Essence of China with Pandas

Itinerary

• Day 1: Beijing, Arrival

  Start your trip in Beijing, China's capital, where a spectacular holiday awaits you, as does your private tour guide and driver. They will pick you up from the airport and transport you to your city center hotel. After checking in, you may relax to alleviate jet lag or explore the nearby streets on your own.

  Accommodation: Beijing Novotel Peace Hotel or similar (4-star)

  • Beijing

• Day 2: Beijing, Ramble around Imperial Forbidden City

  Begin your day with a visit to the heart of Beijing, the expansive Tiananmen Square. Proceed to the Forbidden City, the imperial residence for centuries, located just beyond Tiananmen Square. Explore the palace complex, delving into the royal family's working and leisure spaces, where you can admire the beautiful clothing and furnishings they once used. Conclude your exploration by ascending to the pavilion atop Jingshan Park, offering a bird's-eye perspective of ancient Beijing and the magnificent Forbidden City.

  Accommodation: Beijing Novotel Peace Hotel or similar (4-star)

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  • Beijing

• Day 3: Beijing, Climb the Majestic Great Wall

  Get up with the history by joining the locals at the Temple of Heaven Park for morning exercises. Take in the fresh air and revere the sacredness of the royal sacrificial site. You can join them for Tai Chi, dancing, or even singing if you're interested.

  The next stop is the breathtaking Mutianyu Great Wall, a man-made wonder that hugs the mountainside and can be reached after a two-hour drive. It's said that if you don't reach the Great Wall, you are not a true man. Come on! Take the challenge of climbing the city walls and admire the dense collection of watchtowers built along the ancient walls.

  Note: In addition to climbing the Great Wall yourself, you have many other easier climbing options, such as cable cars, chairlifts, and toboggan.

  Accommodation: Beijing Novotel Peace Hotel or similar (4-star)

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  • Beijing

• Day 4: Beijing - Xi'an, by High-Speed Train

  An exciting 5-hour journey to Xi'an via China's high-speed rail! In a perfectly smooth and timely manner, you will be traveling at speeds of about 350 km/h. After a brief rest at your hotel, you will be transferred to the ancient city walls to see them with your guide. It is one of the most impressive examples of China's ancient walled city. Strolling along the city walls, you can learn about the old days that date back to the Ming Dynasty. An unforgettable experience awaits you on the city wall, where you can stroll, ride a bike, or even take a battery car.

  Accommodation: Eastern House Boutique Hotel or similar (4-star)

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  • Xi'an

• Day 5: Xi'an, Marvel at the Legendary Terracotta Army

  Get ready to encounter a unique "army" today - the Terracotta Warriors and Horses. These life-size clay figures guarded the tomb of China's first emperor, Qin Shihuang, for over 2,200 years. In the exhibition hall, you can observe not only their military formations but also their attire, facial expressions, and hairstyles. As you visit the nearby Qin Shi Huang Mausoleum Museum, you'll get a close look at two models of bronze chariots from the Qin Dynasty.

  The next destination is in the heart of the town, where you can stroll down Muslim Street - a bustling thoroughfare teeming with vendors offering distinctive snacks, souvenirs, and local specialties.

  Accommodation: Eastern House Boutique Hotel or similar (4-star)

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  • Xi'an

• Day 6: Xi'an - Chengdu, by High-Speed Train

  Ride the bullet train once again from Xi'an to Chengdu. After a 4-hour journey, your local tour guide and driver will meet you at the exit and transfer you to your hotel for check-in. If you're eager to begin your exploration, take some time to explore the charming Wide and Narrow Alley or Jinli Pedestrian area, where you can discover a variety of culinary specialties.

  Accommodation: Dorsett Chengdu or similar (4-star)

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  • Chengdu

• Day 7: Chengdu, Encounter Cute Pandas

  Go to the Chengdu Research Base of Giant Panda Breeding first thing in the early morning, as it's the best time to witness the most active pandas when they typically eat or play.

  Visit the historic Wenshu Monastery. As you soak in the serene ambiance of the complex's elegant Chinese-style buildings, make a stop at the teahouse behind the complex to unwind with a cup of local tea and observe the world around you.

  In the evening, spice things up by sampling an authentic Sichuan hotpot. For recommendations, consult your guide or add it to your dinner experience.

  Accommodation: Dorsett Chengdu or similar (4-star)

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  • Chengdu

• Day 8: Chengdu - Shanghai, by Airplane

  Depart from the laid-back, unhurried pace of Chengdu and catch a flight to the bustling metropolis of Shanghai. Unwind at your hotel or explore the surroundings at your leisure.

  Accommodation: Central Hotel Shanghai or similar (4-star)

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  • Shanghai

• Day 9: Shanghai, Admire the Unique Charm of This City

  Welcome to Shanghai, where modernity harmonizes with tradition. Walk along the Bund, resembling a museum of Western architectural styles, contrasting with the contemporary buildings across the Huangpu River. Enter the historic Yu Garden to appreciate pavilions, exquisite rockeries, and beautiful garden features. Explore a silk studio, visit the former French Concession, and discover rare cultural artifacts at the Shanghai Museum.

  Accommodation: Central Hotel Shanghai or similar (4-star)

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  • Shanghai

• Day 10: Shanghai, Departure

  A lovely journey is drawing to a close. Pack your baggage and bring your memories, and your guide and driver will transport you to the airport and back to your warm home.

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