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.

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 classical Yu Garden, a stop in the old town and learning about the age-old silk production process at a silk factory. Later admire the magnificent colonial architecture with a stroll along the Bund and Xintiandi area before viewing the city from the Huangpu River on a panoramic cruise. The skyscrapers and glimmering lights are a sight to behold and make Shanghai unlike any other city in the world. (B,L)

Spend the morning seeing the sights of the ultramodern Pudong area, also known as the financial district of the city with its skyscraper buildings. Later, fly to Yichang where you will board the Yangtze River cruise vessel. (B, L)

A man-made marvel, the Three Gorges Dam showcases a massive feat of engineering. But as you cruise upstream nature takes over, revealing some of the world’s most dramatic scenery including the Three Gorges themselves. Over the next three days, take a side trip to the attractive Shennong or Goddess Stream and enjoy various shore excursions. (B,L,D)

Disembarking the cruise vessel in Chongqing, explore old Ciqikou, a district known for its porcelain production during the Ming and Qing dynasties. Ciqikou’s narrow streets are perfect for a morning stroll to admire the historical, traditional architecture. Later, board a bullet train to Chengdu, capital of Sichuan province. (B,D)

Begin this morning with a visit to Chengdu’s famous Panda Conservation Centre, which allows you to see and learn about China’s celebrated bears up close in surroundings that mirror their natural habitat. A look around the informative museum gives an overview of the reserve’s breeding programme. Later, take a bullet train to the former imperial capital of Xian. (B,L)

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. Also visit the workshop of the craftsmen who recreate terracotta warriors in the style of their ancient counterparts. Watch the skilled production process and even buy a souvenir warrior to take home. Later, take a leisurely stroll on the beautifully preserved 14th-century city walls that enclose Xian’s old town. This evening a delicious feast of traditional Shui Jiao dumplings and a performance of Tang Dynasty dancing awaits. (B,L,D)

Today, visit the Little Wild Goose Pagoda and walk through the lively atmospheric alleys of the Muslim Quarter which are lined with Islamic food stalls. Later, board the bullet train to Beijing, China’s capital city. (B,L)

Head to Tiananmen Square, Beijing’s symbolic heart, and into the sprawling magnificence of the Forbidden City. Entering through the Gate of Supreme Harmony, you will find a complex full of imperial riches. Also soak up the harmonious ambience of the Temple of Heaven, an orderly oasis in a bustling urban landscape, and end the day watching a Chinese acrobatic show. (B,L)

This morning is dedicated to China’s most iconic sight – the Great Wall. Soar up to the summit on a scenic chairlift or cable car ride before strolling atop the wall, admiring the magnificence of its construction and the dramatic scenery it passes through. Descend back down to the ground via thrilling toboggan ride or opt for the more serene cable car. Stop by a jade factory then spend the afternoon strolling through the idyllic landscapes of the Summer Palace as you see the traditional Chinese gardens and exquisite architecture. This evening, savour Beijing’s best-known delicacy – Peking duck. (B,L,D)

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