Leave London Heathrow by British Airways flight to Beijing (11 hours).

Arrive Beijing in the morning, where you will be met and transferred to the Shangri-La Hotel. This afternoon there is the option to enjoy a pedicab ride through the city’s hutongs.

This morning’s sightseeing takes in the contrasting settings of Beijing’s heart, where the grandiose monuments to Imperial and Communist power sit side by side. Tiananmen Square is the largest open urban setting on earth, housing both the imposing Monument to the Heroes and the final resting place of Chairman Mao. Opposite stands the Forbidden City, the once imperious refuge of the Ming and Qing emperors, but today a rich repository of the grandeur of China’s imperial past. Afternoon at leisure with the option of a visit to the Summer Palace.

Travel to Mu Tian Yu to visit the Great Wall of China, one of the great wonders of antiquity, begun over two millennia ago and today an enduring testimony to the might of the Ming Dynasty. Returning to Beijing the rest of the day is free.

Morning visit to the Temple of Heaven and the opportunity to observe the locals performing Tai Chi. Take an afternoon flight to Xi’an (1 hour 45 minutes), for a stay at the Shangri-La Hotel.

A full day visiting the highlights of China’s ancient imperial capital, including the Big Goose Pagoda, the Bell Tower and the impressive Army of the Terracotta Warriors. Discovered by chance in 1974, these 8,000 life-size replicas are without doubt one of the highlights of any journey into China’s fascinating past.

En route to the airport today, visit the often over-looked Hang Yan Ling Imperial Tombs on the outskirts of Xi’an, a magnificent mausoleum complex built by the Western Han emperor Liu Qi in 153 AD. Flying on to Shanghai (2 hours), transfer to the Pudong Shangri-La Hotel.

A morning tour of Old Shanghai takes in the Museum and the famous 16th century Yu Yuan Gardens, a stunning example of Ming design. The tour ends at the famous Bund district and the chance to shop for souvenirs on busy Nanjing Road. The rest of the afternoon is free to enjoy at your own pace in this vibrant city.

Day at leisure, with an optional excursion by rail to Suzhou, where sightseeing will include the ornamental Master of the Nets Garden. Please advise at the time of booking if you would like to take this optional trip (Price £69 per person).

Fly to Hong Kong and stay at the Kowloon Shangri-La Hotel.

Morning Hong Kong Island tour. Afternoon at leisure.

With a late check-out available there will be time to relax before the British Airways departure back to London (13 hours).

Arrive in the early hours of the morning.