China Tours, Yangtze River Cruising, Mekong River Cruises, Vietnam Tour, Cambodia Travel
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32 The spectacular Yangtze River threads through soaring river gorges Day 9. Xi'an, Terracotta Army, Freedom of Choice. Today you will discover the attractions of Xi'an, one of the oldest cities in China with more than 3,000 years of history. The city was one of China's Four Great Capitals and is the eastern point of the famous Silk Road. Visit the ancient city wall, one of the largest military defensive systems in the world, constructed in the 14th century during the early Ming Dynasty. Afterwards, travel out of the city to a clay factory where impressive terracotta soldiers are still made today. Spend the afternoon at the Museum of Qin Terracotta Warriors and Horses and the Qin Shi Huang Mausoleum. Here lie the three excavation pits where the collection of terracotta sculptures depicting the warriors of Qin Shi Huang, the First Emperor of China, were first unearthed by farmers in 1974. Accompanied by a museum curator, you will enjoy the opportunity to view some of the best-preserved sculptures from a lower viewing platform, which is off-limits to the general public. Watch a panoramic movie telling the story of the warriors and enjoy time to visit the three excavation pits where over 8,000 terracotta soldiers, horses, chariots and weapons are arranged in vast columns. In the evening, enjoy a Tang Dynasty cultural performance and feast on a local dumpling dinner. Alternatively, you may like to embark on a tour of the Muslim Quarter, including a wander through the market, followed by dinner at a local restaurant. BLD Day 10. Xi'an, Shanghai, Freedom of Choice. After lunch, transfer to the airport and fly to Shanghai. On arrival, board the high-speed Maglev train into the heart of the city and watch the kilometres race towards an exhilarating 300 km/h. Once predominantly a fishing and textiles town, rapid growth has seen Shanghai transformed into a globally significant metropolis, boasting a famous skyline and a strong influence in the world of business. Check in to your iconic hotel overlooking the Huangpu River and enjoy some free time before dinner. In the evening, enjoy a meal of Chinese cuisine at the Dragon Phoenix restaurant. Alternatively, you may wish to head to the Langham Xintiandi Hotel's renowned signature restaurant, Ming Court. Or choose to enjoy an exotic fusion menu at Zen Restaurant. Three Night Stay: Shanghai, Fairmont Peace Hotel. BLD THE COSMOPOLITAN CITY OF SHANGHAI Day 11. Shanghai. This morning after breakfast you will be joined by a local guide for an orientation bus tour through the downtown area of Shanghai. Stop at the Oriental Pearl Tower and take an elevator to the viewing deck where you will delight in panoramic views of the city. Standing at 468 metres high, it is one of the city's tallest buildings. After lunch visit a local silk factory for an insight into the history of Chinese silk manufacturing. This evening, after dinner at your leisure, enjoy premium seating at a thrilling acrobatic show. BL Day 12. Shanghai, Freedom of Choice. Choose your activity this morning. Perhaps cruise the Huangpu River through the heart of the city, then explore Yu Garden and enjoy a traditional Chinese tea ceremony. Regarded as one of the most lavish gardens in China, Yu Garden was built over a period of 20 years by Pan Yunduan who wanted to impress his father, a high-ranking official in the Ming Dynasty. Following your tour, sit down to a dim sum lunch. Or you may prefer to take part in a cooking class, during which you will learn how to make Shanghai Dumplings. Your final option is a full day excursion to Jinxi, an ancient water town. Although only an hour from bustling Shanghai, Jinxi is worlds away in pace and serenity. Less developed than other nearby water towns and untouched by tourism, Jinxi's romantic charm is best appreciated during a guided walking tour. Wandering through the covered corridors along the Jinxi River, you'll discover ancient bridges arching over the town's many water alleys. Enjoy lunch at a local restaurant and some time at leisure before returning to the city. This evening, attend a Farewell Dinner at The Cathay Room in The Fairmont Peace Hotel, overlooking the Bund and the Huangpu River. BLD Day 13. Depart Shanghai. Transfer to the airport for your flight home. Alternatively, you may choose to extend your APT holiday with a trip to Hong Kong or Vietnam & Cambodia. B www.aptouring.com.au