13 Days Golden Triangle Tour with Yunnan Discovery

Destination:Beijing, Guilin, Kunming, Lijiang, Xi'an, Yangshuo

Tour Code: EMT05

Tour Duration: 13 Days

Tour overview:
This tour of China showcases some of the best that can be found in China. You will visit Beijing, China’s capital, and see the incredible sites with are famous throughout the world. You will then visit Xian, China’s capital for over 10 different dynasties, where you will see the Terracotta Warriors. You will then visit Guilin and Yangshuo, famed for their incredible scenery. You will then head to Yunnan Province, where you will see the Bai and Naxi Dongba Ethnic Minority Groups in the ancient towns of Dali and Lijiang.

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Day by Day Itinerary

Tour Summary

Reviews

B=Breakfast,L=Lunch,D=Dinner

Day 1

Arrival Beijing

Transfer via: Flight on your own arrangement

Upon you arrival in Beijing you will meet you local guide and then be transferred to your hotel.

Day 2

Beijing (B, L)

Beijing (B, L)

Sightseeing: Temple of Heaven, Tiananmen Square, Forbidden City

Upon your arrival you will be greeted by our local guide and then transferred to your hotel by a private air-conditioned car.

Afterwards you will visit of the Temple of Heaven, which was completed in 1420, and expanded over the years by two Qing Dynasty Emperors. It was the place where the Emperor came every winter solstice to worship heaven and to solemnly pray for a good harvest. With the three blue-tiled cone-shaped roofs, a unique wooden and blue-tiled structure built without a nail, it has become a worldwide symbol of Beijing.

After lunch, we will go on our city tour to visit Tiananmen Square, the symbolical heart of China and gathering place for the masses. It is the biggest public square in the world, which can hold one million people.

From here we will walk across the Golden River Bridge to visit the Forbidden City and experience the ancient Emperor's daily life. For 5 centuries Chinese emperors carried out their administration here. With almost 10,000 rooms, it was the centre of the Ming and Qing dynasties, a massive complex of palaces, pavilions, courtyards and gardens where 24 emperors used to live. Forbidden City was the largest palace in the world, and in the past it was indeed a forbidden place for commoners. Your tour here will include private access to the Emperor's palace.

Day 3

Beijing (B, L)

Beijing (B, L)

Sightseeing: Mutianyu Great Wall, Ming Tombs, Sacred Way

After experiencing the royal lifestyle, today we will be transferred to the surrounding countryside of Beijing and visit the Mutianyu Great Wall,  this less-crowded section of the Great Wall is a pleasant drive 90km NE of Beijing. A cable car takes you to a good section (avoiding a very steep climb), where you can walk along the wall, through the watch towers and enjoy superb views as it snakes across the hills and mountains.

In the afternoon we will visit the legendary Ming Tombs, which are situated at the foot of Heavenly Longevity Mountain, Changping, northwest of Beijing. Since there are 13 Ming emperors buried there, this place was called the 13 Ming Tombs. You will walk along the Sacred Way, a road guarded by stone statues on both sides, as the ancient emperors did to hold a memorial ceremony for their ancestors. In addition, you will encounter the marble tombs of the Ming Dynasty emperors.

On the way back to hotel, you will be driven to visit the main 2008 Beijing Olympic venues, take an exterior visit of both the, Beijing National Stadium (Bird's Nest/Olympic Stadium), National Swimming Centre('The Water Cube'),feel free to take some photos of the stadiums.

Day 4

Beijing / Xi'an (B, L)

Beijing / Xi'an (B, L)

Transfer via: Flight on our arrangement
Sightseeing: Summer Palace, Hutong Tour

In the morning we will visit Summer Palace. Equally famous as the Forbidden City, the Summer Palace is called 'Yiheyuan' (Garden of Nurtured Harmony) in Chinese. Until nowadays, it is the best preserved and the largest imperial garden in China. You will regret it if you leave Beijing without having visited this grand imperial garden.

We will experience a unique Hutong tour by taking a rickshaw this morning. Hutongs are a kind of ancient city alley or lane and are very typical for Beijing. Most of them can be found close to the Forbidden City, and were built during the three dynasties of Yuan, Ming and Qing. Today, the Hutong is a living museum of Beijing history showing the traditional lifestyle of Beijing people. We will make stops to visit a local family and experience how the people of Beijing live.

Then you will take the flight to Xi’an. Upon you arrival your local guide will welcome you and transfer you to your hotel.

Day 5

Xi'an (B, L)

Xi'an (B, L)

Sightseeing: Terra-cotta Warriors and Horses, Big Wild Goose Pagoda, Bell Tower

Today you will experience the highlights of Xi’an. After breakfast, you will depart you’re your hotel. You will visit the amazing 2000-year-old Terra-cotta Warriors and Horses. Regarded as the 8th Wonder of the World, the Terra-cotta Warriors and Horses are the most significant archeological excavations of the 20th century. Over 2,200 years ago, the first emperor of China, Qin Shi Huang, ordered the construction of a vast army of Terra-cotta warriors in search of immortality. After his early death they were buried with him to protect his empire.

Another highlight today is the Big Wild Goose Pagoda. Situated in the south of Xian city, it is one of the main constructions in the famous Buddhist temple-Da-Ci-En Temple. There, the well-known Buddhist Master Xuanzang (Monk Tripitaka) stored his collection of classic Buddhist artifacts brought from India in Tang Dynasty. Now it is the Landmark of Xian.

Then we will go on to visit the Bell Tower, which is the best-preserved and best-known one among many. The Bell Tower was built in 1384. In early mornings of ancient times it had the mission of ringing the bell and giving the correct time to the whole city, hence called "The Bell Tower". With magnificent carved beams and painted rafters, this classical building is truly elegant.

Day 6

Xi'an / Guilin (B, L)

Xi'an / Guilin (B, L)

Transfer via: Flight on our arrangement
Sightseeing: Ancient City Wall, Shaanxi History Museum, Elephant Trunk Hill

In the morning you will visit Ancient City Wall. You will experience a half-hour's hike along the Ancient City Wall. It is the largest and best preserved present city wall in ancient China and is probably the best military battlement in the world. If you want to, you can rent a bicycle for a ride on top of the spectacular city wall. The wall was built in the Tang dynasty (618 -907) and enlarged in the Ming dynasty (1368-1644).

Then we will move on to visit the Shaanxi History Museum. It is a magnificent architectural complex in the Tang Dynasty style. The Museum possesses a treasure of 113,000 historic and cultural artifacts unearthed in Shaanxi, and it covers an area of 1,100 square meters for exhibition.

Later you will be transferred to the airport to take the flight to Guilin. After your arrival in Guilin, you will be met and transferred to your hotel by our local guide. Then you will visit Elephant Trunk Hill. Located at the conjunction of the Li River & the Peach Blossom River, the whole hill looks very much like a giant elephant with a long trunk drinking out of the river; it is the symbol of Guilin city.

Day 7

Guilin / Yangshuo / Guilin (B, L)

Guilin / Yangshuo / Guilin (B, L)

Transfer via: Private vehicle
Sightseeing: Li River Cruise, West Street

Guilin is famous for its picturesque scenery, and the best way to see it is from the deck of Li River Cruise ships. In the morning you will depart from your hotel and be transferred to the Zhujiang Pier (about 1 hour drive) for a 4.5 hours wonderful cruise. You will enjoy the unique mountains, peaceful green fields, farms and villages with water buffalos, cows wondering around on both sides of the river bank.

In the afternoon you will disembark at the old town Yangshuo. Having a history of more than 1,400 years, West Street is the oldest street in Yangshuo. You will have some time to explore the old town’s lovely attractions and will be transferred back to Guilin city in the evening.

Day 8

Guilin / Kunming (B, L)

Guilin / Kunming (B, L)

Transfer via: Flight arranged by us
Sightseeing: Reed Flute Cave

Today we will head to Reed Flute Cave, which is a vast and very impressive cave system, and one of the most important sights of Guilin. Known as "the Palace of Natural Arts", you can see beautiful stalactites & stalagmites and learn how they are formed.

Afterwards you will be escorted to the airport where you will take the flight to Kunming. Upon arriving there, you will be met by your local guide and be transferred to your hotel.

Day 9

Kunming (B, L)

Kunming (B, L)

Sightseeing: Stone Forest, Kunming Flowers and Birds Market

Today we will go on a full day trip to Stone forest. Due to a process of weathering and erosion, nature has created an art gallery of stone sculpture here. This typical karst physiognomy seems like a forest of stone pillars and boulders. You will see fascination natural creations like Lion Arbor, Sword Peak Pond, Lotus Peak, Moon Lake, Jade Lake, and Dadie Waterfall.

Then we will visit Kunming Flowers and Birds Market, the city's biggest, most attractive shopping market where spring reigns all year. Since 1983, the Flowers and Birds Market has gradually been built into a comprehensive public spot for leisure, shopping, and trading. Strolling on the market street, you will see shops and stalls of all sorts, especially those featuring flowers, birds, and fish.

Day 10

Kunming / Lijiang (B, L)

Kunming / Lijiang (B, L)

Transfer via: Flight on our arrangement
Sightseeing: Lijiang Ancient Town, Lijiang Mural

In the morning you will take your flight to Lijiang. Upon your arrival there, you will be met by your local guide and then visit Lijiang Ancient Town. It is also known as Dayan Town in Lijiangba and was included in the UNESCO world heritage list in 1997.  It was first built in the Southern Song Dynasty and in 1253 and became larger during Ming and Qing dynasties.

Then you will see invaluable Lijiang Mural. It is stored, preserved and displayed in 15 venerable temples, such as Juexian, Wande, Guiyi temples and Sanbi Garden. Altogether, the mural used to include more than 200 pieces of fresco. However, hundreds of years of historical vicissitudes have left only 55 pieces in good condition. The most famous frescos are known as Baisha Mural of the Dabaoji (Great Treasure) Palace and the Colored Glaze Temple (Liuli Dian) in the town of Baisha.

Day 11

Lijiang (B, L)

Lijiang (B, L)

Sightseeing: Yulong Snow Mountain, Dongba Village

Today we will depart to Yulong Snow Mountain. It is the southernmost marine glacier in the temperate zone of the northern hemisphere. Altogether there are 13 peaks along the range, stretching for over 35km from south to north. The summit, Shanzidou, is 5596 meters above sea level. Viewed from afar, the snow-capped range resembles a silver dragon with snow curling up its middle. Rich forest, herb and animal resources thrive on the mountain.

On our way we will stop at Dongba Village in Yushui Stockade, which is built completely according to the traditional life style of Naxi Minority. You can feel the traditional atmosphere of national culture from the layout of its yard, building facilities, tools and details of life

Day 12

Lijiang (B, L)

Lijiang (B, L)

Sightseeing: Tiger Leaping Gorge, First Bend of the Yangtze River

In the morning you will fist visit Tiger Leaping Gorge. Being one of Yunnan's most famous spots, the gorge itself is tucked neatly between the Yulong Snow Mountain and Haba Snow Mountain, which surround its two sides.

Secondly, we will see the first bend of the Yangtze River. It lies in Shigu Town, Lijiang. Rushing down from the Qinghai-Tibet Plateau, "the roof of the world", the Yangtze surges into Yunnan from its northwest, where it meets Lancang River and Nu River. Then, they go together through the high mountains and deep gorges of Hengduan Mountains. You will be impressed by this natural power.

Day 13

Lijiang / Beijing / Departure Beijing (B)

Transfer via: First flight on our arrangement
                Second Flight upon your arrangement

In the morning you will take the flight from Lijiang to Beijing. After your arrival there, you will take the connection flight to your next destination.

B=Breakfast,L=Lunch,D=Dinner

Tour Dates Destinations Services Provided Meals Included
Day 1
Beijing

Arrive in Beijing, be met and transferred to hotel.

Hotel: First Class Deluxe Class Tourist Class
  Crowne Plaza Hotel Beijing Wangfujing Sunworld Hotel Beijing Redwall Hotel
B L D
Day 2
Beijing

Full day visit Tiananmen Square Forbidden City The Temple of Heaven

Hotel: First Class Deluxe Class Tourist Class
  Crowne Plaza Hotel Beijing Wangfujing Sunworld Hotel Beijing Redwall Hotel
B L D
Day 3
Beijing

Full day visit Mutianyu Great Wall Ming Tombs The Sacred Way .On the way back to hotel, you will be driven to visit the main 2008 Beijing Olympic venues, take an exterior visit of both the, Beijing National Stadium (Bird's Nest/Olympic Stadium) National Swimming Centre('The Water Cube') Beijing ,feel free to take some photos of the stadiums.

Hotel: First Class Deluxe Class Tourist Class
  Crowne Plaza Hotel Beijing Wangfujing Sunworld Hotel Beijing Redwall Hotel
B L D
Day 4
Beijing/Xi'an

In the morning, visit Hutong Tours in Rickshaw Summer Palace ,Then be transferred to airport for flight to Xian, arrive in Xian, be met and transferred to hotel.

Hotel: First Class Deluxe Class Tourist Class
  Hotel Sofitel Xian on Renmin Square Mercure on Renmin Square Xian Ibis Xian
B L D
Day 5
Xi'an

Full day visit The Terracotta Army and Horses Big Wild Goose Pagoda Bell Tower

Hotel: First Class Deluxe Class Tourist Class
  Hotel Sofitel Xian on Renmin Square Mercure on Renmin Square Xian Ibis Xian
B L D
Day 6
Xi'an/Guilin

In the morning, visit Ancient City Wall Shaanxi Provincial Museum ,Then be transferred to airport for flight to Guilin.Arrive in Guilin, be met and visit Elephant Trunk Hill

Hotel: First Class Deluxe Class Tourist Class
  Sheraton Guilin Hotel Guilin Bravo Hotel GuiLin Eva Inn Hotel
B L D
Day 7
Guilin/Yangshuo/Guilin

Full day tour for Li River

Hotel: First Class Deluxe Class Tourist Class
  Sheraton Guilin Hotel Guilin Bravo Hotel GuiLin Eva Inn Hotel
B L D
Day 8
Guilin/Kunming

In the morning, visit Reed Flute Cave , then be transferred to airport for flight to Kunming.Arrive in Kunming, be met and transferred to hotel.

Hotel: First Class Deluxe Class Tourist Class
  Howard Johnson Tropical Garden Plaza Kunming Kunming Jin Jiang Hotel Yunnan Jinhua International Hotel
B L D
Day 9
Kunming

Full day tour to Stone Forest Kunming Flowers and Birds Market

Hotel: First Class Deluxe Class Tourist Class
  Howard Johnson Tropical Garden Plaza Kunming Kunming Jin Jiang Hotel Yunnan Jinhua International Hotel
B L D
Day 10
Kunming/Lijiang

In the morning, be transferred to airport for flight to Lijiang.Arrive in Lijiang, be met and visit Lijiang Mural Lijiang Ancient Town

Hotel: First Class Deluxe Class Tourist Class
  Crowne Plaza Lijiang Ancient Town Hexi Hotel, Lijiang Jinhong Villa Hotel
B L D
Day 11
Lijiang

Full day visit the Yulong Snow Mountain (take the cable car to Spruce Plateau and overlook the Jade Dragon Snow Mountain) and Dongba Culture Museum

Hotel: First Class Deluxe Class Tourist Class
  Crowne Plaza Lijiang Ancient Town Hexi Hotel, Lijiang Jinhong Villa Hotel
B L D
Day 12
Lijiang

Full day visit the First Bend of the Yangtze River Tiger Leaping Gorge

Hotel: First Class Deluxe Class Tourist Class
  Crowne Plaza Lijiang Ancient Town Hexi Hotel, Lijiang Jinhong Villa Hotel
B L D
Day 13
Lijiang/Beijing

Free at leisure till be transferred to airport for flight to Beijing, then connect your flight for departure.

B L D

Price

Season Tour Class Group Size Single Room
Supplement
1pax 2-5pax 6-9pax
Peak Season 3*(Tourist Class) $3518 $2541 $2262 $375
4*(Deluxe Class) $3874 $2719 $2440 $553
5*(First Class) $4452 $3008 $2729 $842

-NOTE:

1. Normally hotels allow a maximum of 3 adults per room with an extra bed, at extra charge. Some hotels will allow three adults and a small child.

2. Tour price is indicative only, please enquire for a detailed quotation.

3. More people more discounts. Please enquire for more details.

Price Includes

A. Entrance fees:To scenic spots as listed above in the itinerary.
B. Meals: All meals as specified in the itinerary.
C. Private Transfers: Among airports, hotels and scenic spots while sightseeing in the above cities by the private air conditioned vehicle.
D. Guide and Driver: As outlined in the itinerary, a well selected English-speaking guide and driver will accompany you throughout the entire tour in that city. They do not fly with you from one city to another.
E. Hotels: Hotel Based on two persons sharing one room with twin beds. All hotels as listed in the above itinerary serve daily western or Chinese breakfast. All rooms are air-conditioned with private facilities unless specified.
F. Luggage Transfers: Between airports and hotels.
G. Service Charge & Government Taxes.
H. Travel insurance in mainland China during the above travel period.
I. Arrangements: The tour cost includes planning, handling, operational and communication charges.

Quick Questions

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