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# Yangtze Essence

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## Overview

CODE: RDV
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### Yangtze Essence

- From Prices From $3250
- 13 Days / 11 Nights

Experience the rich diversity of China on this 13-day trip through the country’s most famous cities and the mystical Yangtze River. Retrace the steps of ancient warriors as you walk along the Great Wall and step into the future among gleaming skyscrapers in Shanghai. Snap a photo with pandas in Chongqing and marvel at the inspiring Three Gorges. This journey showcases the manmade wonders and natural highlights of this unforgettable country

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- Beijing (3 nights)
- Xian (2 nights)
- Chongqing
- Yangtze River (3 nights)
- Yichang
- Shanghai (3 nights)

Escorted
Moderate
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Escorted
Moderate

### Itinerary at a glance

DAY 1
USA – Beijing, China
DAY 2
Arrive in Beijing
DAY 3
Beijing
DAY 4
Beijing
DAY 5
Beijing – Xian by flight
DAY 6
Xian
DAY 7
Xian – Chongqing – Yangtze River Cruise
DAY 8
Yangtze River Cruise
DAY 9
Yangtze River Cruise
DAY 10
Yangtze River Cruise - Yichang - Shanghai
DAY 11
Shanghai
DAY 12
Shanghai
DAY 13
Shanghai - USA
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China

Beijing

Xian

Chongqing

Yangtze River

Yichang

Shanghai

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## Itinerary

Beijing (3 nts) Xian (2 nts) ChongqingYangtze river (3 nts) YichangShanghai (3 nts)

## Full Itinerary

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DAY
1
USA – Beijing, China: Fly to China
Depart from your home city and begin your journey to Beijing, the storied capital of China.
DAY
2
Arrive in Beijing: Arrival & Leisure Time in Beijing
Upon arrival, meet your local guide and enjoy a comfortable transfer to your hotel. The remainder of the day is at leisure to relax or begin exploring this fascinating city on your own.

Included

Accommodation

Grand Millennium Beijing or Similar (Standard Room) DELUXE

★ ★ ★ ★ ★

Grand Hyatt Beijing or Similar (Standard Twin) LUXURY

★ ★ ★ ★ ★

DAY
3
Beijing: Full Day City Tour
Today enjoy an introductory tour of Beijing, whose origins extend back 3,000 years. The seat of the Ming and Qing emperors until the early 20th century, China’s capital fuses gleaming temples with austere public monuments built by Chairman Mao. Ogle Tiananmen Square, the world’s biggest public square, and visit the Forbidden City, the secret-steeped residence of 24 emperors. This UNESCO World Heritage site is girded by 10-metre high walls and consists of more than 8,000 rooms, all exuding imperial mystique. Later, visit the gorgeous UNESCO-protected Summer Palace. Walk around this entrancing park, a vision of Chinese landscaping, to view the elaborate bridges, temples and pagodas that flank Kunming Lake. In the evening, savor a traditional Peking duck dinner, a dish once reserved for the imperial court.

Included

Accommodation

Grand Millennium Beijing or Similar (Standard Room) DELUXE

★ ★ ★ ★ ★

Grand Hyatt Beijing or Similar (Standard Twin) LUXURY

★ ★ ★ ★ ★

Meals

Breakfast at hotel, Lunch, Dinner

DAY
4
Beijing: Great Wall & temple of heaven tour
After breakfast at your hotel, venture to the legendary Great Wall at Badaling, a UNESCO site and enduring symbol of China’s resilience. Built over 2,000 years ago to stave off nomadic invasions from the north, the gargantuan wall trails for over 5,500 miles across China like an imperial dragon. Stride along the battlements and behold the views over the mountains and valleys stretching into the distance. Next, continue to visit Temple of Heaven, a fascinating complex of imperial cult buildings centered on a sacrificial altar pavilion. Constructed in the early 15th century, the temple compound was used by China’s emperors to perform animal sacrifices that they believed would secure bountiful harvests.

Included

Accommodation

Grand Millennium Beijing or Similar (Standard Room) DELUXE

★ ★ ★ ★ ★

Grand Hyatt Beijing or Similar (Standard Twin) LUXURY

★ ★ ★ ★ ★

Meals

Breakfast at hotel, Lunch

DAY
5
Beijing – Xian by flight: Fly to Xian + City Wall
Fly to Xian in the morning, one of the Four Great Ancient Capitals of China and the eastern starting point of the Silk Road. Upon arrival, check in to your hotel before visiting the 14th-century City Wall, one of the best-preserved and most formidable military fortifications in the country. Enjoy dinner at the hotel.

Included

Accommodation

Hilton Xian or Similar (Standard Room) DELUXE

★ ★ ★ ★ ★

The Westin Xian or Similar (Standard Twin) LUXURY

★ ★ ★ ★ ★

Meals

Breakfast at hotel, Dinner at hotel

DAY
6
Xian: Full Day Xian Tour
Once the capital of multiple dynasties and the eastern terminus of the Silk Road, Xian boasts over 3,000 years of history. It is perhaps most renowned for the discovery of the Terracotta Warriors—an army of more than 6,000 life-sized soldiers and horses unearthed in 1974. Buried in battle formation to guard the tomb of China’s first emperor, Qin Shi Huang, this UNESCO World Heritage Site offers a fascinating glimpse into ancient military might and imperial ambition. After lunch, visit the elegant Big Wild Goose Pagoda, built in the 7th century to house sacred Buddhist scriptures brought from India. In the evening, enjoy a Tang Dynasty dinner show, a vibrant performance that brings to life the grandeur of imperial China.

Included

Accommodation

Hilton Xian or Similar (Standard Room) DELUXE

★ ★ ★ ★ ★

The Westin Xian or Similar (Standard Twin) LUXURY

★ ★ ★ ★ ★

Meals

Breakfast at hotel, Lunch, Dinner and show

DAY
7
Xian – Chongqing – Yangtze River Cruise: Fly to Chongqing + Board Yangtze Cruise
Fly to Chongqing, a historic gateway to the Yangtze River. Visit the Chongqing Zoo to see the endangered giant pandas, then explore Hongya Cave, an architectural homage to traditional Bayu culture perched on the riverbank. Savor Sichuan cuisine, famous for its bold, spicy flavors, before boarding the Yangtze River Cruise.

Included

Accommodation

Victoria Cruises (Isabella) or Similar (Superior Cabin RDV)

★ ★ ★ ★ ★

Meals

Breakfast at hotel, Lunch, Dinner

DAY
8
Yangtze River Cruise: Yangtze Cruise Shore Excursion
Enjoy a shore excursion to Shuanggui Mountain, a sacred Buddhist site with centuries-old temples and lush scenery. Depending on conditions, you may instead visit Shibaozhai, known for its remarkable 12-story wooden pagoda built without nails.

Included

Accommodation

Victoria Cruises (Isabella) or Similar (Superior Cabin RDV)

★ ★ ★ ★ ★

Meals

Breakfast at hotel, Lunch, Dinner

DAY
9
Yangtze River Cruise: Yangtze Cruise Excursion + Gorge Views
Enter the Three Gorges, one of nature’s most extraordinary sculptures. Today pass through the first two—Qutang Gorge and Wu Gorge. Wu Gorge is known for its quiet beauty, forest-covered mountains, and cliffs so sheer that the sun barely penetrates the precipices. Transfer to another vessel for a relaxing excursion through the attractive gorges of Goddess Stream. Depending on river conditions, an alternate excursion may be substituted to the gorges of Shennong Stream. Enter Xiling Gorge, the longest and deepest of the Three Gorges.

Included

Accommodation

Victoria Cruises (Isabella) or Similar (Superior Cabin RDV)

★ ★ ★ ★ ★

Meals

Breakfast at hotel, Lunch, Dinner

DAY
10
Yangtze River Cruise - Yichang - Shanghai: Disembark Cruise + Fly to Shanghai
Disembark in Yichang and visit the awe-inspiring Three Gorges Dam, the world’s largest hydroelectric project and a modern engineering marvel. Explore the riverside promenade and a local market before flying to Shanghai, China’s dynamic coastal metropolis.

Included

Accommodation

Swissotel Grand Shanghai or Similar (Standard Room) DELUXE

★ ★ ★ ★ ★

The Portman Ritz-Carlton Shanghai or Similar (Standard Room) LUXURY

★ ★ ★ ★ ★

Meals

Breakfast at hotel, Lunch, Dinner

DAY
11
Shanghai: City Tour: Bund & Nanjing Road
Once a bustling treaty port in the 19th century and long known as the "Pearl of the Orient," Shanghai has evolved into a dazzling fusion of East and West, old and new. Begin your exploration at the Bund, where grand neoclassical buildings from the colonial era line the Huangpu River, facing the futuristic skyline of Pudong. Stroll down Nanjing Road, one of the world’s busiest shopping streets, before continuing to the historic City God Temple Bazaar and the fashionable Xintiandi district, where restored Shikumen architecture meets chic boutiques and cafes. In the evening, take a scenic Huangpu River cruise to admire the beautifully illuminated skyline—an unforgettable view of Shanghai’s dynamic spirit.

Included

Accommodation

Swissotel Grand Shanghai or Similar (Standard Room) DELUXE

★ ★ ★ ★ ★

The Portman Ritz-Carlton Shanghai or Similar (Standard Room) LUXURY

★ ★ ★ ★ ★

Meals

Breakfast at hotel, Lunch, Dinner

DAY
12
Shanghai: Leisure Day or Optional Suzhou Tour
Enjoy a free day at leisure to discover Shanghai at your own pace. Or join an optional full-day excursion to Suzhou, famed for its elegant classical gardens, silk legacy, and canal-lined streets.

Included

Accommodation

Swissotel Grand Shanghai or Similar (Standard Room) DELUXE

★ ★ ★ ★ ★

The Portman Ritz-Carlton Shanghai or Similar (Standard Room) LUXURY

★ ★ ★ ★ ★

Meals

Breakfast at hotel

Optional Tours & Extras

Suzhou One Day tour with lunch (min 10 pax)

$85 per person
DAY
13
Shanghai - USA: Depart from Shanghai
Transfer to the airport for your return flight, concluding your enriching journey through China’s history, culture, and landscapes.

Included

Meals

Breakfast at hotel

x

## Inclusion

### Inclusions

Specialist English-speaking local guides

Beijing to Xian flight economy class

Xian to Chongqing flight economy class

Yichang - Shanghai flight economy class

Beijing : Forbidden City, Summer Palace, Temple of Heaven, Tiananmen Square and Great Wall

Xian : Terracotta Warriors Museum, City Wall

Shanghai : The Bund, Nanjing Road

Special entertainment: Xian - Tang Dynasty Dinner Show

Deluxe air-conditioned motor-coach touring

Comprehensive sightseeing tours including entrance fees as per itinerary

All hotel taxes, duties and surcharges, airport taxes (for land & air packages)

3 general shore excursions on the cruise ship

Guaranteed departure with a minimum of 10 guests

Locally hosted for groups under 10 guests

11 hotel buffet breakfasts at hotel or on board the cruise
8 lunches at the local restaurants or on board the cruise
8 dinners at the local restaurants or on board the cruise

### Upgrade to Private Tour

Private tour for 10+ Passengers: No Additional cost. Please Contact US for booking

## Hotels

### Where you could stay

Beijing

### Grand Millennium Beijing or Similar

★ ★ ★ ★ ★ Deluxe

Set in the business district of China's capital, Grand Millennium Beijing is within easy reach of the Beijing's attractions. Our luxury hotel has the ideal location to explore the worlds of fashion, culture, and art. Nearby, you'll find the CCTV headquarters and The Place shopping complex. Within the hotel, opulence is complemented by practical ease.

Beijing

### Grand Hyatt Beijing or Similar

★ ★ ★ ★ ★ Luxury

Located on Wangfujing, within walking distance of The Forbidden City and Tiananmen Square, Grand Hyatt Beijing is part of Oriental Plaza with direct access to the adjacent shopping mall. Blending both western and oriental traditions encompassing contemporary design and classic standards of service and excellence, our hotel allows you to experience Beijing in our own way.

Xian

### Hilton Xian or Similar

★ ★ ★ ★ ★ Deluxe

Find us within the ancient city walls of Xi'an, directly opposite the popular Dongxin Street Night Market. Wulukou metro station is 900 meters from our hotel, and historic sites such as the Bell Tower and Big Wild Goose Pagoda are within seven kilometers. We have landscaped roof gardens, an indoor pool, and a spa.

Xian

### The Westin Xian or Similar

★ ★ ★ ★ ★ Luxury

Stay at The Westin Xian, set in an exciting historic location, just steps from the Big Wild Goose Pagoda and many cultural gems in Xian, as well as restaurants and an upscale shopping area. Experience residential comfort in our 377 spacious hotel guest rooms and suites. Each room features contemporary design, high-tech entertainment and business options and welcoming amenities such as the Westin Heavenly Bed, rain forest shower and separate tub.

Yangtze River

### Victoria Cruises (Isabella) or Similar

★ ★ ★ ★ ★

Established in New York City in 1993, Victoria Cruise Lines has been the leader in luxury cruising on China’s majestic Yangtze River. Celebrating 30 Years. Over two million satisfied passengers have sailed with us. We have become the Yangtze’s preeminent cruise line because of the quality of our fleet, our outstanding service, and innovative itineraries. Victoria Cruises is an allied member of the American Society of Travel Advisors (ASTA), an associate member of the United States Tour Operators Association (USTOA), and a member of the New York Chapter of the Pacific Asia Travel Association (PATA). For 2026 departures, guests will enjoy the new Isabella superior cabins.

Shanghai

### Swissotel Grand Shanghai or Similar

★ ★ ★ ★ ★ Deluxe

Swissôtel Grand Shanghai combines business, shopping, and culture! Located in the city's prominent, upscale central district, the hotel is close to the famous West Nanjing Road, and Metro lines 2 and 7. Only 20 minutes from Hongqiao Airport and 50 from Pudong International Airport, our 5-star hotel is steps from historic Jing'an Temple and Jing'an Park. Jade Buddha Temple, the Shanghai Exhibition Centre and top Shanghai malls are also within easy reach. As a part of the Accor sustainability commitment to preserving the environment as well as governmental regulations, our hotel will no longer provide single-use plastic amenities in our guest rooms.

Shanghai

### The Portman Ritz-Carlton Shanghai or Similar

★ ★ ★ ★ ★ Luxury

The award-winning Portman Ritz-Carlton, Shanghai is a landmark located in a retail, dining and entertainment complex on the famous West Nanjing Road. Situated in the heart of the commercial, shopping and entertainment district of the city, our luxury hotel features unparalleled service, exquisite dining experiences and spacious accommodations.

## Optional

### Optional Tours

view tour

### Suzhou One Day tour with lunch (min 10 pax)

Suzhou is nicknamed the "Venice of the East''. Strategically situated on the ancient trade route, this lovely city has been a center of silk production for centuries and offers picturesque canals, stone bridges and ornamental gardens. Witness its highlights on our tour, which includes a boat ride on the Grand Canal and visit the UNESCO

DAY 12: Shanghai $85 PP

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Yangtze Essence

13 Days / 11 Nights

Beijing • Xian • Chongqing • Yangtze River • Yichang • Shanghai

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Fully Escorted

Our Escorted trips feature day-to-day sightseeing tours with local guides who'll answer questions and provide insight, along with periods of free time for you to explore and relax leisure.

Semi-Independent

These tours balance independence and organized touring with regular, locally guided sightseeing trips teamed with free days and evenings that let you venture out alone or take optional excursions.

Independent

Ideal for travelers eager to do their own thing. Our Independent trips include return airfares, airport transfers, accommodations and nothing else-leaving you free to spend your vacation your way.

Leisurely

With a Leisurely experience, you get plenty of free time to experience your destination as you want—whether it’s sightseeing, cultural discoveries or relaxing at your hotel or the beach.

Moderate

We’ve eased back on the activity levels on our Moderate tours for travelers who want a slightly more relaxed tempo. Enjoy free days here and there throughout the schedule, as well as some free evenings for you to spend as you wish.

Active

Our Active trips are designed for travelers who want to see lots of places in one tour and are comfortable with the faster itinerary pace and increased travel this brings.

Get in Touch

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