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You will join an archeological dig team at the Han Tomb, burial ground of Han Jing Di, China's fourth emperor of the Han Dynasty. With Chinese experts, you will assist in an actual dig at the site where the emperor’s tomb and burial pit, sacrificial temple, weapons, utensils and other relics are being excavated.
You will visit Zhoukordian, where archeologists excavated fossils of the 500,000-year-old "Peking Man". In the ancient city of Xi’an, you will compare and contrast the serene tranquility of the Great Mosque with the city's bustling moslem quarter.
You will witness restoration work of the most amazing archaeological find of the 20 century: the astounding Terra Cotta Warriors were stumbled upon by a farmer in 1974. These striking life-size terra cotta statues of 8,000 armed warriors, horses, chariots and weapons continue to be unearthed near the tomb of China’s first emperor, Qin Shi Huang Di, who commanded that his grave be guarded for all eternity by a replica of his own army.
You will hike along the Great Wall of China and stand in awe of this colossal man-made wonder constructed over 2,000 years ago.
You will explore Beijing, China’s beautiful capital city and its political and cultural center. There, you will walk in the footsteps of history at Tian’anmen Square, where on October 1, 1949, one million people gathered to hear Mao Zedong announce the establishment of the People’s Republic of China.
You will gain new understanding of the historical and cultural significance of the Forbidden City, Temple of Heaven and other captivating destinations and attend stimulating presentations by leading sociologists and anthropologists from the China Academy of Social Sciences.
You will also sample authentic cuisine at China's premier Peking Duck restaurant and take in the awe-inspiring feats of China's leading acrobats during a memorable performance.
Before returning home, you will embark on a two-day excursion into China's rural countryside to the ancient merchant village of Gengcun, where generations of its storytelling citizens wait to share with you the history and legends of their rich heritage.
To learn more about social and family roles in a traditional Chinese community, you will examine patterns of life in a rural community. Your visit to the town school, followed by lunch with a local family, will be an unforgettable learning experience.
Against the panorama of one of the world’s most spectacular and intriguing countries, you will compare and analyze how societal patterns for preserving and passing on culture adapt to environmental and social changes.
You will delve into China’s rich cultural traditions, archaeological wonders, current issues and social challenges. Riveting educational seminars, expert briefings, a hands-on archaeological dig, fascinating explorations of ancient sites and lively dialogues with Chinese sociologists, cultural anthropologists and archaeologists will bring to life an ancient world that, to this day, impacts and influences modern China.
An optional three-day add-on will enable you to wrap up your Far East adventure with an incredible exploration of Hong Kong, the “pearl of the orient.”
You will experience the culture of Hong Kong through a Cantonese lunch aboard the famous Jumbo Boat, explore the Hong Kong Islands and Repulse Bay, the luxurious residential area with beaches, cafes and aquatic activities and experience one of Hong Kong's most popular attractions, the Aberdeen Fishing Village featuring hundreds of brightly decorated fishing trawlers and sampans that double as floating homes for the residents of this city-on-the-water. You will also visit towering Victoria Peak offering a spectacular 1,800 foot high overview of Hong Kong harbor and the surrounding islands, enjoy an evening cultural performance and experience a Bauhinia dinner cruise before your return home.
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