China—Land of the Dragon—November 6 - 18, 2012
DAY 1&2—ON OUR WAY
Today, we board our motorcoach for the short trip to the Minneapolis/Saint Paul International Airport for our journey to the Exotic East! We cross the International Dateline and arrive in Beijing, the vibrant capital city.
DAY 3—BEIJING
Rest up and enjoy a free day in Beijing.
DAY 4—BEIJING
After a short lesson on the local language, your sightseeing tour of Beijing begins with a visit to the UNESCO site of the Summer Palace, amongst the most noted classical gardens in the world. Visit the Beijing Zoo, home of the famous pandas. See the new habitat that has been created for those pandas rescued from the earthquake region who are now happily residing in their new home! Then, learn about jade carving and help design your very own custom-made jade name seal stamp, a perfect way to commemorate your visit to Beijing.
DAY 5—THE GREAT WALL
China’s legendary landmark, the Great Wall, is yours to discover today. During your visit, walk along a portion of this 3,700 mile marvel! Travel through the Valley of the Ming Tombs where you will walk along the Sacred Way, or Divine Road, which means “the road leading to heaven.” Experience a time-honored and favorite pastime of the Chinese when you go kite-flying! Feel the excitement of the 2008 Summer Olympics when you view the Olympic Green where you have the opportunity to take photos of two famous structures - the Bird’s Nest and Water Cube. Tonight, enjoy a Peking duck dinner followed by a traditional Peking opera show and delight in the colorful costumes and interesting music.
DAY 6—BEIJING
This morning visit the expansive and historic Tiananmen Square. Continue to the Forbidden City, a vast network of palaces, including five halls, seventeen palaces and numerous other buildings. The remainder of your day is at leisure to relax, go shopping or even visit the 798 Dashanzi Art District.
DAY 7—ON TO XIAN
Explore the world-famous Temple of Heaven, an ornate sanctuary where Chinese Emperors worshiped their gods. Enjoy a once-in-a-lifetime rickshaw tour through the Hutongs, the narrow streets of ancient Beijing. Then visit a local home to share a simple lunch and learn the art of dumpling making. A short flight brings you to China’s interior city of Xian.
DAY 8—XIAN
Visit one of the most famous Buddhist temples in the world, the classical Wild Goose Pagoda. The impressive structure was built during the Tang Dynasty to house Buddhist treasures. Here you will also learn Tai Chi, a highly-revered Chinese martial art that is both invigorating and relaxing. During lunch, savor a local specialty, Xian dumplings, before traveling to the excavation site of the Terra-Cotta Warriors. This army of men and horses was buried with the first Emperor of Qin to protect him in the afterlife. Be amazed by the sheer numbers of them and their detailed features!
DAY 9—XIAN
Begin your day with a visit to the Shaanxi Museum where you can view bronze wares, pottery and ancient murals. Then travel to the countryside to visit a rural village. Meet local residents and gain insight into their daily life during a tour of a local school, a visit to a farm and lunch at a farmer’s home. Afterwards, explore the bustling Muslim Quarter where Chinese Muslims have lived for hundreds of years.
DAY 10—ON TO SHANGHAI
Depart for Shanghai, a bustling trade port and the economic heart of China, whose futuristic skyline will leave you speechless. Enjoy a locally guided tour of the waterfront district known as the Bund which runs along the western bank of the Huangpu River. Famous for its gorgeous colonial buildings, you’ll feel as though you have stepped back into 19th century Europe as you wander among the impressive Gothic, Baroque and Renaissance architecture. Explore Old Town’s narrow streets and relax in the tranquility of the Yuyuan Garden.
DAY 11—ZHUJIAJIAO
Enjoy a full day excursion to the water village of Zhujiajiao, an ancient city located on the banks of Dianshan Lake. After more than one thousand years, Ming and Qing dynasty buildings still stand and 36 ancient stone bridges cross the canal that runs through the center of town. Visit the rice museum, enjoy a boat ride on the canal and have time to shop. Tonight, take in the energy and excitement of the Chinese acrobatic show.
DAY 12—SHANGHAI
Your morning is highlighted by a visit to the Children’s Palace, an ornate fortress where the local children come to learn various arts including calligraphy, piano and dance. Next, discover the treasures of the Shanghai Museum, home to priceless artifacts that span China’s rich history. The remainder of the day is at leisure—perhaps you will explore the French Concession, snap a few more photographs or shop for last-minute souvenirs.
DAY 13—HOMEWARD BOUND
We transfer to the Shanghai airport for our flight home to the USA.
Proof of Citizenship:
All passengers MUST HAVE a US Passport valid until June 30, 2013 AND Chinese visa.
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