A portion of this tour runs as a group tour where you will be escorted by an expert tour leader. Another portion is self-guided, whether conducted by rail, cruise or land, and you will travel between destinations on your own, with free time to explore at your own pace.
This tour is categorised as 3 out of 5
Balanced exploration with walking tours: Our most popular style, this tour offers a good mix of planned activities and free time. Expect moderate daily walking tours, so pack comfortable shoes.
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.
Experience a superior level of comfort. Our Small Group tours have been crafted for Inspiring Vacations travellers exclusively, with personal and unique experiences in mind. Travel with no more than 26 people, allowing for a more personalised and immersive experience. Please see the Important Information on your selected tour for the exact group size.
✓ Small group tour, up to 20 guests only
✓ Incredible sightseeing including the Forbidden City, Simatai section of the Great Wall of China, the incredible Terracotta Warriors, on cruise shore excursions & the pandas of Chengdu
✓ 9 nights in central 5-star accommodation throughout mainland China
✓ 1 night in a feature Inspiring Stay experience overlooking the Great Wall of China
✓ 3 nights in central 4-star accommodation in Hong Kong
✓ 4 nights on board the Yangtze Gold cruise
✓ Breakfast daily, 6 lunches and 5 dinners including a welcome dinner and Inspiring Taste experience
✓ Fully guided by professional English-speaking tour guides throughout mainland China
✓ Local guide during city sightseeing in Hong Kong
✓ Comfortable, dedicated transportation throughout
✓ High speed rail tickets from Shanghai to Beijing to Xi'an and Chongqing to Chengdu
✓ Internal flights from Xi’an to Yichang and Chengdu to Hong Kong
✓ In-depth sightseeing and entrance fees as per the itinerary
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 Shanghai, the heart of China's economy.
On arrival make your way to your hotel. Your hotel check-in time is scheduled after 3:00pm, should you arrive earlier than this, your hotel is located near Nanjing Road, one of Shanghai’s most popular areas to explore.
At approximately 6:00pm, there will be a group meeting with your tour leader and the opportunity to connect with fellow group participants in the hotel lobby.
Airport transfers are not included. Our transfer portal offers the option to book your airport transfers for an easier arrival experience (additional charges apply). Access to this portal will be available through your Traveller Hub once your booking is confirmed.
Following breakfast this morning, you'll be taken to explore the Shanghai Museum, a grand institution dedicated to ancient Chinese art. The museum boasts eleven galleries and three exhibition halls, each with its unique treasures.
Our next destination is a leisurely walk along the Huangpu River's Bund area. This iconic waterfront locale offers captivating vistas, especially the futuristic Pudong skyline across the river.
Tonight marks your welcome dinner, a delightful group event that presents a wonderful opportunity to forge new connections.
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.
Today, you will board a high-speed bullet train bound for Beijing, the capital of China. A huge technological achievement, China now has close to 3,000 bullet trains connecting over 500 cities with some trains reaching speeds of 350 km/h. The journey takes approximately 6 hours, traversing a portion of the country's expanse.
On arrival in Beijing you will be transferred to your hotel. Our Beijing accommodation is located in the heart of the city in the vibrant Wangfujing district, walking distance to the Forbidden City and Tiananmen Square.
Enjoy one of the capital’s finest duck restaurants for a delectable meal of roasted Peking Duck, a popular menu item for the past 600 years and a staple of the royal court.
Today, you'll embark on a journey to explore Beijing's revered imperial treasures. Begin your adventure at the remarkable Tiananmen Square, a sprawling and majestic public plaza that ranks among the world's largest. From there, proceed to the awe-inspiring Forbidden City. Enter the imposing walls of this historical marvel, formerly under the dominion of the Ming Dynasty. Engage in an exclusive tour through its expansive array of courtyards and winding passages.
Following lunch, your next stop will be the Lama Temple. Here, you'll encounter captivating influences of Tibetan culture within the heart of Beijing city.
The Summer Palace (Yiheyuan), in northwest Beijing, is said to be the best-preserved imperial garden in the world, and the largest of its kind still in existence in China. It is only a short drive of 15 km (10 miles) from central Beijing, but it seems like another world. The Summer Palace was listed as World Heritage in 1998. UNESCO reported that the Summer Palace is "a masterpiece of Chinese landscape garden design".
This morning after breakfast, pack your luggage as our destination today is the Simatai section of the Great Wall.
Our Inspiring Stay tonight will be in Gubei Water Town. Regarded as 'Wuzhen in Beijing', Gubei Water Town boasts a combination of mountains, water and ancient villages. The town is characterised by the northern architectural style, and the history and culture of the late Qing Dynasty (1644-1911). Tonight we will stay in a traditional guest house at the foot of the Great Wall.
This particular segment of the Great Wall is conserved in its authentic form where you can still feel the true historical atmosphere. Upon reaching the base of the Simatai Great Wall, take some time to explore the renowned Gubei Water Town, an extraordinary gem not commonly found in northern China. We then venture to the Wall itself! Step foot on this incredible structure and imagine yourself manning the fortifications as it winds its way along the ridge line.
Tonight you'll be treated to a magnificent sight as the Great Wall is lit up at night.
Following breakfast, you will be transported to Beijing West Train Station, where you'll board your second bullet train of the trip, this time bound for Xi'an.
Upon reaching Xi'an, you'll be transferred to your hotel for check-in.
Tonight, join your guide for an engaging walking tour, strolling through the enchanting streets to reach the vibrant Muslim Food Street. This is a popular locale where locals gather for their evening meals, providing you with an authentic taste of the city's culinary culture.
This morning, you will be transferred to enjoy the magnificence of the famous Terracotta Warriors, about 1.5 hours’ drive away from downtown Xi’an. Originally four armies were planned, one at each point of the compass, life-size and lifelike. Three have been found and it is assumed the emperor's successors decided enough was enough before the fourth was begun.
The first pit excavated had an estimated 6,000 figures in its one army. The third pit has been opened to the public, which contains the 'command squad' for the entire operation. This is one of China's great tourist attractions, and some people may find the sheer number of visitors rather overpowering.
Enjoy lunch with a local farmer before being transferred back to Xi’an.
Xi'an City Wall, also known as the Fortifications of Xi'an, is the most complete city wall that has survived in China, as well as being one of the largest ancient military defensive systems in the world.
This morning will be a early start, as you will be transferred to Xi’an Airport to fly to Yichang, the gateway of the Yangtze.
Upon arrival, you will be transferred to the Yichang Tourist Center, where you will have time to explore before using the cruie company shuttle bus (1.5 hours) to embark on your Yangtze River cruise. The ship stays overnight in port tonight before setting sail tomorrow. Once on board you will have the rest of the day to yourself to explore the ship.
Note: There is only one direct flight per day between Xi'an and Yichang, which departs in the morning. Therefore this morning will be a early start, in order to make the morning flight. Embarkation of your Yangtze River Cruise is in the afternoon, therefore you may have some time in the day between arriving to Yichang and boarding your cruise to relax, explore, and enjoy lunch.
Today you will follow the itinerary of the cruise ship. Take an included excursion to the Three Gorges Dam Site, which is a hydroelectric river dam that spans the Yangtze River in Sandouping, Yichang. It is the largest hydro-electric power station in the world. The total electric generating capacity of the dam will reach 22,500 megawatts per day (enough to power 22,500,000 North American homes).
Note: additional optional activities are provided by the ship - further details of these will be provided by the ship while onboard and can be booked with the ship's concierge. These include:
Today, take an included excursion to the Shennv Stream. Positioned to the south of Wu Gorge, approximately 20 kilometres from Wushan County, lies the captivating Shennv Stream. Shennv Stream boasts almost 10 kilometres of untouched, primordial gorges. The cruise ship will dock at Wushan Pier, then you will transfer to small wooden boats to cruise up Shennv Stream.
Note: additional optional activities are provided by the ship - further details of these will be provided by the ship while onboard and can be booked with the ships concierge. These include:
Enjoy an included excursion to the well-known Fengdu Ghost City for an exploration of the special and mythical ghost culture in China. A popular stop, Fengdu "Ghost City" used to be a burial area with scores of temples and shrines and a small ancient town. During the Tang Dynasty, people started to say that the king of hell lived there. It became one of the famous Taoist burial grounds in China. There is a temple complex on the summit and below. It contains some construction or carvings dating back to the Tang Dynasty.
Note: additional optional activities are provided by the ship - further details of these will be provided by the ship while onboard and can be booked with the ship's concierge. These include:
Today marks the end of your Yangtze Cruise.
After breakfast you will disembark the ship and then be transferred to the train station in Chongqing for a bullet train to Chengdu (approximately 2hrs).
Upon arrival in Chengdu, you will be transferred to the hotel for check in after which time you will have to yourself.
Today's itinerary brings you face-to-face with China's beloved creatures, the pandas, at the Chengdu Panda Breeding Centre. This sprawling centre stands as the world's largest panda breeding facility, nurturing an impressive panda population of 215 individuals as of the end of 2022.
In the afternoon, a leisurely stroll awaits you at Jinli Snack Street. This bustling street showcases some of Chengdu's and China's most celebrated snacks, treating you to an array of culinary delights. As the capital of Sichuan province, Chengdu's reputation for its renowned Hot Pot is well-deserved. As the day transitions into evening, get ready for an Inspiring Taste with an authentic Sichuan Hot Pot dinner. Chengdu hot pot, one of the country's most renowned dishes, and is known as "huo guo" which roughly translate to "fire and pot". The history of using "huo guo" could date back to 1000 years ago. Everyone can select their own ingredients such as beef, lamb, pork or potato, radish, bamboo shoot to be cooked up in a communal pot of spiced broth. Most people will have a "yin and yang" pot which means a pot is divided into a spicy part and none-spicy pot to suit all tastes.
Today is a day at leisure. You will have the chance to relax yourself at the hotel or go and explore the city.
After breakfast, you will be transferred to the airport in Chengdu and bid your farewell to the tour leader as you will have another local guide in Hong Kong. The flight takes approximately 3 hours.
On arrival, you will be welcomed by the driver at Hong Kong International Airport, and transferred to the hotel. The next few days allow for plenty of time to explore Hong Kong at your own pace.
Please note: Your guide in Hong Kong will only be available during the included activity. Outside of these times, you will be unguided and free to explore the city and its surroundings at your own leisure.
Today you will have the day to yourself.
Grab a map and get on the easy-to-navigate Hong Kong metro which will allow you to explore the city that embraces both Chinese traditional culture and western influence.
In the evening, your local guide in Hong Kong will meet you at the hotel and take you on a night walking tour. On this tour, we will take the metro to Kowloon Park to visit the Hong Kong Heritage Discovery Centre, once the site of the British Army's Whitfield Barracks. From here we’ll walk to Victoria Harbour to witness the light show at Victoria illuminating the Hong Kong skyline. En route, we’ll pass through Tsim Sha Tsui. This area is the most popular place among locals as it’s packed with shops, cafes and Yum Cha restaurants.
Once the light show has concluded we’ll board the Star Ferry back to Hong Kong Island. National Geographic named the ferry crossing as one of the 50 ‘places of a lifetime’. The ferries date back to 1880 when the Morning Star steamboat started a regular service from Kowloon to Pedder’s Wharf on Hong Kong Island.
Today you will have the day to yourself. Hong Kong is a shopping paradise for many people. Why not take this opportunity to get some presents and gifts for your families and friends.
After breakfast, your China trip comes to an end.
There are various options to reach Hong Kong Intenational Airport. One of the most convenient and cost effective ways is via the Hong Kong metro. The station is located close to your hotel and takes approximately 1 hour to reach the airport via the Airport Express and costs approximately HKD 115 per person. Alternatively a taxi costs approximately HKD 350-400 per vehicle.
Airport transfers are not included. Our transfer portal offers the option to book your airport transfers for an easier arrival experience (additional charges apply). Access to this portal will be available through your Traveller Hub once your booking is confirmed.
Inspiring Sights
Inspiring Tastes
Inspiring Stays
The 5-star (locally rated) Yangtze Gold 6 began her maiden voyage in June 2012. With her grand lobby leading to the beautiful ballroom, elegant restaurant and top furnishings, the ship boasts the same comforts and amenities you would expect from a 5-star hotel. The Yangtze Gold 6 features spacious cabins with private balconies, from where you can enjoy the outstanding views, as well as en suite facilities.
This package is a flight add-on package
This package has the option of adding international airfares to your booking when selecting your departure city. Select your departure city after clicking ‘Book Now’ and a cost will be stated next to your selected departure city. This cost will then be added to your booking and international flights will be added to your booking.
Visit our Flight Hub for more information on terms and conditions, amending your flights and information on luggage allowances.
It is the traveller's responsibility to ensure they have a valid passport. The passport must be valid for a minimum of six months from the intended date of return. Visas may be required for your destination. For further visa information, click here.
A Visa is required to travel to China. For further information and to apply for your visa, please visit the China Online Visa Application website by clicking here.
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 categorized as a”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.
Tipping
A friendly reminder that tipping is not included in your package. Tipping is not compulsory on your trip, but they can make a big difference to locals employed in the tourism industry. If you feel that your guide and driver have done an impeccable job, you can choose to give a gratuity, but this is entirely your decision.
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 $2,145.00 per person, in addition to the twin-share price.
Travel Insurance
Travel insurance is recommended to protect yourself against the unexpected. In addition to the support that a policy may provide, you may be asked to present a copy of your travel insurance documentation while traveling.
Group Size
Minimum: 4
Maximum: 20
Children
Children must be 5 years old or above and share a room with parents at all times. Children are charged the same price as adults.
Tour Style
To meet the needs of various types of travelers, we choose to operate various types of tours, and depending on your selected package will mean different services are provided throughout your trip. The following descriptions of each tour style we hope will ensure that each traveller has appropriate expectations before they start their travels:
All participants must be in good physical condition to fully engage in this journey. For the safety and welfare of yourself and fellow travellers, if you are feeling unwell prior to departure, we advise staying home and contacting us to arrange alternate plans.
Prior to selecting your trip, carefully review the itinerary to assess your ability to comfortably manage our travel style. Please be aware that if, based on evaluation by our leader or local representative, a participant is deemed unable to safely complete the itinerary, we retain the right to exclude them from all or part of the trip without reimbursement.
It is advisable to consult your physician for current medical travel advisories and any required vaccinations before embarking. We recommend carrying a first aid kit and any necessary medications in their original packaging, as they may not be readily available during travel. For those carrying medication, it's essential to check your government's foreign travel guidelines for local restrictions or regulations.
To enhance your journey, we are offering guests a choice of the following optional activities (prices are per person):
Optional tours 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 Optional Tours, where any applicable cost will be added to your final balance. If you choose not to select them at this time, you can choose to add them later by logging in to your Account online.
Please note that you must select your Optional Tours no later than 70 days before departure, after which you will be required to purchase them on tour. Please keep in mind that anything purchased on-tour is subject to availability and prices may vary as you will be paying in local currency. We appreciate your understanding.
You can enhance your holiday by arriving or departing before or after the tour. On this tour you can choose from the following options:
Pre Tour Accommodation - Shanghai
Post Tour Accommodation - Hong Kong
Please select the number of extra nights required in the 'Additional Nights Accommodation' field when making your purchase. The additional cost for these arrangements will be added to your final payment invoice and are subject to availability.
Click HERE for more information on weather in China.
27 Mar 2024
With eight regional cuisines and countless dishes, there’s something for every taste and palate in China Chi le ma? is the most common greeting in China, but it doesn’t mean hello. Rather, it means, “Have you eaten?” To say that food is an important part of Chinese culture is an understatement. Chinese food differs...
08 Sep 2023
From eating and transport to vaccinations and the internet, here’s what you need to know before your Middle Kingdom adventure A visit to China is unlike a visit to any other place on earth. As a nation overwhelmingly rich in culture, history, art and cuisine, it’s little wonder China is an increasingly popular destinat...
08 Sep 2023
The most commonly asked questions about visiting China are often the most embarrassing Will I have to use a squat toilet? Luckily the days of China’s terrible toilets are mostly behind us. Following high profile events such as the Beijing Olympics in 2008 and the Shanghai Expo 2012, city governments launched campaign...
24 Aug 2023
What to do and see on a one, two, three-day layover in The Pearl of the Orient One of the best airports in the world, the well-designed Hong Kong International Airport has great eats, excellent amenities and plenty of retail therapy to soothe the most beleaguered traveller. Stop by Sky Bridge at Terminal 1, which has...
23 Aug 2023
It might seem odd to westerners but haggling is a positively enjoyable pastime for Chinese shoppers. Get the most out of your shopping experience without paying over the odds A strange language, a new culture, a different currency, arriving in a foreign country can be daunting. But finding unique gifts and engaging w...
28 Feb 2023
The Middle Kingdom—a land of extraordinary landscapes and ancient history. But, when is the best time to go? From sprawling landscapes to one of the world’s oldest continuous civilisations, the biggest population in the world*, and of course, mind-blowing development – China really does have it all. Thanks to its en...
28 Feb 2023
Asia’s longest river is the lifeblood of China The Yangtze River meanders through central China, sustaining life and giving way to rich biodiversity. It crosses diverse terrain, from valleys to mountains, limestone gorges and even wetlands, making it both an important water source and transportation route. But Asia’s l...
28 Feb 2023
The people who gave the world gunpowder have reinvented the bullet train and now boast the fastest things on two tracks With a quarter of the world’s population spread across an area one and a quarter the size of Australia, no one needs a fast and affordable long-distance transport system quite as much as China. Howeve...
28 Feb 2023
Chinese New Year is serious business in its motherland, but it also offers a glimpse at the best and brightest of traditional Chinese culture Chinese New Year, also known as Spring Festival or chunjie, is a 15-day festive period at the beginning of the year—usually late January or mid-to-late February (in 2024 it fal...
