China and a Yangtze Cruise: A Private Journey

Benefit body and soul with a privately led tai chi lesson taught by a master instructor at the Temple of Heaven. Visit history-laden Tiananmen Square before exploring the grandeur of the Forbidden City.

Fly to Xi’an, a modern city cloaked in over 3,000 years of history. Once the eastern terminus on the Great Silk Road, Xi’an has become a melting pot of Central Asian and Chinese influences. Enjoy a dumpling-making demonstration led by a chef, followed by lunch. Visit the old city’s Muslim Quarter, with its teeming market and 14th-century Great Mosque, which features Chinese architecture and central Asian embellishments.

Travel by bullet train to Chengdu, the capital of Sichuan Province, where Chinese dishes beloved around the world originated. After a zesty Sichuan hot pot lunch, immerse yourself in local life at People’s Park, where you learn about traditional matchmaking.

Visit the Chengdu Panda Breeding and Research Center for the rare opportunity to observe these endangered creatures roaming their specially designed habitat. Then ride by high-speed rail to Chongqing, where you embark Yangzi Explorer II.

Take in the scenery along the Yangtze as you partake in tai chi on deck. In the small city of Fuling, visit the 816 Nuclear Military Plant or opt to check out the Baiheliang Underwater Museum.

The next morning, Yangzi Explorer II navigates the Qutang Gorge before docking at Wushan. Disembark to explore among the high peaks near the river. Back on board, pass through the majestic Wu and Xiling Gorges. After dinner, arrive at the Three Gorges Dam, where you pass through the ship lift, a fascinating experience seldom allowed for your type of vessel.

Disembark in Yichang and fly to Shanghai, arriving in time for lunch. Then settle into your elegant hotel on the city’s historic Bund. A worthy rival of New York and Paris, Shanghai offers cultural and culinary treasures as well as a colorful nightlife.

Explore dynamic Shanghai, where stunning modern skylines meet classic street markets and gardens. Head to the observation deck of the Shanghai Tower for panoramic views. Then explore Shanghai Museum East, viewing exceptional collections of historic art, ceramics, jade and bronze wares.

Discover the lively and historic French Concession with a local historian and then explore the Jewish Quarter. Later visit Old Town and the 16th-century Yu Garden.

After breakfast, take your private transfer to the airport for your departing flight.