Imperial Jewels of China

For the next 150 miles, travel the most scenic stretch of the Yangtze as it forces its way through a spectacular series of limestone ridges known as the Three Gorges. During breakfast, cruise through Wu (‟Witches') Gorge, renowned for its magnificent scenery. Then, board a smaller boat for an excursion through the Goddess Stream. Sail through these remarkable canyons flanked by towering cliffs as you listen to the informative commentary of your Program Director.

Along the way, see fascinating sites including the hanging coffins of the Ba people and the ancient plank road carved into the cliff side. Return on board for lunch, then spend the afternoon sailing through Qutang Gorge, the shortest, narrowest and most spectacular of the three large gorges. Dinner is served on board. (B/L/D)

This morning, visit Shibaozhai Temple, a 12-story pavilion built in 1650 along the Yangtze. The bright red pagoda, an impressive example of Qing Dynasty architecture, was erected upon a hill and became easier to access after the construction of the Three Gorges Dam. As you explore, you may see the Duck Well. Legend says that a duck dropped into this hole will reappear in the Yangtze.

At the small Rice Flowing Well, from which rice once poured at a slow trickle, consider the fable of the greedy monk who chiseled a larger hole—only to stop the flow completely. Tour the pavilion and temple before returning on board for lunch. This afternoon, marvel at the spectacular Yangtze scenery as you cruise past mist-laden mountains and limestone cliffs cloaked in green. (B/L/D)

After breakfast, disembark and enjoy a brief tour of Chongqing, the largest city in western China and the country's most important inland port. Time permitting, visit the Chongqing Zoo to see the giant pandas, China's beloved cultural symbol, and other exotic species.

After lunch, fly to Xian, celebrated as the eastern terminus of Asia's Silk Road. More than 3,000 years of history have unfolded here, including 1,100 as the capital city of ancient dynasties. From 618 to 907 AD, this city presided over one of China's most glorious cultural periods, spreading its influence throughout Asia into Europe and Africa. This evening after dinner, relax at your hotel. (B/L/D)

View what many call the Eighth Wonder of the World today: the magnificent Terra Cotta Warriors. At the enormous mausoleum where Emperor Qin Shi Huang was laid to rest over 2,000 years ago, see the 8,000 life-sized sculpted warriors, archers and infantrymen that were buried with him. Remarkably, each man and horse was molded with its own distinctive features.

The incredible archaeological site was discovered by local farmers in 1974. After lunch, use your free time to further explore Xian. During this evening's optional excursion, see the ancient history of China come to life during a colorful and exuberant Tang Dynasty Dinner Show. (B/L/D)

Experience one of the world's most iconic sites today. Travel to the Badaling Hills to behold one of the most impressive and best preserved sections of the Great Wall of China. Built and maintained between the 5th century BC and the 16th century AD to keep barbarian nomads out of the empire, this UNESCO World Heritage Site of sandstone and earthwork stretches some 4,000 miles. Explore its winding pathways and marvel at the panoramic views from its ramparts.

After a lunch of local specialties, visit the Sacred Way, another UNESCO World Heritage Site. Walk the tree-lined avenue guarded by massive sculptures of elephants, lions and camels to the Ming Dynasty tombs. This evening, dine at a local restaurant and relax at your hotel, or enjoy an optional Peking duck dinner, a dish once reserved only for emperors. (B/L/D)

Witness two of Beijing's cultural treasures this morning. In the massive Tiananmen Square (meaning 'Gate of Heavenly Peace'), the epicenter of ancient and modern Chinese history, view the exterior of Mao Zedong's mausoleum. You will also see the tower that marks the northern edge of the square; built in 1417, this was long the stage from which new emperors were declared. Then, tour the nearly 1,000 buildings of the Forbidden City, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and accessible only to emperors and their families and court for 500 years.

Walk its grounds among the opulent palaces, pavilions, courtyards and imperial gardens within the 26-foot-high walls. After lunch in a local restaurant, with time permitting, explore Beijing independently. Enjoy dinner this evening, or attend The Legend of Kung Fu for a beautiful display of performance art with roots dating back 4,000 years. (B/L/D)