Experience the very best of China on this 17-day trip that combines the imperial splendors of Beijing, the dynamic spirit of Shanghai, a cruise down the marvelous Yangtze, and the dazzling city of Hong Kong. While in Beijing, marvel at the inspiring Forbidden City and walk along the Great Wall, witnessing over 2,000 years of history. Embark on a voyage up the Yangtze and pass through the Three Gorges with their stunning vistas and exotic rock formations. Then enjoy the vibrant cities of Shanghai and Hong Kong with their perfect blend of East and West, and old and new. From your arrival in Beijing to your departure in Hong Kong, let us escort you to the very best of China.

New and unique cultural experiences

Your days will be filled with seeing the world-famous sights and learning about their fascinating history, as well as admiring the natural beauty of the countryside. During the evenings, you’ll enjoy masterful performances from the breathtaking Beijing Opera to the amazing Shanghai Acrobats – all designed to provide a unique glimpse into the culture of this fascinating country.

Who will enjoy this cruise: Those looking for the ultimate China experience need look no further. Sample dim sum on a floating restaurant. Be enchanted by the Shanghai Acrobats. Stand in awe of the natural splendors carved by the mighty Yangtze and watch monkeys play along the shore. Get caught up in the bustle and excitement of the vibrant cities of Beijing, Shanghai and Hong Kong.

Cruise Highlights include:

All domestic flights within China

3-night Yangtze River cruise in a riverview stateroom with private balcony onboard Victoria Katarina*

12 nights in deluxe hotels, including special dinners in Beijing*

Fully-escorted tours with English-speaking guides

Services of a Uniworld Tour Manager

All transportation and transfers

*Ship and hotels are subject to change.

Beijing to Hong Kong - 17 days

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 Kempinski Hotel.
DAY 3:	Beijing
	Featured Excursion: Forbidden City, Tiananmen Square Temple of Heaven and Peking Duck feast
	Beijing is home to many sights that make China a must-see destination, including your stops today: the Forbidden City, Tiananmen Square and the Temple of Heaven. You'll also be treated to a relaxing foot massage, and in the evening, a traditional Peking Duck feast. (BB, L, D)
DAY 4:	Beijing
	Featured Excursion: The Great Wall, the Ming Tombs and Beijing Opera
	You'll have a chance to walk along the Great Wall today : a truly unique experience. Afterwards, visit the lavish and historic Ming Tombs. In the evening, enjoy a historic Beijing Opera performance. (BB, L, D)
DAY 5:	Beijing
	Featured Excursion: The Summer Palace, Beijing Zoo, Hutong tour and Shishahai Lake
	Visit the Summer Palace, one of China's best-preserved imperial gardens and the Beijing Zoo. Take a rickshaw tour of the Hutongs and then enjoy an evening boat tour of Shishahai Lake. (BB, L, D)
DAY 6:	Beijing, fly to Xi'an
	Fly to Xi'an, and be greeted by a Royal Welcome Ceremony at the city gate. Transfer to the Sofitel Hotel. (BB, L, D)
DAY 7:	Xi'an
	Featured Excursion: Terra Cotta Warriors, Big Wild Goose Pagoda, Tang Dynasty Performance and dumpling lunch
	Visit the awe-inspiring Terra Cotta Warriors, and then visit the Big Wild Goose Pagoda. In the evening, enjoy a Tang Dynasty dinner and cultural show. (BB, L, D)
DAY 8:	Xi'an, fly to Chongqing (embark)
	Featured Excursion: Chongqing city tour
	Fly to Chongqing and board an elegant Victoria Cruises ship. Before boarding, we’ll take a brief tour of the city of Chongqing. (BB, L, D)
DAY 9:	Cruising the Yangtze River
	Featured Excursion: Shibaozai
	Sail along the Yangtze where you'll journey through the Three Gorges. If water levels cooperate, you'll stop at Shibaozai, a magnificent wooden pavilion constructed without nails. (BB, L, Captain's Welcome Dinner)
DAY 10:	Cruising the Yangtze River
	Featured Excursion: Lesser Three Gorges
	Depending on water levels, board a riverboat for a voyage down the Lesser Three Gorges. In the evening, you'll pass through the Three Gorges 5-stage ship locks. (BB, L, Captain's Farewell Dinner)
DAY 11:	Yichang (disembark), fly to Shanghai
	Featured Excursion: Three Gorges Dam
	On the way to Yichang, you'll visit the site of the world's largest hydroelectric power plant, Three Gorges Dam, before disembarking your luxury ship. Fly to Shanghai and transfer to the Regal International Hotel. (BB, L, D)
DAY 12:	Shanghai
	Featured Excursion: Shanghai tour and Shanghai Acrobat Performance
	Shanghai is a striking blend of cultures. European-style buildings stand alongside Chinese structures and ancient temples. Today you'll stroll through Old Town, then along the Bund, Shanghai's famed waterfront promenade. Also enjoy the peaceful Yu Yuan Gardens and visit the Oriental Pearl TV Tower with its distinctive artistic spheres representing large and small pearls dropping onto a jade plate. The highest tower in Asia, this unique site with a revolving teahouse and sightseeing platform offers a fantastic view of the Bund. During the evening, prepare to be dazzled as the amazing Shanghai Acrobats entertain you. (BB, L, D)
DAY 13:	Shanghai, fly to Guilin
	Featured Excursion: Tour the Reed Flute Cave
	In the morning, fly to Guilin. Marvel at the distinctly-colored stalactites and stalagmites in the Reed Flute Cave. (BB, L, D)
DAY 14:	Guilin, fly to Hong Kong
	Featured Excursion: Yangzhou Tour
	Enjoy a half-day cruise down the Li River. Visit Yangzhou, a leading economic and cultural center. Later in the day, fly to Hong Kong . (BB, L)
DAY 15:	Hong Kong
	Featured Excursion: Full-day city tour with lunch
	This breathtaking city offers a vibrant blend of East and West. Visit Wong Tai Sin Temple, and then take the tram to Victoria Peak. Enjoy a dim sum lunch at the Jumbo Floating Restaurant. In the afternoon, visit Aberdeen Fishing Village and Stanley Market. (BB, L)
DAY 16:	Hong Kong
	Enjoy the day at leisure in this breathtaking city known for its great shopping. (BB)
DAY 17:	Hong Kong (depart)
	Transfer to the airport for your return flight home. (BB) Note: Substitute visits to other sights along the Yangtze may occur depending on water levels, or other factors.