Premium China

Intrepid Travel · 12 days

4.2

3 Reviews

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Duration

12 days

Tour Type

Small Group

Accommodations

Unknown

Physical Rating

Light

Guide Language

English

Experience Overview

Embark on a 12-day Premium journey that weaves together China’s layered history, famous icons, cultural heritage and celebrated cuisine.

Highlights

Feast on authentic Chinese cuisine during Exclusive Experiences, including a homecooked lunch with a local family in Huizhou and a delicious duck dinner in a Beijing courtyard.
Take in the scenery of Yangshuo – with karst hills dotted along Li River, you’ll be surrounded by mountain views, sip on perfectly brewed green tea and take part in a traditional countryside cooking class.
Get a sense of the scale of China’s epic history when you come face to face with the Terracotta warriors and visit a lesser-known section of the Great Wall during an Exclusive Experience – this is one of the Seven Wonders of the World, after all!
Journey to the peaceful Huizhou villages, home to the quintessential image of white walled, black tiled traditional houses, and enjoy a Feature Stay in a heritage hotel converted from the mansion home of a famous Ming Dynasty poet.
Discover the bright lights of modern China in Shanghai and uncover a different side of Beijing as you wander through the city’s hutongs, followed by a homecooked lunch in an authentic hutong house.

Trip Details

Duration

12 days

Transportation

Plane,Private Vehicle,High Speed Train,Metro

Tour Type

Small Group

Guide Language

English

Starts

Shanghai, China

Finishes

Beijing, China

Accommodations

Unknown

Travel Style

Explorer

Physical Rating

Light

Itinerary

Day 1: Shanghai

Ni Hao! Welcome to China. Your adventure begins in Shanghai, where you’ll be met at the airport and transferred to your hotel. You’ll then have a welcome meeting at 6 pm tonight. If you arrive early, maybe head out to get a feel for this vibrant city and its bright lights. Maybe visit the Yuyuan Gardens where you can explore the sculptures, gardens and pagodas from the Ming Dynasty. After your meeting, it’s time for a foray into Shanghai’s unbeatable food scene. Head with your group and leader to a famous local restaurant to sample some of the city’s regional favourites like fried dumplings, braised pork and crystal shrimp.

Included Activities:

Shanghai - Shanghai cuisine welcome dinner

Accommodation:

Shanghai Central Hotel or similar (Number of Nights: 1)

Day 2: Shanghai

Start your day with a walking tour with your leader who will introduce you to the sights and sounds of this animated city. Explore old residential neighbourhoods, known as nongtang, then head to the tree lined Wukang Road in the former French Concession part of the city, home to 37 protected historic buildings. Stop by a market and watch the locals go about their daily life, then hop on the metro and head to the Bund – an iconic promenade along the Huangpu River which divided Shanghai into Puxi and Pudong. The spectacular art deco buildings that line the street will give you a glimpse into 1920s Shanghai against the modern backdrop of Pudong’s metropolitan skyline. Your tour ends here, and the rest of the afternoon is yours.

Included Activities:

Shanghai - City walking tour

Optional Activities:

Shanghai - Acrobat show (280 CNY)
Shanghai - Huangpu River Night Cruise (ticket) (150 CNY)

Accommodation:

Shanghai Central Hotel or similar (Number of Nights: 1)

Day 3: Huizhou villages

Depart Shanghai this morning and board a high-speed train to Huizhou. The beautiful villages of Huizhou and their unique Hui-style architecture have inspired poets and painters for generations. When you arrive, head to the home of a local family for a homecooked Hui lunch. Chat to your hosts about their way of life and find out what makes Hui cuisine so delicious. In the afternoon, take a tour of the ancient village of Tangmo – founded during the Tang dynasty. Visit some local families who have been weaving bamboo for decades and learn about the ancient art form, then head to the village ancestral temple to meet a local artisan famous for his stone inscription printing skills. Speak to him about his trade and gain insight into the world of Chinese calligraphy. This evening will be spent at your Feature Stay accommodation – this hotel was converted from the mansion of a famous Ming Dynasty poet. Traditional 17th-century Hui design is paired with 21st-century conveniences, and the hotel’s tranquil gardens will make you feel as though you’ve stepped back in time.

Included Activities:

Huizhou - Bamboo weaving family visit
Huizhou - Stone tablet inscription printing demonstration
Huizhou - Home-cooked lunch
Huizhou - Tangmo village tour

Accommodation:

Weiyan Shilily Heritage Hotel (Feature Stay) or similar (Number of Nights: 1)

Day 4: Shanghai

Enjoy some free time in Huizhou today. Maybe wander the village’s narrow lanes and admire the local gardens. In the afternoon, return to Shanghai by high-speed train. This evening, head to a rooftop bar with your group and see the city’s cloud-piercing buildings and glittering neon lights from a different point of view.

Included Activities:

Shanghai - rooftop bar (one drink included)

Accommodation:

Shanghai Merry Hotel or similar (Number of Nights: 1)

Day 5: Yangshuo

Today you have a final morning to soak up the magic of Shanghai, then you’ll catch a midday flight to Guilin, followed by a transfer to Yangshuo, where karst mountains sprout like domes around the waters of the Li River. The countryside around Yangshuo is immortalised in many traditional Chinese paintings and it’s easy to see why. When you arrive, check in to your accommodation for the next two nights – a modern hotel tucked away among the karst hills and rivers of Yangshuo. Here you’ll experience serene surroundings and mountain views. You have a free evening to take in the natural setting – you may like to go for a walk in the surrounding area or spend some time relaxing.

Accommodation:

New West International Hotel or similar (Number of Nights: 1)

Day 6: Yangshuo

After breakfast, head out to one of the largest tea plantations in Yangshuo, where you’ll learn about China’s most beloved beverage, from picking the leaves, to processing and brewing the perfect cup. Enjoy a cup of fragrant green tea to energise you for a short but steep climb up Xianggong Hill. From here, you’ll see an amazing birds-eye view of the Li River and the karst landscape. Wander through the local villages, where if you’re lucky, you may be invited into some old houses to get a glimpse at countryside life in China. Take some time out for lunch in a local village, then head into Yangshuo town where your leader will regale you with the history of the area as you explore. Wander up the busy West shopping street, then enjoy some time to browse the stores or relax in a cafe. Later in the afternoon, return to the countryside and visit a local cooking school where you’ll learn how to craft traditional Chinese dishes. Tonight’s dinner will be the tasty dishes you’ve whipped up during the class.

Included Activities:

Yangshuo - Walking Tour
Yangshuo - Xianggong Hill & Tea Farm Visit
Yangshuo - Cooking class

Optional Activities:

Yangshuo - Impressions Liu Sanjie light show (minimum 4 people) (328 CNY)
Yangshuo - Tai Chi/Kung Fu class (120 CNY)

Accommodation:

New West International Hotel or similar (Number of Nights: 1)

Day 7: Xi'an

Enjoy a peaceful morning at your accommodation then catch a midday flight to Xi’an. Once the imperial centre of China for 2000 years, Xi'an is now a vibrant, modern city dotted with many historical sites. Arrive in the late afternoon and settle into your hotel before setting off for a walking tour. Your leader will unpack the layers of Xi’an’s rich history as you walk past the Bell and Drum tower, continuing to the buzzing Muslim quarter. Wander the narrow streets and find shops, markets and groups of white-bearded men in skull caps sipping tea in cafes. Xi’an is a food lovers paradise, and tonight you’ll get a chance to sample the flavoursome regional cuisine during an included dinner at a local restaurant. Specialities include a variety of delicious dumplings.

Included Activities:

Xi'an - Muslim Quarter Walking Tour
Xi'an - Muslim Quarter dumpling dinner

Optional Activities:

Xi'an - Bell & Drum Towers (entrance fee) (50 CNY)
Xi'an - Great Mosque (entrance fee) (25 CNY)
Xi'an - Tang Dynasty Show (290 CNY)
Xi'an - Cycling on City Wall (99 CNY)
Xi'an - Little Wild Goose Pagoda (50 CNY)

Accommodation:

Eastern House Boutique Hotel or similar (Number of Nights: 1)

Day 8: Xi'an

Today you’ll journey out into the countryside surrounding Xi’an and visit what is undoubtedly one of the man-made wonders of the world – the Terracotta Warriors. Your leader will share the unbelievable history of this incredible archaeological find, discovered by farmers digging a well in 1974 after being buried for 2000 years. These clay statues of soldiers, horses and chariots were commissioned by the emperor Qin Shi Huangdi as part of his mausoleum after he ascended to the throne in 264 BC. Three pits of warriors are open for viewing, where thousands of uniquely sculpted soldiers stand in battle formation. For lunch you’ll visit a local family restaurant, the owner of which has experienced firsthand of the changes brought about by the excavation of Terracotta Warriors. Listen to their stories while enjoying simple homecooked food. Return to Xi’an and enjoy a free afternoon – you may like to cycle across the ancient city wall or check out the Big Wild Goose pagoda and its musical fountain.

Included Activities:

Xi'an - Terracotta Warriors Tour - leader led
Xi'an - Home-cooked lunch

Accommodation:

Eastern House Boutique Hotel or similar (Number of Nights: 1)

Day 9: Beijing

Say goodbye to Xi’an and board a high-speed train bound for Beijing. The capital of the most populous country on earth, Beijing has mostly shed its historical face in favour of modernity. However, there are still plenty of places that give an insight into the nation's ancient past. Enjoy a free evening in Beijing – you may like to attend a Chinese opera performance. Restaurants across the city span all styles and countless cuisines, so be sure to ask your leader for the perfect place to suit your tastes.

Optional Activities:

Beijing - Beijing Opera show (ticket) (380 CNY)

Accommodation:

Beijing Sunworld Dynasty Hotel or similar (Number of Nights: 1)

Day 10: Beijing

Make your way to Tiananmen Square in the centre of the city that remains the symbolic centre of Chinese power. Framed by many imposing and iconic buildings such as the Gate of Heavenly Peace, Mao's Mausoleum, the Great Hall of the People and the National Museum, it's a place of pilgrimage for many Chinese tourists who consider it the heart of their nation. From here, you’ll enter the enormous scarlet walls of the Forbidden City. Built more than 500 years ago, and until recently off-limits to commoners, you can now explore the great halls and courtyards. Then, head to Jingshan Park for a glimpse from the top. Lunch today will be an authentic homecooked meal at a local home. After, walk around Beijing’s hutongs (residential alleyways) and learn about the history, dating back 800 years. Stop in at a hutong household where your leader will explain the ancient building technique of mortise and tenon. The rest of the afternoon is free.

Included Activities:

Beijing - Forbidden City
Beijing - Tiananmen Square
Beijing - Wood mortise and tenon demonstration
Beijing - Hutong home-cooked lunch
Beijing - Hutong walking tour
Beijing - Jingshan Park

Optional Activities:

Beijing - Temple of Heaven Park (35 CNY)
Beijing - Lama Temple (entrance fee) (25 CNY)

Accommodation:

Beijing Sunworld Dynasty Hotel (Number of Nights: 1)

Day 11: Beijing

No trip to China would be complete without a visit to the Great Wall – one of the Seven Wonders of the World! Today you’ll visit one of the best-preserved areas, the Hanghuacheng section, also known as the Water Great Wall. It used to serve as the northern barrier defending the capital and the imperial tombs, and features guard towers dating back to the Ming dynasty. Take your time strolling along the wall, which snakes through the hills and seemingly endlessly into the distance, as your leader fills you in on the history. From here you can see parts of the wall submerged beneath the lake water. Being perched on this incredible engineering feat and surveying the spectacular surrounding countryside is an unforgettable experience. In the afternoon, head back to Beijing and take some time to relax before heading to a traditional courtyard restaurant where you’ll enjoy a Beijing duck feast for a final dinner with your group.

Included Activities:

Great Wall - Huanghuacheng Section
Beijing - Peking Duck Dinner

Accommodation:

Beijing Sunworld Dynasty Hotel or similar (Number of Nights: 1)

Day 12: Beijing

Your trip comes to an end today after breakfast. If you have time, there's plenty more to see in Beijing. If you would like to extend your stay here, just speak to your booking agent to organise additional accommodation.

Exclusions

Flights to and from origin and destinations
Airport transfers (arrival and departure)
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 willdo 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. (Note: I assume each tour has a different description depending on level of fitness required).

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.

AUD $6,720

(Tour only)

Per Person Twin Share

Duration: 12 days

Trip Type: Small Group

Activity Level: Light

Embark on a 12-day Premium journey that weaves together China’s layered history, famous icons, cultural heritage and celebrated cuisine.

Check Availability Brochure

Price based on per person in Double Room for departure 22 Mar 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

4.0

Julian and Elizabeth

Traveled, March 2024

03/31/2024

Great trip but very busy schedule. We enjoyed it all but mostly due to a great trip leader, Kris. The trip would benefit by being three days longer.

4.5

Chris

Traveled, August 2023

09/11/2023

I would not recommend booking this trip within four weeks of the departure date if you are a US passport holder. Obtaining a visa to China is difficult with a tight time-frame. The itinerary is very interesting. I found the locals very friendly despite the language barrier and the food exceeded my expectations.

Tour Operator

Intrepid Travel is a global adventure travel company, dedicated to providing sustainable, experience-rich travel opportunities. They’ve been the leader in ethical, small-group travel since 1989 - taking people around the world for more than 30 years. They’re the world’s largest travel B Corporation - dedicated to being the best travel company for the world. In 2002, they established The Intrepid Foundation so their travellers could make a lasting impact on the communities they had visited. Although Intrepid Travel absorbs all administrative costs of The Intrepid Foundation, they are separate legal entities, allowing The Intrepid Foundation to grow independently. Intrepid Travel is made up of a collection of tour operator brands and 28 destination management companies all united by one vision: To change the way we all see the world.

In Business Since 1989

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