Fly overnight to the cosmopolitan city of Shanghai, also known as the ‘Paris of the East’. Depending on your time of arrival, the rest of the day is yours to start soaking up the local culture.

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Shanghai is China’s great metropolis, where east and west collide on streets lined with futuristic skyscrapers and 10th-century temples. Today’s explorations include the traditional Yu Garden, a silk mill and a stop in the old town. Also take in sweeping views of Shanghai’s magnificent colonial and modern architecture atop the Jinmao Tower. End the day on a panoramic Huangpu River cruise followed by traditional Shanghainese cuisine.

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Visit Zhujiajiao, one of Shanghai’s sleepy water towns, built on an old canal system once used to transport goods all over imperial China. The town’s narrow alleyways exude old-world charm, whilst the waterways are lined with ancient buildings and crossed by stone bridges. Return to Shanghai for a stroll along the iconic Bund and bustling Nanjing Road.

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Fly to Xian, the ancient former capital with a history spanning 3,100 years. This afternoon, stop at a local brewery for a refreshing beer tasting, then walk through the lively atmospheric alleys of the Muslim Quarter which are lined with food stalls. Here you will gain an insight into the city’s fascinating culture and significance as the start of the Silk Road.

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After their fortuitous discovery in the 1970s, the Terracotta Army of China’s first emperor, Qin Shi Huang, has intrigued visitors ever since. Spend the morning viewing the enigmatic ranks of life-sized warriors and horses who stand in their original formations at the exact location they were excavated. Also visit the workshop of the craftsmen who recreate terracotta warriors in the style of their ancient counterparts. Later, stroll on the beautifully preserved 14th-century ancient city walls that enclose Xian’s old town. Tonight, feast on traditional Shui Jiao dumplings before a captivating performance of Tang Dynasty dancing.

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Board the bullet train to Beijing, China’s capital city. A spectacular Chinese acrobatic show rounds off the day.

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Head to the heart of Beijing and stroll across vast Tiananmen Square, one of the world’s largest public spaces. Step into the grandeur of the Forbidden City, a UNESCOlisted complex of over 900 buildings spread across 180 acres. Passing through the Gate of Supreme Harmony, explore a world once reserved for emperors. Next, unwind in the peaceful surrounds of the Temple of Heaven, an elegant masterpiece of Ming architecture. Later, enjoy a leisurely stroll through Beijing’s hutongs, some dating back 700 years. These narrow alleys are known for their labyrinthine layout, traditional courtyard homes, and sense of community that has been preserved for centuries. Meet a local family to get a glimpse of old Beijing’s rich culture and experience first-hand the unique hutong way of life.

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This morning is dedicated to China’s most iconic sight – the Great Wall. Taking a walk on this incredible structure is the best way to appreciate both the sheer magnificence of the wall itself and the dramatic scenery that it crosses. Stop by a jade factory then spend the afternoon strolling through the idyllic landscapes of the Summer Palace and the traditional Chinese gardens. Today’s sightseeing is the perfect way to build up your appetite for Beijing’s most famous delicacy – Peking duck.

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Fly to the UK, arriving home the same or following day.

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