Uniworld River Cruises, China, Tibet and the Yangtze, River Cruise Vacation Package
Duration: 15 Days / 14Nights
Priced From: $3799 pp Dbl. Occ.
Dates: Oct
Ship: Victoria Queen
From: Beijing to Shanghai
Travel to Lhasa, Tibet and discover Shangri-La
Lhasa, the heart and soul of Tibet, means holy land. In existence since the seventh century and ruled by the Dalai Lamas from early 1600s to 1959, Tibet is a country long associated with peace and spirituality. Marvel at the unique architecture from gilt-roofed temples and intricately decorated monasteries to southern-facing homes with flat roofs for energy efficiency, and enjoy an inner calm as you wander through the peaceful gardens. Visit the 7th-century Potala Palace, with its rare cultural relics and explore Sera Monastery, one of the three great monasteries in Lhasa. Tibet’s majestic and grand scenery, soul-enriching spirituality, and wonderful people will reward you with unforgettable memories.
Explore the majestic Yangtze and delight in China’s highlights
Cruise the most scenic part of the Yangtze River and bear witness to the changing landscape caused by the Three Gorges Dam. And once on land, enjoy a virtual dim sum of China’s highlights: the Great Wall; a Beijing Opera performance and Peking Duck dinner; the ancient Terra Cotta Warriors in Xi’an; and a night in lively Shanghai, complete with a performance by the amazing Shanghai Acrobats.
Who will enjoy this cruise: Travelers interested in a more spiritual journey will find much to ponder on this trip through China and Tibet, which includes the former seat of the Dali Lama and numerous Buddhist temples. And those who appreciate the true ying and yang of life will find a wonderful balance on this tour from the burgeoning capital of Beijing and exotic bustle of Shanghai to the wide open spaces of the Yangtze.
Itinerary
 DAY 1: Depart Home Gateway City to Beijing
DAY 2: Beijing
Arrive in Beijing and be greeted by a Uniworld representative who will escort you to the lovely Kempinski Hotel.
DAY 3: Beijing
Featured Excursion: Forbidden City, Tiananmen Square, Summer Palace and Peking Duck feast
Your first full day in Beijing takes in many of the major sites, such as the Forbidden City, a 250-acre complex of palaces, pavilions, courtyards and gardens, and historic Tiananmen Square. Visit the Summer Palace, one of China’s largest and best-preserved imperial gardens. In the evening, indulge in a traditional Peking Duck dinner. (BB, L, D)
DAY 4: Beijing
Featured Excursion: The Great Wall, Ming Tombs and Beijing Opera
Today, you’ll have the opportunity to walk along the Great Wall. From the 3rd century BC, the wall was built, rebuilt and maintained over thousands of years. After this memorable experience, visit the lavish and historic Ming Tombs. In the evening, enjoy an historic Beijing Opera performance. (BB, L, D)
DAY 5: Beijing, fly to Xi'an
Featured Excursion: Hutong tour
Ride in a rickshaw for a behind-the-scenes tour of the Hutongs, located in the old residential area of Beijing. In the afternoon, fly to Xi’an and transfer to the Sofitel Hotel. (BB, L, D)
DAY 6: Xi'an
Featured Excursion: Terra Cotta Warriors, Big Wild Goose Pagoda, dumpling lunch, and Tang Dynasty dinner and show
Xi’an is the site of one of the most significant archaeological excavations of the 20th century – the Terra Cotta Warriors and Horses. After your exploration of these awe-inspiring sculptures, visit the Big Wild Goose Pagoda, a well-preserved Buddhist shrine. In the evening, be treated to a Tang Dynasty dinner and cultural show. (BB, L, D)
DAY 7: Xi'an, fly to Lhasa
Fly to Lhasa, the heart, soul and capital of Tibet, with a fascinating history dating back more than 1,300 years. As the former seat of the Dali Lama, Lhasa which translates to “place of the gods” embodies the mysterious Tibetan Buddhism culture. (BB, L, D)
DAY 8: Lhasa
Featured Excursion: Da Zhao Temple and Tibet Museum
See the early Buddhist Da Zhao Temple, embellished with Nepalese and Indian touches and capped by a golden canopy. Visit the Tibet Museum, which houses a rich collection of prehistoric cultural relics. Catch a glimpse into the life of the local people with a visit to a Lhasa family’s home. (BB, L, D)
DAY 9: Lhasa
Featured Excursion: Lhasa tour
Tour Lhasa and marvel at the Potala Palace, perched atop the mountain. Gaze at the jewel collections and wander the chapels as pilgrims make offerings at the altars. Visit the Sera Monastery, with its amazing collection of perfectly-preserved murals and Maitreya, Bodhisattva and Arhat statuary. (BB, L, D)
DAY 10: Lhasa, fly to Chongqing, (embark), cruising the Yangtze River
Featured Excursion: Chongqing city tour
Take a morning flight to Chongqing, where you’ll take a tour of the city zoo for a panda visit. Then, board your Victoria Cruises ship and enjoy a special onboard dinner created just for Uniworld guests. (BB, L, D)
DAY 11: Cruising the Yangtze River
Featured Excursion: Shibaozai
Along the Yangtze, you’ll encounter Shibaozai, a gem of Chinese architecture. Walk up this spectacular 12-story wooden red pavilion and enjoy the panoramic view. (BB, L, Captain’s Welcome Dinner)
DAY 12: Cruising the Yangtze River
Featured Excursion: Lesser Three Gorges
Sail through Qutang Gorge and Wu Gorge with its majestic 12 mountain peaks. Embark on a voyage down the Lesser Three Gorges, depending on water levels, through “Dragon Gate,” “Misty Gorge” and “Emerald Gorge.” (BB, L, Captain’s Farewell Dinner)
DAY 13: Yichang, (disembark), fly to Shanghai
Featured Excursion: Three Gorges Dam
Visit the construction site of the world’s largest hydroelectric plant, the Three Gorges Dam. Disembark in Yichang and fly to Shanghai. (BB, L, D)
DAY 14: Shanghai
Featured Excursion: Shanghai tour, Yu Yuan Gardens, Oriental Pearl TV Tower and Shanghai Acrobat Performance
Enjoy the many splendors of Shanghai, including Old Town, the Bund, Yu Yuan Gardens, and the Oriental Pearl TV Tower. Tonight prepare to be dazzled by the amazing Shanghai Acrobats. (BB, L, D)
DAY 15: Shanghai (depart)
Transfer to the airport for your return flight home, or continue your tour with one of our popular optional extensions. (BB)
Save time, money and stress!
For reservations: Fill out the Uniworld River Cruise vacation planner to be contacted by Our Uniworld, China River Cruise vacation specialist.
Contact: Travelwizard.com
Phone: 1-800-330-8820 or 1-415-446-5252
10/08
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