China’s diversity, not only regarding geography, but also culture is what defines this vast nation. In this 15-day itinerary, get to know the country’s culture and history, visiting many of its famous sites – the Great Wall, the Forbidden City, the Terracotta Army, and many more! In addition, we make sure to provide many opportunities for genuine interaction with the Chinese people to leave you with a lasting positive impression.

This morning we visit the magnificent Temple of Heaven, where the Emperors came to pray for good harvests and today it’s where residents come for morning exercises such as Tai Chi and Ballroom dancing! From here we visit the Hutongs, the small lanes and former courtyard houses of an Old Beijing, and although getting commercialized, it remains a fascinating insight into the daily lives of local families.

Transfer to train station for fast speed train to Xi’an. 5 hours train ride.

Without a doubt, the highlight of any visit to Xian and possibly even China is to explore the legacy of The Army of Terracotta Warriors and visit the incredible burial site, where they were discovered only recently. A full day is organized that passes by the Mausoleum of Emperor Qin Shihuang and visits the Warriors themselves who stand guard over Emperor Qin’s tomb. A simple lunch is offered while visits are also planned to the Old City of Xian where your guide will bring alive Xian’s association with the mighty Silk Road. Here, we visit the old City Walls, where a short bike or buggy ride enjoyed.

Chengdu, the capital of Sichuan province, is well known for its Sichuan cuisine and Pandas. Early morning we transfer to the Giant Panda Breeding Center where you can get a close look at this amazing animal. Also, there’s an opportunity to hug the cute pandas. After lunch, we’ll explore the local market and watch a face changing show before famous hotpot dinner.

Transfer to airport and fly to Jiuzhaigou in the morning.

We’ll first visit a local Tibetan family. The hostess, named Zhuo Ma, was a yak herder and could only speak the local Tibetan dialect until she was 17. But now she speaks manageable English as well as Sichuan Chinese, Lhasa and Amdo Tibetan and a bit of French! It’s such a delightful experience to meet Zhuo Ma and hear her story.

Enjoy the stunning views and colors of Jiuzhaigou National Park. Visit a private Tibetan museum that tells a vivid history of the people who live there, and enjoy a hike in the exclusive private section of the valley. Guides will tell you more about the flowers, birds and the natural history of the valley.

This morning we get up early and visit the Leshan Giant Buddha, built during the Tang Dynasty. It is the largest stone Buddha in the world, and it is by far the tallest pre-Modern statue in the world. Take an evening flight to Hangzhou.

This morning, your Guide will meet you at your hotel lobby and offer a full day exploring Hangzhou. You will visit the atmospheric Lingyin Temple where Buddhist monks still live and pray. It is also home to one of the largest indoor Buddha statues in the World. Later this morning, there is an opportunity to see the Tea Museum in this city famous for its tea plantations and fields. Lunch offered during the day, and afterward, you have a leisurely afternoon around the charming West Lake where a boat ride included, and there is time to explore the beautiful parks and causeways surrounding the water. If you’re interested in art, we can visit the China Art Academy.

This morning you will have the opportunity to visit the city’s Bund, flanked by the magnificent colonial-era buildings previously owned by the great trading houses and banks of the early 1900’s. You will also visit the beautiful Yu Gardens before lunch at Din Tai Feng Restaurant, and an afternoon visit to the excellent Shanghai Museum and the fascinating Urban Planning Centre. This evening, we provide tickets for a spectacular performance of the Shanghai Acrobatics.

Today you will depart on your flight home.