Fly overnight to Beijing, China's historical capital. Depending on your time of arrival, the rest of the day is yours to start soaking up the local culture.

This morning, head to Beijing’s symbolic heart, Tiananmen Square, and stroll into the sprawling magnificence of the Forbidden City. Entering through the Gate of Supreme Harmony, you will find a complex full of imperial riches. Take a leisurely stroll through the narrow alleys of the warren-like hutongs and learn more about living in this traditional area. Later, soak up the harmonious ambience of the Temple of Heaven, an orderly oasis in a bustling urban landscape. This evening, sit down to a traditional dinner of Peking duck.

This morning is dedicated to China's most iconic sight – the Great Wall. Soar up to the summit by a scenic chairlift or cable car ride and walk on the ancient stones, immersing yourself in the magnificence of its engineering and the landscapes it crosses. Choose a thrilling descent by toboggan ride or the more serene cable car. You will then have an opportunity to visit a jade factory, where you have the opportunity to buy a small handcrafted piece. Jade is revered throughout China, it is said to bring fortune and prosperity to those who wear it. Enjoy the afternoon strolling through the idyllic gardens of the Summer Palace.

This morning, board the bullet train to to Xian, the former ancient capital, and visit Xian Museum. Explore the Xian Museum for a glimpse into the rich heritage of the city before enjoying an evening at your own leisure.

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 to see where the warriors are intricately recreated in the style of their ancient counterparts and stroll on the beautifully preserved 14th-century city walls that enclose Xian's old town. Later, take a walking tour of the narrow and winding streets of the lively Muslim Quarter and gain an insight into the city’s fascinating culture and significance as the start of the Silk Road. In the evening, enjoy a delicious feast of traditional Shui Jiao dumplings and a performance of Tang Dynasty dancing in the evening.

Fly to Yichang and then travel by road to Maoping Dock to board your Yangtze River Cruise vessel.

A man-made marvel, the Three Gorges Dam showcases this massive feat of engineering. But cruising upstream, nature takes over, revealing some of the world’s most dramatic scenery including the Three Gorges themselves. Over the next three days prepare for one breathtaking panorama after another and enjoy various side trips and shore excursions along the way.

Disembark the cruise vessel in Chongqing and visit the Panda House at Chongqing Zoo, a great opportunity to get close to these magnificent and unique creatures. Later, take the bullet train to the beautiful city of Guilin.

Take a relaxed cruise on the stunning Li River to the charming town of Yangshuo. Around every river bend is a view to take your breath away as jagged karst peaks loom over rural scenes of lush greenery, grazing buffalo and local fishermen. Spend the evening walking the cobblestone streets or relax in a street side café.

Yangshuo sits in an exquisite rural location, surrounded by landscapes of emerald-green paddy fields and dramatic limestone karsts. Spend the morning exploring the countryside before returning to Guilin by road. Explore the impressive Reed Flute Cave and visit the South China Pearl Factory before stopping for a photo opportunity on the banks of the Li River to meet a cormorant fisherman. End the day with a walk around the picturesque Ronghu Lake and admire the Sun and Moon pagodas.

Fly to the cosmopolitan city of Shanghai, also known as the Paris of the East.

Today’s explorations include the peaceful Yu Garden and a quick visit to the old town. Admire the magnificent colonial architecture with a stroll along the Bund, explore the Xintiandi area and visit the Silk Factory. This evening, view the city from the Huangpu River on a panoramic cruise.

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