Directly across the Forbidden City,  Tiananmen (literally "Gate of Heavenly Peace") Square has been the site of several key events in China's history, and holds great cultural significance.

A half mile long and over a quarter mile wide, the gargantuan scale is hard to imagine for many people until they have a chance to see it in person. At maximum capacity, this famous square can contain over 100 million people simultaneously!

The Chinese Imperial Palace was the throne of power from the mid-Ming Dynasty (~1400AD) to the end of the Qing Dynasty (1920AD) from which the Emperors ruled for 500 years. The Forbidden City was declared a World Heritage Site in 1987 and is listed by UNESCO as the largest collection of ancient wooden structures in the world.

The Great Wall at Jinshanling was initially built from 1368 to 1389 during the Ming Dynasty. Later, under the direction of General Qi Jiguang, the wall was rebuilt from 1567 to 1570.  It received its name because it was built on the Greater and Lesser Jinshan ('Gold Mountain') Ranges.

Jinshanling's Great Wall is in a mountainous area 80 miles northeast of central Beijing. This section of the wall connects the Simatai Great Wall section on the east, and Gubeikou Section on the west. Special features of this section are the 31 watchtowers. Because of the varied terrain, the watchtowers were built in different shapes: tall or short, rectangular or square, with three to five embrasures.  A rare three-floor watchtower can be found at the west end of the Jinshanling section (currently a military restricted area).

This second palace served the Qing Dynasty as an imperial retreat from the stifling confines of the Forbidden City. The complex suffered two major attacks, one during the Anglo-French invasion of 1860 and again during the Boxer Rebellion in 1900. The surviving garden was rebuilt in 1886 and 1902, and became a UNESCO World Heritage site in December 1998.

A Hutong is a neighborhood of narrow streets or alleys, most commonly associated with Beijing. An ancient style of city planning, the grid-shaped streets in Hutongs were formed by joining the outer walls of Shiheyuan (literally: courtyard surrounded by 4 buildings) homes together. These folk-style neighborhoods have a long history spanning over 1000 years, but even today, they are still inhabited and retained as an important part of Beijing heritage.

The temple also known as Tian Tan, is one of the largest temple complexes in China and a paradigm of Chinese architectural balance and symbolism. The complex was visited by the Emperors in Ming and Qing dynasties for annual ceremonies of prayer to heaven for a good harvest. Today, the park surrounding the Temple of Heaven has become a favorite gathering place for early morning practitioners of Tai Chi and other bustling social activities.

Covering 700,000 square feet, the newly-built museum recreates Tang-dynasty architecture and successfully symbolizes the great extent of Shaanxi (ancient name for Xian) history and its remarkable culture. This is the best starting point on our journey back through time.

Just as the Forbidden City symbolizes Beijing, the Big Wild Goose Pagoda is a popular piece of ancient architecture in China and symbolizes Xian. The pagoda was erected in the Tang-dynasty (~ 650AD) as a fireproof storehouse for sutras and other Buddhist relics imported from India.

The life-sized Terracotta (clay) warriors and horses of Qin Shi Huang, the first emperor who unified China, date back over 2,000 years (210BC) and were unearthed in 1974 by local farmers. The delicately carved figures include warriors, chariots, horses, officials, acrobats, strongmen, and musicians, each with different expressions and unique faces. A vast collection has been unearthed across 3 separate pits, but archeologists estimate the entire army consists of over 8,000 soldiers with a majority of the original warriors still buried in the pits.

The Ancient City Wall of Xi'an was constructed in the early Ming Dynasty (1300AD), and is a symbol of great significance for China's most famous historic cities. A main feature of the Xi'an City Wall lies in the fact it has been preserved, which is rarely seen elsewhere in the world. The Ancient City Wall has corner towers, ramparts, sentry towers, gate towers, battlements and a number of city fortifications with very strong defensive capabilities.

Xianggong Hill sits on the west bank of the Lancang River, about 17 miles from Yangshuo. 

From the top of Xianggong Hill, we can see soft, rolling peaks arranged in a neat, orderly manner with clear waters of Lijiang River flowing in the embrace of the mountains. The special combination found here of light, clouds, and colors attracts countless photographers and sightseers for one of Guilin's best views.

Also different from usual tour programs, we include a morning with a choice of relaxing activities to explore the countryside of Yangshuo: biking, hiking, or electric cart. This breathtaking experience offers a glimpse of countryside life in China and is not to be missed. Feel the scenery up close and interact with local villagers.

Breaking from typical tour itineraries, we include bamboo rafting in lieu of the usual Li River cruise since it is a much more fulfilling "up close and personal" experience. Drifting down the Yulong River on a raft gives you a chance to enjoy the natural "miles of art galleries" on both sides of the river up close. Pleasing to both the eye and the soul, enjoy the river while drifting lazily downstream; enter a poetic world of harmonious freedom with nature and man blended in one.

Rich Chinese tradition and modern style flawlessly combine at Waldorf Astoria Beijing. This distinctive hotel was the former residence of Li Hongzhang, an influential politician from China's last imperial dynasty. Today, its prime location in the heart of Beijing (within 10 minutes walking distance to Tiananmen Square and the Forbidden City) makes it one of the best bases for exploring the city.

Located along Yulonghe River, our Yangshuo hotel boasts an immersive view of tranquil water, delicate mountain peaks, leisurely clouds, and stretches of green fields. It's location also makes it perfect for exploring the nature of Yangshuo.

Centrally-located in the city called the "cradle of Chinese civilization," The Westin Xian is just steps from the ancient city’s myriad cultural attractions, great restaurants, and unique shopping.

Nestled in the hills at the foot of the Great Wall, Dhawa Jinshanling fuses cutting-edge design with China's rich cultural heritage. This stylish new resort merges seamlessly into its ancient surroundings. Accommodations feature classically designed exteriors paired with modern, yet undeniably Chinese, interiors. Our rooms are set around a large communal courtyard with outdoor seating. The main restaurant serves cuisine ranging from Northern Chinese dishes to contemporary Cantonese entrees, and there is also an indulgent bar that we're sure you'll appreciate. 

Winner of the Forbes Travel Guide 5-star honor in 2017 and 2018, the Ritz Carlton flawlessly combines Chinese tradition and modern elegance. This distinctive hotel is in the heart of Beijing's legendary financial street, just minutes to Tiananmen Square and the Forbidden City.

Special Features: Excellent location (Big Wild Goose Pagoda, Downtown) 

Located in the heart of the Tang Dynasty city of Xi'an, Big Wild Goose Pagoda, numerous scenic spots, and unique local shopping are within easy reach. The 3100-year history of Xi’an is a magnificent backdrop which inspired the design of the hotel itself. The exterior reflects the deep history of Xi'an while the interior has a smooth modern design. Guests staying here will feel exquisite Chinese hospitality and modern comfort.

Situated on the east bank of the Li River, Guilin Shangri-La Hotel boasts a 2.7 acre garden with entertainment facilities including a kids’ club, organic farm, game lounge and mini zoo. The unique Chinese-style building is pleasing to the eye, and you will feel relaxed when you step into your spacious and bright rooms. The crystal clear waters of the nearby Lijiang River and beautiful gardens form a natural mural, letting you feel as if you are living in a small slice of paradise.

As one of the world’s top resort brands, a stay in a Banyan Tree resort is always full of expectations. Our hotel in Yangshuo brings both sight and sound together to give our guests a wonderful impression of the expansive local nature. Enjoy panoramic views of the karst mountain ranges and feel the song of the Lijiang River without leaving your home.  Away from the city, you are immersed in a rustic and romantic hideaway during your stay here with us.