Ultimate China
Ultimate China
Ultimate China
27 Days Starting and ending in UK
Visiting: Beijing, Great Wall of China, Xian, Xi'an, Guilin, Yangshuo, Kunming, Stone Forest, Dali, Lijiang, Tiger Leaping Gorge, Zhongdian, Lhasa, Chengdu, Shanghai
Tour operator:
Tour code:
1683
Guide Type:
Fully Guided
Group size:
12 - 28
Age range:
12-99
Special diets catered:
Vegetarians, Meat
Tour operated in:
EnglishTrip Styles:
Interests:
Activities:
Tour Overview
Embark on the "Ultimate China" tour, a captivating journey through the heart of this vast and diverse country. Experience the allure of ancient and modern China as you explore iconic landmarks such as the Great Wall, the Forbidden City, and the Terracotta Warriors. Delight in the natural beauty of the Li River and the mystical Stone Forest, and immerse yourself in the cultural richness of Dali's old quarter and Lhasa's Potala Palace. Witness the adorable giant pandas at Chengdu's conservation center and enjoy a serene 3-night cruise on the mighty Yangtze River. This fully guided, 25-night adventure includes international flights, accommodation, meals, and all domestic transportation, offering a comprehensive and unforgettable exploration of China's history, nature, and culture.
Highlights
Itinerary
Day 1 - 2 : Days 1-2: Fly Overnight To Beijing
Location: Beijing, Beijing
Accommodation Name: hotel
Meals Included: Dinner
Fly overnight to Beijing, China's historic capital. Depending on your time of arrival, the rest of the day is yours to start soaking up the local culture.
Day 1 - 2 : Days 1-2: Fly Overnight To Beijing
Location: Beijing, Beijing
Accommodation Name: hotel
Meals Included: Dinner
Fly overnight to Beijing, China's historic capital. Depending on your time of arrival, the rest of the day is yours to start soaking up the local culture.
Day 3: Imperial Beijing
Location: Beijing
Accommodation Name: hotel
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
This morning, head to Beijing's symbolic heart, Tiananmen Square and stroll into the sprawling magnificence of the Forbidden City. Later, soak up the harmonious ambience of the Temple of Heaven. In the evening, enjoy a traditional Peking duck dinner.
Day 4: The Great Wall
Location: Great Wall of China
Accommodation Name: hotel
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
This morning is dedicated to China's most iconic sight – the Great Wall. Taking a walk on this incredible structure is the best way to appreciate both the wall itself and the dramatic scenery that it crosses. Visit a jade factory then spend the afternoon in the idyllic gardens of the Summer Palace.
Day 5: Bullet Train To Xian
Location: Xian
Accommodation Name: hotel
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Take the bullet train to Xian and in the evening, enjoy a delicious feast of traditional Shui Jiao dumplings followed by a performance of Tang Dynasty dancing.
Day 6: Terracotta Warriors
Location: Xi'an
Accommodation Name: hotel
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
After their fortuitous discovery in the 1970s, the Terracotta Army of China's first emperor, Qin Shi Huang, has intrigued visitors ever since. Spend the morning viewing the enigmatic ranks of life-sized warriors and horses. Also visit the workshop to see where the warriors are intricately recreated in the style of their ancient counterparts. After lunch, stroll along the beautifully preserved 14th-century city walls that enclose Xian's old town.
Day 7: Reed Flute Cave
Location: Guilin
Accommodation Name: hotel
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Fly to Guilin and visit Reed Flute Cave to see the colourful stalagmites and stalactites.
Day 8: Li River Cruise
Location: Yangshuo
Accommodation Name: hotel
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Take a relaxed cruise along the Li River to charming Yangshuo. Around every river bend is a view to take your breath away as jagged karst peaks loom over rural scenes of lush greenery, grazing buffalo and local fishermen. This afternoon you can spend some time browsing Yangshuo's vibrant markets.
Day 9: Yangshuo
Location: Yangshuo
Accommodation Name: hotel
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Begin with a relaxing and invigorating session of Tai Chi, taking a class with a master to learn this ancient martial art. Explore the countryside and stop on the banks of the Li River for a photo opportunity with a cormorant fisherman. Enjoy time at leisure or choose one of the many optional activities available including cycling or bamboo rafting.
Day 10: Travel To Kunming
Location: Kunming
Accommodation Name: hotel
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Take a bullet train to Kunming, capital of Yunnan Province.
Day 11: The Stone Forest
Location: Stone Forest
Accommodation Name: hotel
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Meander through the formations of the UNESCO-listed Stone Forest, where towering limestone pillars stand tree-like in a fascinating illusion of woodland. This evening, dine on the local dish, 'Across the Bridge' noodles.
Day 12: Dali's Three Pagodas
Location: Dali
Accommodation Name: hotel
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Board the bullet train to Dali, a charming town that offers a peek at bygone China and discover the magnificent Three Pagodas.
Day 13: Enchanting Dali
Location: Dali
Accommodation Name: hotel
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Today, explore the village of Xizhou to browse its local market, visit the Yan family home and watch a tie-dying demonstration and wander through Dali's ancient quarter. Also enjoy a relaxing cruise on Erhai Lake.
Day 14: Explore Lijiang
Location: Lijiang
Accommodation Name: hotel
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Drive to Lijiang, set in the foothills of Jade Dragon Snow Mountain and visit Shaxi village.
Day 15: Jade Dragon Snow Mountain
Location: Lijiang
Accommodation Name: hotel
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
The magnificent Jade Dragon Snow Mountain comprises several peaks, the tallest of which soars to 5,500 metres. Taking a cable car, explore one of the gorgeous high meadows and enjoy the amazing vistas. On the way back to Lijiang, visit Baisha old town to view its spectacular Ming Dynasty frescoes and Baisha village, a settlement of the Naxi minority people.
Day 16: Tiger Leaping Gorge
Location: Tiger Leaping Gorge
Accommodation Name: hotel
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Journey to the 3,000-metre-deep Tiger Leaping Gorge. With its backdrop of snow-capped mountains, it is one of China's most extraordinary sights. Next, continue to the monastery town of Zhongdian, also known as Shangri-La. This afternoon is at leisure to acclimatise to the altitude
Day 17: Tibetan Zhongdian
Location: Zhongdian
Accommodation Name: hotel
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Begin the day with a visit to a Tibetanstyle village where you will learn about the villagers' way of life. Also visit Dafo Temple, explore the spectacular Songzanlin Monastery and end the day with a tour of the old town.
Day 18: Mystical Lhasa
Location: Lhasa
Accommodation Name: hotel
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Fly to the city of Lhasa, the heart and soul of Tibet. This afternoon is at leisure to help acclimatise to the altitude.
Day 19: The Barkhor Circuit
Location: Lhasa
Accommodation Name: hotel
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Lhasa is a modern, fast-growing city, but among the narrow, old, atmospheric streets you will feel a million miles from the modern world. Wander around the Barkhor Circuit with traditionally dressed locals and explore the Jokhang Temple, the sacred centre of Tibetan Buddhism. There will also be a visit to Sera Monastery, a renowned seat of Buddhist learning, and a local Tibetan arts and crafts shop.
Day 20: Potala Palace
Location: Lhasa
Accommodation Name: hotel
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
The Potala Palace is an architectural wonder towering over the city from its seat on Marpo Ri (Red Mountain). The Potala, the former winter palace of the Dalai Lama, houses thousands of rooms filled with old treasures from intricate shrines to beautiful frescoes. This afternoon, explore Norbulingka, the former summer residence of the Dalai Lama.
Day 21: Fly To Chengdu
Location: Chengdu
Accommodation Name: hotel
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Fly to Chengdu, capital of Sichuan Province. Take a stroll through People's Park to see
Matchmaker's Corner, where parents search for suitable partners for their children.
Day 22: Giant Pandas
Location: Chengdu
Meals Included: Breakfast
Begin the day with a visit to Chengdu's famous conservation centre. Later, transfer to Chongqing and board your Yangtze River cruise vessel.
Day 26: Explore Shanghai
Location: Shanghai
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Shanghai is China’s great metropolis, where east and west collide on streets lined with futuristic skyscrapers and 10th-century temples. Visit Yu Garden, the old town, a silk factory and stroll along the Bund. This evening, view the city from the Huangpu River on a panoramic cruise andenjoy a meal of traditional Shanghainese cuisine.
Day 27: Fly Shanghai To Uk
Location: Shanghai
Meals Included: Breakfast
Fly to the UK, arriving home the same or following day.
What's Included
-
Local Taxes
Local taxes are included in the tour package.
-
Accommodation
25 nights in 4-star accommodation are included.
-
Entrance Fees
Entrance fees to various attractions are included.
-
Country Entry Visas
Country entry visas are included in the tour package.
-
Airport Transfers at Destination
Airport transfers at the destination are included.
-
Fully Guided
The tour is fully guided.
-
All Domestic Transportation
All domestic transportation, including internal flights, is included.
-
Flights
International flights and current taxes are included.
-
Fully Inclusive
The tour is fully inclusive with guides and entrance fees.
-
Cruise
Yangtze River Cruise, Li River Cruise, and Huangpu River Cruise are included.
What's Not Included
Tipping and gratuities are not included in the tour package.
Mode of Transport
Travel seamlessly with all domestic transportation included, featuring internal flights and bullet trains, along with international flights and current taxes for a hassle-free journey.
Accommodation
Enjoy 25 nights in comfortable 4-star accommodations, providing a relaxing retreat after each day's adventures across China.
Experiences
Cruise on Erhai Lake
Cruise on the crystal-clear tranquil waters of Erhai Lake, admiring the views over the Cangshan Mountains and passing its many famous islands, many of them complete with colourful temples.
See the Baisha Frescoes
Painted during the Ming Dynasty (1368 and 1644) the incredible Baisha Frescoes tell fascinating stories of the daily life, religion and politics of their time and have retained their bright colours and vivid patterns.
Visit a Traditional Tibetan Family Home
Venture to a Tibetan village in the highlands of Yunnan province to meet the local community, visit a traditional family home and experience the intriguing blend of the Tibetan and Chinese way of life.
Check out our Q&As
-
What kind of accommodation is provided during the tour?
The tour includes 25 nights of accommodation in 4-star hotels.
-
Are meals included in the tour package?
Yes, the tour is fully inclusive with full board meals, including 25 breakfasts, 24 lunches, and 25 dinners.
-
What types of transportation are included in the tour?
The tour includes all domestic transportation, including internal flights, as well as international flights and current taxes. It also features a Yangtze River Cruise, Li River Cruise, and Huangpu River Cruise.
-
Will there be a guide during the tour?
Yes, the tour is fully guided, with guides provided for touring and entrance fees included.
-
What are some of the key activities included in the itinerary?
Key activities include visiting the Great Wall, exploring the Forbidden City, seeing the Terracotta Warriors, cruising the Li River, and visiting the Panda Conservation Centre in Chengdu.
-
Is there any leisure time during the tour?
Yes, there are leisure periods such as in Lhasa to acclimatize to the altitude and in Yangshuo where you can choose optional activities.
-
Are there any cultural experiences included in the tour?
Yes, the tour includes cultural experiences such as a traditional Peking duck dinner, a Tang Dynasty dancing performance, and a Tai Chi class with a master.
-
What is the policy on tipping and gratuities?
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
1 Select your preferred date
Monday - Saturday
May 05, 2025 - May 31, 2025Monday - Saturday
May 05, 2025 - May 31, 2025Monday - Saturday
May 05, 2025 - May 31, 2025Monday - Saturday
May 05, 2025 - May 31, 2025Monday - Saturday
May 12, 2025 - Jun 07, 2025Monday - Saturday
May 12, 2025 - Jun 07, 2025Monday - Saturday
May 12, 2025 - Jun 07, 2025Monday - Saturday
May 12, 2025 - Jun 07, 2025Monday - Saturday
Sep 01, 2025 - Sep 27, 2025Monday - Saturday
Sep 01, 2025 - Sep 27, 2025Monday - Saturday
Sep 01, 2025 - Sep 27, 2025Monday - Saturday
Sep 01, 2025 - Sep 27, 2025Monday - Saturday
Oct 06, 2025 - Nov 01, 2025Monday - Saturday
Oct 06, 2025 - Nov 01, 2025Monday - Saturday
Oct 06, 2025 - Nov 01, 2025Monday - Saturday
Oct 06, 2025 - Nov 01, 2025Wednesday - Monday
May 13, 2026 - Jun 08, 2026Wednesday - Monday
May 13, 2026 - Jun 08, 2026Wednesday - Monday
May 13, 2026 - Jun 08, 2026Wednesday - Monday
May 13, 2026 - Jun 08, 2026Wednesday - Monday
May 20, 2026 - Jun 15, 2026Wednesday - Monday
May 20, 2026 - Jun 15, 2026Wednesday - Monday
May 20, 2026 - Jun 15, 2026Wednesday - Monday
May 20, 2026 - Jun 15, 2026Monday - Saturday
Aug 31, 2026 - Sep 26, 2026Monday - Saturday
Aug 31, 2026 - Sep 26, 2026Monday - Saturday
Aug 31, 2026 - Sep 26, 2026Monday - Saturday
Aug 31, 2026 - Sep 26, 2026Monday - Saturday
Oct 05, 2026 - Oct 31, 2026Monday - Saturday
Oct 05, 2026 - Oct 31, 2026Monday - Saturday
Oct 05, 2026 - Oct 31, 2026Monday - Saturday
Oct 05, 2026 - Oct 31, 2026Monday - Saturday
Oct 12, 2026 - Nov 07, 2026Monday - Saturday
Oct 12, 2026 - Nov 07, 2026Monday - Saturday
Oct 12, 2026 - Nov 07, 2026Monday - Saturday
Oct 12, 2026 - Nov 07, 2026Book 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.
Enquire for huge savings
Rated 5* on Trust Pilot & ABTA Protected.