Summary of Treasures of China and the Yangtze
With a rich dynastic history, China has abundance of ancient treasures just waiting for you to discover. And on Trafalgar’s newest program, you’ll get to spend more time enjoying them. Walk the grounds of the Forbidden City and imagine the lives of the Emperors living in their ancient Imperial Palace for over five centuries. Traverse part of the Great Wall to witness over 2,000 years of history. Marvel at what time has wrought as the mighty Yangtze carved the brilliant Three Gorges. Experience the modern gems of Shanghai and Beijing, polished to a sparkling shine for the 2008 Olympics – but without the Olympic crowds. Enjoy delectable specialty meals such as Peking duck and dumplings, be treated to the amazing Shanghai Acrobats and view the famous gardens of Suzhou. Whether it be natural treasures or manmade treasures you’re in search of, spend 16 days expanding your understanding of this ancient culture as it hurtles its way into modern times.
Highlights:
- Shanghai
- Suzhou
- Yangtze River
- Xi’an
- Beijing
Treasures of China and the Yangtze
Day 1 - Depart Home Gateway City – Shanghai
Day 2 - Shanghai (2 nights)
Arrive in Shanghai and be greeted by a Uniworld representative who will escort you to the hotel. Hotel: Hilton
Day 3 - Shanghai
Enjoy the many splendors of Shanghai including Old Town, TV Tower, the Bund, and an evening performance by the world-famous Shanghai Acrobats. (Buffet breakfast / Lunch / Dinner)
Day 4 - Shanghai – Tongli – Suzhou (2 nights)
This morning, visit the state-of-the-art Shanghai Museum, China’s equivalent of New York’s Metropolitan. Depart Shanghai for a scenic drive to the charming town of Tongli with its narrow streets, simple and elegant homes, teahouses and intriguing shops. Visit the market and mingle with the locals. In the afternoon, continue the bus ride to Suzhou. (Buffet breakfast / Lunch / Dinner) Hotel: Shangri-la
Day 5 - Suzhou
You will tour the Humble Administrator Gardens, a splendid example of Suzhou’s famous gardens and also listed as a UNESCO World Cultural Heritage Site. Visit the Embroidery Institute. Enjoy a leisurely canal cruise along the city river. Tonight, enjoy a special performance of music and dance in the Garden of the Master of the Fishing Nets. (Buffet breakfast / Lunch / Dinner)
Day 6 - Suzhou – Shanghai – fly to Yichang – Cruising the Yangtze River (4)
Return to Shanghai for the short flight to Yichang in central China’s Hubei province. Board your Victoria Cruises ship for your cruise on the fabled Yangtze River. (Buffet breakfast / Lunch)
Day 7 - Cruising the Yangtze River
Visit the Three Gorges Dam. Admire the dramatic shoals and verdant cliffs of Xiling Gorge, the longest of the Three Gorges. (Buffet breakfast / Lunch / Highlight dinner)
Day 8 - Cruising the Yangtze River
Board a riverboat for a voyage down the Lesser Three Gorges, depending on water levels. After returning to the cruise ship, sail through Qutang Gorge and Wu Gorge. (Buffet breakfast / Lunch / Dinner)
Day 9 - Cruising the Yangtze River
You’ll visit Shibaozhai, Fengdu or Wanzhou, depending on water levels. These are some of the Yangtze River’s most impressive sights. (Buffet breakfast / Lunch / Dinner)
Day 10 - Cruising the Yangtze River – Chongqing – Xi’an (2 nights)
Your cruise ends this morning in Chongqing, headquarters of the Chinese Nationalists during the Second World War. A brief city tour before your journey continues with a flight to Xi’an. Enjoy a delicious dinner in the evening. (Buffet breakfast / Lunch / Dinner) Hotel: Sofitel
Day 11 - Xi’an
Visit the iconic life-sized Terra Cotta Warriors and Horses guarding the tomb of Qin Shi Huang, the first emperor of China. During the evening, enjoy a Tang Dynasty dinner and cultural show. (Buffet breakfast / Lunch / Highlight dinner)
Day 12 - Xi'an – Beijing (4 nights)
This morning before flying to Beijing, enjoy a dumpling lunch. Once settled in your hotel, you will have the rest of the day free to explore on your own. (Buffet breakfast / Highlight lunch / Dinner) Hotel: Kempinski
Day 13 - Beijing
Beijing is home to many sights that make China a must-see destination, including your stops today: the Forbidden City, Tiananmen Square and the Temple of Heaven. Enjoy a foot massage, then a Hutong tour and a boat ride. (Buffet breakfast / Lunch / Dinner)
Day 14 - Beijing
You’ll walk along the Great Wall, which dates from the 3rd century BC and extends 4,000 miles—a not-to-be-missed experience. Afterwards, visit the lavish and historic Ming Tombs. In the evening, you’ll take in the famous Beijing Opera. (Buffet breakfast / Lunch / Dinner)
Day 15 - Beijing
Join your tour guides for a visit to one of China’s best-preserved imperial gardens at the Summer Palace. Visit the Beijing Zoo. In the afternoon, visit the brightly painted Temple of Heaven, the now familiar symbol of Beijing. Enjoy a Peking Duck dinner in the evening. (Buffet breakfast / Lunch / Highlight dinner)
Day 16 - Beijing
Transfer to the airport for your return flight home. (Buffet breakfast)Note: Substitute visits to other sights along the Yangtze River may occur depending on water levels, or other factors.
Extend your vacation with these optional extensions HONG KONG Recently reunited with China in 1997 after years of British rule, Hong Kong has always remained true to its Chinese roots and culture. Spend time discovering the traditions of this dynamic city.Included in your 4-day grand city stay: • 3 nights at the Sheraton Hotel with breakfast* • Flight from Beijing to Hong Kong • All transfers • Half-Day Hong Kong Island tour *Hotels subject to change
Dates & Rates
| Departs On |
Returns On |
Land Price |
Availability |
| Friday, September 4 2009 | Saturday, September 19 2009 | $3890 |  |
| Friday, September 18 2009 | Saturday, October 3 2009 | $3890 | |
| Friday, September 25 2009 | Saturday, October 10 2009 | $3890 | |
| Friday, October 9 2009 | Saturday, October 24 2009 | $3890 | |
| Friday, October 16 2009 | Saturday, October 31 2009 | $3890 | |
| Friday, October 23 2009 | Saturday, November 7 2009 | $3890 | |
* All Land & Air Prices: Additional taxes and fees will apply. Airline fuel surcharges are included in the base fare. Additional restrictions will apply. Prices shown are from New York City (Europe vacations), Los Angeles (South Pacific & Asia vacations) and Miami (South America vacations).
** This list indicates brochure rates and dates.
*** Please note: Land + Air inclusive tour prices are based from New York. For inclusive tour prices to your home city, please contact your Travel Agent.
**** Please Note: Guarenteed roomshare is not available on this tour.
***** China, Siberia and Mongolia is a land-based program only.
****** Ship and hotels are subject to change.
For details on discounts that apply to this tour please refer to a brochure or see your Travel Agent.
The displayed prices are based on twin-share accommodation. A single supplement price is available on request.
