Itinerary

DAYS 1 – 3

Arrive in Beijing, renowned for its ancient temples, opulent palaces and massive stone walls and gates; there’s scarcely a building standing that doesn’t have some facet of Chinese history associated with it. Enjoy a full-day tour of the city with your private guide. Begin with a visit to the fascinating City Planning Museum, followed by an exploration of the Olympic Park, including an exclusive tour of the famous Bird’s Nest stadium. Explore the hutongs — narrow streets of the old city — on a special private tour by rickshaw.

St. Regis Hotel, Beijing

DAYS 4 – 6

Fly to the capital of North Korea where you’ll be met by your private guides who will accompany you throughout your time in this remote country. See the sights of the city, including the solemn mausoleum of Kim Il Sung, the largest triumphal arch in the world (modeled on the Arc de Triomphe in Paris) and the country’s main university. You’ll enjoy special, VIP privileges, meeting with an expert archivist in the central library, a master craftsman in the sculpture studio where all North Korea’s public art is made, school teachers and children at a middle school. Then head for the scenic Myohyang Mountains. There you’ll visit an 11th-century Buddhist temple and have a private tour of one of the largest and strangest collections of ceremonial gifts in the world.

Yanggakdo Hotel, Pyongyang & Friendship Hotel, Mount Myohyang

DAYS 7 – 9

Back in Pyongyang, take an elevator up to the top of the largest stone tower in the world for a panoramic view of the city. Then travel to the small town of Nampo to visit a local orphanage and meet some of the staff and children there. A private concert of traditional music awaits you at the Pyongyang Conservatoire. The following day, explore the DMZ between South and North Korea with your expert local guide and learn more about the two countries’ divided history. Conclude your time in the country with a private cruise and visit to the birthplace of Kim Il Sung before returning to Beijing for the night.

Yanggakdo Hotel, Pyongyang & St. Regis Hotel, Beijing

DAYS 10 & 11

Fly to Hangzhou and begin your exploration of this lovely city with a private cruise on scenic West Lake and a tour of a stunning example of traditional Chinese architecture, Guo villa, which blends in with its beautiful natural surroundings. The next day includes a full day-tour of Lingyin Temple, one of the most famous Buddhist temples in China; the Six Harmonies Pagoda, a true masterpiece of Chinese architecture; and a private visit to perhaps the most esteemed tea plantation in the country, where you’ll have the opportunity to tour the terraces and sample the world-famous tea.

Sofitel Hotel, Hangzhou

DAYS 12 – 14

Ancient tradition and modern ambition meld in Shanghai. Experience a magical evening enthralled by a performance by Chinese acrobats. Survey the city’s architectural wonders and stroll the serene paths of Yu Yuoa Garden in Shanghai’s Old Town. Witness the blending of ancient tradition and forwardlooking ambition in the Shanghai Museum’s extraordinary collection of ancient Chinese art, which resides in a stunning building in the heart of the city. Then enjoy a festive farewell dinner with your Travel Director and fellow travelers to celebrate your journey through China and North Korea.

Pudong Shangri-La Hotel, Shanghai

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