Detailed Itinerary:

Days 1-3 Beijing

The journey commences in one of the world's most interesting cities. Visit iconic sights including Tiananmen Square and the Forbidden City. Admire the impressive Great Wall up close and reflect on the enormity and history of this feat of ancient engineering. In the evenings, consider feasting on traditional Peking duck or sample some tasty street food at a night market.

Days 4-5 Xi'an

Use free time to explore Xi'an at a relaxed pace. Why not hire a bike to cycle around the city walls or join locals in their daily tai chi practise? Uncover ancient history on a day trip to the Terracotta Warriors. Stop in at a village and enjoy lunch with a local family then make new friends at Xi'an Hui Ling, a special community project for people with learning disabilities.

Day 6 Suzhou

Relax in the peaceful surroundings of ornate gardens and perhaps rent a bicycle to explore the streets, canals and alleyways of this charming town. In free time, choose to visit the Silk Museum to view and learn about the exquisite craftsmanship required to make silk. In the evening, hit the water on an optional gondola ride to see the elegance of Suzhou from a different perspective.

Days 7-9 Shanghai

Board a bullet train bound for the thriving metropolis of Shanghai. Futuristic skyscrapers and colonial buildings vie for space on the Bund and in Pudong. Explore Shanghai's complex network of traditional alleyways and perhaps snaffle a bargain at the Yuyuan Bazaar. Choose to sip cocktails in a modern bar, slurp noodles at a street stall or dine on delicious dumplings at a restaurant. Be amazed by the skill, grace and talent of the energetic Shanghai acrobats at an evening performance - a memorable way to end this memorable trip!