Fly to the cosmopolitan city of Shanghai. Depending on your time of arrival the rest of the day is yours to start soaking up the local culture.

Today's Christmas Day explorations start with the peaceful Yu Gardens and then the atmospheric alleys of the old town. Admire the magnificent colonial architecture with a stroll along the Bund before visiting a silk mill. Enjoy your lunch at the renowned Lost Heaven, one of Shanghai's must-try restaurants inspired by indigenous recipes and cooking techniques from the Yunnan region. Later, wander through one of the city's festive Christmas markets, then cruise on the mighty Huangpu River for stunning views of the Shanghai skyline. This evening, enjoy a German-style feast.

Visit Zhujiajiao, one of Shanghai's sleepy water towns, built on an old canal system once used to transport goods all over imperial China. The town's narrow alleyways exude old-world charm, whilst the waterways are lined with ancient buildings and crossed by stone bridges. Return to Shanghai for a wander through the vibrant arts district of Tianzifang.

Fly to Xian, the ancient former capital with a history spanning 3,100 years. This afternoon, stop at a local brewery for a refreshing beer tasting, then walk through the lively atmospheric alleys of the Muslim Quarter which are lined with food stalls.

After their fortuitous discovery in the 1970s, the Terracotta Army of China's first emperor, Qin Shi Huang, has intrigued visitors ever since. Spend the morning viewing the enigmatic ranks of life-sized warriors and horses who stand in their original formations at the exact location they were excavated. Learn about the meticulous restoration efforts that revived this archaeological wonder, and visit the workshop where skilled craftsmen recreate terracotta warriors in the style of their ancient counterparts. Later, stroll on the beautifully preserved 14th-century ancient city walls that enclose Xian's old town. Tonight, feast on traditional Shui Jiao dumplings before a captivating performance of Tang Dynasty dancing.

Travel to a unique conservation park, home to the rare Qinling four – giant pandas, golden monkeys, crested ibises and takins. Spot over 20 other native species, including red pandas and black bears, and meet Qizai, the world's only known brown giant panda.

Board the bullet train to Beijing, Chinas's capital city. A spectacular Chinese acrobatic show rounds off the day.

Begin with a walk through Tiananmen Square, a vast symbol of modern history, before stepping into the Forbidden City, a magnificent UNESCO listed palace complex of over 900 buildings that once housed China's emperors. Later, celebrate the year's end with dinner and drinks in Beijing's atmospheric hutongs.

Start the New Year with a walk along China's most iconic landmark – the Great Wall. Take in the breathtaking scenery as you explore this mighty feat of engineering and enjoy a champagne toast on the wall. This afternoon, stop by a jade factory to learn about the precious stone, then wander the elegant gardens and tranquil lakefront of the Summer Palace. Round off the day with a classic Peking duck dinner, a festive welcome to the year ahead.

Fly to Australia, arriving home the same or following day.