Unearth the treasures of China with us! Discover the time-honoured traditions, savour exquisite cuisine, and witness the harmonious blend of ancient traditions and cutting-edge innovations. Our China Highlights Tour ensures you explore not just the landmarks but also the soul of this diverse nation, fostering connections with its warm-hearted people. From the majestic Great Wall to the Forbidden City, and from the adorable pandas of Chengdu to the awe-inspiring Terracotta Warriors of Xi'an, come along with us as we reveal the marvels of this ancient civilisation.
MON OCT 14 - AUCKLAND/SHANGHAI
Depart Auckland on Air New Zealand at 11.40pm.
TUE OCT 15 - SHANGHAI D
Arrive in Shanghai at 6.55 am. A fabulous, vibrant city and one of the world's largest seaports.Transfer to the hotel to rest. Free day then a welcome dinner tonight.
Stay (2 nights).
WED OCT 16 - SHANGHAI B,L,D
Today’s tour features Shanghai Old Alley to experience local life. Steeped in history and beaming in the face of the imposing ultra modernity all around them, the lilongs are Shanghai's big, happy heart. Visit the iconic Bund, Shanghai's most famous mile. A symbol of colonial Shanghai not dissimilar to London or Paris. Stroll down Nanjing Road, a pedestrian street and Shanghai's world famous shopping area. Visit Shanghai Museum, a museum of ancient Chinese art with a collection of 120,000 precious works of art including Its rich and high quality collection of ancient Chinese bronze, ceramics, paintings and calligraphy is celebrated around the world. Witness 5000 thousand years of history.
THU OCT 17 - SHANGHAI/PUYUAN WATER TOWN B,L,D
Drive to Puyuan, a water town, boasting scenery that captivates visitors with its serene and traditional charm. Puyuan is renowned for its tranquil waterways, ancient bridges, and well-preserved architecture that showcases the region's rich cultural heritage.The town is adorned with a network of canals that meander through historic stone bridges and ancient buildings, creating a timeless ambiance. Traditional houses with whitewashed walls and black-tiled roofs line the waterfront, reflecting in the shimmering waters, providing a glimpse into the region's architectural legacy.
Stay (1 night).
FRI OCT 18 - PUYUAN/SHANGHAI/XI‘AN B,L,D
Drive back to Shanghai and take a flight to Xi’an in the afternoon. An ancient imperial capital and the eastern departure point of the Silk Road. It has long been an important crossroads for people from throughout China, Central Asia, and the Middle East, and thus a hub of diverse ethnic identities and religious beliefs. Stay (2 nights)
SAT OCT 19 – XI’AN B,L,D
Embark on a morning exploration of the extraordinary Terracotta Warriors, an archaeological marvel dating back over 2,000 years to Emperor Qin Shi Huang's reign. Experience the Circle Vision Movie and Bronze Chariot before visiting the Xi’an Art Ceramic and Lacquer Ware Factory, renowned for its replication of terracotta warriors and exquisite lacquer ware products. In the afternoon, wander through the vibrant Muslim Quarter, delve into the bustling market, and visit the well-preserved Great Mosque. Conclude the day with a traditional Tang Dynasty show following a delightful dinner.
SUN OCT 20 - XI‘AN/BEIJING B,L,D
Explore the Shaanxi Museum and the mysteries of China's ancient culture. It is a tribute to it’s imperial past as Xi'an served as the capital of China for 13 dynasties over 1,100 years. Fly to Beijing in the afternoon. A city where ancient culture meets modern civilisation. Delight in a renowned Beijing Duck (Peking Duck) banquet for dinner.
Stay (4 nights).
MON OCT 21 - BEIJING SIGHTSEEING B,L,D
Embark on a tour of Tian’anmen Square, the expansive Forbidden City, and the iconic Summer Palace, with its ornate 'Long Corridor' and captivating Lake Kunming boat ride (weather permitting). The Forbidden City is the largest palace complex in the world and 24 Chinese emperors resided there. In the evening, witness the mesmerising Beijing Acrobatic Show.
TUE OCT 22 - BEIJING,THE GREAT WALL B,L
Experience the awe-inspiring Great Wall. An architectural marvel that was built over centuries by China’s emperors to protect their territory. Today, it stretches for thousands of miles along China’s historic northern border. One of the most impressive structures ever built. Later a visit to a jade carving factory. Enjoy a Pedi-cab tour through Hutong, exploring the enchanting old city neighbourhoods and visit a local family.
WED OCT 23 - BEIJING B,L,D
Explore the ancient beauty of the Temple of Heaven in the morning. Later a visit to Silk Alley. Browse for bargains through several floors of fashion, jewellery, handbags and tailored silk clothing. Silk Alley is a cultural experience as much as it is about shopping. You’ll soon be used to the lavish compliments and claims of friendship from stall holders as well as the lively discussions over prices.
THU OCT 24 – BEIJING/YANGTZE RIVER CRUISE B,D
Enjoy free time before flying to Yichang, on the banks of the Yangtze river, China’s longest and the third longest river in the world. Embark on our fabulous Victoria Jenna cruise ship for the next 4 nights. See the spectacular scenery of the Three Gorges and the monumental Three Gorges Dam project. (Itineraries subject to change due to river conditions).
FRI OCT 25 - YANGTZE RIVER CRUISE B,L,D
Visit the Three Gorges Dam, which spans the Yangtze River at Sandouping in Xiling Gorge. It is the world’s largest power station. Later today, sail through Xiling Gorge, the longest (41 miles) and deepest of the Three Gorges. Enjoy the Captain's Welcome Party tonight.
SAT OCT 26 - YANGTZE RIVER CRUISE B,L,D
Take an included excursion through Shennong Stream small gorges, which are narrower than the Three Gorges, but very impressive. Enter the 25 mile long Wu Gorge, known for its quiet beauty, forest covered mountains, and cliffs so sheer that the sun barely penetrates the precipices. Then sail through Qutang Gorge, the shortest (5 miles), narrowest (500 feet), and most dramatic gorge.
SUN OCT 27 - YANGTZE RIVER CRUISE B,L,D
Enjoy a shore excursion to Xiaoguanshan Ancient Folk Culture Park, a noted site for the relocation and reconstruction of architectural relics after the water rose on the Yangtze as a result of the Three Gorges Dam Project, and scenic Mr. Shuanggui, a national forest park.
MON OCT 28 - Chongqing/Chengdu B,L,D
Disembark the ship in Chongqing for a city tour before taking a High Speed train at 350kms/hr, to Chengdu. Upon arrival transfer to your hotel for a relaxing evening. Stay 2 nights.
TUE OCT 29 – Chengdu PANDAS B,L,D
Visit the renowned Panda Breeding and Research Centre, then experience the leisurely lifestyle at the People's Park tea house. Explore the historical Broad and Narrow Alley, and optionally enjoy a face-changing show in the evening (additional cost).
WED 30 OCT – CHENGDU/ SHANGHAI B,L
Return to Shanghai by Air and upon arrival, explore the iconic Bund, the charming Old Town, and the tranquil Yu Garden.
Stay (1 night)
THU 31 OCT – SHANGHAI/AUCKLAND B,L
Morning is at leisure. Transfer to your Air NZ flight at 2.15pm to Auckland.
FRI 01 NOV - SHANGHAI/AUCKLAND B
Arrive Auckland 6.40am.
