China Tour, May 13

Overnight flight to Beijing

ISTANBUL - BEIJING

We meet our valued guests at Istanbul Airport International Departures Terminal approximately 3 hours before the flight time. After completing baggage drop-off and passport control procedures, we depart for Beijing on a scheduled Turkish Airlines flight. Our journey continues throughout the night, with overnight stay on the aircraft.

Great Wall and Beijing sights

Upon arrival in Beijing, we complete passport and baggage procedures and meet our private vehicle waiting at the airport. We begin our Great Wall of China, Juyong Pass, Jade Factory and Traditional Chinese Foot Massage Experience tour as we set out to explore Beijing, where thousands of years of history meet modern architecture. Our first stop is Juyongguan, also known as Juyong Pass, one of the best-preserved and most important passes along the Great Wall of China. The Great Wall, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and an important part of an enormous defensive system stretching approximately 21,000 kilometers, was built and reinforced by different dynasties over the centuries. As we explore this structure extending across mountains and valleys, we gain a close sense of the grandeur of Chinese civilization and its historic strategic importance. We then visit the Jade Factory to learn about China’s thousands-year-old tradition of jade carving. Here, we can examine valuable jade artifacts and watch skilled artisans practice traditional carving techniques. We then make a special visit introducing us to the long history of traditional Chinese medicine. While learning about the health and wellness philosophies practiced in China for centuries, we have the opportunity to unwind with a traditional foot massage experience. During our panoramic tour of Beijing, we first see the Lama Temple, also known as Yonghe Temple, from the outside. Considered one of the most important centers of Tibetan Buddhism, this structure dating from the Qing Dynasty is a striking example of traditional Chinese architecture. We then continue to the White Stupa Temple, also known as Miaoying Temple, an important religious structure dating from the Yuan Dynasty. A major symbol of the Beijing skyline, this historic building stands out for its white tower and elegant architecture. As we follow Beijing’s story from past to present, we also enjoy panoramic views of the Bird’s Nest Stadium and the Water Cube, symbols of modern China built for the 2008 Beijing Olympics. These internationally recognized architectural works are important landmarks reflecting Beijing’s contemporary character. Amid the city’s broad boulevards, traditional neighborhoods and urban scenery, we experience Beijing’s distinctive atmosphere up close. This first encounter with China’s ancient culture marks the beginning of our Chinese journey. At the end of the day, we have dinner at a local restaurant and then transfer to our hotel. Overnight at the hotel.

Forbidden City and Temple of Heaven

After breakfast, we set out to explore Beijing’s thousands of years of history and cultural heritage. During our full-day tour covering the Forbidden City, the Temple of Heaven and Tiananmen Square, we discover Beijing, where ancient Chinese culture and modern life are closely intertwined. We first visit Tiananmen Square, one of the most important symbols of both China and the world. Considered one of the world’s largest squares, this site has been central to modern Chinese history and has hosted many important events. As we explore the expansive square and its surrounding monumental buildings, we have the opportunity to gain insight into China’s recent history. We then visit the Forbidden City, where Chinese emperors lived and ruled the country for centuries. One of the world’s largest palace complexes, it transports visitors into the past with its grand palaces, spacious courtyards and striking architecture. Bearing traces of China’s rich imperial history in every corner, the Forbidden City is one of Beijing’s most important cultural heritage sites. We continue our tour with a visit to the Pearl Factory, where we gain a closer understanding of traditional Chinese handicrafts and culture. Here, we observe the stages through which freshwater pearls are formed, processed and transformed into elegant jewelry. We then visit the Temple of Heaven, one of Beijing’s important religious and cultural landmarks. This UNESCO World Heritage Site was used during the Ming and Qing Dynasties as a sacred place where emperors prayed for abundant harvests. With its refined architecture, extensive gardens and historic atmosphere, it is one of Beijing’s notable landmarks. At the end of the day, we have dinner at a local restaurant and then transfer to our hotel. Overnight at the hotel.

On to Xi'an

After breakfast, we check out of our hotel and begin our pleasant journey to Xi’an for a programme featuring the Terracotta Army, Clay Factory, Xi’an City Wall and Muslim Quarter. Upon arrival, we visit the Terracotta Army, one of the most important archaeological discoveries in Chinese history. This UNESCO World Heritage Site, regarded as the “Eighth Wonder of the World,” was built to protect the tomb of Qin Shi Huang, the first emperor of China. Hidden underground for approximately 2,200 years, this army of thousands of soldiers, horses and chariots reveals the military power and artistic skill of ancient China. Following our visit to the Terracotta Army, we continue to the Clay Factory to learn about the region’s traditional crafts. Here, we learn about the techniques used to make the Terracotta soldiers and discover the finer details of traditional Chinese ceramic art. We then visit Xi’an City Wall, one of the city’s main landmarks. Dating from the Ming Dynasty, this structure is considered one of the best-preserved urban defence systems in the world. During our walk along the walls, we have the opportunity to enjoy views of both historic Xi’an and the modern city. Later in the day, we explore the Muslim Quarter, one of the districts that best reflects Xi’an’s cultural character. Known for its traditional architecture, colourful streets, local flavours and lively atmosphere, the district preserves traces of the city’s historic Silk Road heritage. At the end of the day, we have dinner at a local restaurant and then transfer to our hotel. Overnight at our hotel.

Train to Chongqing

XI'AN – CHONGQING

After breakfast at the hotel in the morning, we transfer to the train station. We depart from Xi'an to Chongqing by high-speed train. After our pleasant train journey, we arrive in Chongqing. Upon arrival, we begin our enjoyable tour covering Hongya Cave & Ciqikou Ancient Town & Liziba Light Rail Station (the wonder of a train passing through a building). First, we visit Ciqikou Ancient Town, one of the important sites in Chongqing that has preserved its historic character to the present day. This traditional district, with approximately a thousand years of history, brings the atmosphere of old China to life with its stone-paved streets, historic buildings, traditional tea houses, local shops, and regional flavors. Once an important trading centre, Ciqikou is one of the ideal places to closely experience Chongqing's traditional way of life. Next, we visit Liziba Light Rail Station, one of the most fascinating engineering wonders of Chongqing. At this world-famous spot, we will witness the light rail train passing through an apartment building. This unique transportation system, one of the most striking examples of creative urban planning adapted to Chongqing's mountainous geography, offers visitors unforgettable photo opportunities. As the day continues, we visit Hongya Cave, one of the most iconic spots in Chongqing. Built in tiers on the mountainside in the area where the Yangtze and Jialing Rivers meet, Hongya Cave stands out with its wooden structures in traditional Bayu architecture and takes on a mesmerising appearance especially in the evening hours with its lighting. Combining traditional Chinese architecture, river views, and Chongqing's modern city silhouette, it offers visitors an unforgettable visual experience. At the end of the day, we enjoy our dinner at a local restaurant and then transfer to our hotel. Overnight at our hotel.

Fenghuang Ancient Town

CHONGQING – FENGHUANG

After breakfast at the hotel in the morning, we complete the check-out procedures and transfer to the train station. We depart from Chongqing to Fenghuang Ancient Town by high-speed train. Following our pleasant train journey, we begin our discovery tour of Fenghuang Ancient Town & Tuojiang River Boat Tour & Thousand-Year-Old Wooden Houses & A Journey Through Time with Traditional Chinese Culture, one of China's most captivating historical settlements. Upon arrival, we first explore the traditional Diaojiaolou (stilt houses) area that stretches along the river. These unique structures, rising in harmony with the mountains and water, are among the most important architectural examples of the region's Tujia and Miao cultures. Afterwards, we take a walk through the historic streets, where we have the opportunity to get to know the traditional shops, local handicrafts, and Fenghuang's distinctive cultural texture up close. Fenghuang Ancient Town, one of the best-preserved historical towns in China, offers its visitors a captivating atmosphere stretching from the past to the present with its traditional wooden houses, narrow stone-paved streets, historic bridges, and unique landscapes along the Tuojiang River. In the evening, we enjoy the Tuojiang River Boat Tour, one of Fenghuang's most special experiences. Accompanied by the enchanting reflections on the river created by the illumination of the historic wooden houses and ancient bridges, we discover the fairytale nighttime atmosphere of Fenghuang. The streets decorated with red lanterns, the traditional structures along the riverbank, and the ancient town scenery shining under the lights offer our visitors unforgettable photo frames and a unique Chinese experience. At the end of the day, we have our dinner at a local restaurant and then transfer to our hotel. Overnight at our hotel.

Tianmen Mountain and cave

After breakfast at the hotel, we complete our check-out procedures and transfer to the train station. We depart from Fenghuang for Zhangjiajie by high-speed train. Following our pleasant journey, we arrive in Zhangjiajie and begin exploring Heaven’s Gate Mountain, Heaven’s Gate Cave and the Glass Bridge. As we ascend to the summit on the Heaven’s Gate Mountain Cableway, considered one of the world’s longest cable car routes, we enjoy panoramic views of Zhangjiajie’s mountains, deep valleys and peaks rising through the clouds. At the summit, we walk amid landscapes shaped by nature over thousands of years. We then visit Heaven’s Gate Cave, one of the highlights of our tour. Known as the “Gate of Heaven,” this immense opening through the mountain is considered one of the world’s most unusual natural formations. With its distinctive atmosphere and scenery, Heaven’s Gate Cave is one of Zhangjiajie’s most memorable sights. Guests who wish may also enjoy the optional Glass Bridge experience on the mountainside. As you walk across the transparent glass floor, you can admire mountain and valley views from hundreds of metres above. After our tour amid natural scenery, we have dinner at a local restaurant and then transfer to our hotel. Overnight at the hotel.

Avatar Mountains discovery

After breakfast at the hotel, we set out to explore the Avatar Mountains. Our tour covers Zhangjiajie National Park, the Wulingyuan Scenic Area, the Bailong Elevator, Yuanjiajie and the Heaven’s Son Mountain area. Our first stop is the Wulingyuan Scenic Area, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Known for its geological formations created over thousands of years, rock pillars rising through the mist and lush forests, the area is home to some of China’s most notable landscapes. We then experience the Bailong Elevator. Considered one of the world’s tallest outdoor glass elevators, it carries us to the mountaintop as we admire the surrounding rock formations and valley views. We continue to the Yuanjiajie Area. In this landscape, which inspired the fantastical mountain scenery in the internationally renowned film Avatar, we visit rock pillars reaching towards the sky and scenic viewpoints. Hallelujah Mountain, one of the area’s landmarks, offers excellent photography opportunities with its distinctive appearance. Later in the day, we proceed to the Heaven’s Son Mountain area, where we discover Zhangjiajie’s natural beauty through its peaks among the clouds, deep valleys and panoramic viewpoints. At the end of the day, we have dinner at a local restaurant and then transfer to our hotel. Overnight at the hotel.

Flight to Shanghai

ZHANGJIAJIE – SHANGHAI

After breakfast, we transfer to Zhangjiajie Airport and depart for Shanghai on a domestic flight with a local airline. Upon arrival in Shanghai, one of China’s most modern and cosmopolitan cities, we set out for the Zhujiajiao Ancient Water Town, Silk Factory & AP Plaza Shopping Tour. Our first stop is Zhujiajiao Ancient Water Town, one of Shanghai’s most enchanting and best-preserved historic settlements. With a history of around 1,700 years, this unique settlement, with its canals, stone bridges and traditional architecture, is known as the “Venice of Shanghai.” The historic buildings lining the narrow stone streets, traditional houses adorned with wooden carvings and waterside teahouses give visitors a true sense of travelling back in time. Traditional boats gliding along the town’s tranquil canals, streets decorated with red lanterns and an atmosphere unchanged for centuries transform Zhujiajiao into a world completely different from Shanghai’s modern skyline. As we cross the historic bridges, we will feel the traces of ancient Chinese life and have the opportunity to capture unique photographs of this fairytale town. After the visit, we head to the Silk Factory, where we will get to know up close the production process of silk, one of China’s most valuable cultural heritages. Here, we will discover the journey that begins with the silkworm’s cocoon and is transformed by master craftsmen into one of the world’s most elegant fabrics. We will have the opportunity to receive detailed information about this valuable craft that Chinese civilisation has gifted to the world for centuries. The tour continues at AP Plaza, one of Shanghai’s most popular shopping centres. At this famous shopping destination, known for its wide product range and affordable prices, we will have the opportunity to browse and shop for a wide variety of options ranging from electronics to souvenirs, and from leather goods to textile products. At the end of the day, we have dinner at a local restaurant and then transfer to our hotel. Overnight at our hotel.

Shanghai city tour

SHANGHAI

After breakfast, we complete our check-out procedures at the hotel and begin our city tour covering Shanghai’s most iconic landmarks: YU Garden, Jade Buddha Temple, Nanjing Road and The Bund. Our first stop is Yu Garden, one of the finest examples of traditional Chinese garden art. Built during the Ming Dynasty, this enchanting garden offers visitors a peaceful atmosphere with its elegant pavilions, stone bridges, ponds and carefully arranged landscaping. We enjoy a pleasant time in this unique place where we get to closely appreciate classical Chinese garden design. Next, we visit the Jade Buddha Temple, one of Shanghai’s most significant religious sites. Named after the precious Buddha statues carved from a single piece of jade brought from Myanmar, this temple is regarded as one of the city’s most important Buddhist centres of worship. We will have the opportunity to discover the temple’s impressive architecture and spiritual atmosphere. Continuing our tour, we head to Nanjing Road, Shanghai’s most famous shopping and lifestyle street. In this area, known as one of the liveliest spots in the city with its modern shops, historic buildings and vibrant atmosphere, we enjoy some free time. Finally, we visit The Bund, which has become the symbol of Shanghai and stretches along the banks of the Huangpu River. The striking view created by the historic colonial-era buildings on one side and the modern skyscrapers rising on the opposite shore brings together Shanghai’s past and future. During our walk here, we will have the opportunity to photograph the city’s unique skyline. At the end of the day, we enjoy our dinner at a local restaurant and then transfer to our hotel. Overnight at our hotel.

Flight home to Istanbul

SHANGHAI – ISTANBUL

We transfer to Shanghai Airport by our private vehicle at the transfer time to be announced by our guide at midnight. We depart for Istanbul on a scheduled flight of Turkish Airlines. Arrival at Istanbul Airport local time and end of our tour.