religion, culture and arts.

Located at the center of the old Lhasa, Jokhang Temple is the spiritual center of Tibet. Built in 647 by Songtsen Gampo, it has a history of more than 1,300 years. The temple is the fine product of Han, Tibetan and Nepalese architecture techniques. Visitors will be treated to the sight of various exotic and sacred sculptures. Jokhang Temple also houses many invaluable cultural relics. Every year, the Great Prayer Festival is held here.

Barkhor Street is a famous commercial and commodity-distributing center in Lhasa, consisting of more than 120 handicrafts shops and more than 200 stalls. It is a good choice that should never be missed by tourists coming to Lhasa, for you can buy anything Tibet-related, from sacks of incense, chunks of yak butter to monk outfits. Barkhor is the road that pilgrims tramped out around Jokhang Temple through centuries. When walking along Barkhor Street, you should move in the clockwise direction.
 

Day 9

Lhasa    Chengdu
Enjoy your free time then be transferred to the airport for the flight to Chengdu. On arrival, you will be met at the airport and then be transferred to the hotel to catch up on some rest. If you are interested, you can choose the Hot Pot or Sichuan Opera as today's optional activity.
Meals: Breakfast
Accommodation: In Chengdu

It will take about 2 hours from Lhasa to Chengdu, the capital city of Sichuan Province. With a population of 11 million, it is an important commercial transportation, and communications hub of south-western China. The locals have a reputation for a laid back attitude and knowing how to enjoy life. Historically, Chengdu has a special place in the annals of finance. The world's first paper money, the 'Jiao Zi' was minted in Chengdu in the year 1023.

The big draw of Chengdu is delicious Sichuan Cuisine. Sichuan is famous for its spicy food, and one of its delicacies is the hot pot. Fortunately, you will have a chance to taste Sichuan Hot Pot today. The Sichuan Hot Pot is a bubbling cauldron of extremely hot oil and water. Dip your choice of the variety of supplied foods into the pot: meats, vegetables or tofu. It's a very social meal. People sit around to enjoy food and make a long evening out of it.
 

Day 10

Chengdu
Depart from hotel in the morning, you will take a tour around the suburb of Chengdu including Chengdu Research Base of Giant Panda Breeding and Sanxingdui Museum.
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch
Accommodation: In Chengdu

Chengdu Research Base of Giant Panda Breeding is the world-famous Panda breeding research located about 10km (6 miles) out of the city. This institution replicates the natural habitat of the giant panda and is dedicated to preserving and increasing their population. Visitors are able to hold lovely pandas and be photographed with them.

The guide will lead you to your next destination, Sanxingdui Museum, the place where you can learn about the culture that existed between 2,800 and 800 BC. The museum houses ancient remains including bronze wares, jade and stone objects, gold articles, pottery and bone objects excavated near present city of Guanghan, a famous historic and cultural city 40km from Chengdu in the south.
 

Day 11

Chengdu    Jiuzhaigou Valley
In the morning, take a short flight to Jiuzhaigou Valley, where famous for its natural wonders in terms of colorful waters. On arrival, be transferred to the hotel for some well-deserved rest.
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Accommodation: In Jiuzhaigou Valley 

Jiuzhaigou Valley (Jiuzhaigou) is a nature reserve in the north of Sichuan. Jiuzhaigou Valley took the name from the nine Tibetan villages living in the valley which is composed of three valleys in a Y shape. The Rize and Zechawa valleys flow from the south and meet at the centre of the site where they form the Shuzheng valley, flowing north to the mouth of the valley. Jiuzhai best-known feature is its dozens of blue, green and turquoise-colored lakes. The local Tibetan people call them 'Haizi', meaning 'son of the sea'. 
 

Day 12

Jiuzhaigou Valley
Enjoy your full day time to explore this fairy land (green vans available in the scenic area), the trip highlights which include those major attractions such as Shuzheng Waterfall, Changhai Lake and so on. Stay overnight at Jiuzhaigou Valley.
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Accommodation: In Jiuzhaigou Valley 

Upon entering the resort, you will find yourself strolling in a fairyland, leaving behind nothing but earthly troubles and vexations. It is a world of water, the clearest in the world. Water brings Jiuzhaigou its most enchanting views, which is the soul of the place. Whether you are met with serene lakes or plunging waterfalls, you will enjoy yourself so much among the charming sights as to linger on with no thoughts for home.
 

Day 13

Jiuzhaigou Valley    Chengdu
Take a morning flight back to Chengdu. You will then have a city tour to Thatched Cottage of Du Fu and Wuhou Temple.
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch
Accommodation: In Chengdu

Thatched Cottage of Du Fu is a beautiful garden and museum to honor Du Fu, one of the greatest Chinese poets of all times. Along with Li Po, he is frequently called the greatest of the Chinese poets. In 760 Du arrived in Chengdu, where he based himself for most of the next five years. He wrote more than 240 poems at this cottage.

Located in the southern suburb of Chengdu, Wuhou Temple was first built in 265 during the Western Jin Dynasty in memory of Zhuge Liang, prime minister in charge of the Kingdom of Shu Han during the Three Kingdoms Period (220-280). It is the largest museum of the site left over from the Three Kingdoms Period, and a very quiet oasis in the city.
 

Day 14

Chengdu    Shanghai
Enjoy your free time then be transferred to the airport for your flight to Shanghai. On arrival, you will be transferred from the airport to your hotel to catch up on some rest. Then you will visit the Shanghai Museum.
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch
Accommodation: In Shanghai

Shanghaiis 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.

The scope, depth and quality of its collections, and its striking architecture and use of the most modern technology makes the Shanghai Museum one of the most famous in China. Covering an area of 38,000 square meters, it is built in the shape of an ancient Chen bronze ding. A museum for ancient arts, it is divided into ten sections: ancient Chinese bronzes, sculpture, ceramics, jades, seals, calligraphy, coin and currency, paintings, Ming and Qing-dynasty furniture, and crafts of China's national minorities. 
 

Day 15

Shanghai
Depart from hotel in the morning, you will then have a whole-day trip of Jade Buddha Temple, Yuyuan Garden, the Old Street and the Bund, Shanghai's famed waterfront promenade. Traditional Dim-sum Banquet and Acrobatics are available for your optional lunch and 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.

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 16

Departure Shanghai
Arrange your day freely until be transferred to the airport for the return flight or the flight to your next stop.
Meals: Breakfast

Service Ends