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. (B,L,D)

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. Next, visit a jade factory to learn more about this precious stone. Long revered in China, it is said to bring fortune and prosperity to those who wear it. Spend the afternoon strolling through the idyllic landscapes of the Summer Palace, discovering the traditional gardens and exquisite architecture as you go. (B,L)

Board the bullet train to Xian, the ancient former capital. Explore the Xian Museum for a glimpse into the rich heritage of the city before enjoying an evening at your own leisure. (B,L)

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 14thcentury 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 dumpling feast and Tang Dynasty dancing show. (B,L,D)

Fly to Yichang where you will board your Yangtze River cruise vessel. (B,L)

From the Three Gorges Dam, a man-made marvel and massive feat of engineering, cruise upstream. Enjoy the changing landscapes as nature takes over, culminating in the magnificent Three Gorges themselves. Over the next three days prepare for one breathtaking panorama after another and enjoy a series of shore excursions and a side trip along the Shennong or Goddess streams. (B,L,D)

Disembark from the cruise vessel and visit the Panda House in Chongqing. Later, board the bullet train to Guilin. (B,L)

Take a relaxed cruise along the 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. (B,L)

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. (B,L)

Fly to the exuberant and cosmopolitan city of Shanghai. (B,L)

Visit the charming Yu Garden, the old town, Xintiandi precinct, Pudong area and a silk factory before admiring the colonial architecture with a stroll along the Bund. This evening, view the city from the Huangpu River on a panoramic cruise. (B,L)

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