China: Natural Sites & City Lights

G Adventures · 15 days

4.5

2 Reviews

Duration

15 days

Tour Type

Small Group

Accommodations

Basic

Physical Rating

Average

Guide Language

English

Experience Overview

Buckle up for an epic adventure that checks all the travel boxes: culture, food, and nature. Explore the iconic Great Wall and come face-to-face with the legendary Terracotta Warriors.

Includes

Activities

Your First Night Out Moment: Connect With New Friends Your Welcome Moment: Meet Your CEO and Group Your Big Night Out Moment: Chengdu Your Big Night Out Moment: Yangshuo Your Discover Moment: Yangshuo
Tiananmen Square tour
Jingshan Park visit
Orientation walk in Beijing
Included visit to the Great Wall of China
Visit the Terracotta Warriors
Tour the Xi'An Muslim Quarter tour
Orientation walk in Xi'an
Tianfu Square visit
Orientation walk in Chengdu
Visit to Ciqikou Old Town
Hongyadong Visit at night
Chongqing walking tour
Two-day entry permit to Zhangjiajie National Forest Park
Free time in Zhangjiajie
Orientation walk in Zhangjiajie
Yangshuo City & Countryside bike tour
Orientation walk in Yangshuo
Free time in Yangshuo

Accommodation

Hotels (13 nights), overnight sleeper train (1 night).

1 lunch

Transport

Bullet train, overnight train, metro, public bus, private vehicle, bicycle, walking.

Group Leader

CEO (Chief Experience Officer) throughout.

Highlights

Exploring China's most famed historical sites like the Great Wall and the Terracotta Warriors
Hike through the breathtaking formations in Zhangjiajie National Forest Park
Wander beneath the bright lights in some of China's coolest cities.

Trip Details

Duration

15 days

Transportation

Bullet train, overnight train, metro, public bus, private vehicle, bicycle, walking.

Guide Language

English

Starts

Beijing, China

Finishes

Hong Kong, Hong Kong

Accommodations

Basic

Travel Style

18 - 39 Year Olds Only, Budget

Physical Rating

Average

Itinerary

Day 1: Beijing

Welcome to China! Arrive at anytime. Then join your CEO and group in the evening for a Welcome Meeting and an Orientation Walk of Beijing. Tonight's your First Night Out so get to know your group under the bright Beijing lights.

Exclusive inclusions: Activity - Connect with new friends on your first night out in a new destination. Only available on 18-to-Thirtysomethings tours.Activity - Your opportunity to meet your CEO and fellow travellers, and learn more about your tour. Opt to join the group for a local meal afterwards. Don't forget to see the notice in the lobby (or ask reception) for the official time and place to meet up with the group.Activity - Set out on an orientation walk near the hotel with your CEO to get your bearings. They will show you restaurants, points of interest, supermarkets, ATMs, etc.Accommodation - Golden Inns (Beijing South Railway Station)

Day 2: Beijing

Hop on local transportation and visit some of Beijing's top tourist spots. Take a CEO led tour of the symbolic centre of Chinese power, Tiananmen Square. See the Forbidden City from a birds eye view at Jingshan Park and wander through the picturesque Hutong alleyways.
Forbidden City: Please note that visiting the Forbidden City is not included in the tour. We do not have time to visit on this tour. If you wish to visit, please do so before the trip.

Exclusive inclusions: Activity - Explore one of the world's largest public squares and the symbolic centre of Chinese power. Framed by the Gate of Heavenly Peace with its Mao portrait, Mao's Mausoleum, the Great Hall of the People, the National Museum, and with elaborate flag raising and lowering ceremonies at dawn and dusk, it's a place of pilgrimage for the Chinese tourists who consider it the heart of their nation.Activity - Take a walking tour through some of Beijing's traditional alleyways and backstreets (known as hutongs) and get a taste of this magnificent metropolis. Activity - In the centre of Old Beijing, the narrow alley of Nanluoguxiang offers a unique experience in the city. This kilometer long street is lined with cute cafes, bars and traditional craft stores. Try a local snack or do some souvenir shopping.Activity - Only a moat separates you from Jingshan Park. This royal garden offers the perfect birds eye view of the Forbidden City.Activity - Visit the striking Drum Tower for some incredible photo ops. Back in the Han Dynasty the towers were used to echo the time to the city with bells in the morning and drums in the evening. Today the 63-ton bell still stands in one tower and drum performances happen daily in the morning and afternoon.Accommodation - Golden Inns (Beijing South Railway Station)

Day 3: Beijing/Xi’an

This morning, travel to the legendary Great Wall of China. Together we'll hike about 5 kilometers of this 6000 km masterpiece. Opt to ride the cable car, chairlift or even ride the toboggan down. After a full day at the Wall, we'll return to Beijing where we'll board an overnight train to Xi'an.
Lunch will be on your own at the Great Wall. There are options at the foot of the wall, but you can also bring your own lunch if you wish to spend more time on the wall.

Exclusive inclusions: Transport - Experience overnight travel like a local. Sit back and get some well-earned (and likely much-needed) rest en route to your next stop.Transport - Settle in and scan the scenery from the comfort of your shared bus transportation from Mutianyu to Beijing.Transport - Settle in and scan the scenery from the comfort of your shared bus transportation from Beijing to Mutianyu.Activity - Climb the rolling hills of Huairou County at Mutianyu, one of the best-preserved sections of the Great Wall. Enjoy scenic views as the wall winds along mountain ridges, and take brag-worthy photos of the wall from any of the 22 towers. The Great wall is an incredible piece of engineering stretching 6000 km west from the mountain ridges north of Beijing. It was originally constructed to protect Chinese empires from nomadic northern tribes, and even though it failed in this purpose, it's still one of the country's most remarkable achievements and an iconic destination. The Mutianyu section of the Great Wall is located about 80km away from the Beijing City Center. The walk is approximately 5 kilometres and will take 2 to 3 hours depending on your level of fitness.

Day 4: Xi’an

Wake up this morning as you pull into the historical city of Xi'An, the entrance to the Silk Road. After an orientation walk, hop on a public bus with your CEO to take a tour of the mysterious Terracotta Warriors. In the evening, return to the city for an evening stroll through the Muslim Quarter.

Exclusive inclusions: Activity - Enjoy a CEO-led orientation walk close to the Xi'an hotel to help you get the lay of the land. Learn where you can find local services (like ATMs and laundromats) and, perhaps, see some city highlights. Every CEO does something slightly different for their orientation walk to show visitors what they like best about the city. Activity - Enjoy a walk around Xi'an’s Muslim Quarter with our CEO, and be introduced to favourite streets, artists, chefs or food stalls in the quarter. Each CEO offers a unique perspective. Get a better feel for the district and have plenty of time to roam around on your own, shopping and eating along the way.Activity - Take a guided tour of the Terracotta Warriors where more than 8,000 clay soldiers and hundreds of replica horses and chariots stand in three pits. Learn why the Emperor Qin Shihuang commissioned the statues to serve as his army in the afterlife and how they were discovered. Spend a half-day exploring this archaeological wonder.Transport - Climb aboard, grab a seat, and enjoy the ride from Xi'an to the Terracotta Warriors Museum.Transport - Climb aboard, grab a seat, and enjoy the ride from the Terracotta Warriors Museum back to Xi'an.Accommodation - Bancheng Guesthouse

Day 5: Xi’an/Chengdu

This morning, enjoy some free time in the city of Xi'an before heading to our next destination. Opt to visit the ancient City Wall or take a cycling tour on top of it. Then head to train station to take the bullet train to Chengdu. Join your CEO for an orientation walk of the city before heading out for your Big Night Out! Grab a beer or plum juice for yourself and enjoy it under the bright lights of Chengdu alongside your crew.

Exclusive inclusions: Free_time - Enjoy some free time in Xi'an this morning.Transport - Catch a high speed train to our next stop.Activity - Set out on an orientation walk near the hotel with your CEO to get your bearings. They will show you restaurants, points of interest, supermarkets, ATMs, etc.Activity - Join your crew for a fun night out! Maybe have a beer or green tea and enjoy being out on the town with your group!Accommodation - Poshpacker Local Tea Hostel

Day 6: Chengdu

After your Big Night Out, choose to take this morning slow or get ready to see all that Chengdu has to offer. Opt to visit the Giant Panda Breeding Center and learn about this amazing, but endangered, species. In the afternoon, with your group and CEO, visit Chengdu's more popular spots, like Tianfu Square, People's Park and Kuanzhaixiang.

Exclusive inclusions: Free_time - A free morning in Chengdu? How about a trip to the Panda Breeding Center!Activity - Built in 1911, the People's Park was the first public park in Chengdu. It's the largest green area in downtown. The park features an artificial lake, gardens, teahouses, and is a popular place for locals to enjoy the outdoors. Walk to Tianfu Square in the centre of the city, surrounded by museums.Activity - Wander through Kuan Zhai alley, translating to wide (kuan) and narrow (zhai) lanes. Dip into a charming teahouse, walk through the ancient architecture or try some delicious Sichuan food.Accommodation - Poshpacker Local Tea Hostel

Day 7: Chengdu/Chongqing

This morning, spend a free morning in Chengdu before we head off to our next stop. In the afternoon, we'll take the bullet train to Chongqing. Join your CEO for an orientation walk to get your bearings then enjoy a free evening.

Exclusive inclusions: Free_time - Enjoy a free morning in the city of Chengdu.Transport - Get to your next destination faster than the speed of light (ok maybe not that fast) aboard a high-speed train.Activity - Join your CEO to get your bearings around Chongqing.Accommodation - Green Oriental Hotel Jiefangbei Qixinggang Branch

Day 8: Chongqing

Hop on a public bus or metro with your CEO and visit Ciqikou Old town, where bamboo and wood frames still make up the foundation of most architecture as it did 1000 years ago. Then head to downtown Chongqing for a walking tour of the city, visiting spots like Chao Tian Men Square and Liberation Monument. Once it's dark, get a view of Hongyadong, an 11-story 2000 year old military base turned commercial center.

Exclusive inclusions: Activity - Get a glimpse of Old Chongqing from the times of the Ming & Qing dynasties, dating as far back as the 1300s. What was once a busy port is now a beautiful riverside spot.Activity - Take a walking tour of downtown Chongqing, one of China's most important cities. We'll stop at important places like Chao Tian Men Square and Liberation Monument. Afterwards, opt to ride the ferry across the river.Activity - At night, once it's dark, visit the 1000 year old, 11 story high complex. This beautiful and ancient fortress for the state is now a main commercial compelx.Accommodation - Green Oriental Hotel Jiefangbei Qixinggang Branch

Day 9: Chongqing/Zhangjiajie

Rise with the sun to get a morning train to Zhangjiajie, home to one of China's most impressive natural landscapes. This is a longer travel day so make sure to have some entertainment ready for the train ride. In the afternoon, arrive to Zhangjiajie and take an orientation walk of the city.

Exclusive inclusions: Activity - Take an orientation walk of the city where the mountains and the river meet.Transport - Ride in a bullet train from Chongqing to Zhangjiajie.Accommodation - Yuzun Hotel Zhangjiajie

Day 10: Zhangjiajie

Prepare to feel like you've been transported to the world of Pandora from Avatar. After a short shuttle ride, we'll hike through the Zhangjiajie National Forest Park to view the Tianzi Mountain and Pillar of the Southern Sky. Take it all in before taking hiking back or opt to ride the 1070 ft elevator back down to the base of the forest.

Exclusive inclusions: Activity - Step into another world and watch as the mist forms around sky scraper tall mountain karsts. Embark on an unforgettable hiking experience. These are moderate hiking trails that ascend up stairs. The work is well worth the view. We will spend 6-7 hours in this magical place.Accommodation - Yuzun Hotel Zhangjiajie

Day 11: Zhangjiajie

Today is a free day to spend it how you'd like. Choose to tour other parts of Zhangjiajie National Forest Park because your entry ticket is valid for two full days of exploration. Opt to take a day trip to Tianmen Shan National Park or explore the beautiful city of Zhangjiajie.

Exclusive inclusions: Free_time - Spend a full day exploring Zhangjiajie how you wish! Return to the National Park, tour Mt Tianzi, an entirely different national park, or explore the beautiful town.Accommodation - Yuzun Hotel Zhangjiajie

Day 12: Zhangjiajie/Yangshuo

Catch the early morning bullet train to Guilin before climbing into a bus to Yangshuo. After checking into the hotel, take an orientation walk of the city and enjoy a free night out.

Exclusive inclusions: Activity - This backpacker town is full of things to do and see. An orientation walk will get you situated and help you make the most of your time in this idyllic location.Transport - Get to your next destination faster than the speed of light (ok maybe not that fast) aboard a high-speed train.Transport - Settle in and scan the scenery from the convenience of a private vehicle.Accommodation - Floral Hotel Memorize Scene (Baina Hotel)

Day 13: Yangshuo

Pedal around the city and into the countryside this morning on a guided tour of Yangshuo. Bike along rivers, through local villages and near stunning karst formations. Opt for a short hike up Moon hill, then bike back and enjoy lunch together as a group. Spend the afternoon how'd like in Yangshuo. Tonight, join your crew for a big night out! Grab yourself a drink, maybe a beer, maybe an oolong tea and hit the town together!

Meals included: Lunch

Exclusive inclusions: Free_time - Enjoy free time in Yangshuo.Activity - Grab yourself a drink and head out for a Big Night Out with your group!Activity - Follow the guide and cycle over the flat(ish) landscape past rice paddies, local farmers, and water buffalo. Marvel at the limestone karsts and hear the legends of how they came to be. Stop for lunch at the house of a local family for a tasty meal made from freshly grown produce.Accommodation - Floral Hotel Memorize Scene (Baina Hotel)

Day 14: Yangshuo

A free day in Yangshuo means you can spend it how you'd like. There is so much to do in this amazing city. Opt to visit the Xianggongshan & Tea Farm or go to the Impressions Liu Sanjie light show. How about a Tai Chi or Kung Fu class? Even a cooking class! The options are endless. Then in the evening, join your group and CEO for your Big Night Out!

Exclusive inclusions: Free_time - Spend your final day in Yangshuo how you wish.Accommodation - Floral Hotel Memorize Scene (Baina Hotel)

Day 15: Yangshuo/Hong Kong

It may be our last day together but we still have an adventure. This morning we take the bullet train to Hong Kong. Spend the last few hours together with your new friends. Your trip finishes upon arrival in Hong Kong.

Exclusive inclusions: Transport - Get to your next destination faster than the speed of light (ok maybe not that fast) aboard a high-speed train.

Exclusions

Flights to and from origin and destinations
Airport transfers (unless otherwise stated)
Anything else not explicitly listed in tour inclusions
Recommended gratuities/tipping
Optional activities/tours
Personal expenses
Travel insurance
Visas, meals and beverages not stated in the list of inclusions.

Important Information

Meals

When meals are not included, your tour leader (where available) will be happy to help with restaurant recommendations, bookings, and directions. Please let us know if you have any dietary needs or preferences. We will do our best to accommodate these, though we cannot guarantee that every request can be met.

Luggage

You are responsible for your personal belongings throughout the tour. You will need to carry your own bags between the vehicle and your hotel room. Drivers will assist with loading and unloading luggage from the vehicle.

Mobility

Travellers requiring wheelchair access should contact our sales and service team, who can make enquiries on your behalf.

Fitness Level

This tour requires an average level of fitness. Activities are paced gently and include leisure time. You may be expected to join guided walks of up to one hour, navigate short stairways and mild inclines, and manage your own luggage. You should also be able to board and exit all transport without assistance.

Travellers are expected to be self-sufficient and capable of handling all aspects of their journey. Please discuss your circumstances and support needs with your booking agent to confirm this trip is suitable.

If you are unsure, we recommend consulting your doctor before booking or travelling.

Sightseeing

If a planned site visit is unavailable due to changes in operating hours or holiday closures, the itinerary may be altered, or a comparable activity will be substituted where possible and subject to availability.

Visas

Visa conditions can change. Once you receive your travel documents, check with the relevant embassy, consulate, or immigration office of your destination for the latest information.

It is your responsibility to ensure you have the correct and valid travel documents and to comply with all entry requirements.
Non-Australian citizens must also confirm visa and identification requirements with the appropriate consulate or visa agency.
Certain occupations (for example, journalists, government officials, or those working in charities) may face additional restrictions when applying for visas, which could affect the type of application required.

Departure Dates & Surcharges: See checkout for live dates and availability.

From
AUD $2299

AUD $2,069

(Tour only)

Offer ends 01 Apr, 2026 Per Person Standard

Duration: 15 days

Trip Type: Small Group

Activity Level: Average

Buckle up for an epic adventure that checks all the travel boxes: culture, food, and nature. Explore the iconic Great Wall and come face-to-face with the legendary Terracotta Warriors.

Check Availability Brochure

Price based on per person in Double Room for departure 19 Jun 2026

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Customer Reviews

Overall Rating

Excellent

4.5

Guide

Excellent

4.5

Itinerary

Excellent

4.5

Accommodations

Excellent

4.5

Transportation

Excellent

4.5

Tour Operator

Excellent

4.5

Food

Excellent

4.5

Mary

Traveled, December 2019

12/15/2019

Good value for money and the guide was on point. Would definitely use them again as an option for budget travel. China would likely have been difficult and beat and undoable without a tour (and I am a fairly a seasoned traveler)

4.5

Beth

Traveled, November 2019

11/29/2019

The best things about this trip was our CEO, Jennifer. She was knowledgeable, helpful and gave a lot of great suggestions about foods to try, what we could do in our free time, etc. The accommodations and food were good for the price. The amount of time spent in transit and carrying around luggage was the main downside. The sleeper trains were also hard to get a good sleep on.

Tour Operator

G Adventures, founded in 1990 by Bruce Poon Tip, is a global adventure travel company specializing in small-group tours that emphasize authentic, sustainable, and culturally immersive experiences. Originally launched as GAP Adventures (“Great Adventure People”), the company pioneered the concept of community-driven travel by offering affordable trips that connect travelers with local communities while minimizing environmental impact. Today, G Adventures operates in more than 100 countries, offering a wide range of itineraries across themes such as active adventures, wildlife, wellness, family, and National Geographic–partnered tours, while maintaining a strong commitment to responsible tourism and social enterprise through its Planeterra Foundation.

In Business Since 1990

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