11 Day Stunning China
This tour is categorised as 4 out of 5
Packed itinerary with maximum exploration: Embark on a whirlwind sightseeing tour with minimal downtime. This tour maximises your exploration, keeping you on the move and ticking off must-see locations. A good fitness level and mobility are required to keep pace with this action-packed adventure!
As a general requirement across all of our trips, you may be required to walk up and down stairs, get on and off transportation, handle your own luggage, and participate in all scheduled sightseeing that may be conducted on uneven ground and terrain. Any physical ailments you may have must be disclosed at the time of booking to determine your suitability and where required, supporting documentation may be requested to ensure that we are comfortable that you will enjoy your trip.
This tour is fully escorted by a dedicated tour leader who will accompany you throughout the tour. If your tour includes multiple countries, you will be met by a new tour leader in each country and any internal flights included will be unescorted.
Accommodation in this trip is at comfortable properties featuring modern facilities and amenities.
Hotel stars are based on local ratings provided and the expected standard may differ depending on the destination. Hotels listed within the itinerary are indicative of the typical hotel we intend to use for that package but is subject to change.
✓ Return international airfares with a full-service airline
✓ All airport and rail transfers
✓ All coach and rail transportation
✓ 9 nights in 4 to 5-star accommodation
✓ Daily breakfast, 6 lunches, 4 dinners
✓ Local, English-speaking guides throughout
✓ Incredible sightseeing, including UNESCO World Heritage Sites like Beijing’s Forbidden City and the Summer Palace, the Great Wall of China and the splendour of Suzhou’s Lingering Garden
✓ 24/7 customer service and your own Dedicated Support Agent
Travel with the experts for a carefully curated, value-packed discovery of the world's most iconic destinations. Our tours are bursting with must-see sights, rich experiences and quality inclusions, all at an unbeatable price. Bucket list dreams are ticked off on these all-encompassing journeys.
Welcome to China! You’ll be met on arrival and taken to your hotel.
A city of roughly 22 million people, Beijing is bustling and energetic. There is plenty to see, do and, of course, eat – whether it’s dumplings at a night food market or a taste of traditional Peking duck. Given the capital’s rich history – 5,000 years of it – you’ll find magnificent palaces, and luxurious royal gardens and mausoleums. It’s home to important temples and several of China’s most famous tourist attractions, like the Forbidden City.
Please note: Some flights may depart the day before.
Check in: Passengers will be arriving at various times throughout the day from as early as 6am through to late evening. If arriving prior to standard check-in time, which is generally 3pm local time, you are welcome to leave your luggage with hotel reception and explore your surroundings until check-in becomes available, as there are generally no scheduled activities on Day 1 of the itinerary. The hotel may grant early check-in, however this is strictly subject to availability and at the hotel’s discretion.
We’ll enjoy a full day of visiting the sights of this teeming metropolis that served as the capital of five dynasties over a period of 800 years.
First stop is Tiananmen Square, the site of several important events in Chinese history. At 440,000 square metres, it was built as a sign of the strength of Communism. It’s designed to hold one million people. Tiananmen means ‘Gate of Heavenly Peace’ and the north side of the square is flanked by this gate that leads to the Forbidden City. The square holds great cultural significance and also contains the Monument to the People’s Heroes, the National Museum of China and the Mausoleum of Chairman Mao Zedong.
Next we’ll visit the Forbidden City, directly opposite Tiananmen Square. The former Chinese imperial palace is a famous landmark of Beijing and a great place to learn about Chinese culture and history. It was the centre of imperial China during the Ming and Qing dynasties. Don’t miss the magnificent Meridien Gate or the Golden River Bridges, five richly-decorated white marble bridges. It’s undoubtedly China’s top tourist site so be prepared for crowds!
Tonight, indulge in a welcome banquet that includes the local delicacy, Peking roast duck with all the traditional accompaniments. This famous roasted duck dish dates back to the Ming Dynasty, some 600 years ago. Peking duck is named after Beijing – peking is an older spelling.
Your excursion to the majestic Great Wall (Juyong Pass) won’t disappoint – it’s one of the Seven Wonders of the World and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Enjoy the rugged mountain scenery here at one of the most important forts on the Great Wall. You’ll have a chance to climb a portion of this ancient wall.
On the way, we’ll visit one of the largest jade exhibitions in Asia. Jade, known as the royal gem, has been a popular stone for prosperity and luck since ancient times.
After lunch, we’ll see skilled artisans at work in a cloisonné factory.
Please note: The Great Wall of China does not have an option for a lift or gondola that takes you to the top. You will have 1 - 2 hours to visit. Usually, it takes 1.5 hours for the portion that you will climbing.
A must-see production in Beijing, take in the colourful, spectacular performance of ‘The Golden Mask Dynasty’. This large-scale musical drama tells this ancient romantic legend with dancing, acrobatics, magnificent costumes and one or two surprises.
We’ll start today’s touring with the exquisite Summer Palace, the largest preserved ancient garden in China and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. This former summer resort for emperors covers a vast expanse of 2.9 square kilometres, with water making up about three quarters of this beautiful landscape.
Then, enjoy the Beijing Zoo with a large variety of animals, including time in the Panda House to see celebrated giant pandas.
We’ll also visit a Chinese Herbal Institute to learn about traditional Chinese medicine and enjoy a rejuvenating foot massage.
Go on a tour of Beijing’s ancient Hutong neighbourhoods, and visit a local family where you will learn about tai chi, Chinese calligraphy, and cricket fighting.
A must-see production in Beijing for tourists and Kung Fu lovers. A group of the best Kung Fu practitioners in China perform in this show, a mix of traditional martial arts and modern theatre. Enjoy stunning Kung Fu skills, exquisite ballet and music.
We’ll take the high-speed train to Wuxi today, an ancient city with beautiful landscapes and pleasant warm climate. Enjoy the scenery as we pass by renowned Lake Taihu, one of the largest freshwater lakes in China.
This evening in Wuxi, explore Nanchang Street, an ancient street that has been developed and modernised to turn it into an entertainment destination. Street hawkers offer local delicacies like tofu pudding and you’ll find handicrafts, like sugar paintings, produced by folk artists.
The Wuxi Grand Canal runs through the entire city with a length of more than 40 kilometers. Taking a boat to sail along the river is the best way to experience life like the locals.
This morning we’ll visit one of the largest freshwater pearl exhibitions in the country.
After lunch, we’ll travel to Suzhou, also known as the Oriental Venice for its exquisite canals, bridges, pagodas and beautiful gardens. Nine of its classical gardens are UNESCO World Heritage Sites, admired as the most refined representations of the art of classical Chinese garden design.
We’ll visit Lingering Garden, a classical private garden with 500 years of history.
China is renowned for its exquisite silk, so naturally this morning we’ll visit a silk-spinning factory, to discover the intricacies of the silk-making process. After lunch, we’ll travel to Hangzhou, one of the seven ancient capitals of China. It really is stunning, with lush hillsides and the mountain-fringed West Lake, another UNESCO World Heritage Site.
We’ll visit West Lake on arrival to appreciate the ethereal beauty of Hangzhou’s willow-draped islands. Enjoy a boat ride on the lake, a relaxing way to enjoy this delightful scenery.
The evening is free for you to relax or explore this delightful city.
This is a unique outdoor concert performed on West Lake. The stage platform lies three centimetres below the surface of the water and actors seemingly dance on the lake, like fairies. The grand open-air show captures the enchanting wonder of West Lake's natural and cultural beauty.
Regarded as the number one tea in China and known as the ‘Green Queen’, we’ll visit the Dragon Well (longjing) tea plantation and taste this local favourite, with its strong fragrance and distinctive flavour. Learn more about this much-loved green tea and tea culture.
Then we’ll head for Shanghai, the largest city by population in the world. Shanghai is renowned for its architecture, world-class museums and galleries. It’s a city of contrasts and the interesting blend of old and new is part of its charm.
We’ll take a walk along the famous Bund – this waterfront promenade along the Huangpu River is a great place to enjoy the combination of traditional Chinese and Western culture. You’ll see historic buildings – a living museum of colonial history – and across the water, enjoy the contrast of the famous Shanghai skyline, with the modern skyscrapers of the Pudong District. Shanghai is home to some of the world’s biggest buildings. Try to spot the 632m-tall Shanghai Tower and the Oriental Pearl TV Tower, with its distinctive pink spheres.
The rest of the day is free for you. If you feel like shopping, the pedestrian-friendly Nanjing Road is the best-known shopping street, also a thriving dining and entertainment precinct. It’s all here – big chain stores, iconic Chinese department stores like Sincere and Wing On, expensive boutiques and street vendors.
The Shanghai Acrobatic Show is, in our opinion, one of the best shows to see while on tour in China. It appeals to all ages, from young children to adults. It is very visual and the show is not made of “tricks”, but feats of skill and fitness. It is comparable to many international Cirque-style shows but at a much lower price and an opportunity to sit much closer. Having seen all the acrobat shows in Beijing and Shanghai, we consider this one to be the best of the lot.
After breakfast, we’ll visit the famous Jin Mao Tower for a different perspective of this enthralling city. We’ll take the lift to the observation deck for a panoramic view of Shanghai from the 88th floor.
After lunch, we’ll head to the Old Street near the City God Temple area, a bustling historic area where you’ll find folk performances, interesting shops and street food. The temple complex consists of nine palaces and is dedicated to three city gods.
This evening, enjoy a farewell dinner with your group to celebrate your time in China.
You have the chance to embark on a Huangpu River Cruise, an enchanting journey showcasing Shanghai's landmarks on both riverbanks. These landmarks encompass the Bund, Oriental Pearl Tower, Shanghai Tower, and the historical Old Harbor commercial centre.
Enjoy one last delicious breakfast this morning, before your China adventure comes to an end. You will be transferred to the airport for your onward flight home.
We hope you’ve enjoyed this extraordinary journey.
Check out: Passengers will be departing at various times throughout the day. Standard hotel check-out times will apply no matter what time your flight is scheduled to depart. Check-out time is generally anywhere from 10am-12pm. You are welcome to leave your luggage at hotel reception and spend your final moments of free time exploring the area or, alternatively, please speak with hotel staff if you would like to extend your check-out time. Please note this service is subject to availability and will likely come at an additional cost. Your tour guide (or hotel staff) will confirm the time of your airport transfer with you directly.
Arrive home today. We hope you’ve been inspired.
Deposit & Payment
Booking Process
Airfare Information
Premium Economy or Business Class upgrades Not available. Should you wish to travel to China in premium economy or business class please view any of our other China tours HERE which have upgrade options.
Airline Upgrade Preference or change of airline is not permitted.
How to extend your stay In order to bring you this great price the package cannot be altered. Customers wishing to extend their package, add a stopover or amend their flights, please view any of our other China tours HERE which allow more flexible options.
You can enhance your holiday by arriving or departing before or after the tour, adding a stopover package en-route or booking a tour extension. On this tour you can choose from the following options:
Airport chauffeur
Take the hassle out of getting to the airport with private chauffeur transfers to and from your home airport. Your personal chauffeur will meet and greet you, attend to your luggage and drive you to your destination in a luxury vehicle.
Additional surcharges may apply depending on pick-up time, tolls and government levies.
Airport Chauffeur can be selected once you have finalised your tour purchase and paid your deposit. When completing your Passenger Booking Form, you will be asked if you would like to add this service, where any applicable cost will be added to your final balance.
Airport lounges
Escape busy airport terminals and relax at a cosy and catered lounge instead. Departure lounge access in Sydney $70 per person (up to 6 hours); Melbourne & Brisbane $55 per person (up to 3 hours).
Airport lounge passes can be selected once you have finalised your tour purchase and paid your deposit. When completing your Passenger Booking Form, you will be asked if you would like to add this service, where any applicable cost will be added to your final balance.
Pre and post-tour accommodation - Not available
Arrival and departure airport transfers - Not available
To enhance your journey, we are offering a choice of the following optional activities:
The optional tours can only be purchased on-tour with your guide, and are payable in local currency (AUD prices are a guide only and are affected by currency exchange rates). Optional tours are subject to conditions such as traffic, weather and sightseeing schedules, as well as minimum numbers.
Fitness Requirements
While the tour itinerary should give you some guidance and overview to the expected requirements, to determine if this tour is right for you we categorise each of our tours in terms of their intensity. These guidelines are to ensure that each tour group is conducted as expected and to ensure the overall satisfaction of all Inspiring Vacations customers.
As a general rule, porterage is not included, therefore at all times you are expected to handle your own luggage where help may not be available.
This particular tour is categorised as a “3”.
3 – Moderate Tour: A good level of fitness and mobility is required, as this tour includes a moderate level of physical activity and is considered a medium-fast paced tour. You should be able to walk up and down stairs, get on and off the coach and able to walk reasonable distances of approximately 2 kilometres per day or more with ease. Any physical ailments you may have must be disclosed at the time of booking to determine your suitability. If you have any form of walking aids, other than a walking stick or hiking poles, then this tour is not suitable.
Accommodation
The accommodation listed is subject to change. Any changes will be of an equal or higher standard. Bedding configurations (double or twin) are requests only. All efforts will be made to meet your preferences however any changes are beyond our control.
Single Supplement
Single supplement is $599 per person in addition to the twin share price.
Triple Share
Available. Please call us on 1300 88 66 66 to request this option. Each guest will still be charged the Twin Share price.
Travel Insurance
Travel insurance is required to protect yourself against the unexpected.
We have partnered with nib to offer our customers competitive rates for their travel insurance. You can book comprehensive or budget cover simply by clicking HERE to arrange your policy.
Visa & Passport information
It is the travellers responsibility to ensure they have a valid passport. The passport must be valid for a minimum of 6 months from your intended date of return to Australia.
All Australian passport holders will require a e-visa to enter China.
The best way to apply for your Visa is directly with the Chinese Visa Application Service Centre in your nearest capital city. We recommend you to organise an appointment online to arrange a date and time.
You will require specific documents to apply for your visa which we will provide you closer to your departure date. Please keep in mind you are unable to apply for your visa until you are within 3 months of your travel date.
Please note that these details are subject to change without notice. We recommend visiting https://smartraveller.gov.au for up to date information in terms of entry requirements. Visa's should not be applied for before receiving your final documentation.
Tour Documentation
Final documentation including e-tickets and hotel details will be provided approximately 30 days prior to travel.
Group Size
2-48 people
Trip Style - Group Tour
Our Group Tours offer unparalleled value for money and are the perfect style of travel for those on a budget, though still eager to pack as much in to their itinerary as possible. These tours tick all the boxes with an abundance of inclusions such as sightseeing highlights, expert tour guides, quality accommodation, transfers, coach transportation, some meals and more. Please note that the maximum group size will vary between deals and will be mentioned within the Fine Print of each deal page.
Children
Children must be 2 years old or over and share a room with parents at all times. Children are the same price as adults.
Tour Length
The total length of the tour in days includes time spent in flight and is subject to change depending on the flight schedule, please refer to the day by day itinerary for the time spent on land.
For more information on the weather in China, click HERE.
Refundable deposit within 28 days of purchase:
For cancellations made within 28 days of paying the deposit on any tour, your deposit can be refunded in full or can be transferred to a new booking should you decide to change to another package or destination. Please note this change of mind guarantee does not apply for bookings made within 90 days of departure, after which time our standard 48 hour cooling off period applies. After this time, your booking becomes non-refundable.
All cancellation or change requests must be advised in writing to our Customer Service Team at support@inspiringvacations.
Refund times will vary and the timeframe of which will be advised at the time of cancellation. Any refund of deposit will be issued back to the original form of payment.
Any bookings made prior to 13 March 2020 must abide by the original payment term conditions.
Transferrable second installment up until 90 days before scheduled departure:
Following the second installment payment and up until 90 days before your departure only, should you wish to postpone your travel or transfer to another package, we can provide you with a credit note of the current balance paid on your booking, to be used to rebook within 18 months of the credit being issued.
Any change request must be advised in writing to our Customer Service Team at support@inspiringvacations.
Any bookings made prior to 13 March 2020 must abide by the original payment term conditions.
Please refer to our full Terms and Conditions for more details
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