China Experience
Experience Overview
Experience a breadth of cultures, flavours and landscapes on this 19-day trip through China. Marvel at iconic attractions like the Great Wall, the Terracotta Warriors and the 71-m-tall World Heritage-listed Leshan Giant Buddha. Then, uncover the quieter side of the country with a cruise along the Yangtze River, a bike ride through the picturesque limestone karst landscapes of Yangshuo and a stay in a Buddhist monastery tucked into the mountains of Emei Shan. Dine on some of China’s most renowned (and spiciest) cuisine in Chengdu and then visit a research base dedicated to conserving giant pandas. Discover a land of epic history, lush countryside and dramatic vistas with a group of like-minded travellers and a knowledgeable local leader by your side.
Highlights
- Take in the iconic scenery of the Yangtze River as you sail through the dramatic Three Gorges on a three-day cruise.
- Hike through the misty forests of Emei Shan for a stay in a monastery, where you’ll wake to the sound of drums and prayers in the morning Buddhist ritual.
- Get up close to giant pandas in Chengdu and learn about the work being done to preserve this ancient species.
- Cycle through the Chinese countryside against backdrops that look straight out of a painting, like the striking limestone karsts of Yangshuo.
- Zip through the country from north to south on its efficient high-speed rail network and experience world-class wonders, from the ancient Great Wall and Terracotta Warriors to the skyline and night markets of Hong Kong.
Trip Details
Product Code: 1699
Tour Type: Small Group
Accommodation: Moderate
Transport: Private Bus, Public Bus, High-Speed Train, Overnight Riverboat, Subway, Taxi, Bicycle
Guide Language: English
Travel Styles:
Explorer, Rail & Cruises
Tour Operator:
Intrepid Travel
Supplier Code: CBSE
Starts: Beijing, China
Finishes: Hong Kong, China
Duration: 19 days
Departures: Not Guaranteed
Physical Rating:
Average
Includes
Meals: Breakfasts (4), Lunch (4), Dinner (3)Accommodation: Hotel (13 nights), Monastery (1 nights), Overnight Riverboat (4 nights)
Price
Price per person: (Double Occupancy) CAD $5130 ($270 /day)
Itinerary
Ni hao! Welcome to Beijing – where historic sites dating back to the 13th century sit side by side with a bustling metropolis full of good food and striking contemporary architecture. Your adventure begins with a welcome meeting at 6 pm where you'll meet your local leader and fellow travellers. After, maybe head out to explore the Beijing streets. You might like to wander the city’s old hutongs (alleyways) or hop on the subway to venture out of the city centre. Tonight, maybe kick off your China adventure with a taste of an iconic dish – Peking duck.
Accommodation:
- Hotel (Number of Nights: 1)
Today, you’ll explore two of the most popular sights in Beijing on foot and by public transport. While this can get crowded, it's the best way to immerse yourself in the local culture. Make your way to the centre of the city – Tiananmen Square, the symbolic centre of Chinese power. From here, you’ll enter the enormous Forbidden City. Built more than 500 years ago, the Forbidden City looks much like it always has. As you explore the great halls and courtyards, you’ll be able to appreciate the might and grandeur of the Imperial Court during the height of its power in the Ming and Qing dynasties. This evening is free for you to explore Beijing’s street food scene – the hutongs (historic narrow streets and alleys) come alive with lights and noise in the evening and are full of eateries.
Included Activities:
- Beijing - Forbidden City
- Beijing - Tiananmen Square
Optional Activities:
- Beijing - Temple of Heaven (entrance fee) (40 CNY)
- Beijing - Summer Palace (entrance fee) (60 CNY)
- Beijing - Lama Temple (entrance fee) (25 CNY)
- Beijing - Hutong family visit (150 CNY)
- Beijing - Acrobat show (ticket) (290 CNY)
- Beijing - Beijing Opera show (ticket) (380 CNY)
Accommodation:
- Hotel (Number of Nights: 1)
This morning, you’ll take a private bus to visit the Mutianyu section of the Great Wall and tick off one of the Seven Wonders of the World. Here, you’ll spend some time exploring, taking photos and learning the history of this iconic site. An incredible feat of engineering, the 20,000 km wall 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. Today’s walk is mostly on the restored section of the wall, but this still means walking on steep, uneven terrain with lots of steps, so a reasonable level of fitness and comfortable shoes are necessary. Survey the spectacular surrounding countryside from your vantage point as you surmount the best-preserved stretch of the Wall. After, you’ll return to Beijing by private bus for a free evening to relax or explore further.
Included Activities:
- Beijing - Mutianyu Great Wall
Accommodation:
- Hotel (Number of Nights: 1)
Today, you'll travel to Xi'an by high-speed train. The capital of the Shaanxi province, Xi’an is the largest city in northwest China. Once the imperial centre of China for 13 dynasties, modern Xi'an is dotted with historic sites ripe for exploring. Join your leader on a short walking tour to uncover what was the start of the ancient trading route, the Silk Road. In the city’s Muslim Quarter, you’ll wander through the narrow streets, passing shops, lively markets and endless stalls of street food. For the rest of the day, maybe visit the City Wall, which extends more than 13 km (8 mi) around the city – cycling is a great way to explore it. Or, visit the Bell and Drum Towers – according to legend, the former was built to restrain the dragons that were causing earthquakes. The latter is (unsurprisingly) full of drums that were once used to mark time and warn of emergencies. Xi’an’s history as a major hub on the Silk Road means it has an exciting mixture of cultures – this is exemplified by its food options. This evening, perhaps visit the night markets and try the tantalising local specialties such as pao mo (lamb broth that you break flatbread into), hand-pulled noodles, hot pot and grilled skewers.
Included Activities:
- Xi'an - Muslim Quarter Walking Tour
Optional Activities:
- Xi'an - City Wall bike hire (45 CNY)
- Xi'an - Bell & Drum Towers (entrance fee) (50 CNY)
- Xi'an - Little Wild Goose Pagoda (50 CNY)
- Xi'an - Big Goose Pagoda (entrance fee) (80 CNY)
- Xi'an - Great Mosque (entrance fee) (25 CNY)
Accommodation:
- Hotel (Number of Nights: 1)
Today, hop on your private transfer to visit what is often referred to as the eighth wonder of the world – the Terracotta Warriors. You’ll learn all about this incredible archaeological site that had been buried for 2000 years before being discovered in 1974 by farmers who were digging a well. These clay statues of soldiers, horses and chariots were commissioned by the Emperor Qin Shi Huangdi as part of his mausoleum after he became emperor in 221 BC. Three main pits are open, where just under 2000 of the warriors – each individually sculpted from clay and with a different costume, height and even facial expression – stand in battle formation. Return to Xi’an in the afternoon for some final exploration of the city.
Included Activities:
- Xi'an - Terracotta Warriors Tour - leader led
Optional Activities:
- Xi'an - Tang Dynasty Show (290 CNY)
Accommodation:
- Hotel (Number of Nights: 1)
Today, you’ll take a high-speed train to Chengdu. The capital of the Sichuan province, Chengdu is most famous for two things – the pandas living in its mountains and the food. Chengdu's signature spicy cuisine is largely regarded as the best in China – in a country with such acclaimed cuisine, this is no mean feat. You’ll join your leader on a walking tour where you’ll check out Tianfu Square and People's Park – this is arguably the liveliest park in China, full of locals singing, dancing, doing tai chi or even modelling! Chengdu has preserved plenty of its traditional flavour, and you'll get a taste of it during this tour and in your free time this evening – maybe sample a Sichuan hotpot for dinner. Don't miss out on the teahouses – pull up a stool and sample the locals’ favourite green and jasmine teas. Don't be surprised if someone offers to give you a head massage or clean your ears while you sip!
Included Activities:
- Chengdu - Leader-led walking tour
- Chengdu - People's Park & Tianfu Square
Optional Activities:
- Chengdu - Wenshu Monastery (entrance fee) (5 CNY)
- Chengdu - Sichuan Opera (ticket) (260 CNY)
Accommodation:
- Hotel (Number of Nights: 1)
Today, you’ll visit the Giant Panda Breeding Research Base where you’ll witness the conservation efforts being made to save this endearing species. There are only around 1800 pandas left in the world – they mainly live here in mountains of southwest China. This research facility was set up in 1987 to help protect this animal, and it is now home to more than 200 giant pandas – you'll have the chance to encounter these magnificent creatures. Watch them play, eat bamboo and climb the trees. If you’re lucky enough (and travelling between July and September) you might get to see newborns taking their first steps in the nursery. After, return to downtown Chengdu for some free time. Perhaps take in a performance of traditional Sichuan opera, visit the Wenshu Temple or take a cooking class. Your local leader will have all the best recommendations for how to make the most of your free time here!
Included Activities:
- Chengdu - Giant Panda Breeding Research Base
Accommodation:
- Hotel (Number of Nights: 1)
Travel by private bus to the sacred mountains of Emei Shan. Along the way, stop in the town of Leshan to visit the UNESCO World Heritage-listed Giant Buddha. This 71-m-tall Buddha was carved into a cliff face around 1300 years ago and took almost 100 years to complete. Depending on the number of visitors, you may choose to either climb up and down Mount Emei or take the river boat to experience the Giant Buddha – the river boat is the better option if you want to see the statue's entirety and marvel at its magnificence. Then, continue to Emei Shan where you'll spend the next three nights.
Included Activities:
- Leshan - Giant Buddha (boat ticket & transport included)
Accommodation:
- Hotel (Number of Nights: 1)
Today will be spent exploring the landscape surrounding Emei Shan – one of China’s four sacred Buddhist mountains. In the morning, travel by public bus and then cable car to the Golden Summit. Soak up the views from the mountain’s 3099-m (10,167-ft) peak. Take a public bus down the mountain, then start your hike, led by a local guide, to your accommodation at a monastery. Expect plenty of steps and steep paths and dress accordingly. Sturdy footwear will help you to enjoy this challenging but rewarding day on the mountain.
Included Activities:
- Emei Shan - Scenic Area Hiking
- Emei Shan - Cable car & Golden Summit visit
Accommodation:
- Monastery/Guesthouse (Number of Nights: 1)
Today, continue exploring the countryside at the base of the mountain, which provides ample opportunity for leisurely walks. It may be possible to visit some local hot springs to relax and revive from your hike. Otherwise, you could take a tour of some nearby villages. You can also visit the Crouching Tiger Monastery, which is hidden deep in the forest, and see its 7-m-tall copper pagoda inscribed with Buddhist images and texts.
Optional Activities:
- Emei Shan - Crouching Tiger Monastery (6 CNY)
- Emei Shan - Hot Spring Resort (212 CNY)
Accommodation:
- Hotel (Number of Nights: 1)
Today, travel back to Chengdu and then continue to Yichang by train. Yichang is known as the gateway to the Three Gorges. From here, you'll start your four-day river trip up the Yangtze River. You’ll experience the views of the Yangtze from your boat as you set sail.
Accommodation:
- Overnight Boat (Number of Nights: 1)
This morning, enjoy a tour of the Three Gorges Dam. The world’s largest hydroelectric project, the dam generates power and prevents the major flooding that long threatened the people of the area. After, continue sailing along the Yangtze River. The Yangtze has inspired numerous poets, writers and travellers over the centuries. You’ll travel along one of the most picturesque sections – the renowned Three Gorges. The dramatic 'sanxia', as they’re known in Chinese, stretch for 200 km and vary from 100 m to 300 m in width. Relax and take in the sights – you might also have opportunities to visit some riverside attractions and towns on optional group excursions. This might include leaving the river boat to take a side-trip down a tributary of the Yangtze River. If you would prefer to stay on board, maybe take the chance to learn some Mandarin words or how to write characters from your leader.
Included Activities:
- Yichang - Guided Three Gorges Dam Project tour
Accommodation:
- Overnight Boat (Number of Nights: 1)
Accommodation:
- Overnight Boat (Number of Nights: 1)
Accommodation:
- Overnight boat (Number of Nights: 1)
Your Yangtze boat trip will end this morning in Chongqing – the biggest city in China, with a population of over 30 million sprawled throughout the city centre and the steep hills behind it. From here, you’ll take a private bus to the train station and board a bullet train to Yangshuo. When you arrive, take the time to rest and soak up the charm of this little town, popular with local and international travellers alike, who come for the beautiful landscape and stay for the great cafe and bar culture. The countryside around Yangshuo is immortalized in many traditional Chinese paintings – picture immense limestone karsts dotting the Li River and towering spectacularly over rice paddies.
Accommodation:
- Hotel (Number of Nights: 1)
Today, you’ll shake out your train legs and experience the limestone karst landscape during a bike ride, where you’ll gain genuine insight into rural Chinese life. Stop at a local home for a lunch made using locally grown produce. You’ll have a local guide during the ride, and helmets and bikes are included. After, the evening is free for you to explore Yangshuo's lively cafe and bar scene. Maybe grab a bowl of pork-stuffed tofu or beer fish (simmered freshwater fish).
Included Activities:
- Yangshuo - Cycling tour (local guide & bike hire included)
Optional Activities:
- Yangshuo - Moon Hill (entrance fee) (15 CNY)
Accommodation:
- Hotel (Number of Nights: 1)
Today is as clear as a Yanghsuo spring day, but there are plenty of optional activities to choose from. You could begin the day by focusing your body and mind with a morning tai chi class or kung-fu lesson. Perhaps try your hand at Chinese calligraphy or simply sit back and relax as you enjoy a cruise down the Li or Yulong River. Maybe visit the market to shop with the locals and get a feel for the regional produce. Then, you might put this new knowledge to use in a cooking class at the Yangshuo Cooking School. Learn to cook Chinese dishes with recipes that are easy to follow and ingredients that are readily available outside of China, so that you’ll soon be impressing friends and family back at home with your newfound skills. Or, take a tour to the much-loved viewpoint at Xiangong Mountain for a bird’s-eye view of Yangshuo's landscape. Maybe visit a local tea farm to learn about tea picking and brewing. In the evening, perhaps watch an outdoor light show staged by 2008 Beijing Olympics’ Opening Ceremony director Zhang Yimou.
Optional Activities:
- Yangshuo - Xianggongshan & Tea Farm Visit (Minimum 6, transport and entrance fee) (358 CNY)
- Yangshuo - Impressions Liu Sanjie light show (minimum 4 people) (328 CNY)
- Yangshuo - Tai Chi/Kung Fu class (120 CNY)
- Yangshuo - Cooking School & Market Tour (230 CNY)
- Yangshuo - Li River Cruise (230 CNY)
- Yangshuo - Massage/Hot cupping (100 CNY)
Accommodation:
- Hotel (Number of Nights: 1)
Take a private bus from your Yangshuo Hotel to Guilin West Station, then board a bullet train to West Kowloon station in Hong Kong. Once you arrive in the late afternoon, follow your leader on an orientation walk near your hotel. Hong Kong's fast-paced cityscape is only minutes from picturesque islands and beaches. The locals are very proud of their Cantonese culture and history, so step out of the shopping malls and off the main streets to discover another side of the city through local shops and eateries. This evening, enjoy an optional final farewell dinner with your group to celebrate your adventure and sample some of the best Cantonese dishes.
Optional Activities:
- Hong Kong - Victoria Peak & Tram (90 HKD)
- Hong Kong - Star Ferry (15 HKD)
- Hong Kong - Nightly Light Show - Free
Accommodation:
- Hotel (Number of Nights: 1)
There are no activities planned for today and your adventure comes to an end this morning. It’s highly recommended that you spend a couple of extra days here so that you can make the most of your time in Hong Kong. If you're interested, talk to your booking agent ahead of time to organise additional accommodation (subject to availability).
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Tour Operator
Intrepid Travel
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
Reviews
Michelle - Traveled, March 2024
Fantastic trip well worth it. Visited amazing/ stunning places in China. The right amount of activities. Tour guide Long (Dragon) very knowledgeable and made the trip interesting and easy in a country where English is not well known.
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 04/02/2024
Carlos - Traveled, March 2024
Incredible experience in China. Culture, Food and beautiful Landscapes, covering very distinctive regions of China during 19 days.
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 04/02/2024
Arthur - Traveled, November 2023
An incredibly well-planned and thorough introduction to this fascinating country. With the exception of Shanghai, the highlights of China are included. One of the best trips I’ve ever taken, and am particularly grateful I did it in November, with great weather and thinner crowds.
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 12/02/2023
Andrea - Traveled, November 2023
A really good comprehensive trip to see a lot about China, covering historic sites, natural wonders, diverse food places and modern cities. A trip giving a good feeling about live, sights and culture in China from north to south. traveling mainly on the very modern high-speed train network.
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 11/28/2023
Kylan - Traveled, November 2023
If you're reading this because you're not sure, just book. Jay is an amazing guide and you won't believe how jaw-dropping the sights are. Do it, you won't regret it.
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 11/28/2023
Carlos - Traveled, November 2023
The China Experience was an outstanding tour, with visits to many sites and learning about Chinese history and culture. It was an active vacation, so there was a lot of walking and some hiking, which was excellent.
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 12/18/2023
Tiffany - Traveled, August 2023
China was amazing! Beautiful clean green landscapes. Interesting history and culture. Loved the food!
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 09/23/2023
Anita - Traveled, August 2023
The accommodations were poor (cockroaches, musty/mildew smell, floor got flooded after shower). Should have more private transportation for the group instead of public trains where it was overcrowded and felt like sardines. At times, we were unable to take the oncoming train and had to wait for the next one which we had to split up so we could all fit into the same train. Should have at least 1 group meal a day instead of having us walk up and down the street trying to decide where to go or which is better.
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 09/23/2023
Raymond - Traveled, July 2023
A very comprehensive and sometimes intensive journey through the highlights of China. Not for the faint hearted or those with mobility issues.
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 08/16/2023
Serena - Traveled, July 2023
China Experience is a whistle stop tour round the main sites of Central and Southern China. There is a good variety of places and activities. Quite a lot of travelling on some days, but necessary in order to fit a lot into 3 weeks.. My husband and I loved it and our guide Dragon Ma was very knowledgeable as well as supportive to everyone in the group. He became like a friend by the end...
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 08/15/2023
Alan - Traveled, July 2023
The intrepid tour of China was excellent and a big surprise on how much there is to see and do including all the major attractions such as the Great Wall, Forbidden City, Terracotta Warriors, Emei Mountain and cruise along the Yangtze River. The trip was well planned with the use of fast trains and our tour guide was amazing, I highly recommend to anyone thinking of travelling there to use Intrepid Tours, great work done by all.
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 08/15/2023
James - Traveled, May 2024
Great trip with an awesome itinerary and guide (Thanks Mark!). Had an amazing time and learnt a lot about Chinese history and culture. Totally recommend this comprehensive trip.
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 06/06/2024
Donald - Traveled, May 2024
The trip was fantastic if you want to see all the big sites and some even better small ones. Mark was so caring and enthusiastic and that made all the difference.
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 06/06/2024
Jennifer - Traveled, May 2024
The China Experience trip was wonderful. The country itself is amazing and the local people all friendly and welcoming. Our tour leader Jacky was terrific. A wonderful insight into an often negatively portrayed country. Thanks Intrepid.
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 06/01/2024
Paula - Traveled, May 2024
This trip across China with Jacky Zhen will go down as one of our favourite trips ever. We love to travel and we feel we really got to experience real China and were blown away by experiences, landscapes and local people and cultures.
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 06/04/2024
Guy - Traveled, September 2023
Good itinerary for all ages/physical abilities (although some may struggle on longer walks) along with friendly and knowledgeable tour leaders (Alan).
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 09/30/2023
Mark - Traveled, September 2023
This was an excellent way to experience China with minimum hassle, and comprised visits to many "must-see" locations
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 10/12/2023
Kevin - Traveled, July 2023
Our China trip was eye opening. China is a fascinating country and the itinerary gives you plenty of immersive time to see sights and meet people who are just as interested in visitors. China's new wealth and old traditions shine through. A trip for people who want to learn.
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 08/17/2023
Karen - Traveled, July 2023
This is a great trip to gain an insight into the people, landscapes, cities, history, culture and food of China. I learned such a lot and Dragon/Long was an excellent guide providing information, practical help and a sense of humour along the way. I would thoroughly recommend this trip.
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 08/16/2023
Stephen - Traveled, July 2023
China - it’s huge, no way could we get round it? But Intrepid gave us a great flavour - the Terracotta Army, the Great Wall, a cruise on the Yangtze. Lovely to do it in a group and experience Chicken Claw soup, Beak on a Plate, and Pig Willy surprise in the company of like-minded adventurers!
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 08/18/2023
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