Big China & Tibet & Yangtze River Tour with Turkish Airlines for 15 Days
Great China-Tibet-Yangtze River Tour 15 Days
We meet with tourism officials and our tour leader at the Istanbul Airport International Terminal at 23:00 [The flight is after midnight] Attention!
DAY 1 / ISTANBUL – BEIJING
After our ticket and passport processes, we take a direct flight to Beijing, the capital of China, with Turkish Airlines flight TK20 at 02:10. Our flight will take approximately 9 hours.
We land in Beijing at 16:15 local time. We meet our private vehicle waiting at the airport and transfer to our hotel. After a short rest, we have dinner at a local restaurant. Overnight at our hotel.
Our hotel: Beijing Guangxi Hotel 4★ and similar.
DAY 2 / BEIJING – CITY TOUR
After having breakfast at our hotel, we start our full-day panoramic city tour in Beijing, the capital of China.
Our first stop is Tiananmen Square, the world’s largest city square where the proclamation of the establishment of the People's Republic of China took place. We will see important structures such as Mao Zedong's mausoleum and the Monument to the People's Heroes in this iconic square.
Then, we visit the Forbidden City, which was governed by the Chinese Empire for approximately 500 years and is on the UNESCO World Heritage List. In this magnificent palace complex built on an area of 72 hectares, we will witness the imperial history of China.
After having lunch at a local restaurant, we proceed to the Temple of Heaven, built during the Ming Dynasty, where emperors prayed to the heavens. This elegant structure is one of the unique examples of traditional Chinese architecture.
At the end of the day, we give a short free time for shopping at a store selling local handicrafts from Beijing. We have dinner at a local restaurant and then return to our hotel.
Overnight at our hotel.
Our hotel: Beijing Guangxi Hotel 4★ and similar.
DAY 3 / BEIJING – GREAT WALL TOUR
After breakfast at our hotel, we set out for our tour of the Great Wall of China, the most symbolic structure of China.
Located on the UNESCO World Heritage List and considered one of humanity’s greatest engineering projects, the Great Wall stands approximately 21,196 kilometers long, stretching from east to west. Today, we will visit the Badaling or Mutianyu sections, which are among the best-preserved and accessible to visitors. We will have the chance to experience the enchanting atmosphere while walking along the walls of this historic structure with magnificent views.
During our tour, we will have lunch at a local Chinese restaurant. Then, we will take a short shopping break at a center showcasing traditional Chinese crafts and local products along the way.
After the tour, we return to our hotel. You can have dinner freely or participate in an optional traditional Chinese duck menu with dinner organized by our guide.
Overnight at our hotel.
Our hotel: Beijing Guangxi Hotel 4★ and similar.
DAY 4 / BEIJING – XI’AN (BY HIGH-SPEED TRAIN) & CITY TOUR
In the early morning, we leave our hotel with our luggage and transfer to the Beijing West Station train station. We will board the High-Speed Train (G87) at 07:00, and after approximately 5 hours of travel, we arrive at Xi’an North Station at 11:35.
Upon arrival, our private vehicle will meet us, and we will have a half-day panoramic city tour in the city center of Xi’an, one of China’s ancient capitals. We will see the ancient city walls, the Drum and Bell Towers, and the Muslim Quarter. We will explore these areas with short walks led by our guide.
We will then transfer to our hotel. The remainder of the day is free for rest and personal time.
Overnight at our hotel in Xi'an.
Our hotel: Mercure on Renmin Square Xi'an 4★ and similar.
DAY 5 / XI’AN – TERRACOTTA WARRIORS MUSEUM
After breakfast at our hotel, we set out to visit the Terracotta Warriors and Horses Museum, one of China's most important archaeological discoveries and listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
This massive underground army, built in the 3rd century BC, was created to protect the tomb of China’s first emperor, Qin Shi Huang. In the museum area, we can see thousands of soldier, officer, horse, and chariot figures made to life-size. We will receive detailed information about both the history of the period and the incredible construction process from our guide.
After the tour, we have lunch at a local restaurant.
In the afternoon, we return to the city center of Xi'an. We will have free time for shopping or resting. Guests who wish can continue to explore the city walls or the Muslim Quarter with our guide.
Overnight at our hotel in Xi'an.
Our hotel: Mercure on Renmin Square Xi'an 4★ and similar.
DAY 6 / XI'AN → CHENGDU – PANDAS CENTER VISIT
After an early breakfast at our hotel, we transfer to Xi'an North Train Station at 08:45 to travel to Chengdu. After a pleasant and comfortable train journey of approximately 3 hours and 55 minutes, we arrive at Chengdu East Station at 12:40.
Upon arrival, we proceed to the Panda Breeding and Research Center, where giant pandas, the symbol of China, are under protection. This center is one of the most popular places for visitors who want to see baby pandas. With our guide, we explore the living spaces of the pandas and learn about the center.
After the visit, we move to the city center and have dinner at a local restaurant. In the evening, we check into our hotel.
Overnight at our hotel in Chengdu.
Our hotel: Mercure Chengdu Chunxi Road Hotel 4★ and similar.
DAY 7 / CHENGDU – LHASA (TIBET)
After breakfast, we leave the hotel and transfer to Chengdu Tianfu Airport for our flight to Tibet, a region rich in diversity. We depart at 14:30 with Air China and arrive at Lhasa Gonggar Airport at 17:05.
The capital of the Tibet Autonomous Region, Lhasa, offers an unforgettable experience with its mystic atmosphere established at an altitude of 3,600 m in the heart of the Himalayas. Upon arrival, we follow a slow pace for a low-tempo city introduction and altitude adaptation. We move to our hotel with our local guide. We have dinner at a local Tibetan restaurant.
Overnight at our hotel in Lhasa.
Our hotel: Thangka Hotel Lhasa 4★ and similar.
DAY 8 / LHASA FULL DAY TOUR
After breakfast, a full-day exploration of Tibet begins. Our first stop is the Potala Palace, which is situated on top of the city. This UNESCO heritage structure, the former winter residence of the Dalai Lama, symbolizes Tibetan Buddhism and is mesmerizing.
After lunch, we will visit Jokhang Temple, considered the spiritual center of Tibetan Buddhism. Afterwards, we will have free time in Barkhor Street, a traditional Tibetan market. You can witness the prayer walks of the local people in the colorful streets and explore handmade Tibetan souvenirs.
Overnight at our hotel in Lhasa.
Our hotel: Thangka Hotel Lhasa 4★ and similar.
DAY 9 / LHASA – CHONGQING (BEGINNING OF YANGTZE RIVER CRUISE)
After an early breakfast, we leave our hotel and depart for Lhasa at 09:40 with Air China. After approximately 2 hours and 20 minutes of travel, we arrive in Chongqing at 12:00.
With our guide, we will have a short panoramic tour of Chongqing's city center and port area. Afterwards, we complete our check-in procedures on the Yangtze River cruise ship.
Our ship departs at 21:00. We will have dinner on the ship.
Overnight: on the Yangtze River Cruise ship 4*
DAY 10 / YANGTZE RIVER CRUISE – FENGDU GHOST CITY
Today, we begin an unforgettable day along the Yangtze, China's longest river. In the morning, after a buffet breakfast on the ship, a peaceful cruise awaits us with unique riverside views.
In the afternoon, we will visit Fengdu Ghost City (Ghost City). Based on Taoist beliefs, this ancient city introduces us to the symbols of another world, hell gods, and demons in Chinese mythology; we will closely see traditional temples, giant statues, and experience a mystical atmosphere.
Guests who wish can also join the optional visit to Shibaozhai Pagoda for an extra fee. This 12-story wooden pagoda is built on top of a steep rock, making it one of the most impressive structures along the Yangtze.
Throughout the day, we will also have:
Mini presentations on Chinese culture and tea ceremonies on the ship,
Tai Chi morning exercises,
A Captain’s Welcome Cocktail, and a dinner program.
All meals will be served on the ship.
Overnight: on the Yangtze River Cruise ship 4*
DAY 11 / YANGTZE RIVER CRUISE – THREE GORGES & SHENNV STREAM
Today, we will discover some of the most enchanting natural beauties along the Yangtze River. In the morning, our ship will begin gliding towards China’s world-famous Three Gorges region.
First, we pass through Qutang Gorge. This narrow and dramatic passage is one of the most photogenic points in Chinese landscapes, with its steep cliffs and mystical atmosphere.
Then we will encounter Wu Gorge, with its calm and elegant image. The misty mountain silhouettes and winding currents in this gorge present a fairy-tale atmosphere.
Finally, we arrive at Xiling Gorge. This area is noted for its turbulent waters and steep cliffs.
In the afternoon, we will have a shore visit to Shennv Stream (Goddess Stream). On this visit:
With small boats, we will pass through narrow valleys and high mountains to experience the tremendous silence and beauty of nature.
We will witness the ancient coffins carved into cliffs, traditional rituals of the Tujia ethnic group, and local music/dance performances with cultural richness.
In the evening, a Captain’s Farewell Party will be held on the ship. This enjoyable event will offer you the chance to taste the flavors of Chinese cuisine and have a fun night with other passengers.
All meals will be served on the ship.
Overnight: on the Yangtze River Cruise ship 4*
DAY 12 / YANGTZE CRUISE END – THREE GORGES DAM – YICHANG – FLIGHT TO SHANGHAI
In the morning, our ship docks at Maoping Port. After breakfast, we complete our exit procedures before disembarking from the ship.
Today’s first stop is the Three Gorges Dam. This enormous engineering marvel is the world’s largest hydroelectric power plant and a source of pride for China. You can watch the magnificent views from the observation terrace in the dam complex, photograph the dam system, and the surrounding nature.
Optional experience: Guests who wish can experience the dam's massive lift (ship lift) for an extra fee.
After visiting the dam, we transfer to the city center of Yichang with the special bus assigned by the cruise company.
Afterwards, we transfer to Yichang Sanxia Airport for our flight to Shanghai:
? Flight: China Eastern Airlines MU2688
Departure: 18:30 (Yichang – SHS)
Arrival: 20:30 (Shanghai – PVG)
Flight duration: 2 hours (Direct flight)
Upon arrival in Shanghai, we are transferred to our hotel with our private vehicle. Overnight at our hotel in Shanghai.
Our hotel: SSAW Boutique Hotel Shanghai Bund 4★ etc.
DAY 13 / SHANGHAI CITY TOUR – JADE BUDDHA – YU GARDEN – TASTINGS AND SHOPPING
After breakfast at our hotel, we start our Shanghai city tour. Shanghai, one of China's most modern and crowded cities, uniquely combines traditional Chinese culture and Western lifestyles.
Our first stop is the Jade Buddha Temple (Jade Buddha Temple): This temple famous for seated and reclining Buddha statues made of jade is a peaceful place that impresses its visitors. You will have the opportunity to observe religious rituals and explore the temple's architecture.
Afterwards:
Silk Workshop Visit: At this stop, we will learn about China’s ancient silk craftsmanship, see the production process firsthand, and have the chance to shop if desired.
After having lunch at a local restaurant, we will visit Yu Yuan Garden (Yuyuan Garden), one of China’s most famous classical gardens. Built in 1559, this tranquil garden captivates with its ponds, stone bridges, dragon-figured walls, and traditional architecture.
After the garden, we will proceed to an authentic tea house for a Traditional Chinese Tea Ceremony. We will taste various types of tea and learn the intricacies of Chinese tea culture from our guide.
At the end of the day:
We will take a walk in the Nanjing Road and The Bund area, where you can see modern skyscrapers alongside historical European architecture along Huangpu River. There will be a photo break and free time for shopping.
Overnight at our hotel in Shanghai.
Our hotel: SSAW Boutique Hotel Shanghai Bund 4★ and similar.
DAY 14 / SHANGHAI – FLIGHT TO ISTANBUL
After breakfast at our hotel, the day can be spent at leisure. You will have time until the hour determined by our guide to shop, explore the streets of Shanghai or relax.
In the evening, we leave our hotel and transfer to Shanghai Pudong International Airport. We will perform our direct flight to Istanbul with Turkish Airlines flight TK27 at 22:50. Overnight on the plane.
DAY 15 / ARRIVAL IN ISTANBUL
We arrive at Istanbul Airport at 06:05 Turkey time.
The end of our tour… We are happy to host you on this unforgettable China & Tibet exploration. We hope to see you on another tour!
Round-trip economy class flight ticket from Turkish Airlines from Istanbul – Beijing / Shanghai – Istanbul
Domestic flights within China: Chengdu – Lhasa, Lhasa – Chongqing, Yichang – Shanghai
High-speed train tickets: Beijing – Xian, Xian – Chengdu
4-star cruise with 3 nights accommodation on the Yangtze River
Bed and breakfast accommodation in all hotels specified in the program
All airport transfers and intercity transport
Professional Turkish guiding service
All excursions and tours specified in the program
Tour of the Great Wall and Forbidden City in Beijing
Visit to the Terracotta Army in Xian
Visit to the Panda Center and Leshan Buddha in Chengdu
Tours of Potala Palace, Jokhang Temple, and Barkhor Street in Tibet / Lhasa
All meals and shore excursions during the Yangtze River cruise
City tour in Shanghai
Mandatory Travel Insurance
China Visa Fee and application service (Ejder Tourism provides consultancy)
International exit fee
Lunch and dinner (except those specified in the program)
Extra tours outside the program and personal expenses
All drinks (including those taken during lunch and dinner are not included)
Minibar, room service, telephone, and other extra expenses at the hotels
Tips for the guide and driver Recommended Per Person /140 USD
Extra shore excursions and shows requested on the Yangtze River cruise (optional activities)