BEST OF CHINA 12 DAYS

Day - 1

Beijing

Ni Hao! Welcome to Beijing, the capital city of China! On arrival after immigration and baggage claim, meet your Mantra Holidays Tour Manager and proceed to the hotel for check-in. Overnight in Beijing.

Day - 2

Beijing – Tiananmen Square – Forbidden City

After breakfast, you will be picked up from the hotel and proceed to Tiananmen Square, the world’s largest public square and an iconic symbol of China. Here, you will have the opportunity to admire notable landmarks such as the Monument to the People’s Heroes and the Great Hall of the People (exterior view).

Next, enter the Palace Museum (Forbidden City) and follow your guide through the most significant palace complexes, including the Hall of Supreme Harmony, Hall of Central Harmony, and Hall of Preserving Harmony. Explore the magnificent imperial architecture, view priceless cultural relics, and gain deep insights into the history and culture of the Ming and Qing Dynasty royal families.

After lunch, enjoy some free time for shopping at Hongqiao Market.

Overnight in Beijing.

Day - 3

City tour Beijing – Great Wall of China

After breakfast at the hotel, depart for a visit to the Great Wall at Juyong Pass (Juyongguan), one of the most famous and scenic sections of the Great Wall of China. Surrounded by steep mountains and imposing city walls, this section offers a rewarding climb along its ancient trails, where you can enjoy sweeping views of the lush overlapping hills and appreciate the grandeur of this historic military defence project.

Afterwards, visit a jade factory to observe traditional jade craftsmanship, learn about the artistry behind jade carving, admire the unique beauty and texture of various jade products, and enjoy free time to purchase souvenirs.

Continue with a photo stop at the Olympic Green, where you can capture the striking modern architecture of the Bird’s Nest (National Stadium) and the Water Cube (National Aquatics Centre).

After lunch, proceed to the Summer Palace. Stroll along Kunming Lake and the Long Corridor, admire the elegant blend of pavilions, terraces, bridges, and waterways, and experience the serene yet majestic atmosphere of this grand royal garden.

Overnight in Beijing.

Day - 4

Beijing - Xi'an (High-Speed Train)

After breakfast at the hotel, transfer to Beijing West Railway Station to board the high-speed bullet train to Xi’an. (Journey time: approximately 4.5–5 hours.)

Welcome to Xi’an, the ancient capital of 13 dynasties! Upon arrival at the train station, you will be met and transferred to your hotel for check-in.

Later, visit the Xi’an City Wall, also known as the Fortifications of Xi’an. This is the most complete surviving city wall in China and one of the largest and most impressive ancient military defence systems in the world. Enjoy a walk along this grand structure, absorb the profound history and architectural magnificence, and choose between cycling or walking to appreciate the panoramic views of the city.

After the visit, return to the hotel for your overnight stay in Xi’an.

Day - 5

Xi’an – Terracotta Army Museum

After breakfast, you will be picked up from the hotel and driven to explore one of the most remarkable archaeological discoveries in the world—the Terracotta Army Museum. Built by China’s first emperor, Qin Shi Huang, the army was created to protect him in the afterlife. To date, approximately 8,000 life-size terracotta warriors and horses have been unearthed.

Visit Pits No. 1, No. 2, and No. 3, as well as the Bronze Chariot and Horse Exhibition Hall, where you can observe the astonishing craftsmanship and lifelike expressions of the soldiers, and experience the powerful legacy of Qin Dynasty military culture.

Afterwards, visit a crockery factory to learn about traditional craftsmanship.

In the afternoon, enjoy free time for shopping at Muslim Street. Wander through the vibrant Muslim Quarter, taste delicious local snacks, and browse a variety of souvenir shops.

Overnight in Xi’an.

Day - 6

Xi’an - Chongqing

After breakfast at the hotel, transfer to the airport for your flight to Chongqing. (Flight duration: approximately 2 hours.)

Welcome to Chongqing, famously known as the “Mountain City” of China! Upon arrival, you will be transferred directly to Chongqing Port to board your Yangtze River Cruise.

Complete the boarding formalities and proceed to your cabin for check-in. Spend the rest of the day settling in and enjoying the facilities on board.

Overnight on the cruise.

Day - 7

Yangtze River Cruise

Spend the entire day enjoying the scenic journey along the Yangtze River aboard the cruise ship. Today, you will pass through the most spectacular section of the Three Gorges. The ship will slow down as you glide through the breathtaking landscapes of Qutang Gorge, Wu Gorge, and other scenic stretches. Towering cliffs, misty peaks, and lush green slopes on both sides create a truly picturesque panorama.

During the cruise, a variety of leisure and cultural activities—such as Three Gorges cultural lectures, folk performances, and more—will be arranged on board (activity schedule depends on the cruise’s program). You are free to participate, relax on the deck, take photos, or simply admire the stunning river views.

Overnight on the cruise.

Day - 8

Yangtze River Cruise

After breakfast on board, continue your scenic voyage through the remaining sections of the Three Gorges, including the impressive Xiling Gorge. Experience the unique landscape characterized by dramatic shoals, swift currents, and towering cliffs, and feel the full grandeur of the mighty Yangtze River.

During the day, the cruise may dock at selected sightseeing points. Depending on the ship’s schedule, you may have the opportunity to disembark and explore natural or cultural attractions up close. Alternatively, you are welcome to remain on board to relax, enjoy the facilities, and interact with fellow travellers.

In the evening, admire the serene and captivating Yangtze River sunset from the deck.

Overnight on the cruise.

Day - 9

Yichang - Shanghai

After an early breakfast on the cruise ship, complete the disembarkation formalities and conclude your memorable Yangtze River Cruise journey. You will then transfer to Yichang East Railway Station to board a high-speed bullet train to Shanghai. (Journey time: approximately 6/7 hours.)

During the ride, the train will pass through provinces such as Hubei, Anhui, and Jiangsu. Sit back and enjoy the passing landscapes of plains, rivers, and lakes—or simply relax and rest onboard.

Upon arrival at Shanghai Hongqiao Railway Station, you will be met by your guide and transferred to your hotel in the city for check-in. After settling in, proceed to the hotel restaurant for dinner.

After dinner, enjoy free time to relax at your leisure.

Please note: - Today Lunch will be packed Lunch.

Overnight in Shanghai.

Day - 10

Shanghai

After breakfast at the hotel, depart for a full-day Shanghai city tour. Begin with a visit to People’s Square, the vibrant city centre of Shanghai.

Next, visit a pearl factory to learn about the breeding and processing of pearls, admire the exquisite craftsmanship of various pearl jewellery, and enjoy free time to purchase your favourite pieces.

Continue to the Shanghai Museum, home to a vast collection of precious cultural relics, including bronze, ceramics, calligraphy and painting, jade, and more. Explore the exhibits to gain a deeper understanding of the historical and cultural heritage of Shanghai and China.

In the afternoon, visit the 118th Floor of Shanghai Tower, the tallest building in China. Take the high-speed elevator to the observation deck and enjoy panoramic views of the city skyline, the Huangpu River, and iconic landmarks such as the Oriental Pearl TV Tower and Jinmao Tower.

Next, proceed to The Bund, Shanghai’s historic waterfront area. Stroll along the riverfront and admire the diverse architectural styles known as the “Gallery of World Architecture,” reflecting the city’s blend of historic charm and modern prosperity.

In the evening, enjoy a Huangpu River Cruise, taking in the glittering nightscape of Shanghai from the water. Afterwards, visit Nanjing Road Pedestrian Street for free time to shop, sample local snacks, and experience the bustling commercial atmosphere.

Overnight in Shanghai.

Day - 11

Shanghai

After breakfast at the hotel, visit the Jade Buddha Temple, built in 1882 to house two exquisite jade Buddha statues (one sitting and one reclining) brought from Myanmar by the Chinese monk Huigen. The temple remains an active place of worship, where locals and tourists come to pray, meditate, or simply admire its serene architecture and spiritual ambiance.

Next, experience the Maglev Train, one of the fastest commercial trains in the world. Enjoy the thrill and convenience of this high-speed ride between Pudong International Airport and Longyang Road Station, reaching speeds of over 430 km/h in a short but exciting journey.

In the afternoon, visit AP Market for shopping. Explore a wide variety of goods, including daily necessities, clothing, accessories, and unique souvenirs, and enjoy free time to select your favourite items.

Overnight in Shanghai.

Note: Modest clothing is recommended at Jade Buddha Temple. Avoid shorts and revealing attire to show respect for the sacred site. Photography is not permitted inside the temple.

Day - 12

Departure

After breakfast, check out from the hotel and transfer to the airport for your onward flight.

B=Breakfast Included, L=Lunch Included, D=Dinner Included