24-DAY GRAND CHINA TOUR

Upon arrival at Beijing Airport, you will be greeted by a tour representative and transferred to your hotel where check-in commences from 3:00pm. The remainder of the day is at leisure.

Note: Due to flight times and schedules, some customers may be required to depart the day prior on an overnight flight from Australia.

Hotel: Wyndham Beijing North or similar

Meals included: None

This morning you will visit Tiananmen Square, one of the largest public squares in the world and the venue of the infamous 1989 Tiananmen Square demonstrations. Acclaimed as the ‘Gate of Heavenly Peace’, it is the foreground to the Forbidden City, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Otherwise known as the Imperial Palace Museum, the Forbidden City is the citadel of China’s last 24 Emperors during the Ming and Qing dynasties and was the political and ritual centre of China.

Enjoy lunch at a local restaurant where you will experience Peking Duck, a popular dish that has a long history dating back to imperial China and is renowned for its cultural significance and meticulous preparation, plus its distinctive flavours and textures.

Opt to attend The Golden Mask Dynasty Show from 380RMB pp

Hotel: Wyndham Beijing North or similar

Meals included: Breakfast & Lunch

Continue your educational journey of China’s fascinating history with a stop at a Jade Museum where skilled artisans sculpt intricate designs from the revered gemstone. With more than four thousand years of history, jade in Chinese culture symbolises preciousness and beauty, and embodies the Confucian virtues of courage, wisdom and compassion.

Journey through the picturesque countryside to one of the world’s top archaeological marvels, the iconic Great Wall of China. At the Mutianyu section, marvel at the intricate stone carvings and ancient watchtowers that gracefully trace the contours of the majestic mountain ranges, amplifying the breathtaking grandeur of this historic landmark. Enjoy a one-of-a-kind lunch on the Great Wall before ascending to its summit via cable car for unparalleled views, ensuring you can fully immerse yourself in this architectural masterpiece.

Opt to visit the Summer Palace from 310RMB pp

Hotel: Wyndham Beijing North or similar

Meals included: Breakfast & Lunch

Visit the impressive Temple of Heaven, a UNESCO World Heritage Site that exudes serenity and grandeur. The intricate architecture and expansive gardens symbolise harmony between heaven and earth in ancient Chinese cosmology. It stands as a testament to China’s rich cultural heritage and enduring spiritual traditions.

Immerse yourself in the rich traditions of Chinese tea culture with a visit to a local Tea House in Beijing. Here, you’ll sip and savour a variety of aromatic green teas while learning about the ancient art of tea preparation and its place in everyday Chinese life.

In the afternoon, discover Beijing’s 700-year-old Hutongs (narrow lanes) by traditional pedicab. On this cultural encounter, you will visit a local family living in a courtyard style-home where you will immerse yourself in the local customs firsthand and enjoy an authentic and delicious home cooked meal.

Hotel: Wyndham Beijing North or similar

Meals included: Breakfast & Lunch

This morning explore the profound wisdom of Traditional Chinese Medicine, a 5000-year-old practice that incorporates herbal medicine, acupuncture, massage, exercise and dietary therapy. This ancient practice harmonises the mind, body and spirit, which is deeply ingrained in Chinese culture and philosophy.

You will be transferred to Beijing Railway Station where you will embark on your bullet train journey to Xian. Traverse the diverse landscape onboard China’s bullet train or locally known as high-speed rail (HSR) from Beijing to Xian in approximately 5hrs. Please ensure you pack a day bag as your luggage will not be easily accessible from your second-class seat. Food and beverages can be purchased in the dedicated dining cart or purchased on a food trolley. Alternatively, you may wish to pre-purchase snacks from Beijing Railway Station before boarding the train.

This evening experience combines a sumptuous dumpling banquet with an enthralling 1hr Tang Dynasty Music and Dance Show that depicts the story of the Tang Dynasty through Chinese entertainment, including poetry, song, dance and exquisite costumes.

Hotel: Grand Noble Hotel Xian or similar

Meals included: Breakfast & Dinner

Step into history on a captivating tour of Xian’s ancient Terracotta Warriors and Horses, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Behold the meticulously crafted clay soldiers, horses, and chariots, guarding the ancient tomb of Emperor Qin Shi Huang. Explore this 2,000-year-old archaeological wonder, a testament to the rich heritage of ancient China.

At the Terracotta Warriors Factory, gain insights into the intricate process of creating replica statues and artifacts. Here you will have the opportunity to purchase unique souvenirs to take home.

After lunch, enjoy a scenic drive past the Bell and Drum Tower Square. These iconic landmarks in Xian have stood in the city centre for over 600 years and are the largest Bella and Drum Towers in China.

This afternoon immerse yourself in the rich artistic traditions of China with a hands-on calligraphy and painting class in Xi’an. Under the guidance of a local master, learn the graceful brush techniques and symbolism behind this ancient art form.

Opt for a sightseeing tour of the Great Tang Mall & Meal from 380RMB pp

Hotel: Grand Noble Hotel Xian or similar

Meals included: Breakfast & Lunch

This morning visit the ancient City Wall. Spanning over 13kms, it stands as one of the most well-preserved city walls in China, offering a glimpse into the city’s historical significance and architectural prowess.

You will then be transferred to Xian Railway Station where you will embark on your bullet train journey to Chengdu for approximately 4hrs. As a reminder, please ensure you pack a day bag and food and snacks can be purchased from Xian Railway Station or onboard the trains dining cart.

Upon arrival in Chengdu, take a step back in time as you wander through the charming Kuanzhai Alley, also known as the Wide and Narrow Alleys. This lively historic district offers a delightful mix of old-world architecture, local street snacks, boutique shops, and the vibrant spirit of traditional Chengdu life.

Opt to experience a traditional hotpot dinner from 240RMB pp

Hotel: Crowne Plaza or similar

Meals included: Breakfast

Set out on an extraordinary journey after breakfast to Chengdu’s Giant Panda Breeding & Research Base, the first of China’s Big 3 Icons. Immerse yourself in this enchanting sanctuary, where conservation and research seamlessly blend and offers a captivating glimpse into the world of these beloved national treasures.

After lunch, set out to explore the breathtaking Dujiangyan Scenic Area, a UNESCO World Heritage Site celebrated for its remarkable ancient irrigation system—an engineering marvel that has stood the test of time. Surrounded by lush mountains and serene waterways, this captivating landscape blends natural beauty with centuries of ingenuity and cultural heritage.

Opt for the world famous Sichuan Opera from 280RMB pp 

Hotel: Crowne Plaza or similar

Meals included: Breakfast & Lunch

This morning travel by coach for approximately 4 hours from Chengdu to Chongqing. Upon arrival in Chongqing, immerse yourself in the lively atmosphere of Jiefangbei Pedestrian Street, brimming with shops, restaurants, and bustling energy. Discover the unique charm of Hongya Cave, a striking riverside complex of traditional-style buildings, and step back in time at Ciqikou Ancient Town, where you can savour the rich local culture.

You will have the opportunity to enjoy dinner at your choice from one of the many riverside eateries. Later, step aboard your Yangtze River cruise, your home for the next three nights. Relax and prepare to glide down the legendary Yangtze River, surrounded by incredible landscapes, aboard the Victoria Anna or a similar vessel.

Note: Cabins aboard the Victoria Anna are based on the lead-in Deluxe Twin Cabin with Balcony. If you wish to upgrade to a higher cabin category before boarding, please speak with your local Tour Leader in China for available options and pricing, subject to availability.

Cruise: Victoria Anna Line or similar

Meals included: Breakfast & Lunch

Embark on a captivating shore excursion to the mesmerising Mt Shuanggui, nestled near Fengdu.

Optional excursions may be available for purchase onboard including Ghost City in Fengdu and Three Kingdoms Show.

Cruise: Victoria Anna Line or similar

Meals included: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner

Cruise through the majestic Qutang Gorge and the serene Wu Gorge. Despite being just 8 km long, Qutang Gorge is celebrated for its breathtaking grandeur. In contrast, the 45 km Wu Gorge enchants visitors with its tranquil beauty, winding paths, dramatic peaks, and mysterious mists. Then, board a smaller boat to explore the stunning Shennong Stream, with its emerald-green waters offering a closer look at the gorges and pristine wilderness.

Optional excursions may be available for purchase onboard including White Emperor City.

Cruise: Victoria Anna Line or similar

Meals included: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner

As you disembark, visit the impressive Three Gorges Dam, one of modern China’s greatest engineering achievements. From there, travel from Yichang by coach to Zhangjiajie, a journey of approximately 4 hours.

Hotel: Victoria Anna Line or similar

Meals included: Breakfast & Lunch

Embark on an unforgettable full-day tour to Tianzi Mountain in Zhangjiajie National Forest Park, the stunning landscape that inspired the floating Hallelujah Mountains in the movie Avatar. Your adventure begins with a transfer to the summit by cable car. The journey takes approx. 6mins and a height of 692m. You will be greeted by towering sandstone peaks piercing through misty clouds, creating an otherworldly vista. Wander through the mystical National Forest and witness the sheer cliffs and lush valleys that make this area so enchanting.

During your time exploring the summit and spectacular views, a limited number of food stalls and vendors are available where you will be able to purchase snacks or lunch options.

Conclude your adventure with a descent on the Bailong Elevator, the world’s tallest outdoor lift built onto the side of a cliff within the National Park. This exciting glass elevator ride, standing at 326 meters tall, takes approximately 90 seconds.

Enjoy a visit to a local ethnic handmade jewellery store, where traditional craftsmanship meets artistic flair. Discover beautifully crafted pieces inspired by local cultures, each item telling a unique story through intricate design and natural materials.

Hotel: Pullman Zhangjiajie Hotel or similar

Meals included: Breakfast & Lunch

Discover the enchanting beauty of Golden Whip Stream in Zhangjiajie National Park, where the natural splendour of this breathtaking landscape truly shines. Stroll through the lush greenery and marvel at the crystal-clear waters, picturesque waterfalls, and towering quartz sandstone peaks. As you explore this idyllic setting, you’ll encounter diverse wildlife, including playful monkeys and colourful birds. Just be sure to hide any food and keep your bags close, as the mischievous monkeys can be quite sneaky.

Visit the incredible Junshen Gallery in Zhangjiajie, home to the pioneering artistry of Li Junsheng. Immerse yourself in the captivating world of sandstone painting, a unique art form that transforms local sand, stone, and plants into breathtaking masterpieces.

Return to your hotel where you can enjoy the afternoon to relax. Alternatively, join an optional experience to walk on the world’s highest glass bridge or cruise the peaceful man-made Baofeng Lake.

Opt for the thrill-seeking glass walk bridge from 580RMB pp

Hotel: Pullman Zhangjiajie Hotel or similar

Meals included: Breakfast & Dinner

Be sure to have your luggage packed for the final night in Zhangjiajie as you move hotels. Explore the wonders of Tianmen Mountain National Park, an essential stop on any Zhangjiajie itinerary. Begin your adventure with a journey aboard the world’s longest cable car, a breathtaking 28-minute ride covering 7km from the city to the summit, soaring to a height of 1,279 meters. As you ascend, marvel at the panoramic views of the National Park, including the iconic 99 Bends, a road with boasting 99 sharp curves.

At the summit, experience the stunning Ghost Valley Plank Road, a 60-meter-long glass skywalk that provides spectacular views of the surrounding mountains and valleys.

Continue towards Tianmen Cave, a majestic 30-meter water-eroded hole nestled between towering peaks. Ascend the 999 steep and narrow steps known as the ‘Stairway to Heaven’s Door’, leading to this natural wonder and offering stunning vistas of the surrounding landscape.

Opt to cruise along Baofeng Lake from 350RMB pp or attend the dazzling Tianmen Fox Fairy Live Performace from 480RMB pp

Hotel: Sunshine Hotel or similar

Meals included: Breakfast & Lunch

This morning, journey through scenic countryside on a 4-hour drive to the enchanting Fenghuang Ancient City, a beautifully preserved town steeped in history and charm. Upon arrival, drift along the tranquil Tuojiang River on a traditional bamboo raft, taking in views of the stilted houses and riverside life. Explore iconic landmarks such as the grand East Gate Tower and the striking Hongqiao Bridge, both rich with culture and stories of the past.

As evening falls, watch the ancient town come alive under a blanket of golden lights, Fenghuang’s night view is nothing short of magical. Enjoy an overnight stay nestled along the riverbank.

Hotel: Wyndham Grand or similar

Meals included: Breakfast & Lunch

After breakfast, embark on a picturesque 4-hour drive from Phoenix Ancient Town to the breathtaking Longji Rice Terraces in Ping’an Village. Spanning over 6,000 hectares, these spectacular terraces are the third largest in the world and a true masterpiece of agricultural engineering. Upon arrival, wander through the charming Ping’an Village, where traditional wooden homes cling to the hillside. Take in sweeping views of the cascading fields and prepare to be mesmerised by the ever-changing light, sunrise and sunset here are truly unforgettable, painting the landscape in golden hues and soft shadows.

Hotel: Longji Tianjiange Hotel or similar

Meals included: Breakfast & Lunch

This morning depart the Longji Rice fields by coach, after a scenic 2hrs you’ll arrive in Guilin, a city celebrated for its breathtaking scenery and dramatic karst landscapes that tower above the serene Li River.

Begin your exploration at Elephant Trunk Hill Park, where you’ll capture an iconic photo of the riverside hill with its distinctive rock arch resembling an elephant drinking water from the Li River. Next, uncover the mesmerising Reed Flute Cave, often referred to as the “Palace of Natural Arts.” This remarkable 180-million-year-old cave features an awe-inspiring collection of stalactites, stalagmites, and stone pillars illuminated by vibrant lights.

Opt for an enchanting evening cruise on Four Lakes from 280RMB pp

Hotel: Guilin Lijiang Waterfall Hotel or similar

Meals included: Breakfast & Lunch

Embark on an unforgettable four-hour journey along the breathtaking Li River, cruising through China’s iconic limestone peaks, lush greenery, and serene riverbanks dotted with traditional villages and bamboo rafts. Enjoy a delicious buffet lunch onboard as you soak in the stunning scenery and snap postcard-perfect photos. This relaxing cruise is a perfect way to immerse yourself in the natural beauty of the region.

Upon arrival in Yangshuo, a charming countryside town, explore its quaint streets lined with boutique shops and local cafes. Later, visit the scenic Ten Miles Gallery, a stunning stretch of natural beauty where towering karst peaks and lush greenery create a picture-perfect landscape.

Opt to experience the Impression of Liu Shangji Show from 380RMB pp

Hotel: New West Street International Hotel or similar

Meals included: Breakfast & Lunch

This morning, return to Guilin by one hour coach, travelling from the tranquil riverside charm of Yangshuo through a landscape of dramatic limestone peaks and lush countryside. Along the way, soak in the picturesque scenery that defines this region.

Upon arrival in Guilin, enjoy a fascinating traditional cormorant fishing demonstration—an age-old practice where skilled fishermen and their trained birds work together in perfect harmony. Set along the serene Li River, this captivating experience offers a rare window into a centuries-old way of life that continues to thrive today.

Opt for a relaxing Chinese health oil massage from 280RMB pp 

Hotel: Guilin Lijiang Waterfall Hotel or similar

Meals included: Breakfast & Lunch

Fly from Guilin to Shanghai, where you’ll be met and transferred by coach to the charming city of Suzhou, famous for its historic canals, exquisite classical gardens, and rich silk-making heritage. After a delicious lunch, step into the serene beauty of Suzhou’s Lingering Garden, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Wander through elegant pavilions, tranquil ponds, winding pathways, and intricately designed rockeries, as you experience the timeless artistry of one of China’s most celebrated classical gardens.

Opt for a serene cruise along the Grand Canal from 220RMB pp

Please note: Due to limited flight options from Guilin to Shanghai, this flight may arrive at a nearby airport such as Hangzhou followed by a coach transfer to Suzhou (approximately 90 minutes). Your tour guide will inform you in-destination of any changes required due to a change in airline schedules and group flight availability.

Hotel: Hilton Suzhou Wujiangminhua or similar

Meals included: Breakfast & Lunch

China is the largest silk producer in the world and Suzhou is renowned for its exquisite quality silk. Witness the delicate silk-making process from silkworm cocoons at the Silk Spinning Factory and testify that the handmade quilts are as light as a feather.

Embark eastward by coach to the city of Shanghai, a dazzling metropolis with its towering skyscrapers, vibrant street life and fusion of Eastern tradition and Western influence.

Enjoy lunch before exploring Shanghai’s Bund district, lined with majestic colonial-era buildings, The Bund is a historic waterfront promenade nestled along the Huangpu River, offering a captivating blend of old-world charm and modern allure. Nanjing Road is a shopper’s paradise, from high end fashion to bargain markets.

Opt for a memorable evening to attend a spectular Chinese acrobatic show from 390RMB pp

Hotel: Grand Metropark Hotel Pudong or similar

Meals included: Breakfast & Lunch

Uncover the treasures of China’s past at the Shanghai History Museum, where fascinating exhibits bring thousands of years of history and culture to life. From ancient artefacts to captivating displays, this museum offers a window into the stories that have shaped modern China.

After, you’ll have free time to explore as you please. Your Tour Leader will give you the option to return to the hotel or be dropped off in Shanghai’s city centre, where you can immerse yourself in vibrant shopping districts. If you choose to stay in the city centre, you’ll be responsible for making your own way back to the group hotel.

Embark on an evening farewell cruise along the Huangpu River and be captivated by the shimmering lights of Shanghai’s iconic skyline. As you glide through the city’s vibrant heart, immerse yourself in the magical atmosphere created by the illuminated landmarks and bustling river activity.

Opt for a Chenghuang Temple & Shopping tour from 240RMB pp

Hotel: Grand Metropark Hotel Pudong or similar

Meals included: Breakfast & Dinner

After breakfast and checkout, transfer to Shanghai Airport to meet your flight.

Note: check-out time is 10am. Should your flight be departing in the afternoon/evening, you will be required to check-out of your hotel room and may choose to head to the airport early or use the hotel facilities until an appropriate transfer time.

Meals included: Breakfast