| |
| |
ITINERARY |
|
|
|
|
USA - Hong Kong |
| |
Depart to Kunming, excited to begin our exploration of China’s treasures. |
|
|
|
|
Cross the International Date Line |
| |
International Date Line |
|
|
|
|
Hong Kong - Kunming (DH) |
| |
We arrive at Hong Kong, immediately transit
to Kunming, capital of Yunnan Province. Known as the “Spring City”, Kunming holds the distinction as having the best year-round weather in all of China. Upon arrival, we visit the must-see attractions, Xishan Park & Longmen Gate. There is an old saying - “if you do not visit Xishan Park, you haven't visited Kunming; if you do not come to Longmen Gate, you haven’t been to Xishan Park.” An opportunity to sample the famous Yunnan Tea will be provided if time permits. |
|
|
|
|
Kunming - Lijiang (AB, L, D) |
| |
We board a flight bound for Lijiang, the
cultural center of the Naxi Minority. Lijiang
has beautiful landscapes and has been
designated by the UN as a World Cultural Heritage Site. Gaze in wonder at the sights and sounds of this ancient city as you walk down the cobblestone streets preserved for over 700 years. We see that the Naxi way of life has changed very little over time. A short bus ride away is Black Dragon Pond, where we take a leisurely stroll around the pristine surroundings. |
|
|
|
|
Lijiang (AB, L, DS) |
| |
The highlight of the day must be Jade Dragon Snow Mountain, the mythical mountain worshipped by the Naxi people. The bus drops us off at the base where we board chair lifts to access higher regions that afford a beautiful view of the famed Thirteen Peaks. Next, we visit the Baisha Village, the ancient capital of the Naxi Kingdom. Later on our way back to Lijiang we stop at the Shuhe Old Town for visit. Enjoy the famous local cuisine for dinner tonight. After dinner, we are entertained by the ancient Naxi Music. |
|
|
|
|
Lijiang - Kunming - Stone Forest - Kunming (AB, L, DS) |
| |
Take a morning flight back to Kunming. Upon arrival, immediately take an excursion to the Stone Forest, marveling at the natural stone “trees”. Created by ancient winds and water erosion over millions of years, the Stone Forest is a remarkable region of limestone cliffs and peaks. Before we return to the hotel, we are in for a special treat of Yunnan Specialty cuisine followed by an exciting Minority Cultural Show. |
|
|
|
|
Kunming - Jiuxiang - Guilin
(AB, L, DH) |
| |
Take an excursion to the remarkable Jiuxiang. Known primarily for its limestone caves, it also boasts an underground waterfall and an awesome gorge. Later, we transfer to the airport and fly to Guilin, a city of unrivalled natural beauty. Although not a large city, it has the reputation of being one of China’s most picturesque city. |
|
|
|
|
Guilin - Yangshuo (AB, L, DS) |
| |
Today we cruise the breathtaking Li River.
Meandering through valleys, bamboo groves
and mysterious rock formations, the Li River passes along some of southern China’s most beautiful scenery. At the end of the cruise, we reach the famous local town called Yangshuo. Tonight, we are entertained by the fantastic Minority Musical Stage Performance on Li River - “Yingxiang Liusanjie”. The show is directed by Chinese famous director Yimou Zhang. (The admission will be fully refunded if the show is canceled due to any nature elements) |
|
|
|
|
Yangshuo - Guilin (AB, L, DP) |
| |
Yangshuo is so well-known in China that it even enjoys more fame than the city of Guilin. We wander around the town and delight in the combination of local farms and waters and mountains. In the afternoon we drive back to Guilin for a sightseeing tour. Karst limestone formations imbue Guilin’s landscape with a mystical quality. We explore Elephant Trunk Hill and the Reed Flute Cave where fantastic stalactite and stalagmite formations impress us as magical and otherworldly. |
|
|
|
|
Guilin - Guangzhou (AB, L, DP) |
| |
Board a short flight bound for Guangzhou, the capital city of Guangdong Province. Our city tour of Guangzhou includes visits to the Chen’s Ancestral Temple, Zhenhai Tower, and Tomb of King of Nanyue Kingdom. This evening ejoy a local specialty for dinner. |
|
|
|
|
Guangzhou - Hong Kong (AB) |
| |
No activities have been scheduled for this day after we arrive in Hong Kong by air. Take the time to do some last minute souvenir and gift shopping, explore the city on your own, or even take the ferry to Macau for a day visit. Optional free time activities are numerous and can be scheduled with the Peony Tours Hong Kong office. |
|
|
|
|
Hong Kong - USA (AB) |
| |
We board the international flight for the US. |
|
|
|