Wonders Of China Tour

Upon arrival in Beijing, transfer to your hotel for three nights.

Temple of Heaven and Forbidden City Tour

Start early on this fascinating tour of the UNESCO World Heritage sites of the Temple of Heaven and the Forbidden City. Walk through the gates of the Temple of Heaven to chance upon Beijing residents engaged in their daily exercise regimen. Marvel at the simple yet elegant structure of the temple before you enter it. This temple with its abundant esoteric symbolism was a favorite with Ming and Qing dynasty rulers, who considered themselves messengers from heaven and sought to communicate with God from here. Afterward, stroll into the Forbidden City – restored in 2008, this palace complex has regained its vibrant colors that make for a mesmerizing contrast against the blue sky. Explore the sprawling complex in three parts, starting with the official spaces. Listen to your expert guide narrate anecdotes about the opulent ceremonies and important government meetings that these walls have witnessed. Saunter on to the imperial lodges surrounded by exquisitely beautiful gardens. Soak in the splendid sight before you amble over to the public areas where the temples and libraries can be found. Familiarize yourself with the legends associated with the construction of this magnificent complex before you climb up an artificial hill. Savor fabulous views of the compound and all of its 9,999 buildings before you make your way to the exit gate. (Full Day; Time: 0800 hrs; Private Activity & Transfers; Fitness Level: Easy. Please bring along your passport on the day of the tour to clear security. This tour must be booked at least two weeks in advance and once the booking is done, the date cannot be changed or modified.)

Great Wall Mutianyu Section and Ming Tombs

Start early on this fascinating journey to the UNESCO World Heritage sites of the famous Great Wall and the spectacular cluster of Mi tombs that sit tucked into a mountain. Unravel 2,000 years of history at the Mutianyu section of the Great Wall as you walk up to the top. Or, you could take the cable car to the summit as you soak in details about the monument’s history. Click stunning pictures of the wall bathed in the glow of the early morning sun. Enjoy panoramic views of the surrounding landscape as you listen to riveting stories about those who built this majestic structure. You might also get the opportunity to savor a picnic lunch on the Great Wall depending on the time available. In the afternoon, head out to the tranquil complex housing the Ming tombs. Also known as the Thirteen Tombs of the Ming Dynasty, this cluster of mausoleums features similar architectural styles while differing in size and complexity of their ornate detailing. Listen as your knowledgeable guide explains how the tombs are a unified whole even while retaining their individuality. Learn how the location for the tombs was chosen and the attention to detail in designing each of these. Stroll past Dingling tombs one of the few tombs open to the public. (Full Day; Time: 0800 hrs; Private Activity & Transfer; Fitness Level: Moderate.)

Private Terracotta Army & City Wall Tour

Explore the UNESCO-listed Museum of Qin Terracotta Warriors and Horses and the Xi’an City Wall on this day tour. Begin with a visit to the site of one of the most significant archaeological excavations of the 20th-century. It showcases the buried treasures and sacrificial objects that accompanied Emperor Qin Shi Huang, the first sovereign of China, in his afterlife. Discovered accidentally by locals sinking a well in 1974, this expansive subterranean tomb features three rectangular vaults. These contain life-size figures of soldiers, horses and chariots in battle formation, as well as replicas of infantrymen, cavalry and archers. View pit numbers one, two and three, where the terracotta figures are displayed, before heading out to the Xi’an ramparts. This intact Ming Dynasty structure is an ancient military defensive system. There are four main gates on the wall, each with three towers. You can walk or rent a bike to traverse the entire perimeter of the wall. Enjoy great views of the city to round out a memorable outing.

(Duration: full day; Time: 0800 hrs; Private activity & transfers; All entry fees are included; Fitness level: easy; Bikes available at additional cost)

Private Journey Across Time From Bund to Pudong

Get ready for a fascinating stroll from the past to the present during this half-day Shanghai tour. Start your journey at the historic riverside walkway, famous as the Bund, where western traders arrived in early twentieth century China. Take in the colonial architecture of heritage buildings that once served as foreign consulates, international hotels and trading houses. Learn from your experienced guide how the grand avenue fell to neglect during the Chinese Civil War and then later of restoration projects which revived its historic importance. Next, walk through Bund Sightseeing Tunnel to cross the Huangpu River to emerge into a striking different world – that of uber modern Pudong district. Marvel at towering skyscrapers and glitzy buildings as you hear the story of Pudong’s incredible transformation from marshy fields to a glittering downtown. Explore the hip Lujiazui neighbourhood boasting of some of the most famous buildings in the country, such as the Oriental Pearl TV Tower, Jin Mao Tower and Shanghai Tower, the tallest building in China. Before heading back, consider taking the high speed elevator to the 118th floor observation terrace for stunning panoramas of the city. (Half Day; Times: 0800/1300 hrs; Private Activity & Transfers).

Vintage Bike Ride in Shanghai

Discover little known neighborhoods and quiet alleyways on this cycling tour of the more tranquil parts of town on vintage bikes. Drive down to Xintiandi District and meet your English speaking guide at a local café for a tour brief. Set out to explore the city on your vintage vehicles, riding past the tree-shaded boulevards of the French Concession, admiring the area’s rich architecture. Ride over to Fuxing Park and watch residents exercise, meditate and even dance early in the morning. Stop by a street-side food stall for a delicious morning snack. Ride over to a local wet market, soaking in the sights and sounds of the city. Enjoy cycling down the city’s narrow alleyways or lilongs, which mirror the hutongs of Beijing. Soak in the quintessential spirit of the city and its residents in these colorful and lively warren of lanes that hold the local community together. Come across an old Taoist temple within a tranquil neighborhood, discovering the simple life of the local monks and their unique philosophy, before returning to your hotel. (Half Day; Time: 0800 hrs; Private Activity & Transfer; Snacks and beverages included; Fitness level: Easy; Please note that only children above 12 yrs are permitted on this tour and special bikes available for children).