Essence of China: Mountains and Monuments

Drive to Jinshanling, the outskirts of Beijing, and take a short gondola ride up the mountain • Hike along the Great Wall at Jinshanling, one of the greatest man-made wonders of the world, and enjoy a private champagne picnic • Learn the calming art of taichi in a private lesson at the Temple of Heaven • Depart Beijing for Xi’an on the high speed “Gaotie” train.

View the proudly unflinching Terracotta Warriors • Learn the intricate art of calligraphy, guided by an expert • Indulge in a private evening food tour through Xi’an’s vibrant Muslim Quarter, culminating in a craft beer toast at a local brewery.

Gaze into the heart of Xi’an as you cycle along the city’s ancient city wall in the morning • Explore the Hanyang Tombs, wandering glass walkways above excavated pits filled with miniature figurines and intricate Han Dynasty artifacts • Head to the airport for the next flight to Guilin • Enjoy the scenic route during the 1.5 drive from Guilin to Yangshuo. 

Glide down the tranquil Yulong River on a bamboo raft, taking in the karst peaks and lush scenery • Visit a local farmer’s family to enjoy tea and learn to prepare traditional Yangshuo delicacies • Discover Yangshuo’s picturesque countryside on a relaxing sidecar ride, stopping at hidden viewpoints • Witness the epic Impression Liu Sanjie, a spectacular outdoor performance of ethnic song and dance directed by Zhang Yimo, set against a natural amphitheater.

Explore Yangshuo’s bustling city market, navigating through vendors selling fresh produce, meats, and prepared foods • Visit Fuli, the ancient hometown of the paper fan, to observe and learn the craft of creating traditional fans • Immerse into Chinese tea culture at Qixianfeng Tea Farm, enjoying the scenic tea plantations and possibly participating in tea picking.

Prepare to depart Yangshuo by 1.5h car drive back to Guilin, setting off by plane to enjoy the next destination, Shanghai • Enjoy the evening at leisure, exploring the surrounding areas.

Experience a snapshot of local life by walking around Fuxing Park, a meeting spot for fitness dancers and taichi enthusiasts • Travel back to Shanghai’s stylish 1930s as you stroll through the tree-lined avenues of the Former French Concession • Find serenity in Yuyuan Garden, a Ming Dynasty sanctuary amidst the city’s bustle • Explore the lively Yuyuan Bazaar, a maze of shops and food stalls • Marvel at the architectural wonders of the Bund, where art deco and neoclassical buildings harmonize with Shanghai’s modern skyline • Prepare for the mesmerizing ERA2 Acrobatics Show, showcasing death-defying acts and incredible displays of strength.

Join Dr. Evan in his tranquil Shanghai home for a relaxed introduction to Traditional Chinese Medicine, experiencing the effects of ear seed therapy • Explore Shanghai’s M50, a vibrant industrial art complex transformed from cotton mills, by immersing in its galleries, studios, and graffiti art • Ascend China’s tallest building via the world’s fastest elevator to its highest observation deck for awe-inspiring views of Shanghai’s record-breaking skyline • Enjoy the rest of the evening at leisure • With the help of your WildChina guide, gear up for your trip back home.