China Tours, Yangtze River Cruising, Mekong River Cruises, Vietnam Tour, Cambodia Travel
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35 CHINA Shanghai Chongqing Yichang Hangzhou Suzhou CHINA Xi'an Beijing Yangtze River 3 2 2 Sanctuary Yangzi Explorer 3 2 1 Coach Cruise Flight (included) Rail No. of nights stay 30 MAX. GUESTS G U A R A N TE E D S M A L L G R O U P S XI'AN & THE TERRACOTTA ARMY Day 6. Hangzhou, Xi'an, Freedom of Choice. Transfer to the airport for your flight to Xi'an. Once a thriving city where many cultures and religions coexisted, Xi'an is one of the oldest cities in China, with more than 3,000 years of history. As such, Xi'an is home to some of the country's most iconic sights. From the Terracotta Army to the Muslim Quarter and the Tomb of Emperor Jingdi, remnants of an ancient world are very much alive today and visible for all to see. Make a stop today to explore the ancient city wall, one of the largest military defensive systems in the world, constructed in the 14th century during the early Ming Dynasty. In the evening, enjoy a Tang Dynasty cultural performance and feast on a deliciously authentic local dumpling dinner. Alternatively, you may like to embark on a tour of the Muslim Quarter, including a visit to the bustling market, followed by dinner at an authentic local restaurant. Two Night Stay: Xi'an, Sofitel Renmin Square. BLD Day 7. Xi'an, Terracotta Army, Freedom of Choice. Travel out of the city this morning and stop at a clay factory where 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'll 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. This evening, choose from a Brazilian barbecue at Churrasco, a Western buffet at Azur or Chinese cuisine at Le Chinois. BLD Day 5. Hangzhou. Following breakfast this morning, cruise over the peaceful waters of West Lake on a traditional small boat, enjoying dreamy views of distant pagodas and mist-shrouded hills. Stop for lunch at a local restaurant before travelling to the seven-storey Six Harmonies Pagoda, which has featured in the works of many writers and poets. Built in AD970 during the Northern Song Dynasty it represents the harmony in balanced polar opposites. Your next stop is the Dragon Well Tea Village where you will have the opportunity to sample the region's renowned Longjing Tea during a traditional tea ceremony. This particular variety of green tea, often referred to as the national drink of China, is grown here in Hangzhou and harvested by hand. Stroll along the village's tiny alleys and streets as you ascend the mountainous landscapes of the surrounding tea plantation. With some time at leisure this afternoon you may like to step out to explore the city on your own. Dinner this evening features a variety of Hangzhou cuisine. BLD Explore the ancient structures of Beijing's Summer Palace Delight in the beauty of West Lake in Hangzhou