Ancient China by Luxury Train

After a restful morning in Urumqi, board the Golden Eagle Silk Road Express, your luxurious home for the next leg of the journey. Settle into your elegant suite before enjoying a welcoming lunch in the dining car, as you begin your journey eastwards in true comfort towards our first stop of Turpan.

Explore the Ancient City of Gaochang, an ancient Silk Road outpost that once served as a vital trading hub.

After lunch, marvel at the Karez irrigation system, an engineering marvel that has provided water to this arid region for centuries. Following, a visit to Jiaohe Ruins, an ancient city carved from rock, whose unique architecture reflects the ingenuity of its former inhabitants.

Today, delve into Kashgar, a city that has long been a melting pot of cultures, religions, and architecture. Begin with a visit to the Apak Khoja Tomb, a stunningly adorned mausoleum considered the holiest Muslim site in Xinjiang. Wander through the Old Town, where narrow alleys and traditional homes provide a glimpse into local life, and explore the Gaotai folk houses, an area steeped in history and tradition.

A delightful lunch in a local restaurant introduces you to the diverse flavours of Uyghur cuisine before returning to the train to continue your westward journey.

Step back in time with a tour of Yotkan Ancient City. Once the heart of the Buddhist Kingdom of Khotan, this ancient city flourished along the Silk Road, its temples and cultural centres revealing Hotan’s rich legacy as a nexus of trade and spirituality.

Enjoy also an exclusive visit to Hotan’s Atlas Silk and Carpet Workshop. Here, witness master artisans create intricate silk fabrics and carpets using time-honoured techniques passed down through generations.

Your day in Golmud includes an enlightening lecture at the Hilton Qinghai-Golmud on the Silk Road’s history, highlighting its role as a bridge between East and West.

Guests may choose to explore the Chaerhan Salt Lake, a surreal landscape of salt flats and mineral deposits, or enjoy a guided tour through Golmud’s vibrant city streets, before re-boarding the train.

Arriving in Dunhuang, explore the Mogao Caves, a UNESCO World Heritage Site famed for its ancient Buddhist art. This “Cave of a Thousand Buddhas” is a spiritual oasis that has inspired pilgrims and artists for centuries, adorned with vibrant murals and statues that date back over a thousand years. Local folk artists serenade us with music, adding an atmospheric touch to your journey through this sacred complex.

After a delightful lunch, embark on a camel trek along the Silk Road to the enchanting Crescent Lake, an oasis nestled among towering dunes. This tranquil crescent-shaped lake has endured millennia of desert winds and remains a cherished symbol of resilience and beauty.

Today is a day of leisure as we traverse the Chinese landscape aboard the Golden Eagle Silk Road Express. Take in the panoramic scenery from the observation car’s floor-to-ceiling windows, the largest of any train in China, or unwind in the bar car with a selection of fine wines and spirits.

In the evening, arrive into Xi’An and enjoy an authentic Tang Dynasty dinner, where the ambiance is enhanced by a captivating performance of traditional music and dance, evoking the grandeur of ancient Xi’an.

In Xi’An, explore the ancient city walls and the historic Great Mosque, one of China’s oldest and largest mosques, blending Islamic and Chinese architectural styles.

Later, visit the awe-inspiring Terracotta Army – a life-sized army of soldiers, chariots, and horses, buried with China’s First Emperor to protect him in the afterlife. This UNESCO site, often hailed as the Eighth Wonder of the World, offers a mesmerising insight into ancient Chinese beliefs and artistry.

In the evening, join your fellow travelers for a farewell dinner aboard the train as you bid farewell to the Golden Eagle Silk Road Express.

Upon arrival in China’s capital city, enjoy a comprehensive tour of Beijing’s historic heart which reveals the grandeur of China’s ancient dynasties. Explore the Forbidden City, the sprawling imperial palace where emperors ruled for nearly 500 years. Stroll through Tiananmen Square, a place of great historical significance, before discovering the Summer Palace, a serene retreat adorned with beautiful gardens, temples, and lakes.

Alternatively, delve into Beijing’s modern allure with a tour of contemporary landmarks: marvel at the architectural feats of the Olympic Village and the iconic “Bird’s Nest” Stadium, glimpse the striking design of the CCTV Tower, and explore the National Museum for a modern-day perspective on China’s cultural evolution.

After touring, guests will be transferred in luxury to the prestigious Four Seasons Hotel Beijing, where a two-night stay awaits in the epitome of five-star comfort.

Your adventure begins with a morning visit to the Great Wall at Badaling, one of the most iconic symbols of ancient China. Here, guests can walk along a beautifully restored section, soaking in the breathtaking views and imagining the historical figures who once guarded this marvel.

In the afternoon, enjoy leisure time to explore Beijing’s lively mix of ancient traditions and modern vibrancy.

That evening, gather for a sophisticated dining experience at a celebrated Peking Duck restaurant. This Beijing speciality, cherished for centuries, is expertly prepared and carved at your table, offering a delectable insight into Chinese culinary mastery.

On your final morning, transfer to Beijing’s international airport for your onward journey.