China: The Big One

China: The Big One

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28 Days From

$5740

China: The Big One

28 Days

Tour operator:

Wendy Wu

Tour code:

960

Guide Type:

Fully Guided

Group size:

12 - 28

Physical rating:

Level2

Age range:

12-99

Special diets catered:

Vegetarians, Meat

Tour operated in:

English

Trip Styles:

Adventure Tours, Cruise

Interests:

Cultural, Wildlife Tours

Activities:

Cycling, Walking

From: $5740

NB: Prices correct on 01-Nov-2024 but subject to change.

Tour Overview

The complete Chinese adventure - this itinerary takes more time to explore the highlights of this beautiful and eclectic country, from busy cities, rural utopias and quirky ancient towns where you are free to absorb the relaxed atmosphere.

Highlights

  • Visit the imperial treasures of Beijing

  • Come face to face with the enigmatic Terracotta Warriors

  • Cruise the languid Li River

  • Climb the heights of Jade Dragon Snow Mountain

  • Get lost in the mysterious Stone Forest

  • Sample delicious Shanghai breakfast snacks

Itinerary

Expand All

Day 1 - 2 : Days 1-2: Fly Overnight To Beijing

Meals Included: Dinner

Fly overnight to Beijing, China's historic capital. Depending on your time of arrival, the rest of the day is at leisure.

Day 3: Forbidden City

Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch

Stroll across Tiananmen Square and into the sprawling magnificence of the Forbidden City. Next, visit Yandaixiejie Street where theres time to wander the hutongs. These narrow alleys offer a glimpse of old Beijing.

Day 4: Huanghuacheng Great Wall

Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch

Visit Huanghuacheng, a particularly scenic section of the Great Wall. Reached by boat it boasts particularly spectacular views from the top. Spend the afternoon at leisure exploring colourful Qianmen Street. In the evening, enjoy an optional Peking duck dinner.

Day 5: Imperial Summer Palace

Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch

Explore the beautifully designed grounds of the Summer Palace, including the Long Corridor and the Marble Boat. Spend time strolling along pretty Kunming Lake and walk up wooded Longevity Hill. Make a photo stop at the Olympic Park.

Day 6: Temple Of Heaven

Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch

Soak up the harmonious ambience of the Temple of Heaven before boarding the overnight train to Xian.

Day 7: Cycling In Xian

Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch

Start your day with a gentle cycle ride that will take you nine miles around the city wall that enclose Xian's old town. Also visit the Little Wild Goose Pagoda and Xian Museum.

Day 8: Terracotta Warriors

Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch

Spend the morning gazing over the ranks of warriors and horses, while you are introduced to these life-like soldiers' fascinating story. Take a walking tour of the Muslim Quarter and enjoy the evening at leisure.

Day 9: Chengdu Like A Local

Meals Included: Breakfast

Take the bullet train to Chengdu and walk around People's Park. Visit a local teahouse and Matchmaker's Corner.

Day 10: Giant Pandas

Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch

Visit the Chengdu Panda Conservation Centre and see these adorably charming bears up close. The rest of the day is at leisure. Enjoy an optional hot pot dinner and a 'face changing' show.

Day 11: Fly To Lijiang

Meals Included: Breakfast

Fly to Lijiang, set in the foothills of the magnificent Jade Dragon Snow Mountain.

Day 12: Jade Dragon Snow Mountain

Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch

Take a cable car to one of the high meadows and enjoy the vistas. Visit the minority Naxi village and admire the fascinating Baisha frescoes painted during the Ming Dynasty.

Day 13: Tiger Leaping Gorge (Optional)

Meals Included: Breakfast

Enjoy the day at leisure or trek to Tiger Leaping Gorge, through dramatic cliffs and down into the gorge itself.

Day 14: Shaxi Ancient Town

Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch

Discover Lijiang's historic old town. Drive to the ancient town of Shaxi, nestled deep in the Himalayan foothills. Learn about the minority people that reside then drive to Dali.

Day 15: Weibaoshan (Optional)

Meals Included: Breakfast

Enjoy the day at leisure or take an optional visit to Weibaoshan, one of the fourteen sacred Taoist mountains. Steeped in legend, the mountain features 20 Taoist temples nestled on its forested slopes. Walk up the hillside to see a handful of intricately decorated temples and meet a Taoist priest for a meditation session.

Day 16: Dali's Ancient Town

Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch

Visit the Three Pagodas and the Old Town. Also stroll along Foreigner's Street and enjoy time at leisure. In the afternoon, drive to Kunming.

Day 17: Stone Forest

Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch

Meander through the formations of the UNESCO-listed Stone Forest. Return to Kunming to visit Green Lake Park and have an evening at leisure, perhaps enjoying the vibrant Wenhua Alley district.

Day 18: Beautiful Guilin

Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch

Take the bullet train to Guilin and walk around the lakes before enjoying the evening at leisure. You may wish to stroll Zhengyang Street.

Day 19: Hiking In Longji (Optional)

Meals Included: Breakfast

Today, there is an option to take a four-hour hike in the stunning rice terraces of Longji. Otherwise, spend more time in Guilin.

Day 20: Li River Cruise

Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch

Take a gentle cruise along the Li River to Yangshuo. Lined with dramatic limestone cliffs, the serenity of life on the riverbanks is a wonderful sight. Take a walk through this idyllic wonderland and get an insight into life here. There's an option to hike to the top of Moon Hill for epic views.

Day 21: Yangshou Tai Chi

Meals Included: Breakfast

Start the day with an invigorating session of Tai Chi, taking a class with a master to learn this ancient martial art. Enjoy the afternoon at leisure or take part in an optional activity.

Day 22: Ancient Ciqikou

Meals Included: Breakfast, Dinner

Visit the Reed Flute Cave and a pearl museum before taking a bullet train to Chongqing. Enjoy free time in the charming old town of Ciqikou then board your Yangtze Cruise vessel.

Day 23 - 25 : Days 23-25: Yangtze River Cruise

Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

A cruise down the Yangtze reveals some of the world's most dramatic scenery. Over the next few days, visit the Three Gorges Dam and enjoy various side trips and shore excursions. Disembark your cruise vessel, travel to Yichang and then fly to Shanghai.

Day 26: Shanghainese Shanghai

Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch

Wake up to the buzz of Shanghai and take a breakfast walking tour between shimmering skyscrapers and traditional streets. Visit Yu Garden, the old town, a silk factory, stroll along the Bund and cruise along Huangpu River.

Day 27: Zhujiajiao (Optional)

Meals Included: Breakfast, Dinner

Join the optional day tour to delightful Zhujiajiao, or spend time at leisure in Shanghai. This evening, enjoy the ERA show and a delicious farewell dinner.

Day 28: Fly Shanghai To Uk

Meals Included: Breakfast

Fly to the UK, arriving home the same or following day.

What's Included

  • Accommodation
    3* plus - 4* accommodation

  • Meals
    26 Breakfasts, 17 Lunches & 5 Dinners

  • 4* accommodation (shared 4-berth train)

  • Domestic transportation

  • Touring with guides and entrance fees as stated

  • Most meals

What's Not Included

Tipping and gratuities are not included in the tour package.

Mode of Transport

Experience seamless travel with all domestic transportation, including internal flights, and enjoy international flights with current taxes. Airport transfers at the destination ensure a smooth journey.

Accommodation

Mercure Beijing Downtown

The 4-star Mercure Beijing Downtown is very well connected across the city, with easy access to the city centre and multiple transport links. The elegant and spacious guest rooms offer free internet access and satellite TV. Along with room service, other in room amenities such as a refrigerator and tea and coffee making facilities are provided.


Dajing Castle Hotel

Formerly known as Grand Park, the Dajing Castle hotel is a 4-star hotel located in the heart of Xi'an's Beilin district. Blending traditional and contemporary elements, the guestrooms boast comfortable interiors that exude style and elegance. Each room is equipped with modern amenities, including a flat-screen TV with cable channels, a minibar, and a safety deposit box. The ensuite bathroom is well-appointed with bathrobes and slippers for added convenience. The hotel features Wi-Fi, a fitness center, sauna, massage service, buffet breakfast and atrium bar.


Xinliang Hotel

The 4-star Xinliang Hotel is located in the heart of Chengdu, just a short distance from some of the cities key attractions. The hotel's interior was inspired by Bashu culture and blended with a modern charm. Enjoy the recreational facilities available to you, including a sauna and steamroom designed for escapism and relaxation.


Lijiang Wangfu Hotel

Ideally located in South Gate Square within the ancient city of Lijiang, the Lijiang Wangfu Hotel offers guests comfortable 4-star accommodation. Featuring ornate doorways and lanterns, and peaceful courtyards, you will feel truly immersed in your local surroundings. Each room features air-conditioning and Wi-Fi for your comfort and convenience.


Landscape Hotel

Landscape Hotel is a 3-star hotel situated inside the Dali Ancient Town, close to Dali railway station and Dali airport. The simplistic style of the rooms keeps the focus on how the hotel seamlessly blends the traditional courtyard style with local influences. Each room offers guests Wi-Fi and Chinese cuisine is served at breakfast.


Jinjiang Hotel

JinJiang Hotel is located close to Kunming's main attractions. Each of its air conditioned, modern en-suite rooms include satellite television, a minibar, complimentary toiletries and tea making facilities. The hotel is home to one revolving restaurant as well as 6 dining options and a bar. The onsite fitness centre and spa is a highlight.


Lijiang Waterfall Hotel

Located in Guilin's city center and opposite the attractive Sun and Moon pagodas, the Lijiang Waterfall Hotel offers luxury rooms equipped with a flat screen satellite television, a minibar, a safety deposit box and a stunning en-suite bathroom with complimentary toiletries. The hotel also boasts an outdoor swimming pool and a fitness centre. Guests can enjoy Chinese, Japanese, Korean and Western cuisines in the onsite restaurant.


Elite Garden Hotel

In the centre of Yangshuo, the 4-star Elite Garden Hotel offers spacious guest rooms designed and decorated to make you feel at home, all equipped with free internet access, complimentary bottled water and a coffee machine. The private bathrooms include both bath and shower facilities.


East Garden Hotel

Well positioned near the People’s Square, the 4-star East Garden Hotel boasts modern and warm interiors. The hotels tea room and restaurant offer traditional Chinese cuisine, while each room comes equipped with air-conditioning and Wi-Fi for your comfort.


Victoria Yangtze River Cruise

Sail along the Yangtze River in comfort, aboard one of the wonderful 4-star vessels of the Victoria Cruise fleet. Relax in your Superior Cabin situated on the Main Deck, equipped with Wi-Fi access, an ensuite bathroom, and a private balcony - a tranquil retreat for you to relax and take in the scenic beauty around you. Onboard entertainment may include informative lectures, painting demonstrations, Tai Chi, lessons in the Mandarin language and more! Amenity package upgrades are available upon enquiry with our Reservations team.


Hongqiao Jinjiang Hotel

Formerly known as the Sheraton Shanghai Hongqiao Hotel, the 4-star Hongqiao Jinjiang Hotel is located in the heart of Shanghai and welcomes visitors to a luxurious and relaxing retreat from the city. Guests will have easy access to the major metropolitan area as well as the Shanghai Public Library and Honggiao Golf Club.


Experiences

Visit Shaxi Ancient Town

Shaxi ancient town is not only a charming place to explore but, as the heart of an area that is home to a number of China's minority people, is the perfect place to delve into a timeless, rich culture and meet the friendly communities for yourself.


Meet with a Taoist priest

At Weibaoshan, meet with a Taoist priest to learn about the principles of this native philosophy and take part in a guided meditation session amongst these peaceful surroundings.


Explore the Huanghuacheng section of the Great Wall

Surrounded by tranquil lakes and most picturesquely reached by boat, explore the Huanghuacheng section of the Great Wall and marvel at the spectacular views over the surrounding countryside.


Check out our Q&As

  • What kind of accommodation is provided during the tour?

    The tour includes 26 nights of accommodation in 4-star hotels.

  • Are meals included in the tour package?

    Yes, the tour includes full board meals with 26 breakfasts, 17 lunches, and 5 dinners.

  • Is there an option for hiking during the tour?

    Yes, there is an optional four-hour hike in the stunning rice terraces of Longji and an optional trek to Tiger Leaping Gorge.

  • Will there be opportunities to experience local culture during the tour?

    Yes, you will have opportunities to experience local culture, such as mingling with locals at the Temple of Heaven, visiting a local teahouse in Chengdu, and learning Tai Chi from a master in Yangshuo.

  • What kind of transportation is included in the tour?

    The tour includes all domestic transportation, including internal flights, as well as international flights and airport transfers at the destination.

  • Are there any optional activities available during the tour?

    Yes, there are several optional activities, including a Peking duck dinner, hiking in Longji, visiting Weibaoshan, and a day tour to Zhujiajiao.

  • What are some of the highlights of the Yangtze River Cruise?

    The Yangtze River Cruise offers dramatic scenery, visits to the Three Gorges Dam, and various side trips and shore excursions.

  • Is tipping included in the tour package?

    No, tipping and gratuities are not included in the tour package.

  • What happens if I need to change my holiday date once I’ve booked?

    If, after our confirmation invoice has been issued, you wish to change your travel arrangements in any way, we will endeavour to make these changes, but it may not always be possible. Any changes to confirmed bookings need to be sent to us in writing via your travel agent. Please refer to our booking conditions for further information and fees.

  • Do you operate a “single share” option and how does it work?

    Customers booking to travel solo can choose our ‘Happy to Share’ option, which may enable them to share a twin room with other solo customers of the same gender who also request Happy to Share, thus avoiding the need to pay single room supplements. Note that ‘Happy to Share’ requests can be received when you make your booking with us but will not be confirmed until your final payment due date.

  • What documents will I receive before I travel?

    Your Final Travel Documents are usually sent to you 2-3 weeks prior to your departure. Your travel pack will include your tour itinerary, hotel details, flight e-tickets and a travel guide. If you have booked with a travel agent, your tickets will be dispatched to your travel agent unless we have been otherwise informed.

  • Will I be travelling with passengers from other countries?

    Our passengers generally enjoy the mixture of British, Australian and American clients on tour. Occasionally we are joined by English-speaking passengers from other countries.

  • What is 'Happy to Share'?

    Customers booking to travel solo can choose our ‘Happy to Share’ option, which may enable them to share a twin room with other solo customers of the same gender who also request Happy to Share, thus avoiding the need to pay single room supplements. Note that ‘Happy to Share’ requests can be received when you make your booking with us but will not be confirmed until your final payment due date. If a share partner is found, the Single Supplement will be removed from your booking. If a share partner is not found, the Single Supplement will remain and is payable with your final balance in line with our normal booking conditions. Either way, our Operations Team will contact you around 75 days before departure to let you know whether a share partner has been found or not. We regret that Happy to Share requests cannot be accepted within 75 days of departure. Wendy Wu Tours reserves the right to change or withdraw this arrangement at any time.

  • Do you allow children on your tours?

    We allow children 12 years and over on our group tours. We recommend that families with children of any age take advantage of our private or tailormade tours. This will give you more flexibility while on tour.

Reviews of this operator

Feefo Rated Customer  

Colours of Costa Rica

26-Mar-2020

This was our first tour with you and from start to finish we were guided by Isaac who made sure everything went smoothly. He was laid back - but on the ball - always available and very informative.

Excellent
Feefo Rated Customer  

Ultimate South America

21-Mar-2020

We were hoping this tour would be the holiday of a lifetime and it certainly was. Our guide, Corina, was fantastic and evry country we visited had something special. FANTASTIC

Excellent
William  

Japan Uncovered

12-Nov-2022

A superb trip which ticked all our boxes and covered all the main experiences you would wish for on a trip to Japan! We were looked after by excellent local guides. All of our accommodation was very good. With all meals included we got the chance to experience the local cuisine

Alastair  

Christmas in Vietnam

06-Jan-2023

Vietnam at Christmas, Excellent Experience From start to finish Vietnam at Christmas was amazing, The tour group, Local Guide Loc, we must have been blessed as the weather was excellent only one day of rain. Tour Group 11/10 Guide 11/10 Hotels 8/10 Food 8/10 Itineary10/10 Faboulous experience on Christmas in Vietnam

Feefo Rated Customer  

Highlights of Sri Lanka

24-Mar-2020

Great Country. Good range of different things to do and places to see - temples to beaches to wildlife. Hotels ranged from adequate to excellent. Food quality and variety was better than we expected A really good tour guide and our fellow travellers were excellent company. Would recommend despite the impact of Corona Virus cutting out a few later trips but that was beyond anyone's ability to control..

Excellent

1 Select your preferred date

Monday - Sunday

Apr 07, 2025 - May 04, 2025
$5740

Monday - Sunday

Apr 07, 2025 - May 04, 2025
$6968 $6644

Operator discount: -$323

Including UK Flights

Monday - Sunday

Apr 07, 2025 - May 04, 2025
$7317

Monday - Sunday

Apr 07, 2025 - May 04, 2025
$8545 $8222

Operator discount: -$323

Including UK Flights

Monday - Sunday

May 05, 2025 - Jun 01, 2025
$5740

Monday - Sunday

May 05, 2025 - Jun 01, 2025
$6968 $6644

Operator discount: -$323

Including UK Flights

Monday - Sunday

May 05, 2025 - Jun 01, 2025
$7317

Monday - Sunday

May 05, 2025 - Jun 01, 2025
$8545 $8222

Operator discount: -$323

Including UK Flights

Monday - Sunday

Sep 01, 2025 - Sep 28, 2025
$5869

Monday - Sunday

Sep 01, 2025 - Sep 28, 2025
$7097 $6774

Operator discount: -$323

Including UK Flights

Monday - Sunday

Sep 01, 2025 - Sep 28, 2025
$7446

Monday - Sunday

Sep 01, 2025 - Sep 28, 2025
$8674 $8351

Operator discount: -$323

Including UK Flights

Monday - Sunday

Oct 06, 2025 - Nov 02, 2025
$5869

Monday - Sunday

Oct 06, 2025 - Nov 02, 2025
$7097 $6774

Operator discount: -$323

Including UK Flights

Monday - Sunday

Oct 06, 2025 - Nov 02, 2025
$7446

Monday - Sunday

Oct 06, 2025 - Nov 02, 2025
$8674 $8351

Operator discount: -$323

Including UK Flights

Monday - Sunday

Mar 30, 2026 - Apr 26, 2026
$5998

Monday - Sunday

Mar 30, 2026 - Apr 26, 2026
$7226 $6903

Operator discount: -$323

Including UK Flights

Monday - Sunday

Mar 30, 2026 - Apr 26, 2026
$7666

Monday - Sunday

Mar 30, 2026 - Apr 26, 2026
$8894 $8571

Operator discount: -$323

Including UK Flights

Monday - Sunday

May 04, 2026 - May 31, 2026
$6127

Monday - Sunday

May 04, 2026 - May 31, 2026
$7355 $7032

Operator discount: -$323

Including UK Flights

Monday - Sunday

May 04, 2026 - May 31, 2026
$7795

Monday - Sunday

May 04, 2026 - May 31, 2026
$9023 $8700

Operator discount: -$323

Including UK Flights

Monday - Sunday

Aug 31, 2026 - Sep 27, 2026
$6127

Monday - Sunday

Aug 31, 2026 - Sep 27, 2026
$7355 $7032

Operator discount: -$323

Including UK Flights

Monday - Sunday

Aug 31, 2026 - Sep 27, 2026
$7795

Monday - Sunday

Aug 31, 2026 - Sep 27, 2026
$9023 $8700

Operator discount: -$323

Including UK Flights

Monday - Sunday

Oct 05, 2026 - Nov 01, 2026
$6127

Monday - Sunday

Oct 05, 2026 - Nov 01, 2026
$7355 $7032

Operator discount: -$323

Including UK Flights

Monday - Sunday

Oct 05, 2026 - Nov 01, 2026
$7795

Monday - Sunday

Oct 05, 2026 - Nov 01, 2026
$9023 $8700

Operator discount: -$323

Including UK Flights

Prices last published on 01-Nov-2024

Book with Confidence

  • Low Deposit

    Wendy Wu requires a minimum deposit of 350 GBP per person or the full booking value, whichever is less, with the final balance not due until 75 days before departure.

  • Cancellation Policy

    We don't charge a cancellation fee, here is a summary of wendy wu charges.

    Up to 75 days before tour starts: Forfeit 100% of deposit.

    At 74 days before tour starts: Forfeit 30% of booking price.

    At 41 days before tour starts: Forfeit 60% of booking price.

    At 27 days before tour starts: Forfeit 90% of booking price.

    At 14 days before tour starts: Forfeit 100% of booking price.

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