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China was long regarded as the Oriental Dragon with the longest successive civilization in the world. Beijing, the capital city of China, once served as capital for five dynasties, particularly the Ming and Qing dynasties from 1368 to 1911. Compared with Beijing, Xi’an is the root of Chinese civilization, with more than 13 dynasties establishing their capitals there for more than 1100 years. Suzhou is well-known for its beautiful gardens. Shanghai is a booming metropolis with changing skyline every day, where East met West since 19 century.

Starting in Beijing we explore all the major places of interest, including the Forbidden City, Temple of Heaven and Summer Palace. We also visit a mostly unrestored and remote section of the Great Wall, allowing you to absorb the immenseness of this incredible structure without jostling for a position with thousands of other tourists. Xian is home to the world renowned 2,000-year-old Terracotta Warriors. After the historical relics in Xi’an, we will relax among the gardens in Suzhou. We will finish our trip in Shanghai, the largest city in China, once known as the “Paris of the East”.

Days 1-4 Beijing
Your trip starts today with your arrival in Beijing. No activities are planned, so arrive early if you can, as there is plenty to see. There will be a pre-tour briefing with your tour leader late in the afternoon. Beijing is abundant in cultural and historical sites. The vast Forbidden City, built nearly 600 years ago and off limits to citizens for almost all that time, is a truly amazing place. The size might surprise you (it is huge!), but what makes it fascinating is that every square metre is interesting, ranging from intricately carved walkways to colourful, painted ceilings. A visit to China is not complete without walking along the Great Wall. We will travel to Simatai Great Wall, a largely unrestored and, as such, more authentic section of the famous wall, not crowded with hordes of other tourists. Climbing up this incredible man-made engineer and surveying the spectacular surrounding countryside is an unforgettable experience. There is also ample free time in the itinerary, allowing you to make your own discoveries and explorations. Temple of Heaven and Summer Palace are two other fine examples of extraordinary workmanship and architecture. In the evening, you have the chance to enjoy a performance of the unique Beijing Opera or Kongfu Show (optional).

We leave Beijing on the overnight train in Day 4, travelling in the sleeper train to Xi’an. You can either purchase dinner on the train or buy some food prior to boarding. We stay in six-berth air-conditioned cabins that have an open and relaxed feel about them. A blanket, sheets and a pillow are provided, although some people may wish to bring their own inner sheet. The 12-hour trip is a great opportunity for our group to get to know each other and is a great way to mix with the locals and practise your Chinese-language skills.

Days 5-6 Xi'an
We arrive in Xi'an in the early morning. Xian topped the other ancient capital cities in China. Many wonderful places are on your exploration list. Food options are excellent here as well, ranging from delicious Muslim fare to great little dumplings in local restaurants. Widely known as the first capital of a united China in 221 BC, the city is the deep root of Chinese history. A half-day tour to the renowned Terracotta Warriors shows us to these unearthed pottery statues, considered one of the most important archaeological finds of the 20th Century. Over 6,000 of them were individually sculpted from clay, each having a different costume, height, even facial expression. They are standing in battle formation, facing east in order to protect the tomb of China's first Emperor, the great Qin Shi Huang Di. These soldiers were accidentally discovered by local farmers in 1974. A free day can easily be spent wandering the narrow streets among the Muslim quarter where we find quaint shops, lively markets, groups of white-bearded men in skull caps sipping tea in dingy cafes. For those who are interested in history, please do not miss Shaanxi History Museum, which introduces you the total history of Chinese civilization. Other places you may visit include Bell Tower, Drum Tower, City Wall and Big Wild Goose Pagoda, a famous Buddhist temple. In the evening of day 6 we board an overnight train for Suzhou (approximately 15 hours).

Days 7-8 Suzhou
Mid-morning we arrive in Suzhou, famous for its canals and its silk industry. However its most famous assets are its magnificent landscaped gardens, which are all works of art. This unique concept focuses on water, rocks and harmony rather than plants! The best ones to visit are the impressive Humble Administrators’ Garden and the smaller and yet intricate Garden of the Master of the Nets. The best pace to explore Suzhou is a leisurely one, wandering alongside the canals. In the evening there is a chance to sample the nightlife in one of the many interesting cafes and bars situated near our hotel.

We will catch the express train to Shanghai (1 hour) in late afternoon on Day 8.

Days 9-10 Shanghai
Shanghai is a vibrant, fast-moving city with a fantastic variety of markets and restaurants for eating out. The shopping area on Nanjing Road is situated nearby. We will enjoy free time in Shanghai, and your tour leader can show you how to find the way to the famous Yuyuan Gardens and Bazaar, a representative of private garden in south China and highlight of the city. We might have opportunities to try some wonderful food stalls as well. Acrobat here is recommended for your entertainment at night.

There is a full free day for further exploration of Shanghai. Keen photographers are rewarded by an early start to the day, as scores of locals practise Taichi along the waterfront at dawn. The old French Quarter is also a great place to wander around, and the Jade Buddha Temple and the impressive Shanghai Museum are both well worth a visit. The gleaming towers on the Pudong side reflect China's march towards modernisation and the rapid rate of changes that are taking place.

You may depart at any time on day 10 as no activities are planned. Additional accommodation can be arranged on request.