Dynastic China

Arrive in Beijing, the bustling capital city of China, where you meet your full time Chinese Tour Manager. Beijing is renowned for its opulent palaces, temples, and historic monuments. Its art treasures and universities have long made the city a center of culture and art in China. Transfer to your hotel in the city for check in and dinner, then settle in for a good night’s sleep.

Start your day with the popular Tai Chi exercises from a Tai Chi Master followed by a full day’s sightseeing tour of Beijing. First, visit the impressive Temple of Heaven. This iconic complex of religious buildings has an intriguing medieval history and distinctive architecture. . An informal performance may be possible at the park! Enjoy lunch as a group learning about Chinese eating etiquette. Then you will visit the Forbidden City, a maze of buildings also known as the Imperial Palace. This UNESCO World Heritage Site was off-limits to the public for 500 years and includes nearly 1,000 buildings spread out over 200 acres. Next, we’ll see Tiananmen Square, site of the 1989 pro-democracy protests that captured the world’s attention. This evening, enjoy dinner featuring Peking duck, a regional and national specialty.

Today, climb on one of the most astonishing feats of human endeavor: The Great Wall of China. Construction of the Great Wall began in the seventh century BC and was extended many centuries afterward. You’ll have a chance to walk on the wall and have an understanding for the magnitude of this incredible structure. Afterwards, pass by the famous Olympic Bird Nest Stadium as well as the Water Cube. When Beijing hosted the 2008 Olympic Games, the Olympic Bird Nest Stadium was designed as the main stadium for the Olympics and Paralympics. Late this afternoon you’ll present your debut concert for the locals!

This morning, delve into old Beijing and tour the Hutong area by rickshaw. You’ll see how some Chinese live in an enclosed community and learn about their daily lifestyle. Then transfer to the airport for your flight to Xi’an. Upon arrival in Xi’an, the ancient capital of China, transfer to your hotel for check-in. Enjoy dinner at a local restaurant.

In the morning, discover the eighth wonder of the world, the Terracotta Warriors. Our guided tour with a local expert will cover the fascinating history of these 8,000 life-size statues of soldiers with their horses and chariots. View the Bronze Chariot and see a Circle Vision movie. Then you will learn how to make the Chinese dumpling, a traditional family dish of China. Enjoy your delicious dumplings during lunch! In the afternoon, pass by the City Wall, one of the largest and most complete ancient military systems of defense in the world. This evening, prepare for your second concert of the tour.

Transfer to the airport for a morning flight to Shanghai, the largest city in China. Upon arrival, begin a city tour to learn about the history and incredible development of Shanghai. You will first explore the Bund, the heart of Colonial Shanghai. Here, you will see the modern areas of the city known as Pudong (East side of river). Pass by the French concession, which is one of the most beautiful areas in the city. Tonight, enjoy a special dinner followed by the dramatic Shanghai acrobatic show!

Enjoy a full-day guided sightseeing tour of Shanghai, visiting the Yuyuan Garden, the only fully restored classical Chinese garden in Shanghai, and the Jade Buddha Temple. Then you will visit a silk shop where you will observe the process for making this luxurious textile. Tonight, perform the final concert of the tour followed by a special farewell dinner!

Transfer to the airport for your return flight to the United States.