Experience the nuanced essence of China from Beijing to Hong Kong
Experience the breadth of cultures, flavours and landscapes that make up the vast Middle Kingdom on one our most popular tours through China. Marvel at iconic attractions like the Great Wall and the Terracotta Warriors, then find a quieter side of the country with a cruise along the Yangzi River and a stay in a Buddhist monastery tucked into the mountains of Emei Shan. Discover a land of epic history, vibrant cultures and dramatic vistas on this 19-day China Experience.
This is one of our most comprehensive trips in China, taking in key destinations from north to south with plenty of variety in experiences and sights along the way
Travel by overnight train to get a sense of the vastness of this country, as well as zip between cities on this high-speed rail network
Take through the iconic scenery of the Yangzi River as you meander through the dramatic Three Gorges on a three-day cruise
No matter how many guide books you have read, nothing truly prepares you for the grandeur and immensity of historic sights like the Great Wall, Tiananmen Square, Forbidden City, Leshan Big Buddha and the Terracotta Army. However, the country's modern man-made sights refuse to be outdone, and you can see the modern equivalence of those ancient feats in the skyline of Hong Kong and the Yangzi River's Three Gorges Hydroelectric dam
Get up close to giant pandas in Chengdu and learn about their struggle for survival
Beyond adorable, endangered giant pandas, Chengdu is one of our favourite cities in China. Find out why our travellers end up falling in love with this emerging travel hotspot here: intrepidtravel.com/adventures/chengdu-china-travel-guide
Escape the cities to discover China's natural beauty. Trek up the misty forests of Emei Shan for a stay in a monastery, waking to the sound of drums and prayers in the morning Buddhist ritual.
Cycle through the Chinese countryside with backdrops that resemble paintings – the picturesque limestone karsts of Yangshuo, for example, grace the walls of conference rooms and Chinese embassy's around the world
The overnight train travel included on this trip is in “soft sleeper” class – carriages sectioned off into 2 tier/4 berth compartments with lockable doors. If you would prefer a trip without overnight train travel, check out our trips Explore China, China: Great Wall Hike, Bike & Kung Fu (CBXGC) or Beijing to Hong Kong Adventure (CBSJ).
This trip is a true journey in the sense that we are covering huge distances and visiting many destinations along the way. Be prepared for long days of travel in between days packed with sightseeing.
With walks on the Great Wall and up Emei Shan (both which have many steps!), you'll need a good level of fitness to get the most out of these activities. Don't worry, you'll have plenty of more relaxing days too, such as on the Yangzi River cruise or in the picturesque town of Yangshuo.
There is a variety of accommodation on this trip including hotels, guesthouses, monasteries, riverboats and overnight trains. They might not always be as comfortable as home, but each accommodation site will give you a different perspective on China.
While we finish in Hong Kong, due to our late afternoon arrival we do not include much free time or activities here. We highly recommend staying a few extra days post trip to make the most of this exciting city. Here's some tips to get you started: intrepidtravel.com/adventures/what-to-do-in-hong-kong
1. A Single Supplement to have your own room is bookable on this trip (excluding the overnight train and Yangzi River boat), subject to availability.
2. A scanned copy of the personal details page of your passport needs to be sent to your booking agent no later than 40 days before departure in order for us to purchase your train tickets.
3. The overnight train from Yichang to Liuzhou on this tour is in 2tier/4-berth 'soft-sleeper' class. Bedding is provided and wash basins and toilets (squat/western) are available in each carriage, but there are no shower facilities.
4. Please note while traveling through mainland China you will not be able to access some popular internet websites.
Want an in-depth insight into this trip? Essential Trip Information provides a detailed itinerary, visa info, how to get to your hotel, what's included - pretty much everything you need to know about this adventure and more.
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