Green China and Cultural Continuity - 11 Days

Upon arrival in Shanghai, China’s global gateway city, your group will be greeted by our local guide and transferred to the hotel.
After check-in and rest, enjoy a Welcome Dinner introducing the program’s theme: Green China and Cultural Continuity.
This evening offers a short orientation session to connect students with their trip objectives and fellow travelers.
Meals: Dinner

Dive into the vibrant contrasts of Shanghai - where futuristic innovation meets cultural heritage.
Begin at the Shanghai Urban Planning Exhibition Hall, where students explore how the city transformed from fishing village to global megacity while aiming for sustainability.
Continue to The Bund, a symbol of Shanghai’s colonial past and cosmopolitan energy, before visiting the Shanghai Tower, the world’s second-tallest building.
Ride one of the world’s fastest elevators and learn how the building’s “Shanghai Eye” structure maintains balance against strong winds — an inspiring lesson in architectural science.
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

After breakfast, board a high-speed bullet train to Hangzhou, a city celebrated for its poetic landscapes and cultural depth.
Visit the Workmanship Demonstration Pavilion, where students observe traditional crafts that embody Chinese precision and artistry.
In the afternoon, stroll around West Lake (UNESCO World Heritage Site) - a timeless reflection of China’s philosophy of balance between people and nature.
As the sun sets, enjoy a lakeside dinner with storytelling about ancient poets and scholars inspired by West Lake’s beauty.
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Begin the day exploring Xixi National Wetland Park, China’s first national wetland reserve and a living laboratory of urban ecology.
Students learn about wetland restoration, biodiversity protection, and how water management supports sustainable urban development.
Later, visit a local tea village, where farmers share their centuries-old methods of tea planting and processing.
Participate in a hands-on tea-making workshop - picking, rolling, and brewing leaves - while learning about the cultural symbolism of Chinese tea ceremonies.
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Fly to Chengdu, the heart of Sichuan province and home to the beloved giant panda.
Upon arrival, visit the cheerful “I Am Here” Panda Sculpture, followed by a relaxing panda-themed afternoon tea that introduces the region’s playful spirit.
In the evening, stroll through Kuan-Zhai Lane, a well-preserved neighborhood blending ancient architecture, local snacks, and teahouse culture.
Students will gain insight into how Chengdu maintains its slow, charming pace of life amid modernization.
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

This day immerses students in China’s environmental innovation — past and present.
At the Dujiangyan Panda Base, learn about panda behavior, breeding, and the country’s remarkable conservation success stories.
After lunch, explore the Dujiangyan Ancient Irrigation System (UNESCO Site), built over 2,000 years ago.
Students will discover how this damless engineering marvel continues to provide irrigation and flood control, showcasing ancient Chinese ingenuity in ecological harmony.
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Fly to Guilin, one of China’s most beautiful cities, famed for its karst mountains and tranquil rivers.
Visit the Reed Flute Cave, where stunning stalactite formations create a magical underground world illuminated by colorful lights.
End the day at Elephant Trunk Hill, the symbol of Guilin — a natural rock formation shaped like an elephant drinking from the Li River.
Through these geological wonders, students will see how natural forces shape landscapes and inspire local legends.
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Today, journey to Longsheng County, home to the spectacular Longji Rice Terraces, also known as the “Dragon’s Backbone.”
Marvel at the centuries-old terraced fields engineered by ethnic minority groups.
Participate in community farming activities — such as planting rice seedlings, catching fish in the paddies, or harvesting crops (depending on the season).
This immersive experience helps students appreciate the sustainable farming wisdom and cooperation required to thrive in challenging environments.
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Engage in creative cultural learning today.
Begin with a Chinese Puppetry Workshop, where students explore one of China’s oldest performing arts and learn basic hand movements to bring puppets to life.
Next, experience Nuo Mask Making — an art form rooted in spiritual ritual and theatrical dance.
Under the guidance of a local artisan, students design and paint symbolic masks while learning how cultural identity and belief are expressed through art.
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Embark on a scenic Li River Cruise, gliding through emerald waters framed by limestone peaks and misty reflections — the essence of “Green China.”
Observe local fishermen using cormorants and floating bamboo houses that illustrate traditional waterway life.
Arrive in Yangshuo, a charming countryside town where you’ll explore rural lanes by bike or on foot.
Students will meet locals, witness organic farming practices, and reflect on how communities sustain harmony with nature.
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

After breakfast, board a bullet train to Hong Kong.
Transfer to the airport for your departure flight.
Before saying goodbye, take a moment to reflect on the experiences, friendships, and lessons learned throughout your 11-day journey across China - a trip of growth, understanding, and connection.
Meals: Breakfast