Middle Kingdom Mysteries
ITINERARY

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1-3
Beijing
City

You’re off to see authentic, unmissable China at its finest! Throw your last remaining bits in the suitcase and settle into your flight. Pretty soon you’ll be touching down in Beijing, where you’ll be strolling around the Hutong district, Beijing's oldest neighbourhood.
On day 3 you’ll see all the main highlights, including Tiananmen Square and the Forbidden City, and enjoy a tour around the Summer Palace with its beautiful gardens. See it from the water during a short boat ride on Kunming Lake, which covers around three quarters of its total grounds then try the local speciality, tasty Peking Duck – this authentic version of the well-loved Chinese dish is far superior to anything you will have tried back home!
PLACES TO STAY 

Shichahai Shadow Arts Hotel

A unique hotel in Beijing that's centered around the ancient art of shadow puppetry.

Beijing City Tour

Full-day experience
Marvel at Tiananmen Square, revel in the Forbidden City and take a scenic boat ride by the Summer Palace.
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EXPLOREFULL-DAY EXPERIENCE

Walking Tour of the Hutong District

Half-day experience
See the Beijing few others do on this charming walking tour.
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EXPLOREHALF-DAY EXPERIENCE
Tai Chi at the Temple of Heaven

Half-day experience
Enjoy a private lesson with a Tai Chi expert in the peaceful Temple of Heaven.
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EXPLOREHALF-DAY EXPERIENCE

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4
The Great Wall of China
Activity & Adventure

You’ll be heading out of Beijing on day 4 to see one of the 7 Wonders of the World - The Great Wall of China. No trip to China would be complete without witnessing its impressive scale and you will get to do that without all the crowds as we’ll be taking you to the more remote Jinshanling section. You’ll be staying at the Mutianyu section of the Great Wall tonight, so that you can experience it during another remarkable time – sunset. Be sure to pack an extra memory card for the camera!
PLACES TO STAY
Brickyard Retreat at Mutianyu Great Wall

Located at the base of The Great Wall with views from every room, this hotel is a top choice.

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5-6
Xi’an
City + Tour

You’ve seen the sun set over the wall and now it’s time to see it rise. It’s an early start, but it’s well worth not rolling over when the alarm goes off. After this exhilarating start to the day it’s off to Beijing West Station to travel in 1st Class on the high-speed bullet train to Xi'an.
You’re off to stand before the imposing and totally fascinating Terracotta Army. An estimated 8,000 soldiers and 130 chariots with 520 horses and 150 cavalry horses are buried here within three pits, where they were built to protect Qin Shi Huang, China’s first Emperor, in his afterlife. On your return to Xi'an you'll enjoy a cycling tour around the ancient city walls. In the evening, take yourself off to the Little Wild Goose Pagoda where you can see a fabulous fountain and light show for free!
 
PLACES TO STAY
 
Sofitel Legend Peoples Grand Hotel

Located in one of the most iconic buildings in Xi’an, the Sofitel and its splendour is a must see.

Half-day experience
Marvel at one of the greatest archaeological discoveries in the world.
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EXPLOREHALF-DAY EXPERIENCE

Terracotta Warriors and the Muslim Quarter

Evening experience
Uncover the Muslim Quarter during this vibrant evening tour.
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EXPLOREEVENING EXPERIENCE

Evening Food Tour by Tuktuk

Evening experience
Eat, drink and be happy in Xi’an.
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EXPLOREEVENING EXPERIENCE

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7
Guilin
Tour

You’re off on a short flight to Guilin in the south of China. You’re free this afternoon to relax and reflect on what you’ve seen so far, or perhaps go for a wander around Elephant Hill, which got its name due to its unusual shaped rocks that mimic an elephant drinking water. You may also wish to take a walk around Guilin's Shanhu Lake, featuring both a copper and silver pagoda, which is magnificently lit up at night.
PLACES TO STAY
 

Jolie Vue Boutique

Overlooking the picturesque Li River, opposite Elephant Trunk Hill stands this beautiful luxury hotel.

8-9
Yangshuo
Cruise + Tour

You’ll be taking to the water as you board a boat for a 5-hour cruise along the stunning Li River. Sail through towering limestone peaks, pass tiny, traditional villages and see water buffalo grazing on the river’s edge. Fill your belly with a lunch on the boat and make sure you look out for the cliffs featured on the 20 Yuan note, before mooring in Yangshuo where you'll spend a relaxed afternoon. There's plenty of markets to explore, or if you wish, rent a bike and explore some of the winding countryside paths surrounding this pretty township.
On day 9, it’s time to learn how to create all the delicious Chinese food you’ve been trying yourself, when you take part in a Chinese cookery course with a local chef. No doubt you’ll be sampling your creations, but afterwards you’ll get to walk it all off as you stroll with a guide around the famous Yangshuo scenic area.