"This itinerary introduces all the family to China, taking them on a journey to discover past history, traditions and ways of life. The fan-making, calligraphy and dumpling cooking classes are really fun and are particular highlights."
Upon arrival in Beijing you’ll be met at the airport by a representative and privately transferred to your hotel.
The day will be spent at your leisure.
In the evening you’ll be escorted to the show “Flying Acrobatics” – one of the most popular evenings out for adults and children.
Following breakfast you’ll embark on a two-hour sidecar tour, stopping along the way to see both new and old Beijing.
You’ll explore the Hutongs – the narrow streets and alleys which are home to many traditional courtyard residences, before moving on to the Gulou (Drum Tower) where, during the Ming Dynasty, marked the hours of the day with the rumbling of drums.
In the afternoon you’ll visit the Forbidden City for a symbol hunting adventure.
This morning you’ll head to the Temple of Heaven. At this time of the day you’ll see locals practicing Tai Qi, Kung Fu, meditation, tango, and gymnastics.
Less energetic locals also practice calligraphy with giant brushes on water on the park’s flagstones. This will be your chance to channel your inner artistic streak with a spot of water calligraphy (available April – October).
In the afternoon, you’ll enjoy a private dumpling making class, learning how to knead and roll the dough, whip up fillings and concoct natural dyes from fresh vegetables.
Following breakfast you’ll be driven to The Great Wall of China.
Your wall location will be Mutianyu, where you can walk or take the cable car, retracing your steps back to the Qin Dynasty (over 2000 years ago). Tired legs can stop for a picnic, or to take selfies and admire the scenery.
The outdoor activities will continue into the afternoon with some Chinese Kite Flying – a very typical local game for all the family – followed by a descent of the wall by toboggan - perhaps the most exciting way to leave such a famous landmark!
After breakfast you’ll be met at the hotel and escorted to the train station for your ride to Xi’an.
Upon arrival to the Shaanxi Province, your local guide will escort you to your hotel.
Welcome to the place often considered to be where Chinese civilisation began. The capital of the Empire three times, Xi’an was a hub of commerce, exporting silk and local products to the world.
After relaxing at your hotel you’ll kick off the evening with a private food tour. You'll be whisked around the city on a private Tuk Tuk, sampling traditional fare and beverages. Your guide will share gastronomic stories as you go, and you’ll complete the tour at a local Brewery.
Today you’ll be taken to see the famous Terra Cotta Warriors, only discovered in 1974 by accident by some local farmers.
One of the greatest archaeological finds in history, it was Emperor Qin Shi’s fear of spirits that led him to build a mausoleum of infantrymen, archers and cavalry riders to protect him in the afterlife. Each of the Terra Cotta Warriors has a different face and statues are separated into three pits
After exploring the site you’ll visit one of the Terra Cotta factories in Xi’an to discover how the Terra Cotta Warriors are made, and to make your own.
In the morning you’ll be met at the hotel and taken to the airport for your flight to Guilin. Here, your local guide will welcome you and escort you to your hotel.
Guangxi Autonomous Region is famous for its stunning scenery of rock peaks, exciting caves, rice terraces and waterfalls.
Enjoy the rest of your day at leisure.
Today you’ll be transferred to the bicycle pick-up point in Yangshuo to meeting your cycling guide.
You'll cycle from Yangshuo towards the village of Baisha, located 10km away, and the famous 400 year-old Yulong Bridge. You'll ride along the river bordered by orchards where orange trees, mandarin trees, chestnut trees and pomelo trees grow. Afterwards, return to Yangshuo or continue towards Moon Hill which offers spectacular views.
After all that exercise you’ll be transferred back to your hotel.
This morning you’ll attend a paper-fan painting class in Fuli Old Town. This is an important part of Chinese culture, with over a one-thousand year history. Throughout the class you’ll be given a commentary as you create patterns for your own customised fan.
The afternoon will be spent in the village of Yangdi where you’ll take a bamboo raft on the Li River and witness picturesque hills that inspired poets, painters and photographers.
The raft ends at Xingping, an ancient village known for its old Ming and Qing Dynasty houses and regular market.
Your driver will then return you to the hotel.
Today you'll be escorted to the airport for your onward flight home.
AUTHENTICITYWe won't take you to the usual tourist traps, instead we'll introduce you to people that show you the true side of a country. With our contacts in each destination, we can arrange for you to meet locals away from the crowds and ensure an authentic experience.
EXPERTISEYou can rely on our extensive first-hand knowledge and years of experience in the country you’re visiting. We use only the best expert guides, and provide insider tips on the local customs, and everything from vibrant festivals to hidden Himalayan monasteries
PERSONAL SERVICEYour holiday will be as unique as you are. By getting to know you and what makes you tick, we fuse our wealth of expertise and a deep understanding of our destinations to create unique day by day itineraries that are built around you.
