Day 01: Welcome to Beijing
Upon arrival in the morning you are transferred from airport to your hotel in the city centre.

In the afternoon you will visit the Temple of Heaven complex where emperors once prayed for good harvests, making offerings of grain, silk and animals.Constructed during the Ming Dynasty (1368-1644), it is acknowledged as a masterpiece of Chinese architecture; the Hall of Prayer for Good Harvests was built without a single nail. Surrounding the Temple is a park where local people, mainly the older generation, come to participate in a range of games and activities. It is quite impressive and great fun to watch them doing their T’ai Chi, playing ball games, dancing with ribbons and singing traditional Chinese songs. Dinner will be in a local restaurant where you will begin to explore the delights of Chinese cuisine.

Day 02: Beijing
Tour of Tian’anmen Square, the Forbidden City and the traditional Hutongs.
In the morning, you will visit Tian’anmen Square followed by a tour of the Forbidden City. For 500 years the Forbidden City was the Imperial Palace for Ming and Qing dynasty emperors. The biggest and best preserved cluster of ancient buildings in China, this monumental complex, once strictly out of bounds to the general Chinese public, houses up to 800 buildings and, reputedly, 9,000 chambers. Highlights of the Forbidden City include the Clock Museum and Treasure Hall.

In the afternoon, you will explore the traditional neighbourhoods called Hutongs (literally alleyways) on a guided walking tour, where you will get an idea of what the entire city once looked like.

Day 03: Beijing to Laolongtou – 4-5 hours
After breakfast you will drive northeast of Beijing (315 km) to Laolongtou. Known as the Old Dragon’s Head, this is the eastern starting point of the Ming Dynasty Great Wall and it extends about 20 metres into the Bohai Sea like a dragon drinking water; hence its name. On arrival you will have lunch in a local restaurant before visiting the Dragon’s Head, the adjacent temple and the various museum exhibits.

You will then take your first steps along the Wall, walking for approximately 6 km into the modern city of Shanhaiguan. This gentle introductory walk provides an excellent illustration of what happens to the wall when it is left to the elements and the passing of time, becoming little more than an earthen bank topped with vegetation. The contrast you’ll see with other restored sections of the wall you will see during your trip is considerable.

On reaching Shanhaiguan you will visit the strategically important First Pass Under Heaven and walk along the restored garrison walls. The impressive walls of the pass are 14 metres high, 7 metres wide and 4 km around. There are 6 gates into the pass topped with 5 watchtowers from which you can look down onto the entire fortress and the Great Wall stretching away into the nearby mountains and down to the sea.

Finally, you will drive to your hotel at Laolongtou.

Day 04: Laolongtou to Dongjiakou – 2 hours / Dongjiakou to Zunhua -2 hours
Drive to Dongjiakou – 2 hours. Dongjiakou Great Wall walk – 3-4 hours. Drive to Zunhua – 4 hours.
After breakfast, a 2 hour drive (80 km) will take you to Dongjiakou where there are three sections of the Great Wall open to walkers. En route, you will have a short stop at Jiumenkou Great Wall to take photos of the picturesque point at which the Wall crosses the Jiujiang River. On reaching Dongjiakou you will follow a good path uphill for 20-30 minutes before you step onto the Great Wall itself. This section, although short, is the perfect contrast to your walk from yesterday as here you can see the wall in its full glory, rising and falling along the ridges of Damao Mountain. The Dongjiakou Wall was initially built in 1381 and, despite its age, it remains one of the best-preserved sections of the Ming Dynasty wall. Largely in its original condition, any restoration work has been carried out by the local villagers, rather than the government, many of whom are descendants of the original wall builders and guards. As you walk along the wall you will also see elegant carvings above some watchtower entrances and an original carved stone tablet bearing the names of the original wall builders – all unique features.

The first section ends where the mountain acts as a natural barrier and a path takes you back down to your starting point. From here you move on to the next section where a path again takes you uphill to join the wall. This section is approximately twice the length of the first and, although undergoing greater reconstruction, still enables you to appreciate the engineering genius of the wall’s creators. There may also be an opportunity to walk the third section of the Dongjiankou Wall – making a total of 9 km. You will take lunch at a local village restaurant between walking sections of the wall.

After you have completed your walk, you drive to Zunhua (approx 4 hours, 210 km) where your hotel awaits.

Day 05: Zunhua – Eastern Qing Tombs – Huangyaguan
Drive to the Eastern Qing Tombs – 1 hour. Tour of Eastern Qing Tombs. Drive to Huangyaguan – 1 hour. Walk Huangyaguan Wall – 4 hours.
This morning you will have a drive of one hour (40 km) to reach the Eastern Qing Tombs where you will explore the splendid imperial mausoleums of the Qing Dynasty including the underground burial chamber of Emperor Qianlong and the exquisite tomb of Empress Dowager Cixi.

The Eastern Qing Tombs are considered the grandest, best-preserved and most complete of all the imperial burial sites in China. Building started in the 18th year of the reign of Shunzhi (1661) in the Qing Dynasty. Altogether 161 members of the imperial family including five emperors and 15 empresses were buried here together with their concubines. The last burial was of an imperial concubine in 1935. Entrance to the site is along the impressive Sacred Way where statues of guardian animals and other figures protect the route to the tombs.

Having completed a tour of the Qing Tombs you will drive for a further hour to the Huangyaguan section of the Great Wall, famous as the starting point of the annual Great Wall Marathon. Following lunch, the initial part of the walk takes you up the many steps of the Huangyaguan Wall which was renovated in 1987. Eventually, you climb a steep stairway known as the Skyladder after which the wall is replaced by mountain trails with delightful views. Your path contours around the mountainside and along ridge lines and you will encounter sections of the Great Wall built during the North Qi Dynasty – approximately 1500 years ago. This is the oldest wall you walk on throughout the entire trip. After around three hours you will descend to the village of Qianganjian where you will stay the night at a local guesthouse.

Day 06: Drive to Gubeikou – 1 hour. Walk to Jinshanling – 5-6 hours.
Gubeiko village lies approximately one hour’s drive from Miyun and is the starting point for a very interesting day’s walk. Initially, you will see the wall in an extremely dilapidated condition, little more than a large earthen embankment with no recognisable features. This is indicative of its pre-Ming Dynasty age as well as the stone looting that has taken place over the years. Gradually, as your walk progresses, more regular features appear and you will see the remains of watchtowers and ramparts. In places though, it is so overgrown with vegetation that you will need to take an alternative path through the countryside. As you get nearer to Jinshanling the views get more expansive and the wall takes on its more classic nature, snaking over the surrounding mountains.

By the time you reach Jinshanling you will be walking on one of the better preserved sections of the original Great Wall, which has undergone little reconstruction work and has protected status. You will leave the wall and transfer to your hotel in a nearby mountain village.

Day 07: Day hike from Jinshanling towards Simatai – 4 hours.
Extensive restoration work on the Jinshanling to Simatai section of the Great Wall means that your walk today will go from Jinshanling towards Simatai and then return to your starting point. Unfortunately, access through to Simatai isn’t presently possible. However, the sheer beauty of the both the wall itself and the surrounding countryside still make this a very worthwhile exercise. In fact, it is desirable to see as much of this section as possible before it is restored and its original qualities, are perhaps, lost forever. The slightly ruined nature of the wall here is much of its appeal and, though you may find yourself stepping carefully over plants and loose bricks, you can still appreciate its astonishing beauty and impressive construction. The watchtowers were built to a range of designs giving each in turn a different look whilst the mountainous nature of the countryside required steeply rising and plunging parapets and other special features such as perpendicular obstacle walls to aid defence.

Having walked as far as you can, and no doubt taken many photos, you will return to Jinshanling where your driver will be waiting to whisk you away to your hotel.

Day 08: Jinshanling – Jiankou – Beijing
Drive to Jiankou – 1 hour. Walk from Jiankou to Mutianyu – 4-5 hours. Drive to Beijing – 2 hours.
In the morning there is a one hour’s drive (40 km) to the foot of the Jiankou Great Wall. This section of the wall was built in 1368 during the Ming Dynasty and is named after its shape (like a bended bow). It is famous for its unique beauty and many photographers arrive in the early hours to capture sunrise here. You will initially walk up through trees for around 30 minutes to get to the Zhenbei watchtower. Standing on top, 1,000m high, there are beautiful views of the entire expanse of the Jiankou Great Wall and surrounding mountains.

Today’s walk takes you along one of the most magnificent and virtually deserted sections of the Great Wall. The Jiankou section is largely in its original condition therefore you will need to tread carefully in places where the bricks are loose and crumbling and the vegetation is taking over. You may need to bypass the wall on a nearby path, but you will regain it shortly afterwards. After about four hours you will get to a section of restored Great Wall known as Mutianyu which, by way of total contrast to the peace and quiet of the previous few hours, may be inundated with Chinese tourists. When you finish your walk you can either stroll down or take the option of a cable car ride, or even a toboggan run (both options payable locally). At the bottom of the wall you will be assaulted by a teeming melee of stallholders selling all manner of tourist wares. It’s a good place to barter for a bargain and buy your ‘I climbed the Great Wall’ t-shirt.

Leaving the wall behind, you will enjoy lunch in a nearby restaurant where you can celebrate your adventure. A two hour drive (90 km) will take you back to Beijing and a farewell evening meal.

Day 09: Departure
After breakfast, you will be transferred to the airport for your flight back to home.

Day 01: Arrive Beijing
Meet at Beijing Airport and then transfer to hotel. Overnight at hotel.

Day 02: Beijing – Jiayuguan (by air then by train)
Local tour guide will meet at Lanzhou Zhongchuan Airport and then transfer to Lanzhou railway station by car (70km, 1.5hour), take a night sleep on the train to Jiayuguan.
Overnight on the train.

Day 03: Jiayuguan (hiking time: 4-5hrs)
After breakfast, we will visit Wei-Jin tombs (10km, 20minutes) . After that, we will start our hiking from the No.1 Beacon Tower and visit Jiayuguan Pass and the Great Wall museum, hiking further on to the hanging Great Wall or more further up the time.
Hiking (4-5hours).
Jiayuguan Pass is the key waypoint of the ancient Silk Road. Well known by the name “First and Greatest Pass Under Heaven”, it’s the first pass at the west end of the Great Wall and also one of the most intact surviving ancient military buildings.In the past, Jiayuguan has a somewhat fearsome reputation for Chinese people who were banished were ordered to leave through it for the west, never to return.
Wei-Jin Mural Brick Tomb is a big tomb group with over 1,400 tombs built between the 3rd Century and 5th Century during the Wei and Jin dynasties. Renowned as the largest subterranean art gallery in the world, housing a great deal of colorful murals, the gallery has attracted tourists from both home and abroad since 1972 when it was excavated. Most tombs are of families, housing bodies of three or four generations, and now only Grave 6 and Grave 7 are open for tourism.
Overnight at the hotel in Jiayuguan.

Day 04: Jiayuguan – Danxia (hiking time: 4-5hrs)
Morning: After breakfast in the hotel of Jiayuguan, transfer to Danxia by car ( 260km, 3-4 hours).
Afternoon: Lunch at Danxia. Start Hiking(4-5hours) along north part of Danxia Landform, enjoying great view of Qilianshan and sunset in Danxia.
Overnight at local Guest House in Danxia.

Day 05: Danxia – Zhangye (hiking time:4-5hrs)
Morning: drive into Danxia for sunrise at 5:00-6:00am in the morning. After breakfast, trend to south part of Danxia and start hiking (4-5 hours) around Binggou Rock viewing the red terrestrial classic rock landform.
Afternoon: after lunch in Danxia, we’ll drive to to Zhangye(40-50km, 1hour) , visit the Giant Buddha Temple, where the biggest indoor sleeping Buddha in China is preserved.
Giant Buddha Temple is the largest architectural relic in Gansu Province of the Western Xia (1038-1227) period. China’s largest reclining Buddha is well preserved in this temple. Located in the southwest corner of Zhangye in Gansu Province, it was built in 1098 to house the Buddha. In its 900 years the temple was restored many times during the Ming and Qing dynasties.
Overnight at hotel in Zhangye.

Day 06: Zhangye/Matisi Temple (hiking time: 4-5.5hrs)
Morning: after breakfast in Zhangye, forward to Matisi Temple by car ( 70km, 1.5hour). Visit south part of Matisi and hiking (6-7km, 1-1.5 hours) along Thousand-Buddha caves.
Afternoon: after lunch, visit and hiking(20km, 3-4 hours) in north part of Matisi, including caves neighbor to Sanshisantian cave (for culture protection, Sanshisantian shiku is not open to public now) and Songlin waterfalls. Then go for fascinating Yugu folklore, a unique nomadic minority of Gansu. Enjoy a nice local dinner with folk song and dancing in the evening.
The Grottoes of the Matisi Temple Complex consists of various Temples and the Caves with their Deities and Murals. Set within the beautiful surroundings of the Green foothills of the Qilian Mountains, and along a cool and refreshing river, Matisi offers a unique and amazing scenery. It was described by Marco Polo in his Book “Travels to the Orient” (or Ill Millione) and were well developed, active and full of Buddhist Monks and Pilgrims by the time of the 13Th Century.
Overnight in Yugu local tent (no private washing-room in the tent, only open, natural toilet).

Day 07: Yugu-Zhangye-Xining-Beijing (hiking time: 3-4hrs, driving time: 5hrs)
Morning: after breakfast in Yugu, hiking on Gaoshancaodianzi (20km, 3-4hours) –south part of Qilian Mt. Then drive to Zhangye (80km, 1-1.5hours) ,enjoying the nature view of Qilian Mountains along the road.
Afternoon: after lunch in Zhangye, drive to Xining by car (340km, 5hours-for one part is under construction).
Evening: after supper, tour guide will see off at the airport (40km, half hour) to take evening flight back to Beijing. Arrive Bejing catch connect flight back to home.

Day 01: Arrive Shanghai
On your first day in Shanghai, you will meet your group and Adventure Leader at airport & transfer to hotel. Overnight at hotel.

Day 02: Shanghai & Guilin
After breakfast explore Shanghai city.

Shanghai, on China’s central coast, is the country’s biggest city and a global financial hub. Its heart is the Bund, a famed waterfront promenade lined with colonial-era buildings. Across the Huangpu River rises the Pudong district’s futuristic skyline, including 632m Shanghai Tower and the Oriental Pearl TV Tower, with distinctive pink spheres. Sprawling Yu Garden has traditional pavilions, towers and ponds.

After drinks, you will transfer to Shanghai South Station to board a night train to Guilin. One Adventure Leader will put you on the train and another will collect you in Guilin.

Please note that this group tour does not include any time in Shanghai. To enjoy the city, it’s best to add an extra night before or after your trip.

Day 03: Yangshuo
Today is a free day on your group tour!

You have the option to join a traditional cooking class, kayak along the Li River or experience traditional Chinese therapy such as hot cupping.

Day 04: Yangshuo
Get ready for adventure! You’ll start the day at 9.30am with a morning bike ride along with a cruise down the Yulong River on bamboo rafts. If you have a waterproof camera, definitely bring it along for this activity!

Later on, you have the option to continue the fun and visit local mud baths and hot springs. In the evening, why not participate in some karaoke with the rest of the group?

Day 05: Yangshuo
Another free day!

There is a tonne to see and do in Yangshuo and it’s beautiful surroundings are a feast on the eyes. To gain a new perspective, we recommend rock climbing to the top of one of the regions limestone peaks. The views are unforgettable from the top!

In the afternoon, you will have the opportunity to experience life on a farm by visiting your local Adventure Leader’s home village and learning about rural life in Yangshuo.

Day 06: Chengdu
On to the next destination! You will board a bus back to Guilin and take a bullet train to Chengdu, arriving in the evening. Then, you will take the metro to the hostel and meet your new Adventure Leader.

Day 07: Chengdu
The day starts early as you will be off to the Giant Panda Breeding & Research Centre. You can’t hold or touch the pandas but you will see them up close and learn about the centres efforts to breed them and release them into the wild.

Later in the day, you will also be taught some mandarin thanks to your Adventure Leader and after lunch will visit an Autism Children Rehabilitation Centre.

In the evening, you have the option to enjoy a traditional Sichuan show.

Day 08: Chengdu
Today is a free day!

In the morning, you have the option to go to Leshan to see the world’s largest stone Buddha. Carved into the side of Mt. Lingyun, the colossal statue is over 1,300-years-old and is considered to the tallest pre-modern statue. The site attracts millions of people every year, including Buddhist pilgrims, making it something of a sacred destination and an ancient wonder of the world.

In the evening you can sample to famous Sichuan Hot Pot (if you dare). You can also have a night out in Chengdu and enjoy your freedom!

Day 09: Chengdu & Xian
This morning you can enjoy a lazy lie in to recover from the night before or get up early and explore the sights of Chengdu – perhaps enjoy a spot of shopping.

After lunch, you have the option to visit the Chengdu People’s Park. There are many scenic spots in this park, including the Gold Water Stream, the Goldfish Island and the Potted Landscape Garden. Besides appreciating the charming landscape, tourists can sail on the artificial lake, drink tea in the teahouse by the lake and watch all kinds of exhibitions and performances on the Rockery Square.

At around 5pm you will say goodbye to your Adventure Leader and board your train to travel to Xian, where you will meet your new Adventure Leader and go to your hostel.

Day 10: Xian
You have the morning free to visit temples, museums or go shopping in your own time.

In the afternoon, you have the option to bike ride on Ming Dynasty City Walls and later, to explore the Bell-Drum Towers and Muslim quarter to learn about the history of the Silk Road. Make sure to enjoy some local street food!

Day 11: Xian
Today’s unmissable attraction is the tour of the world famous Terracotta Warriors!
The Terracotta Army in Xian, is a large collection of life-size terra cotta sculptures in battle formations, reproducing the mega imperial guard troops of Emperor Qin Shi Huang (259 – 210BC), the first emperor of the first unified dynasty of Imperial China. As a UNESCO World Heritage Site, the Terracotta Army is no doubt a must-see for every visitor to Xian.

In the evening, you can enjoy the music and light fountain show that takes place on the North Square of the Big Wild Goose Pagoda in the Qujiang District.

Day 12: Shaolin
The next morning, you will be off on a long journey to Shaolin.

This afternoon, you can visit a local Kung Fu Children’s Home and join in on a lesson and show run by a master from the Shaolin Temple.. After dinner, you can have another Mandarin lesson to top up what you have learned so far!

Day 13: Shaolin
You have two options today:

You can visit the home of Kung Fu, The Shaolin Temple, and hike to Dharma Cave, a spiritual spot for Buddhist pilgrims. Here, you will be rewarded by beautiful views of both the shrines and temples in the area.
– Or if you’ve had enough of temples and Kung Fu isn’t your combat style, you can visit the Longmen Grottoes, a UNESCO world heritage site with over 100,000 carved Buddha’s.

Later, you can have a late lunch at the guesthouse then check out and depart to Zhengzhou to board your night train to Beijing.

Day 14: Beijing
When you arrive in Beijing, you will meet your next Adventure Leader and go to a hostel for a rest. You won’t be staying the night here, but can use the showers and common areas to relax before heading to the Great Wall of China in the afternoon.

After a couple of hours, you can take another mandarin lesson and you can use your freshly learned language skills to complete challenges around Beijing’s ancient streets and alleyways on a scavenger hunt. The winning team earns a prize!

After a late lunch at a local farm we will gain access to a section of the Great Wall that only the locals get to see and then we will hike on the unrestored sections of the Wall before setting up camp on a deserted section

Day 15: Beijing
The sunrise on the Great Wall of China will be the most unforgettable part of your trip. Today you will wake up early, enjoy the silence and watch the sun rise over the Great Wall.
Around 9am, you’ll return to Beijing and have the option to visit fake good markets and the nearby Temple of Heaven.

You can also watch a stunning Chinese Acrobatics Performance performed by young talents recruited from around China.

Additionally, enjoyed exclusively by royalty in ancient times, you can taste Beijing’s signature dish Peking Roast Duck.

Day 16: Beijing
Today is a free day!

You’ll have the option to take a walk through the infamous, Tiananmen Square, or visit the Forbidden City. The Forbidden City is the largest palatial complex in the world, with 980 buildings and a history of housing 2 different Chinese emperors.

You can also go to Jingshan Park for a bird’s eye view of the three palaces: Forbidden City, Temple of Heaven, Summer Palace and Tiananmen Square.

In the afternoon, you can visit the Nanluo district, a historical area in Beijing, famous for its hutongs and siheyuan courtyards as well as the bars, cafes and craft shops.

Day 17: Beijing
Enjoy another free morning to pack in the last few of Beijing’s sights before heading to your next destination. You can visit the 798 art district, the Summer Palace, or any other highlights of Beijing.

In the evening, you will board the night train to Hangzhou.

Day 18: Hangzhou
You’ll arrive in Hangzhou in the morning where you’ll go to your hostel for a late breakfast. Then, you will visit the famous West Lake and take a relaxing boat tour to one of the islands.

You will also have the option to learn about China’s trade history with visits to the China National Tea Museum or the National Silk Museum and then around 5pm, you will hike up Jiuyao Mountain to catch the stunning sunset over West Lake.

Day 19: Hangzhou & Shanghai
An early start today to hike up to the Nine Creeks meandering through the Misty Woods. This is where you will witness a peaceful and charming setting in the hills of Hangzhou, with paved paths winding along streams and trails that lead to beautiful waterfalls and breathtaking landscapes.

Then you will return to the hotel, check out and have lunch before travelling to Shanghai by train – this marks the end of your trip

Day 01: Guiyang to Damochong
Arrive in Guiyang this morning. Meet your guide and set out for an hour drive, stopping en route for lunch in a local restaurant. Arrive to Damochong and set out on your first short hike in the beautiful valley. In this area, people still use the traditional method for making bamboo paper, which uses a large rock wheel used to grind the bamboo and make paste. You may stop to see some of these mills at work along the way, which are owned and operated by individual families. Arrive to Dazhai village later this afternoon where you will first stay in the simple home of a farmer. Learn about their countryside life and enjoy their warm hospitality as you settle in for the night.

Hiking Time: 2 hours

Day 02: Leishan
Arise this morning to the sounds of the roosters and dogs outside. After a quaint breakfast, drive 3-4 hours to nearby Leishan in the southeast province of Guizhou. This remote region in China is covered in mountainous terrain and requires lengthy travel time to get there. Most Miao and Dong people live here, with the Miao splintering off into some 100 various sub-ethnic groups as well. This city is a very diverse cultural experience. Visit Paika, a small Miao village well known for its Lusheng musical pipe making. As you walk closer to the village, you can hear the players tuning their pipes. Visit also the pottery studio and try your hand at practicing local pottery. Spend the day getting to know this small village before you return to Leishan in the late afternoon.

Day 03: Mt. Leigong Hike
After breakfast you set out for your day hike on Mt. Leigong, the highest peak in the region. Located east of Kaili, Leigong is part of the Miaoling Mountains, which has gained a reputation as a National Nature Reserve due to its abundant mountain ridges flourishing with plants and wildlife. Drive up towards the top of the mountain where you begin a downhill hike to Xiangshuiyan Waterfall, the source of the Bala River that runs through Leishan town. Hike through rice terraces to Baiyan Village and then through Baiyan Gorge to Taoyao Village. The people here are craftsmen of the traditional way of creating pottery and you may join some of the locals in trying your hand at this ancient art. This afternoon drive back to Leishan for a rest.

Hiking Time: 5-6 hours, moderate hike.

Day 04: Datang Village to Taojiang Village
Start your hike today from Datang Short Skirt Miao Village where you stop to see rice barns uniquely built over the water to prevent the presence of mice. The women in this village keep their hair very long in order to support a unique but heavy headdress. From Datang Village hike an hour to the mountain range through rice-terraced fields for a bird’s-eye view of Mt. Leigong, which you hiked the day prior. This stunning view is an incredible vantage point from which to take in the vast mountain range. Arrive to Taojiang Village before nightfall. Wander around the town before you drive about an hour back to Leishan for the evening.

Hiking Time: 6-7 hours, moderate to difficult hiking with up and downhills.

Day 05: Zhenyuan Ancient Town
After breakfast drive about 3 hours to Zhenyuan Ancient Town. Known for its advanced transportation system by water, Zhenyuan frequently traded with the Han people in the Hunan province, leaving a Han influence in their modern culture. Old lanes, shrines, courtyards, and temples leave visitors with a glimpse into its ancient past. After lunch, visit Qinglong Cave Temple, a distinct architectural feat built into the cliff of a mountain 500 years ago. This temple had the unique distinction of combining three main religions into one sacred place: Confucianism, Buddhism, and Taoism. From the cave, you also see a bird’s-eye view of Zhenyuan Ancient town below. Return to town and settle into your hotel for the night.

Today marks the start of our four day journey towards Zhangjiajie, broken up with hikes and other sights along the way.

Day 06: Fanjingshan Nature Reserve
This morning drive a little over 2 hours to Jiangkou and the Fanjingshan Nature Reserve. Our destination today is Fanjingshan National Nature Reserve. Fanjingshan is the highest peak of Wuling Mountain Range, which stretches from Guizhou and Chongqing in the west to the Hunan and Hubei provinces in the east. Fanjingshan has a rare and diverse subtropical ecosystem with over 2,600 species, including the golden monkey. Start with a hike* along the Taiping River and gradually ascend to the scenic area at the top, passing waterfalls, forest, streams, and villages. After some time to enjoy the impressive views, take the cable car back down the mountain and drive back to Jiangkou for the evening.

Hiking Time: 5-6 hours, moderate to difficult on mostly flat trail with some uphill.

OPTIONAL –*A cable car ride up the mountain can be arranged for an additional cost.

Day 07: Fenghuang Ancient Town
After breakfast drive 3.5 hours to Fenghuang Ancient Town. This isolated mountain town became known to the outside world in the 1990’s due to the famous writer, Mr. Shen Congwen and his nephew painter, Mr. Huang Youngyu, who were both born here. Check into your hotel today and explore the beautiful Fenghuang Ancient Town and its elegant simplicity. Wander over bridges and stroll pass stilt houses that inspire traditional Chinese paintings.

Day 08: Tianmenshan National Forest Park
After breakfast, drive the remaining 4 hours to Zhangjiajie. This afternoon, visit Tianmenshan National Forest Park and its renowned cliff-side cave. Tianmen Cave is the highest naturally occurring karst cave in the world. It actually appears to be a big hole in the side of the mountain and became a major attraction when in 1999 an acrobatic show televised flying three airplanes through it to an audience of millions.

Take the 4 mile cable car, the longest of its kind in the world, up to the top of the mountain to enjoy stunning views. Try out the exciting glass walkway along the cliff that is suspended almost a mile above the ground.

Day 09: Wulingyuan Scenic Area, Zhangjiajie
Hike in Zhangjiajie National Park today, starting first with Tianzi Mountain*. Here you see large protruding peaks and walk through spectacular scenery from multiple angles. See the Marshel Helong Park, West Sea, and Imperial Pen Peak. Next this afternoon take a 40-minute shuttle bus to Yuanjiajie Scenic Area, whose mountains are said to be the inspiration for Avatar’s Hallelujah Mountain. This area is a mesa that overlooks the deep valley and chain of karst mountain peaks. After hiking in this area, use the Bailong Elevator to descend down the side of the mountain. This glass elevator was built on the side of the cliff and is the world’s highest of its kind, descending 40 stories in about 2 minutes.

Tianzi Hiking Time: 4 hours. Moderate with uphill and downhill. Yuanjiajie Hiking Time: 3-4 hours. Moderate.

Day 10: Huangshi Village
Today take the cable car to visit Huangshi Village, a fantastic location from which to see great views of Zhangjiajie from above. Hike around to the main scenic spots which include Treasure Box of Heavenly Books, Magic Sea-Suppressing Needle, South Pillar of Heaven, and Golden Tortoise Watching the Sea. Visit also Six Wonder Pavilion and the Star Gathering Stage. After lunch, enjoy some casual hiking along the Golden Whip Stream, named for the Golden Whip Rock and its famous pristine water. Its steep cliffs and verdant mountains create a landscape ripe for plant growth and its pathways cut through an abundance of flowers, trees and grasses as well as habitat for a wide variety of wildlife. Enjoy dinner this evening and fly out on an evening flight tonight.

Hiking Time: 6-7 hours. Moderate with uphill and downhill.

Day 1: Arrive Beijing
Arrive at Beijing’s airport where you are greeted by your guide, and drive about an hour to your hotel. After a short rest, enjoy a walking tour of Tian’anmen Square and the buildings in the area including National Museum of China, Tian’anmen Tower, Great Hall of the People, Chairman Mao Memorial Hall, and the Monument to the People’s Heroes.

Day 02: Forbidden City & Beijing Hutongs
Start out early this morning the day starts with an hour long Taichi lesson in the hotel courtyard. After breakfast head out to the magnificent Forbidden City. The Forbidden City bears the legacy of housing the emperors of the Ming and Qing Dynasties starting in 1420. After exploring this unique site, we drive to Hutong area to find a hidden Yunnan Restaurant near the Bell Tower.

In the afternoon, take a walk to the Hutong area. We may start the walking from Houhai area, then walk east to Nan Luoguxiang, and end up in Lama temple area.

Enjoy dinner this evening at Dadong Roasted Duck restaurant for the chance to try the renowned culinary delight, Peking duck.

Day 03: Great Wall Hiking
Early this morning drive 2 hours to the Jinshanling Great Wall to start the hike towards the Simatai section. Jinshanling is one of the more remote and best preserved original portions of the Great Wall and still retains many original features. This remote and relatively-isolated section of the Great Wall has not been repaired since 1570 and is a great place to explore the wall on foot. Enjoy a picnic lunch during the 4-hour hike taking in the views and admiring the impressive accomplishment.

End the hike at Dongkou (or Wuyanlou Tower), where you hike back to the road and meet your vehicle to drive back to Beijing. Enjoy your free time to explore around Beijing and have your own dinner.

Hiking: 4-6 miles / 8-10 km / 4-5 hours, moderate to difficult with some steep up/down stairs on the wall

Day 04: Bullet Train to Xi’an | Ancient City Wall
Early this morning head to the Beijing Western Railway station and board the bullet train to Xi’an in a first class seat. Meet your Xi’an guide at the train station and head out to explore this historic city.

Xian was the capital of China for 13 dynasties in ancient times, like Western Zhou (11th century to 771 BC) and Tang (618-907).
This afternoon, take a short part of walk on the 8.5 miles along the Xi’an ancient city wall, stopping for views to either side, one that boasts impressive views of the old city contained within its walls, and to the other side the modern city that lies without it.

Xi’an is known for it’s dumplings. Tonight you will enjoy a Dumpling Dinner at one of Xi’an’s most famous restuarants.

Day 05: Terracotta Warriors and Tang Dynasty
After breakfast this morning, drive 1.5 hours to the Terracotta Warriors, which are arguably the most significant archaeological excavations of the 20th century. First discovered in 1974 by farmers digging a well, the discovery eventually attracted archaeologists which led to the largest pottery figurine find in China’s history. Drive back to the city for an introduction to the Tang Dynasty, or the ‘golden era’ of China. Visit the Tang Dynasty Art Museum where you receive a brief introductory lesson in calligraphy. Try your hand at this visual art as you practice writing Chinese characters with a brush and ink. Next explore Giant Wild Goose Pagoda this afternoon. Built during the Tang Dynasty, the Buddhist pagoda is about 1,300 years old and offers an amazing view of Xi’an. Arrange lunch and dinner on your own today.

Day 06: Giant Buddha of Leshan
Fly early this morning to Chengdu , the capital of Sichuan Province and the homeland of pandas. Drive two hours north to the Giant Buddha, located at the confluence of the Minjiang, Qingyl, and Dadu Rivers. Built in the year 713, the Giant Buddha is the largest sitting Buddha in the world at a height of 71 meters (or 233 ft). Take a closer look at the Buddha, or take a short walk on the steep trail to the river to admire the view. Return to to your hotel in Chengdu where the rest of your evening is free to do as you wish.

Day 07: Dujiangyan Irrigation system | Qingcheng Mountain
This morning, drive to Dujiangyan city, home to the UNESCO engineering feat of the Dujiangyan Irrigation System which dates back to 256 BC. Designed to bring water to the once dry Chengdu Plain, this massive man-made marvel has irrigated this Sichuan region into one of the most fertile and productive regions in China to this day. Wander the walkways around the structure and learn about its construction at Erwangmiao Temple. Hike up to Qingcheng Mountain, a sacred mountain for Taoism, a popular religion in China. In late afternoon, drive back to Chengdu and enjoy Sichuan Local Opera, or the face-changing show. Enjoy dinner tonight on your own. Sichuan Hot Pot or a bamboo dinner are local favorites.

Day 08: Panda Center, Broad and Narrow Alleys | Fly to Guilin
Leave early this morning for a visit to the Chengdu Panda Breeding Research Center, which houses more than 20 panda bears in various enclosures. Arriving early allows you to witness them when they are most active, during the morning feeding.The Center has been created and imitates the pandas’ natural habitat. Baby pandas are typically best seen between May-November. Drive back to Chengdu to explore the Broad and Narrow Alleys. These are fashioned after ancient architecture and contain an endless variety of street food and shops.

In late afternoon, catch your flight on to Guilin. Upon arrival Guilin, you are greeted and drive to your hotel.

Day 09: Longsheng Rice Paddies
This morning drive two hours towards Longsheng Rice Terraces. Upon arrival to the scenic area, store your larger luggage and board a 45 minute shuttle towards Ping’An village. The village has been traditionally inhabited by the Zhuang ethnic group and is surrounded by rice terraces. Hike a half hour uphill to Li’an Lodge where you will be staying.

The minority group of Zhuang people living here are the second largest of 56 recognized ethnic groups in China. The Yao people, known for their heavy earrings and long hair, also work the rice paddies here. These rice terraces, built over 650 years ago, cover an area of over 16,000 acres and span an altitude between 980 ft and 3600 ft. Every year in May or early June they flood the rice paddies and transfer young plants into them to re-plant for the harvest in fall.

In the afternoon, take a 2-3 hours hike to Longji Village which is a lesser-touristed destination. Get the chance to see the local way of life before checking into the hotel for the evening.

Day 10: Li River Hike | Yangshuo
This morning, drive to Yangdi Village to start a gentle hike through the countryside. Follow a more isolated stretch of the picturesque Li River. Take bamboo rafts or local ferries a few times to cross the river, and cross through local villages along the way. After about 4-5 hours of easy hiking, arrive to the trail’s end in Xingping, an old town with a history of over 800 years. From here drive an hour to the new hotel near the Moon Hill in Yangshuo.

Hiking: 7-9 miles / 12-15 km / 4-6 hours. Flat hiking, with easy bamboo rafting ride.

Day 11: Silver Cave | Liusanjie Impressions Show
Today spend 2-3 hours biking in the countryside of Yangshuo on a paved path that running alongside the river. This afternoon, your guide takes you to Silver Cave, one of the largest in China. Walk through the cave and admire the various large formations of stalactites and stalagmites. After an early dinner, attend the Impression of Liusanjie Show, a laser show at night overlooking the water. The popular show was created by Mr. Zhang Yimou, the director of the Olympic opening and closing ceremonies in 2008.

Day 12: Fly  to Home
This morning is free before you are taken to the airport in Guilin for your flight home.