China Adventure With the Silk Road

Itinerary

• Day 1: Beijing, Arrival

  Upon arrival in Beijing, be greeted by your guide at the airport and transferred to your hotel for rest. The following day marks the beginning of your journey through China.

  • Beijing

• Day 2: Beijing, Forbidden City

  Begin your exploration of Beijing with a visit to Tiananmen Square, one of the city's most iconic landmarks. Adjacent lies the grand Forbidden City, a vast wooden palace complex that housed 24 Chinese emperors and their families for over 500 years. Guided by our learned guide, you'll delve into the imperial history and gain insights into royal life in ancient China.

  Afterward, continue to Jingshan Park, where a short climb to the hilltop offers a breathtaking panoramic view of the Forbidden City - a perfect vantage point to admire its majestic, symmetrical layout and golden rooftops.

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  • Beijing

• Day 3: Beijing, Great Wall

  Visit the world-famous Great Wall today, approximately two hours from the city center. Mutianyu, known for its friendly atmosphere, offers convenient round-trip cable car rides for easy and safe access to the wall. Once there, enjoy a moderate hike along the wall to experience its breathtaking vistas and magnificent scenery.

  In the afternoon, return to the city for a Famous Residences & Hutong Culture Immersion Tour. Explore the maze-like Hutongs, where traditional courtyard homes tell stories of old Beijing life. Visit the former residences of notable historical figures and enjoy a glimpse into the city's rich cultural heritage and local traditions.

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  • Beijing

• Day 4: Temple of Heaven & Tai Chi, Beijing - Luoyang

  Enjoy Beijing's morning at the Temple of Heaven, where ancient emperors prayed for good harvests. It is now a beloved park where locals engage in daily activities. Immerse yourself in Chinese culture by learning Tai Chi from a master or participating in other exercise routines.

  After that, be transferred to the station for your journey to Luoyang. Upon arrival, be picked up and transferred to your hotel.

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  • Luoyang

• Day 5: Luoyang, Shaolin Temple & Kung Fu

  Embark on a meticulously planned itinerary to the renowned Shaolin Temple, taking in its distinctive Zen culture and enjoying an exhilarating Shaolin Kung Fu performance showcasing impressive martial arts prowess.

  Nearby, explore Songyue Pagoda, admired for its unique architectural styles. Visit Songyang Academy, a revered cultural institution with rich academic traditions and exquisite architecture.

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  • Luoyang

• Day 6: Luoyang - Xi'an, Longmen Grottoes

  This morning, visit the magnificent Longmen Grottoes, where thousands of Buddha statues and intricate carvings adorn the cliffs along the Yi River - a breathtaking testament to ancient Chinese artistry. After the visit, head to the railway station to board your high-speed train to Xi'an, the ancient capital once known as Chang'an.

  Upon arrival, transfer to your hotel for check-in and some rest. In the evening, you are free to explore the vibrant Datang Everbright City on your own, wandering through colorful streets, enjoying dazzling lights, and soaking in the lively atmosphere reminiscent of the Tang Dynasty.

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  • Xi'an

• Day 7: Xi'an, Terracotta Warriors

  Focus the day on the world-famous Terracotta Warriors, an archaeological marvel preserving thousands of life-sized clay soldiers and horses. Learn about China's ancient Qin Dynasty and the Emperor's elaborate afterlife army. Delve into the intricate craftsmanship of the Bronze Chariots at the nearby museum, marveling at these ancient chariots and their cultural significance.

  In the afternoon, wander through the bustling alleys of Xi'an's Muslim Quarter, where you'll encounter aromatic street food stalls, traditional handicrafts. This vibrant neighborhood offers a glimpse into Xi'an's diverse cultural heritage and centuries-old Islamic influence.

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  • Xi'an

• Day 8: Xi'an - Lanzhou, Explore the Yellow River City

  Take a high-speed train for about three hours to Lanzhou. Upon arrival in the city, begin your exploration by standing on the Yellow River Iron Bridge to take in the majestic views of the Yellow River. Visit the Mother Yellow River Statue, a 6-meter-tall sculpture representing the river's nurturing role in Chinese culture. Then, stroll through Bai Ta Shan Park, admiring ancient temples and serene natural landscapes.

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  • Lanzhou

• Day 9: Lanzhou, the Bingling Temple Grottoes

  Begin your journey with a visit to the Bingling Temple Grottoes, an extraordinary site housing ancient Buddhist art treasures. Your adventure starts with a scenic boat ride, offering breathtaking views of the Yellow River and the tranquil waters of the Liujiaxia reservoir.

  Upon arrival, explore the labyrinth of cliffside caves, each adorned with intricate sculptures and vibrant murals that have withstood the test of time. Wander through the serene grottoes, allowing the detailed depictions of Buddhist deities, mythical creatures, and historical figures to transport you to a bygone era.

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  • Lanzhou

• Day 10: Lanzhou - Dunhuang

  Today involves a long journey as you travel towards Dunhuang by high-speed train, which takes approximately 7 - 8 hours. (Alternatively, you may choose to fly.) Upon arrival, your guide will meet you at the train station and transfer you to your hotel for a well-deserved rest.

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  • Dunhuang

• Day 11: Dunhuang, the Mogao Grottoes

  Today's journey in Dunhuang promises a rich tapestry of experiences. Begin by exploring the intricate murals in the Mogao Grottoes, a UNESCO World Heritage site renowned for its ancient Buddhist cave art.

  Next, venture to Singing Sand Dune and consider a camel ride for a memorable experience amidst the vast landscape. Beneath it, discover the serene beauty of Crescent Spring and learn about its significance as a natural wonder in the desert.

  Conclude the day with an evening stroll through Dunhuang's replica of the Song Dynasty city, a filming base offering a sense of being transported back to ancient times.

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  • Dunhuang

• Day 12: Dunhuang, Local Family Visit & the West Thousand Buddha Caves

  Start the tour today from the Dunhuang Museum, where you can immerse yourself in millennia of history and artifacts from the Silk Road.

  On the way to the next destination, visit a local family. You can follow the host to the farm field, do some simple farm work, pick vegetables, and try making noodles before enjoying lunch there.

  Afterward, venture to the Western Thousand Buddha Caves and appreciate ancient Buddhist art and sculptures depicting life and teachings from centuries past.

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  • Dunhuang

• Day 13: Dunhuang - Shanghai

  Following your breakfast, board the flight to Shanghai for your next journey.

  Upon your arrival, be greeted and taken to your hotel. The charm of Shanghai fills every corner of the city. Just explore at your own pace and then have a restful night.

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  • Shanghai

• Day 14: Shanghai, The Bund

  Start your discovery of Shanghai at the Bund, Shanghai's iconic waterfront, where historic colonial buildings stand tall against the modern skyline of Pudong. Then, witness the city's urban development at the Shanghai Urban Planning Exhibition Center. Experience the tranquility of Yu Garden, with its traditional Chinese architecture and serene landscapes, followed by a delightful lunch sampling Shanghai's renowned cuisine.

  Continue to Xintiandi, where you can wander through narrow alleys lined with beautifully preserved Shikumen houses, now housing stylish boutiques and cafes. Explore the rest of the former French Concession, known for its leafy streets, historic architecture, and vibrant arts scene. Finally, unwind at Fuxing Park, a peaceful oasis blending Chinese and Western influences.

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  • Shanghai

• Day 15: Shanghai, Departure

  Farewell, China! When you are ready, your guide and driver will take you to the airport for your home-bound flight. Looking forward to your next travel to China!

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