Giant Pandas and bamboo forests, dazzling displays of ancient warriors and willow pattern landscapes. Iconic buildings of the 21st century and traditional skills stretching back thousands of years. Endangered wildlife, fascinating cultures and extraordinary architectural gems are just waiting to be discovered.
- Travelling - 1 to 2
Fly to Xian via Beijing. On arrival meet your local tour guide who will be on hand throughout the tour. Overnight Xian.
- Pagodas And Paintings - 3
A special welcome ceremony at the Xian city wall starts the day in style. Visit the small wild goose pagoda where your tour guide will introduce you to Chinese artists. Watch as they apply delicate strokes with special brushes, conjuring up wonderful images in minutes. Orchids, swallows and bamboo are typical subjects.
- The Terracotta Army - 3
Xian was once the flourishing capital of china. The archaeological discoveries near the city are staggering. It is here that the first Qin emperor was interred in 200 BC with at least 6,000 life-sized terracotta figures of the imperial guard. As you enter the viewing hall you are about to witness one of the world’s most remarkable sights. Warriors are grouped in battle order some mounted on horse-drawn chariots others armed with spears, swords and crossbows, an extraordinary display of military power. The terracotta army was discovered by local farmers; meet with one of them in a tea house and hear his incredible story. This evening sample local dishes at a ‘dumpling’ dinner. Overnight Xian.
- A Day In The Country - 4
Leave the bustle of Xian for a taste of rural life in the village of Anwu. Meet with local farmers and visit a primary school. Take a peep inside a typical cave house and hear about a life which seems a million miles away from the high tech of the city. Lunch is included at a local home. Foreign visitors are a rare sight but you will receive a very friendly and possibly inquisitive welcome. This evening join an optional Folklore Performance At The Tang Dynasty Theatre. Overnight Xian.
- Afternoon Tea In Chengdu - 5
Nobody does tea better than the Chinese and the pavilion park is the perfect spot. Over 150 varieties of bamboo grow here, from bonsai-sized to towering giants. Experience traditional tea in this tranquil environment. Sichuan province is also renowned for its spicy cuisine. This evening explore Jinli Street, maybe sample some of the local delicacies and browse in the silk workshops. Ask your local tour guide for their recommendations. Overnight Chengdu.
- An Introduction To The Giant Pandas - 6
The panda breeding research centre is a great introduction to these shy creatures. The pandas here were born in captivity and a morning visit to the playground allows you to observe them as they feed and play. It is hard not to smile as you watch these black and white bears at their most active before they retire to sleep for the rest of the day.
- Moon Bear Rescue Centre - 6
Another rare creature is the Asiatic black bear, more commonly known as the moon bear. The qualities of these animals are valued highly in traditional Chinese medicine and these bears were once abundant. The name moon bear comes from the yellow crescent found on their chest. Visits to the rescue centre are rarely permitted and it is a privilege to see these endangered animals now in a protected environment, and be making a positive contribution towards their welfare. This evening join an optional excursion to learn secrets of the Chinese opera at a ‘face changing’ show. Overnight Chengdu.
- Ancient Towns - 7
Journey southwest to the ‘ink and wash’ landscape of ancient Shangli. Nestling amongst evergreen trees and hills this charming town exudes history. Stroll the narrow streets flanked with old houses and pagodas and walk over ancient bridges that traverse the streams. Catch glimpses of cobbled courtyards and noisy games of mah-jong, and watch the noodle man as he tosses and stretches dough.
- Closer Encounters With The Pandas - 7
A visit to Bifengxia panda sanctuary is a truly remarkable experience. Deep in the forests of Sichuan province and covering miles of bamboo forest, rivers and waterfalls this is the perfect environment for the giant pandas. A visit allows you to observe the efforts being made to save these wonderful animals. Listen to an introductory talk from a resident expert and take a tour of the sanctuary. Have your camera ready and watch the giant pandas as they eat, rest and play. Maybe visit the cub’s compound and see baby pandas that have recently been born. Few things can be more delightful than watching these shy black and white giants and the memories of this afternoon will stay with you forever. Overnight Bifengxia.
- A Morning At The Sanctuary - 8
If you choose, spend a morning as a volunteer at the sanctuary. Your duties could include cleaning of enclosures, preparation of snacks for the pandas and assisting with the collection of behaviour data. Those that wish to opt out can spend the morning relaxing at the hotel. Overnight Chengdu.
- To The Capital - 9
Travel by air to Beijing. A stroll in Beihai Park is the perfect way to spend an afternoon in this extraordinary city. Once the property of the emperor, the park is now a playground for local people of Beijing. Follow your tour guide along the pathways and explore cool pavilions. Cross multiple arch bridges and wander through peaceful gardens and rockeries. Look out over contrasting architecture of the city. Cutting edge skyscrapers soar above ancient temples and golden curved roofs.
- Sights And Sounds Of The Night Market - 9
As day turns to night the streets fill and the night market bursts into life. Colourful lanterns illuminate the narrow passages and eager crowds jostle at the stalls. Chinese songs fill the night air and the sweet aroma of cooking fills your nostrils. From stir fried starfish to scorpion on a stick nothing escapes the grill or frying pan. Overnight Beijing.
- A Day In The City - 10
Start the day at Tiantan Park. Old men gather here with their caged birds and crickets, and as dawn breaks locals lose themselves in concentration as they practice tai chi exercises amongst the ancient trees. Just watch this mesmerising scene or feel free to join in; your tour guide will help you with all the moves. Take a short walk to the strikingly beautiful temple of heaven; this ornate wooden structure is still used as a place of prayer today. Hop into a rickshaw and take a ride around the Hutongs, a maze of narrow back streets and houses. Peep through open doors and catch glimpses local life. Enter the Shenwumen gate into the incredible Forbidden City and marvel at the magnificent buildings that house the imperial palace. China was ruled from here for hundreds of years by imperial dynasties. Leave the city through the gate of heavenly peace, and step into the beating heart of the city, Tina and Men Square. This evening discover secrets of the martial arts at an optional kung fu show. Overnight Beijing.
- A Walk On The Great Wall - 11
Drive north from the city to Mutianyu, one of the most peaceful sections of this man made wonder. The climb up 1500 steps is rewarded with spectacular views and there is also a cable car option if you prefer. The great wall winds like an immense dragon through the hills of northern china. As you walk along the historic ramparts step back thousands of years and imagine the manpower and time that went into the construction of this 3,800 mile symbol of imperial power.
- The Famous Peking Duck - 11
No dish better represents Beijing than Peking duck. Join your travelling companions and tour guide for a delicious farewell dinner and enjoy this local delicacy. Overnight Beijing.
- Travelling - 12
Fly back to the UK, arriving the same day.
