Ultimate China

Ultimate China

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27 Days From

$7275

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:

Wendy Wu

Tour code:

1683

Guide Type:

Fully Guided

Group size:

12 - 28

Physical rating:

Level3

Age range:

12-99

Special diets catered:

Vegetarians, Meat

Tour operated in:

English

Trip Styles:

River Cruise

Activities:

Sightseeing, Walking

From: $7275

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

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

  • Wander through Dali's charming old quarter.

  • Meander amongst the eerie Stone Forest in Kunming.

  • Cruise down the tranquil Li River, enjoying beautiful views of the karst mountains.

  • Visit the world-famous Panda Conservation Centre in Chengdu.

  • Visit Potala Palace, the former winter palace of the Dalai Lama.

  • Enjoy a 3-night voyage on the mighty Yangtze River.

  • Explore the magnificent Jade Dragon Snow Mountain.

  • Discover the Terracotta Warriors in Xian.

Itinerary

Expand All

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.

show more

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

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 - Saturday

May 05, 2025 - May 31, 2025
$7597

Monday - Saturday

May 05, 2025 - May 31, 2025
$8500

Including UK Flights

Monday - Saturday

May 05, 2025 - May 31, 2025
$9209

Monday - Saturday

May 05, 2025 - May 31, 2025
$10112

Including UK Flights

Monday - Saturday

May 12, 2025 - Jun 07, 2025
$7275

Monday - Saturday

May 12, 2025 - Jun 07, 2025
$8500 $8177

Operator discount: -$322

Including UK Flights

Monday - Saturday

May 12, 2025 - Jun 07, 2025
$8887

Monday - Saturday

May 12, 2025 - Jun 07, 2025
$10112 $9790

Operator discount: -$322

Including UK Flights

Monday - Saturday

Sep 01, 2025 - Sep 27, 2025
$7597

Monday - Saturday

Sep 01, 2025 - Sep 27, 2025
$8500

Including UK Flights

Monday - Saturday

Sep 01, 2025 - Sep 27, 2025
$9209

Monday - Saturday

Sep 01, 2025 - Sep 27, 2025
$10112

Including UK Flights

Monday - Saturday

Oct 06, 2025 - Nov 01, 2025
$7275

Monday - Saturday

Oct 06, 2025 - Nov 01, 2025
$8500 $8177

Operator discount: -$322

Including UK Flights

Monday - Saturday

Oct 06, 2025 - Nov 01, 2025
$8887

Monday - Saturday

Oct 06, 2025 - Nov 01, 2025
$10112 $9790

Operator discount: -$322

Including UK Flights

Wednesday - Monday

May 13, 2026 - Jun 08, 2026
$7662

Wednesday - Monday

May 13, 2026 - Jun 08, 2026
$8887 $8564

Operator discount: -$322

Including UK Flights

Wednesday - Monday

May 13, 2026 - Jun 08, 2026
$9364

Wednesday - Monday

May 13, 2026 - Jun 08, 2026
$10589 $10267

Operator discount: -$322

Including UK Flights

Wednesday - Monday

May 20, 2026 - Jun 15, 2026
$7662

Wednesday - Monday

May 20, 2026 - Jun 15, 2026
$8887 $8564

Operator discount: -$322

Including UK Flights

Wednesday - Monday

May 20, 2026 - Jun 15, 2026
$9364

Wednesday - Monday

May 20, 2026 - Jun 15, 2026
$10589 $10267

Operator discount: -$322

Including UK Flights

Monday - Saturday

Aug 31, 2026 - Sep 26, 2026
$7791

Monday - Saturday

Aug 31, 2026 - Sep 26, 2026
$9016 $8693

Operator discount: -$322

Including UK Flights

Monday - Saturday

Aug 31, 2026 - Sep 26, 2026
$9493

Monday - Saturday

Aug 31, 2026 - Sep 26, 2026
$10718 $10396

Operator discount: -$322

Including UK Flights

Monday - Saturday

Oct 05, 2026 - Oct 31, 2026
$7791

Monday - Saturday

Oct 05, 2026 - Oct 31, 2026
$9016 $8693

Operator discount: -$322

Including UK Flights

Monday - Saturday

Oct 05, 2026 - Oct 31, 2026
$9493

Monday - Saturday

Oct 05, 2026 - Oct 31, 2026
$10718 $10396

Operator discount: -$322

Including UK Flights

Monday - Saturday

Oct 12, 2026 - Nov 07, 2026
$7791

Monday - Saturday

Oct 12, 2026 - Nov 07, 2026
$9016 $8693

Operator discount: -$322

Including UK Flights

Monday - Saturday

Oct 12, 2026 - Nov 07, 2026
$9493

Monday - Saturday

Oct 12, 2026 - Nov 07, 2026
$10718 $10396

Operator discount: -$322

Including UK Flights

Prices last published on 31-Oct-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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