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China Tours & Trips

China, Asia's largest country, swings between the stunning modern vibes of Beijing and Shanghai and the centuries old culture and traditions of Tibet . Take a walk on the Great Wall of China , have a river cruise on Yangtze river with one of our adventures or visit Yunnan and fall in love with this country.

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250+ china tour packages with 449 reviews.

China Express Tour

  • In-depth Cultural
  • Christmas & New Year

China Express

I loved the tour - it's a very quick trip through China's main tourist attractions and there really isn't time for rest but that was perfect given the limited time I had. There was a problem with one member of the group who didn't speak English and had fairly severe medical issues - which would have been fine if it didn't impact the rest of the group - but they did, and I don't believe he should ever have been let on the trip. G Adventures should at least be asking people if they have a decent grasp of English and are medically fit for the trip. Otherwise it was great - had a brilliant time, and if you want to see China in a limited amount of time then this is a great way to do it.

8-Day Small Group China Tour to Beijing, Xi\'an and Shanghai Tour

8-Day Small Group China Tour to Beijing, Xi'an and Shanghai

As a couple surprised by an fantastic individual tour by three very articulate guides and proficient drivers around Beijing, Xian and Shanghai. Learnt not only about history but culture and language today. Felt very safe even when venturing out alone around cities without guides. Our only issue was we could not get internet to connect but that is going to be more us being technophobic. However so supported by guides that not required.
  • 10% deposit on some dates Some departure dates offer you the chance to book this tour with a lower deposit.

11-Day Small Group China Tour to Beijing, Xi\'an, Guilin and Shanghai Tour

11-Day Small Group China Tour to Beijing, Xi'an, Guilin and Shanghai

All the guides were very nice. To call this a no shopping tour is misleading. Several times we were put in shopping situations that were not mentioned in the description or were sprung on us in transit.

China Delights Small Group Tour Tour

China Delights Small Group Tour

This is a great tour that packs a lot in. Time flies as you see so much although you won't spend long at many of the sites. My favourite bits of the itinerary were: - The Great Wall at Mutianyu (Beijing) we took the chair lift option which meant we could ride the toboggan back down. - Terracotta Warriors (Xian) half day - Li River Cruise (Guilin) - Huangpu River Cruise (Shanghai) which luckily turned into an evening cruise as we couldn't get on the earlier one. Those are the highlights but there are so many other things such as the Tang Dynasty Dancing and Dumpling Dinner and Summer Palace in Beijng and Reed Flute Caves in Guilin. In particular Guilin so picturesque and Shanghai so modern. We were lucky with our first two guides, Tina (Beijing) and Celine (Xian) who were both excellent. Autumn in Guilin and Mindy in Shanghai were good too. Autumn stayed with us to help us find and order food in the evenings so a couple of long shifts for her. Celine helped arrange a birthday cake for one of our younger travellers. Included meals were excellent. Full banquets usually in local restaurants but we really enjoyed the home cooked lunch as well. Food was plentyful. We even enjoyed the set meal box on the cruise. Hotels were generally of a good standard. Check-in at The Great Wall Hotel in Beijing was really slow though and trying to find a table for breakfast was difficult and located a fair distance away from where the restaurants are (need to get the subway to reach them) The hotel in Guilin was the worst one, the rooms being some distance away from the lift and lobby and small bathrooms. The hotel in Shanghai was excellent. It was nice touch that we got framed photo souvenirs of our trip from Beijing although I think both myself and my sister should have received one each as we paid for single supplements. Some feedback I'd give would be that they need to let us know about the optional night tours that are available on the website/ itinerary before we come out so that we can budget properly. There was a night visit for the Big Goose Pagoda in Xian with the musical fountain light show which we would have liked to have gone to didn't go to due to the weather. We found that the night cruise in Guilin was expensive as the premium we paid for the guide to buy the tickets and come onboard with us was excessive. We could have just walked to the ticket office and bought the tickets ourselves. The night tour of Shanghai was just as expensive but at least that included a coach to drive us around as well as the guide. Having said that, we could have used the subway and got around ourselves and because it started so late, we didn't see much. It is worth going up Jin Mao Tower. Overall, we had a great time on this trip and would recommend Travel China Guide.
  • Book With Flexibility This operator allows you to rebook your dates or tours with them for free, waiving change fees.

The Essence of Guilin Tour

  • Sightseeing

The Essence of Guilin

It's been a great trip... Thanks to you. We've couldn't have asked for a better Guilin tour.

China Highlights (5 destinations) Tour

  • Train & Rail

China Highlights (5 destinations)

Great Wall & Warriors - 10 days Tour

Great Wall & Warriors - 10 days

Too many guides Last guide Fey was unfriendly and controlling for first day but bit nicer second day Tower tour we were told on rainy day in Shanghai was low visibility It was zero visibility and waste of our time and money, why was it not put to last day in Shanghai The show as add on was very expensive with mediocre food and service Show was out of time but generally good All of the review forms was very annoying in deed Sights were good First hotel in Beijing was poorly located Hotel in Shanghai was nice but long from everything Not sure if would book other tours with you

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Great Wall to Great Cities: Beijing to Shanghai China Journey Tour

Great Wall to Great Cities: Beijing to Shanghai China Journey

I took their Beijing tour back a few years ago and loved it!! I still can't believe I saw so much of China in just 3 weeks! The hostels were actually really nice, and the experiences were incredible. Guides were all super friendly and had fun recommendations. When meals weren't provided, we'd get a group dinner together which was super fun. At times I was the most exhausted I've ever been, but the guides were super motivated and kept the energy up. I know people who have gone on more expensive tours of China and didn't get to do the cool stuff we did like camping on the great wall of china or training with shaolin warriors.
  • 5% deposit on some dates Some departure dates offer you the chance to book this tour with a lower deposit.

China Express - 8 days Tour

China Express - 8 days

Leo was brilliant with the right balance of history, geography and social skills

Hong Kong to Chengdu Express: 9-Day Chinese Journey Tour

Hong Kong to Chengdu Express: 9-Day Chinese Journey

Wished I could have done the whole tour - loved that it was so flexible

Real China Tour

We were so fortunate to have Qin as our guide on this tour. She took us to so many places, that we would likely not have found on our own. I was particularly impressed by the fact she was able to order us the local delicacies of every place we visited - I have never eaten so much delicious food. Qin's hometown of Yangshuo was the highlight for me, as not only was it absolutely beautiful, but her personal connections with the city and it's people, made it an extra special experience. As a group, we concluded that the bike ride Qin took us on along the river, should be included in the cost, rather than as an additional activity, as it was truly one of the most breathtaking rides we'd ever been on. Qin was very accomodating, even organising a private bus on our day trip to the Terracotta Warriors, to ensure we would have the best experience by maximising our time there. Plus if we ever had any free time, she always had suggestions or recommendations of things we could do (in addition to what was listed). It is worth pointing out that the trip does include extensive travelling, both at night and during the day, and it would be worth including the approximate travel times for each trip for the purposes of transparency. While the trip says 12 days, the first and the last are not counted, and it would be fair to say we lost an additional two days with travelling. Given the amount of ground we covered, this is to be expected, but the details of this travel could be included more clearly in the trip summary (prior to attending the trip). Although it is covered in the notes received once you have booked the trip, it is certainly worth making note (perhaps like the fitness rating) that the trip, given China's air quality, may provided difficult for certain people, such as asthmatics, including myself. While I had medication with me which I was taking regularly, I still found the air pollution caused significant challenges and it was something I could not quite comprehend until having to breathe through it. Overall, a great trip, and one that I am glad I got to experience with the absolutely wonderful Qin as my guide.

Chinese Cuisine & Culture Tour

  • Food & Culinary

Chinese Cuisine & Culture

I saw a lot and the chosen destinations were very interesting. The organization was also great. Everything went smoothly and on time. All the tour guides were extremely friendly, well informed and very keen to fulfill all wishes. The hotels were clean and well maintained. The hotels were centrally located for exploring on your own. I felt very well looked after, learned a lot about China and can only recommend this trip.

Best of China Small Group Tour Tour

Best of China Small Group Tour

Wild Yunnan 8D: Kunming-Dali-Lijiang- Shangri-La Tour

Wild Yunnan 8D: Kunming-Dali-Lijiang- Shangri-La

Since we were traveling in an unpopular travel time, we had our own private tour guide. Our guide, Nancy, was also our driver for Dali, Lijiang and Shangri-La. The whole itinerary was very good scheduled and not to packed, so we had time to stroll around the cities by ourselves as well. We were very happy overall and will definitely recommend this tour

7 Days Lhasa To Shigatse and Namtso Group Tour Tour

7 Days Lhasa To Shigatse and Namtso Group Tour

I love this trip so much! It is a lifetime experience I will never forget. The guide was very caring. I was a little dizzy on the first day. The guide constantly asked about my condition. He was also humorous and knowledgeable on Tibetan Buddhism and history. We learned a lot along the way. At EBC, we were so lucky to have good weather. When we look out from the window of the nomad tent, breathtaking! I see the starry sky! With the good arrangement and accompaniment, our trip has become more meaningful and wonderful. Thanks for everything. I highly recommend it to our friends.

What people love about China Tours

Great fun packed itinerary and wonderful leading by the guide Howard from Xian. Amazing, just go.
This tour is the greatest China esperience! All guides go above and beyond to immerse you in the ancient China history, local culture, natural wonders. Absolutely professional and courteous service, best accomodations, balanced time and activities for perfect vacation. Special thanks to TravelChinaGuide agent Emily - helping all the way in planning the tour. Highly recommended tour and TravelChinaGuide team, especially for the first-time visitors to China.

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China Tours 2024/2025: Most Popular Tours and New Experiences

From December 1st, 2023 to November 30th, 2024, visitors from France, Germany, Italy, Netherlands, Spain, Singapore, and Malaysia can stay in China for up to 15 days without a visa for travel, business, transit, or visiting friends and family.

Starting March 14th, travelers from Austria, Belgium, Hungary, Ireland, Luxembourg, and Switzerland can also enjoy this visa-free entry.

If you are planning a China trip for 2024/2025, don't miss the private tour packages we offer with promotions below . Any of them can be customized according to your schedule and interests. New experiences offered only by China Highlights may give you some inspiration for a unique China trip during your vacation time in 2024/2025

Top 4 Promoted China Tours for 2024/2025

These are our most popular four China tour itineraries, which visit all the classic sights. 80% of first-time travelers start their tailored-China-tour journey from these itineraries. Please ask your personal travel advisor about our promotion policy when inquiring about any of these tours!

  • The best choice for first-timers
  • Discover the picturesque rural China 
  • The best choice for panda fans
  • Be a panda keeper
  • The best choice for nature lovers
  • Witness the Hallelujah Mountains
  • Top  family itinerary
  • Experience China's countryside life together

New Tours for Exploring China in 2024/2025

The tours below are newly-designed for travelers who would like to discover the hidden beauties of China, immerse themselves in local culture or local life, or take on some new challenges. Any of these itineraries below can be changed or combined as another leg of your China tour.

  • Ideal for a second China tour
  • Explore more natural beauty and ethnic cultures
  • Best for retired couples
  • Main cities and core destinations of Silk Road
  • The best for a bucket list trip
  • A grand trip including China's highlights
  • Best for culture fans
  • Meet Chinese ethnic minorities

New Experiences for Your China Tour in 2024/2025

China Highlights creates new experiences every year, allowing travelers to find those hidden gems on less-traveled roads, to understand China's culture by practicing it, to try new and exciting outdoor activities, and to uncover the stories behind the sights and people. Discover the real China with our exclusive experiences below.

Discover real reviews of Highlights Travel Family 's best-rated service across trusted platforms.

Best Time to Visit China

For comfortable weather conditions, the best times to visit China are spring (April–May) and autumn (September–October).

For a quiet experience , avoid China's public holidays: National Day holiday (October 1–7) and Chinese New Year Holiday (15 days before and after February 10th in 2024), and school summer holidays in July and August.

For the best prices : visit in the low season from November to December.

How many days for a classic tour?

For a classic tour, we recommend you spend at least 8 days at the most classic destinations — Beijing, Shanghai, and Xi'an. Our 8-day Golden Triangle itinerary fits this recommendation perfectly.

Here are recommendations of what to see in the top five China destinations:

There are no fixed itineraries for our tours. Our travel advisors can change the itinerary according to your schedule, interests, and budget.

Which city to enter/leave China from?

The most popular China gateway cities are Beijing, Shanghai, and Hong Kong, with huge international airports and plentiful attractions.

Our tours can start from whichever gateway city you prefer.

How to get a China visa in 2024

Foreign citizens normally need a visa to visit China. We recommend you apply for your China visa one to two months before your travel date. Applying for a visa with the help of a visa company may save you a lot of hassle. See more on China Visa Requirements  and China Travel Restrictions . 

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China Tours

China, a mysterious and splendid country in East Asia, boasts countless ancient treasures, monumental marvels, mesmerizing landscapes, diverse ethnic groups, world-famous delicacies, and welcoming people that attract travelers from all over the world to come and explore!

From the magnificent Great Wall to the buried life-size Terracotta Warriors , ancient architecture such as city walls, pagodas, time-honored temples, and Giant Buddhas, China showcases the best highlights and amazing experiences like nowhere else. As you venture deep into the stunning cityscapes from Shanghai to Beijing , read vivid history while stepping into the ancient heart of Xian , float on the tranquil Li River from Guilin to Yangshuo with limestone Karst mountains, enjoy a relaxing river cruise on the Yangtze River, and experience the vast contrast while traveling in the land of holy Tibet , immersed in a world of Tibetan culture... you'll be struck by how diverse this land can be. Welcome to China - one of the world's oldest and most splendid cultures - all yours to explore.

With many offices operating in different destinations , Asia Odyssey Travel is a local travel agency based in China. We are here, ready to provide you with the best local service at reasonable prices! All China tours are flexible and can be customized based on your preferences and interests . Feel free to choose from our most recommended China tours for 2024 , China tours from popular gateway cities, or focus your interest on trip themes. Go your own way!

Take a China Group Tour at the Lowest Price 2024

If you're first-timers in China and seeking the best value, you can select from our 25 best China group tours , each offering unique experience in various destinations. Enjoy a discount of about 30% compared to a private tour. Rest assured that the same exceptional experience and the lowest price are guaranteed! Learn more >>

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China has glorious history, unique culture, many amazing masterpieces. On our tours to China, you should not miss the iconic attractions and must-visit spots including:

Terracotta Warriors , Marvel at the 8000 life-size Terracotta Warriors and Horses, a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1987

The Bund, Stroll leisurely on the banks of Huangpu River on the Bund and catch the amazing skyline of the Pudong New Area

Giant Pandas , Meet the adorable pandas and newborn baby pandas at the real Hometown of Giant Pandas in Chengdu

The Yangtze River , the third-longest river in the world and enjoy relaxing cruise through the Three Gorges and Three Gorges Dam

On our top China tours, you’ll visit some of the most popular landmarks, including:

The Great Wall of China, hike on the magnificent Great Wall and have a panoramic view with spectacular landscape

Forbidden City, Walk and explore in the largest imperial capital city still existing in China

Giant Pandas, Meet the adorable pandas and newborn baby pandas at the real Hometown of Giant Pandas in Chengdu

Potala Palace, Reach the Roof of the World and pay a holy visit to the Potala Palace comprising the White and Red Palaces built on the Red Mountain

If you want to escape to the nature with hiking and photography experience, you can come to the following places:

Guilin : Embrace the nature in Guilin with endless picturesque Karst landscape along the Li River and immerse yourself in the idyllic countryside of Yangshuo.

Zhangjiajie : Spend your memorable time exploring Wulingyuan Scenic Area, a magicla place dominated by more than 3000 narrow sandstone pillars and peaks and personally see the Avatar Mountain in reality.

Huangshan : Get a good chance to discover the 4 wonders in Yellow Mountain which include the Pine Forest, Strange Stone, Cloud Sea, and Hot Spring.

Latest China Tours Reviews from Our Customers

HELEN HUANG

HELEN HUANG

star

Date of Experience: Mar 20, 2024

Tour Customized by: Vincent

You May be Interested in This Tour: Customized Tour

cheng tong

My first time travelling with Odyssey Travel. The organiser Vincent is good in arranging / organising our itinerary prior our trip.

Our expect guide Howard , who accompanied us was needless to say much :

Attentive, Informative, Patience, thoughtful ..

After 10 days we are like friends , we will miss him.

The itinerary was well planned to suit our group of mostly senior citizens with aches all over the body after 3rd day but importantly we made it ! Praises to our travel mates .

Not to mention our driver Xiao Yue , he is small in size but he has a perfect 10 driving skills maneuver a U-turn on a busy street , no sweat to avoid obstacle with a huge trailer

carrying a very long windmill on a narrow winding road.

I would highly recommend to friends & myself for my next trip to China.

A big Thank you to Howard & Xiao Yue for a memorable trip .

David

Date of Experience: Mar 16, 2024

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China Heritage Tours | China National Parks Holiday 2024/2025

With profound culture and eye popping nature, China boasts 57 UNESCO world heritage sites , ranking the second in the world with the total number, including some popular tourists’ destinations, such as the Great Wall in Beijing, Terracotta Warriors in Xian, Giant Panda in Sichuan, Longmen Grottoes in Luoyang. Also, you will find some best national parks of China: Zhangjiajie National Park , Jiuzhaigou National Park , Guilin National Park , Kunming Stone Forest and more.

Tracing back to ancient buildings, splendid grottoes, extraordinary nature and other masterpieces, China Discovery takes you to know more about Chinese culture, history, religions by joining China Heritage Tours to find the china heritage sites & national parks with competitive price!

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With most Cultural Heritage located in north of China and Natural Heritage in south of China, the best selected China Heritage Tours present you the great historical and cultural world heritage sites with most visited. With more China Natural Heritage Tours, please find at National Parks Tours.

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Top Cultural Heritage site: Terracotta Warriors

Cultural masterpiece with extraordinary terracotta craft for thousands of year.

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Top Cultural Heritage sites: Great Wall, Temple of Heaven, Forbidden City, etc.

The best and most Cultural Heritage sites to must see of China in one go.

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Top Cultural Heritage site: Potala Palace

A life time trip to soak up the Tibetan Culture with historic architecture.

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Top Cultural Heritage site: Mogao Grottoes

Explore the outstanding grottoes and exquisite mural paintings along silk road.

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Top Heritage sites: Giant Panda Base, Leshan Giant Buddha, Mount Emei

Top selling Chengdu Culture Tour to visit Giant Buddha and Mt. Emei.

Known much about China National Parks, you may find that some parks are also world natural heritage sites. Here, National Parks Tours offer you those classic national parks with typical China scenic wonders of mountains and waters for double enjoyments.

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Scenic Spot: Stone Forest National Park

Immersed in the stone world to experience the wonderfulness of the Nature.

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Scenic Spot: Guilin Li River National Park

Li River cruising with leisure to appreciate the picturesque Karst Landform.

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Scenic Spot: Zhangjiajie National Park

Feast your eyes with pillar-liked towering mountains with precious plants.

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Scenic Spot: Huangshan National Park

Best fusion to visit the beautiful peaks with hospitality pine trees.

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Scenic Spots: Jiuzhaigou National Park, Huanglong National Park

Get lost in the crystal and colorful water fairyland with kinds of valleys and lakes.

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Whether you are fascinated by Chinese Culture or Nature, China Tour Packages connect the best world heritage for you to absorb the profound history or to appreciate the best scenic along the way as you wish.

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14 Days Best China Zhangjiajie Landscape Tour with Yangtze Cruise

Shanghai / Guilin / Chongqing / Three Gorges / Yichang / Zhangjiajie / Beijing 14 Days Best China Zhangjiajie Landscape Tour with Yangtze Cruise

Cruising down the Yangtze River, you can witness the splendid natural scenery in Three Gorges. An exploration to Zhangjiajie will take you to unreal AVATAR world. Cruising the Li River from Guilin to Yangshuo county, you will enjoy the leisurely life pace of the local.

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china tours july 2023

15 Days China & Tibet Dream Tour

Shanghai / Guilin / Chengdu / Lhasa / Xian / Beijing 15 Days China & Tibet Dream Tour

This China tour mostly takes part in the southwest of China, where you will experience an adventure of a lifetime in Tibet. Guilin is also a site of tremendous natural beauty, while Beijing and Xian provide a glimpse of the wonders of ancient China, while both Beijing and Shanghai showcase China’s rapid development.

china tours july 2023

12 Days Best China Scenic Tour

Beijing / Xian / Guilin / Longsheng / Yangshuo / Shanghai 12 Days Best China Scenic Tour

A classic China tour with deep exploration in Guilin, the most beautiful city of China, where you can take a leisure Li River Cruise, bike in the Yangshuo countryside, and hike in the amazing Longji Terraced Rice Field, to see how the local live harmoniously with the great nature

china tours july 2023

11 Days China World Heritage Tour in North China

Beijing / Jinan / Mount Tai / Qufu / Zhengzhou / Dengfeng / Luoyang / Xian 11 Days China World Heritage Tour in North China

This amazing China World Heritage tour will take you back into history in 11 days. It covers not only more than eight heritage sites in north China, but also present you cultural diversity, awe-inspiring scenery and genuine interaction with local people.

Start planning your tailor-made holiday to China by contacting one of our specialists. Once inquired, you’ll get a response within 0.5~23.5 hours.

china tours july 2023

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“Awesome China tour from northeast to southwest”

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China Holidays

China Holidays

Book your holiday to China with Wendy Wu Tours

Watch China Holidays

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China holidays bring together a world of experiences like no other destination. A place where incredibly old and state-of-the-art rub shoulders, China is home to magnificent sights like the Great Wall and Terracotta Warriors to roly-poly pandas, vibrant mega-metropolises and serene landscapes.

With a history of civilisation stretching back over 4,000 years it’s little wonder that China boasts an incredible richness of historical wonders. The Great Wall of China, stretching for over 4,000 miles through mountains, forests and deserts , the Forbidden City, the world’s largest palace complex, and the over 8,000 strong Terracotta Army are the icons of the country. However you’ll find exquisite reminders of China’s glorious past all over the country and you may be just as wowed by the magnificent ancient walls of Xian and Pingyao, the Grand Buddha of Leshan or the Hanging temple at Jinxia Gorge.

A China holiday is about so much than history alone though. Covering nearly 4 million square miles and a vast range of landscapes, the natural wonders are more than a match for the historic ones. Enjoy a tranquil cruise through the lush countryside of the Li River, dotted with towering limestone peaks, marvel at the towering cliffs of the Three Gorges on a Yangtze cruiser or get up close and personal with China’s most celebrated bear, the adorable panda in Chengdu. From the snow-capped mountains of Yunnan to the rolling dunes of the Taklaman Desert the diversity is astonishing.

Don’t forget the cities. China’s pace of development in recent years has been nothing short of astonishing and the gleaming metropolises that have sprung up are at the cutting edge of architecture and technology. The astounding skyline of Shanghai may be the most iconic but it is just one of many incredible cities that are breaking the mould, all linked by an ever expanding network of super speedy bullet trains.

Last but by no means least let’s not forget the culture. Every province brings a new set of flavours to its cuisine and a new range of beliefs, philosophies and cultures to it’s way of life and you’ll experience them all on China holiday with Wendy Wu Tours

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Top Holidays to China

As the UK's Number 1 China Specialist, we offer nearly 70 holidays to China in almost every province. From short breaks of just a few days to 28 day extravaganzas that provide the ultimate China experience you can also enjoy a host of different styles of travel.

Here's just a small selection of our most popular holidays to whet your appetite. Explore our full collection of tours or call one of our China experts to start planning your next holiday of a lifetime

China by Rail

China by Rail

china tours july 2023

Wonders of China

china tours july 2023

Majestic Yangtze

china tours july 2023

China: Winter Wonderland

china tours july 2023

Glories of China

china tours july 2023

Magnificent China Tour

china tours july 2023

Grand Tour of China

china tours july 2023

China & Tibet Discovery

china tours july 2023

Upcoming China departures

Discover China rail holidays

Discover China rail holidays

Explore China by train with our BRAND NEW Rail Collection. Discover this incredible country aboard cutting edge speedy trains and iconic scenic journeys. 

Find out more

Places to go in China

China is a country of variety, from the vibrant cities of Beijing and Shanghai to the calm and charm of the Yangtze River. The cities and regions of China below will provide plenty of inspiration.

The Yangtze River

The silk road, best places to see in china, great wall of china, terracotta warriors, giant pandas, zhangjiajie, li river cruise, yangtze river cruise, tiananmen square, the forbidden city, wulong national park, huangpu river cruise, longsheng rice terraces, the temple of heaven, the grand buddha of leshan, the summer palace, potala palace, nine villages valley, stone forest, mt everest base camp, lama temple, award-winning guiding....

All of our holidays in China are accompanied by a dedicated National Escort throughout. We task them with the responsibility to keep you safe, happy, inspired and entertained and they respond with Gusto! Guiding you through the intricacies and eccentricities of the Chinese way of doing things with expert ease.

All of our National Escorts in China...

  • Have a minimum of five years experience in guiding
  • Are fluent in English
  • Are unparalleled experts, born and raised in the local area
  • Go through rigorous and constant training
  • Are at your service 24 hours a day

Meet George

I am optimistic, easy going and dedicated. I know China and I am excited to share my knowledge with you; you are part of my family when you come to China. To know more about the fast-developing country, China and its super long history and tradition, come and join us Wendy Wu Tours. I promise you will reach home culturally fully loaded and ready to go again.

George was exceptional in his care of us all, nothing was too much trouble, he genuinely cared that we were having a great holiday. His knowledge and that of the local guides at each province gave us great insight into the history of the location and various sightseeing spectacles we were there to see.

Meet Alice

"Happiness can be infectious". As a friendly, caring and easy-going guide I can ensure you will have a worry-free and most rewarding trip, with a knowledgeable, professional and light-hearted guide.

Our National Guide, Alice, was excellent and very caring and thoughtful for all the group. Our local guides were also very good and provided lots of information and were flexible to allow us enough time to see everything and even arrange extra trips.

Meet Amanda

From my passion and knowledge of my country, you will experience a cross-cultural charm, full of stories and laughter on tour with me. You will be left with great memories and knowledge of China.

The success of this tour was due largely to our wonderful National Escort, Amanda, who guided our small “family” throughout and made this trip a "holiday of a lifetime". If you have the opportunity, try to arrange for Amanda to be your Tour Manager!

Meet Jason

This is an experience of a lifetime. If I am your guide, you will have my knowledge, experience and enthusiasm to make this an unforgettable journey.

Our tour guide Jason was brilliant & a credit to your company. He was funny, intelligent, informative, always available and would go the extra mile when needed

Meet Tony

Relax, enjoy and leave the rest to me. See the different, touch the culture and explore the beautiful, wonderful and real China with me. "Do what you love, and love what you do!" This is my slogan, and I am Tony Li, come and join the Wendy Wu Tours with me!

Our National Escort Tony we couldn't speak highly enough. He was very well conversant with the English language and very knowledgeable in the history of the great country of China. Tony catered to our every need which made our holiday stress free.

Our China Holiday Reviews

Awards are all well and good, but it's our customer feedback that means the most to us. We're proud that so many of our customers would be happy to recommend us to their friends and family - that's all the accolade we need.

Review for A China Experience

Apr 22, 2024

Review for Glories of China

Review for Wonders of China

Apr 21, 2024

Review for Ancient China

Apr 20, 2024

Review for Grand Tour of China

Customer Photos

China

Useful and Interesting

china tours july 2023

Frequently Asked Questions about China

The best times to visit China are in the Spring, which falls between April – May and then in the Autumn, which is between September – October. This is when the weather is much more comfortable for tourists to explore.

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As our tour focuses on unique and authentic experiences restaurants are hand-picked to ensure quality and authentic traditional dishes. Vegetarians and vegans are well catered for as we make sure all dietary requirements are sent over to the guides prior to departure.

We grade our tours on level of activity and amount of walking involved, which can be found on the tour pages on the website and in our brochures, under ‘Physical Rating’. We grade the tours as follows:

  • Level 1 – A reasonable level of fitness is required, but its more about spending time on your feet rather than covering large distances.
  • Level 2 – This will involve a little more time on your feet than level 1 tours and may involve a bit more walking or steps.
  • Level 3 – A good level of fitness is required, as around 2-3 hours of walking will be required per day. Other activities such as cycling, may be included and walking longer distances.
  • Level 4 – Level 4 is similar to level 3 but the activities may be of longer duration or a more challenging terrain.
  • Level 5 – You’ll need to be fit and adventurous to participate in these tours as in some cases you will be active for most of the day on tough terrain or have physically demanding activities.

The Great Wall of China stretches from Shanhaiguan on the Bohai Sea to Lop Lake in the Gobi Desert – around 4,000 miles. Most people visit the Great Wall from Beijing.

China enjoys seven public holidays every year and although attractions, hotels, and transportation are usually open, they can be extremely busy.

Prices are also normally at a premium so unless you are visiting for the express purpose of experiencing the holiday, these times are generally best avoided.

Many traditional holidays are based on the lunar calendar so the dates change from year to year. Our tours are designed to accommodate the holidays but talk to our team for the dates in your chosen year if you are concerned.

Public Holidays in China Dates

  • New Year's Day: 1 Jan
  • Chinese New Year (Spring Festival): late Jan, early Feb
  • Qingming Festival (Tomb Sweeping): first week in April
  • Labor Day (May Day): 1 May
  • Dragon Boat Festival: early June
  • Mid-Autumn Festival: late September
  • National Day: 1 Oct

From our China Blog

Read our latest articles or travel inspiration, exciting news about our destinations and all things Wendy Wu Tours

Making Tracks: the Joys of Travelling by Train

Your china questions answered, from peaks to pandas: a journey through china’s stunning natural landscapes, easy enquiry, congratulations, you have taken the first step of your journey.

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Traditional Temple, Suzhou, China

Follow Your Dynastic Destiny

China cruises.

Explore China, where dynasties mingle and buildings scrape the heavens.

With every passing century, the ancient and intricate society that is China becomes more complex and alluring. Get drawn into the palaces and courtyards of Beijing's Forbidden City, a huge palace complex once inhabited by rulers in the Ming Dynasty, and stroll through the Hall of Great Perfection at the Confucius Temple. In Hong Kong, see towering skyscrapers that give way to misty mountaintops, rich with birdlife and tumbling waterfalls. Jump onboard a China cruise to stand on the Widows Peak of the Great Wall and get a sense of China's magnitude while the wind rushes around you. In between your adventures, keep your energy levels high by heading into China's vibrant marketplaces, where you'll find jewel-like dim sum dumplings and tangles of delicious saucy Zhajiangmia noodles with sweet bean paste, ground pork and pickled vegetables.

china tours july 2023

SEEK OUT FOR BUDDHA-FUL VIEWS

Explore misty mountaintops and skyscrapers in Hong Kong, and walk the Great Wall on a cruise to China.

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Sunset at the Great Wall Of China

NATURAL MAJESTY

In every port you visit, from Hong Kong to Shanghai, nature is just around the corner. Head up into the mountaintops for crisp air or down to the rivers and sea for city panoramas.  

Hong Kong, Po Lin Monastery

NOTHING BAD A-BUDDHA IT

The giant Buddhas of China, set a little way out of the city centers, are a sight to behold. Hong Kong's Tian Tan Buddha is 112 feet high and weighs 200 tons, and you have to climb 286 steps to reach it. In a standing position, Sanya's beautifully painted Buddha is even taller at 354 feet. You'll feel humbled among these giants during your China vacation.

China Great Wall Landmark

REACH HIGHER CONSCIOUSNESS

Leave the bustle of Hong Kong behind and hike up the fabled Dragon's Back mountain near the city. Up high, the air is cool and dry, while the mountaintops are shrouded in a light silky mist. Head to the Great Wall's Huangya Pass in Beijing to see the landscape unfold from the high point of Widow's Peak.

Sanya City, China Dadonghai Bay

HAO WONDERFUL

Say "Nia Hao" (Chinese for "Hello") to Sanya , a tropical city known for its picturesque beaches and perfect sunny weather. Take a dip at Tianya Haijiao beach, and take in the breathtaking views while kayaking around the bay. Be swallowed by the lush Yanoda Rainforest, and stay cool zip-lining through the treetops. Don't forget to pay your respects to the Buddhist goddess Guanyin, who watches over the city from the sea.

Hong Kong, Harbor

EVERYTHING YOU COULD EVER WONTON

China's cities are some of the biggest in the world. Sprawling and advanced, entertainment, shopping and good food is around every corner.  

Beijing, China Forbidden City Skyline

ANCIENT AVENUES

Vermilion temples, grand palaces, flowering gardens and old-style wooden architecture are some of the things you'll see on your city wanderings. Head into Shanghai's Bund neighborhood and get a sense of what China looked like 100 years ago. The Five Great Avenues district of Beijing will inspire you with its colonial architecture and olden-day charm.

Tianjin, China Yongle Bridge Ferris Wheel

CHINA IN MINIATURE

You'll really see the enormity of China's cities from viewpoints high above the cityscapes. Take Beijing's Tianjin Eye ferris wheel and see the skyscrapers grow small as you climb uparagraphCopy to the highest point. Trek up Shanghai Tower, with the world's fastest elevators and the second tallest observation deck for an experience you won't forget.

Shanghai, China Calligraphy Brushes

MASTER THE ART OF BARGAINING

Haggling in China is so popular it's practically a national pastime. Brush up on your bargaining skills when you head to a market, and win your items on the cheap. Head to Silk Street or Tianyi Market in Beijing, and check out Tian Zi Fang in the Old French Concession quarter of Shanghai. If you're into antiques, don't miss Shanghai's Dong Tai Road Antique Market or Beijing's Liulichang.

Yunnan Province, China Traditional Roofs

CHERISH THE CHINESE CHARM

China is where the adventure starts, but it's certainly not where it ends. Cruise from the world's most populated cities to nearby Asian countries that hold their own mysteries. Soak in Japanese onsens (hot springs), walk among Vietnamese rice paddies and take in the tropical sun of Thailand.

Beijing, China Temple of Heaven

ASIATIC ADVENTURE

On your way out of China, be enamored by the fragrant scents of Japanese delicacies and the stunning views of the island nation. Cruise to Japan's hidden gems like Fukuoka, Nagasaki and Kumamoto, and learn the history of these ancient countries in world-class museums.

Hong Kong, Nature Landscape

VIETNAM VACATION

Vietnam is full of small villages, lattices of rice fields and friendly people. Cruise from China to witness the grazing buffalo of Vietnam, and enjoy the transition from high-tech cityscapes to tranquil, rural countryside.

WHAT TO KNOW BEFORE YOU GO Tips for the Temple

China has a unique and vibrant culture with distinct customs, weather and cuisine.

When you're frequenting the many large shopping malls, be sure to haggle, as this practice is accepted and encouraged in China. To nab your best bargain, decide the highest price you're willing to pay and offer 50 percent of it.

The weather in China varies from city to city (it's a big place!), but winters are usually cold and dry while summers are hot, humid and rainy. Monsoon season ranges from May to August, and it's always best to check the weather forecast before leaving the ship.

Street food in China is generally safe and delicious, but trust your instincts as you navigate the noodle stalls and dumpling vendors. Foodie favorites are steamed buns, deep-fried Chinese donuts and egg fried rice.

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In China, make sure you only drink bottled or filtered water, as tap water can be unsafe.

Keep your dollars at home; only Chinese yuan is accepted, and cash is preferred.

Tipping is not expected, so only pay what you owe.

CUISINE EVEN DRAGONS NEED A SNACK

Rice or noodles? This is the burning, personality-defining question on the mind of every Chinese local hunting down their next meal. Across all of China's regions, street food markets are undoubtedly the most popular places to eat, serving up ultra-fresh, authentic fare at unbeatable prices.

Chinese Steamed Baozi Buns

BAOZI GIANT DUMPLING

The size of a clenched fist, baozi dumplings make for a wholesome on-the-go meal. Stuffed with meat and vegetables, you can find them at local Tianjin markets just outside Beijing. Popular combos include pork, onion and mushroom or cabbage, scallions and ginger.

Chinese Roasted Goose

MICHELIN-STARRED GOOSE

Looking for a higher-end culinary experience? In Hong Kong, head to Kam's Roast Goose and indulge in a Michelin-starred meal of roast goose complete with crisped skin and other delicacies like suckling pig and cured pork sausage.

Chinese Steamed Dumpling

BAO IN SHANGHAI

Make a pit stop at any street food market and pick up a delicious array of bao, the traditional Chinese dumplings in a small, bun-shaped wrapper. Try the delicate xiaolongbao, or soup dumplings, oozing with savory broth, or the crispy-pork-stuffed shengjian bao.

Related Ports

Modern metropolises and sacred temples await you in China. From the Great Wall and infamous Olympic stadiums in Beijing, to museums and modern architecture in Shanghai and Shenzhen, your adventures or limitless with a cruise to China.

Kobe, Japan Noruko Gorge

Kobe, Japan

Beppu, Japan Hot Spring

Beppu, Japan

Busan, South Korea Aerial Temple

Busan, South Korea

Sanya, China, Beach

Sanya, China

Shenzhen, China, Town square

Shenzhen, China

Shimonoseki, Japan, Aerial view

Shimonoseki, Japan

Japan Chureito Red Pagoda Mt. Fuji Fujiyoshida

Tokyo, Japan

Phuket, Thailand

Bangkok, Thailand Palace Reflections Water

Bangkok (Laemchabang), Thailand

Beijing, China Forbidden City

Beijing (Tianjin), China

Benoa, Bali, Indonesia White Sand Beaches

Benoa, Bali

Boracay, Phillippines Rock On Beach

Boracay, Philippines

Cochin, India Waterfall

Cochin, India

Cam Ranh, Vietnam Sea View Coast

Nha Trang (Cam Ranh), Vietnam

Fukuoka, Japan Red Bridge Shrine

Fukuoka, Japan

Goa, India Basilica

Goa (Mormugao), India

Hiroshima, Japan Atomic Bomb Dome

Hiroshima, Japan

Ho Chi Minh, Vietnam Aerial View of Notre Dame

Ho Chi Minh City (Phu My), Vietnam

Hong Kong, China Harbor

Hong Kong, China

Hualien, Taiwan Cliff

Hualien, Taiwan, China

Hue, Danang, Chan May, Vietnam Old Building

Hue / Danang (Chan May), Vietnam

Jeju, South Korea, Sunrise at Seongsan Ilchulbong

Jeju (Hwasun Bay), South Korea

Kagoshima, Japan Japanese Garden

Kagoshima, Japan

Kaohsiung, Taiwan Lotus Pond Dragon Tower

Kaohsiung, Taiwan, China

Kitakyushu, Japan Cherry Blossoms

Kitakyushu, Japan

Kochi, Japan Kochi Castle

Kochi, Japan

Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia Skyline

Kuala Lumpur (Port Klang), Malaysia

Kumamoto, Japan Garden Japanese Tree

Kumamoto, Japan

Kyoto, Maizuru, Japan Bamboo Forest

Kyoto (Maizuru), Japan

Kyoto (Osaka), Japan Mount Fuji Cherry Blossoms

Kyoto (Osaka), Japan

Langkawi, Malaysia Mangroves

Langkawi, Malaysia

Manila, Philippines Modern Buildings Architecture

Manila, Philippines

Miyazaki (aburatsu), Japan Coastline Beach

Miyazaki (Aburatsu), Japan

Mt. Fuji, Shimuzi, Japan Green Tea Fields

Mt. Fuji (Shimizu), Japan

Nagasaki, Japan Rice Fields

Nagasaki, Japan

Nagoya, Japan Castle Flowers Wall

Nagoya, Japan

Okinawa, Japan Sea Bridge

Okinawa (Naha), Japan

Penang, Malaysia Red Lanterns

Penang, Malaysia

Sakaiminato, Japan Mount Daisen

Sakaiminato, Japan

Sasebo, Japan Cosmos Flowers

Sasebo (Miura), Japan

Seoul, South Korea Gyeongbokgung Palace Pond

Seoul (Incheon), South Korea

Shanghai, China Skyscrapers

Shanghai (Baoshan), China

Singapore City Landscape at Sunset

Singapore, Singapore

Subic Bay, Philippines Volcano

Subic Bay, Philippines

Taichung, Taiwan, Skyline

Taichung, Taiwan, China

Taipei, Taiwan, Hope Valley

Taipei (Keelung), Taiwan, China

Nha Trang, Vietnam Fishing Boats

Nha Trang, Vietnam

Hakodate, Japan Mt. Hakodate Skyline

Hakodate, Japan

Mumbai (Bombay), India Chhatrapati Shivaji Terminus

Mumbai (Bombay), India

Niigata, Japan Winter Mountain Range

Niigata, Japan

Okinawa (Nakagusuku), Japan Manzamo Cape

Okinawa (Nakagusuku), Japan

Ilocos (Salomague), Philippines Blue Lagoon

Ilocos (Salomague), Philippines

Malacca, Malaysia Historical River Landscape

Malacca, Malaysia

Ishigaki, Japan Kabira Bay Clear Water

Ishigaki, Japan

Hanoi (Ha Long Bay), Vietnam Huc Bridge

Hanoi (Halong Bay), Vietnam

Sapporo (Muroran), Japan, TV Tower

Sapporo (Muroran), Japan

Bintan Indonesia Clear Waters

Bintan Island, Indonesia

Aomori Japan Hirosaki Castle

Aomori, Japan

Japan Huis Ten Bosch Palace Sasebo Kyushu Garden

Sasebo (Uragashira), Japan

Japan Miyako Okiwana Ocean

Miyako Island (Hirara), Japan

Tokyo, Japan, Chureito Red Pagoda and Mount Fuji

Tokyo (Yokohama), Japan

Japan Akita Sakura Tree Cherry Blossom

Akita, Japan

Japan Kanazawa Kenrokuen Gardens Sunset

Kanazawa, Japan

Karst Landforms Sea World Natural Heritage

Halong Bay, Vietnam

An aerial view of Colombo, Sri Lanka

Colombo, Sri Lanka

Sri Lanka city has so much to offer.

Hambantota, Sri Lanka

The natural beauty of Lombok is otherworldly.

Lombok, Indonesia

Stone columns make up the unique Daepo Jusangjeolli Cliff on Jeju Island.

Jeju Island, South Korea

a view of mountains and sea in Al Mughsail Salalah, Sultanate of Oman

Salalah, Oman

Pura Ulun Danu temple on a lake Beratan on Bali Indonesia

Celukan Bawang, Bali

Jeju, South Korea, Sunrise at Seongsan Ilchulbong

Jeju (Seogwipo), South Korea

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China Tours & Vacations

The red walls and intricate roof of Forbidden City after snow, Beijing, China.

Welcome to China – one of the world's oldest and most enduring cultures; all yours to explore.

The Terracotta Warriors, Forbidden City, the giant panda and the flowing Yangzi – China is home to some of the world’s most remarkable places. And as you venture deep into the cityscapes from  Shanghai to Beijing , float past Yangshuo's limestone karsts and explore the tranquil monasteries in  Emei Shan  and Lhasa, you’ll be struck by how diverse this land can be. The rich tapestries of history, the charm of local villagers, the diversity of regional culinary traditions and sublime natural beauty, all coming together to create an experience like nothing else. Welcome to China – one of the world’s oldest and most enduring cultures; all yours to explore.

Our China trips

Let's create an exclusive trip for your group.

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An introductory guide to snacks and street food in China

How to avoid cultural faux pas in Beijing

What to expect when you’re travelling by train in China (and why you should definitely do it!)

Why you should definitely consider a winter adventure in China

7 festival trips that should definitely be on your radar

China at a glance

Capital city.

Beijing (population approximately 21.5 million)

Approximately 1.4 billion

Renminbi (CNY)

Mandarin, Cantonese and many other dialects

(GMT+08:00) Beijing, Chongqing, Hong Kong, Urumqi

CALLING CODE

Electricity.

Type A (North American/Japanese 2-pin) Type C (European 2-pin) Type I (Australian/New Zealand & Chinese/Argentine 2/3-pin)

Learn more about China

Culture and customs, from ancient cultures....

As one of the world's oldest cultures, China has so much history to observe, taste, admire and learn about. Ancient mythology and spirituality are infused throughout the traditional dance, art, music and literature of China, with many contemporary customs directly attributed to centuries-old traditions.

Much of Chinese philosophy is interwoven with interactions and relationships between people and things – the Five Elements theory of wood, fire, earth, metal and water; the yin and the yang; the Chinese Lunar Calendar and Zodiac – and underpin many rituals and customs still present in China.

Ancient cultures and ruling dynasties of China in times’ past are present in philosophy, religion (Buddhism, Taoism and Confucianism) and customs (tai chi, fengshui, fortune-telling and tea ceremonies). Culturally, China has gifted the world everything from martial arts to mah-jong, and we all continue to enjoy the rich cuisine, delicate art and evocative dance.

...to modern times...

China’s cultural identity is dominated by the Han – the largest ethnic group in mainland China, accounting for approximately 92 per cent of Chinese citizens. There are, however, another 105 million people who identify as one of over 50 other ethnic minorities, including the Zhuang (southern China), Hui (northwest China), Uyghur (Central Asia) and Tibetan (Tibet autonomous region). Together, these ethnic groups have constructed a much more diverse China than new travellers may initially be aware of – all with unique customs, longstanding traditions and countless stories to tell. Over 800 million Chinese citizens speak Mandarin while many others use Cantonese, especially along the southeastern coastline. Although both languages may be considered very difficult to learn, it is important to learn at least a few phrases when travelling to show respect to the locals.

...and the balance of the two

While modern China is changing at a rapid pace, much of China still clings to age-old traditions and ways of life. This culture clash is particularly evident when visiting large cities like Beijing that are home to ancient hutongs alongside modern skyscrapers, time-worn temples and glorious World Heritage sites, all found within walking distance of each other. With centuries of dramatic history and ethnic identities key to uncovering the diversity of the country’s people, China remains one of the world's most fascinating places to travel.

History and government

Early history.

As one of the world's oldest civilisations, China has an intriguing history that spans thousands of years. The Yellow River is known as the Cradle of Chinese Civilisation as it is thought that what we now know as ‘China’ originated on the banks of this river.

China's early history is dominated by periods of dynastic rule, fragmentation and imperialist expansion, with each dynasty contributing something different to the history books. Construction of the Great Wall of China was thought to have started during the Qin Dynasty, with the Ming Dynasty enhancing the wall at a later stage. The Tang Dynasty is known as a time of prosperity and artistic expression, the Song Dynasty is famed for being a time of scientific and technological discovery, and Kublai Khan's Yuan Dynasty saw an overall population decline that has been attributed to everything from an administration error to the arrival of the Bubonic Plague.

Once the Yuan Dynasty was overthrown by the Ming Dynasty in 1368, population numbers began to increase again and urbanisation grew quite rapidly. Private enterprise flourished, with small-scale paper, silk and cotton trading providing trade income to the masses. The following period of rule known as the Qing Dynasty stretched from 1644 to 1911. This is generally seen as a time of rebellion and upheaval with the Taiping Rebellion, Nien Rebellion, Panthay Rebellion and Boxer Rebellion all testing the Qing's ability to rule. Thankfully, remnants of most of these periods of history can be found in China today.

Recent history

The Republic of China was formed in Nanjing in 1912 after a military uprising. Leadership changed hands many times throughout the following years until the People's Liberation Army succeeded in ousting the US-backed Chiang Kai-Shek after a long and bloody battle.

Mao Zedong became Chairman, or leader, of the People's Republic of China in 1949 and China's society was systematically converted to communism. Land reforms and the collectivisation of agriculture significantly altered the structure of society and daily life. Dramatic population, cultural and economic changes led to events that Western societies remember as the Great Leap Forward and the Cultural Revolution. Mao's death in 1976 triggered leadership changes and economic reforms, the impact of which has rippled into the future.

More recently, China has seen  Hong Kong  and Macau returned from foreign rule and enjoyed a period of increased economic growth. The country basked in the international spotlight as the host city of the 2008 Summer Olympics and with a strengthening economy, wide-scale global influence and dominant rule by the Communist Party of China, China is now one of the world’s global superpowers.

For travellers, China’s rich and engaging history, especially through dynastic rule and its cultural philosophies, has created a country so fascinating, so layered and so rewarding to explore. Opening the first chapter of China’s history book begins the moment you arrive.

Eating and drinking

Whether it’s slurping down a bowl of noodles at a Silk Road street market, having a mouth-numbing Sichuan hotpot in Chengdu or waving down the dim sum trolley at a morning yum cha, you won’t go hungry in China.

Chinese cuisine focuses on colour, aroma and taste, and nearly every region and minority group has its own cooking style. Chinese cuisine has traditionally been broken down into eight major schools of cooking: Anhui, Cantonese, Fuijan, Hunan, Jiangsu, Shandong, Sichuan and Zhejiang. They’re also grouped into northern, southern, western and eastern cooking styles.

Rich and hearty northern cuisine – flavoured with lots of salt, ginger, garlic and soy sauce – is what fed the emperors. Southern cuisine – particularly from the Cantonese school – is what you’ve likely sampled at your local Chinatown, such as dim sum. Western cuisine brings the heat thanks to ample use of Sichuan peppercorn and piping hot chilli peppers, and eastern cuisine tends to be sweeter in flavour and feature a wide variety of vegetables, shellfish, fish and other types of seafood.

Dishes to try in China

  • Sichuan hot pot Taste a bit of Chinese history by dipping into a fiery Sichuan hot pot filled with meat, vegetables, noodles and chilli. While each region in China has different varieties, Sichuan lays claim to the spiciest.
  • Cantonese dim sum (Yum Cha) Sitting down to a dim sum banquet is one of Hong Kong's great culinary experiences. Bamboo baskets of salty dumplings and pots of cleansing tea change hands in this traditional feast that will leave you feeling very full.
  • Green tea China is home to one of the world's largest tea drinking cultures, with most locals sipping a few cups of tea daily. Green tea may have recently risen in popularity in Western societies, but it’s been used as a medicine in China for thousands of years.
  • Peking duck This famous roast duck dish from Beijing dates back to Imperial China. It’s one of the best flavour combinations in the world: succulent slices of duck served between delicate pancakes with green onions and a sweet dark sauce.
  • Street snacks A lot of  Asia’s  best food is found in markets, hole-in-the-wall restaurants and street-side stalls. Think baozi (steamed stuffed buns), jiaozi (dumplings), jianbing (fried chive pancakes), yang rou chan (lamb kebabs) and so much more. China may be famous for giant feasts served on a lazy susan, but don’t dismiss what can be found on a budget.

Learn more about Chinese food

Find out what to drink in China

Geography and environment

Located in east Asia along the coast of the Pacific Ocean, China is the third-largest nation in the world by total land area, behind  Russia  and  Canada . It shares its border with 14 countries including Russia, Kazakhstan and  Mongolia  in the north, and India, Laos and  Vietnam  in the south.

Soaring peaks, high plateaus and desert occupy the western half of this vast country. In the southwest, Mount Everest and the Himalayas form the border with  India ,  Nepal  and Bhutan. In the north, the Taklamakan and Gobi deserts stretch from west to east along the border with Mongolia. The terrain slopes into broad plains and deltas in the east. Two major rivers flow through central China – the Yellow River in the north and the Yangzi in the south – where rice paddies flourish.

China, as well as 16 other countries around the world, is known as ‘megadiverse’ – a grouped classification of biodiverse countries that contain over 70% of the world’s endemic flora and fauna. China itself is home to over 550 species of mammals, 1221 species of birds, 146,000 types of flora and 10,000 species of fungi.

Despite this, China has a series of challenges in terms of safeguarding its environment and biodiversity. China’s industry is booming and air pollution is on the rise. It has become the world’s largest carbon dioxide emitter and to deal with this, China has become the world’s leading investor in renewable energies and is making a big effort to reduce widespread air pollution in its major cities.

China has a multitude of different shopping experiences, from the massive malls of Beijing to the fashion boutiques of Shanghai and the small village markets that are dotted around the country.

In Beijing, your best bet for shopping is along Wangfujing Street for designer labels, Hongqiao Market for a wide range of pearls and Yaxiu Market for gifts and souvenirs. Nanjing Road and Xujiahui are Shanghai’s shopping hotspots and the eclectic Huaihai Road has been likened to Tokyo’s Harajuku fashion district, so that’s also worthwhile visiting.

Things to buy in China

  • Silk As the home of this popular fabric, China’s silk is undoubtedly legendary. It’s been greatly admired by the world for centuries, so don’t leave China without picking some fabric, handmade clothing or a scarf or two.
  • Chinese Calligraphy Art This beautiful art form has been practised in China for centuries. Buy an antique artwork or get a customised piece featuring your name made on the spot.
  • Paper Cut Art This traditional art is a painstaking process that ultimately creates an intricately beautiful result. Associated with Chinese New Year, paper art souvenirs can be found all year round, with designs of flowers, animals and people the most common.
  • Chinese Knots These traditional, decorative handicrafts are seen as a symbol of health and prosperity and make brilliant gifts for friends back home. The tassel-style gifts are said to ward off evil spirits and are often given as good luck charms during Chinese New Year celebrations.

It's a good idea to check with customs to ensure that you are able to bring certain items back into your home country. Australia and New Zealand generally have strict quarantine laws, especially with food, plant or wood-related products.

Festivals and events

Festivals in China are an integral part of celebrating local cultures and traditions. They are a time for families to return home and gather for a day – or days – filled with food and festivities.

Chinese New Year (Spring Festival)

The most important holiday in the country, Chinese New Year is such a big deal that it’s celebrated over 15 days. The main event is New Year’s Eve, when red decorations are hung all around and people travel home to celebrate. Children receive red envelopes stuffed with cash and fireworks and firecrackers go off at midnight. Lanterns, bracelets, cards and tokens are all coloured red as this is considered to be the colour of good fortune.

Lantern (Yuan Xiao) Festival

Though it marks the end of the Chinese New Year celebrations, the Lantern Festival is a festival in its own right that takes place 15 days after Chinese New Year. It’s a fantastic time to be in China as the country lights up with colourful lanterns.

Harbin Ice and Snow Festival

Ever wanted to visit a real-life winter wonderland? Then head to Harbin in January to see massive illuminated sculptures made of snow and ice. Past creations have included the Great Wall (which doubled as an awesome slide), the pyramids of  Egypt  and even a Disney castle.

Dragon Boat (Duanwu) Festival

Equal parts frantic dragon-boat racing and sticky-rice consumption, this three-day festival – meant to commemorate ancient Chinese poet Qu Yuan – is celebrated all across China. On the fifth day of the fifth lunar month, people flock to waterways to feast on zongzi (rice dumplings) and realgar (or xionghuang) wine as they watch the colourful boats race.

Learn more about festivals in China

China travel FAQs

Do i need a covid-19 vaccine to join an intrepid trip.

Trips from 1 January 2023 onwards

From 1 January 2023, Intrepid will no longer require travellers to provide proof of vaccination against COVID-19 (excluding all Polar trips and select adventure cruises).

However, we continue to strongly recommend that all Intrepid travellers and leaders get vaccinated to protect themselves and others.

Specific proof of testing or vaccination may still be required by your destination or airline. Please ensure you check travel and entry requirements carefully.

When is the best time to visit China?

From the rugged mountain interior of Emei Shan to the glittering coastal city of Shanghai, China is home to a diverse range of landscapes and climates. We recommend checking out our regional breakdown to help you figure out the best time to visit China.

Tourism is generally at its peak in summer, so if you’re not into crowds, you may want to avoid June, July and August. If you’d still like the weather to be somewhat warm, a shoulder season month like November or May might be best – you’ll usually only need a light jacket or fleece, but the bulk of the crowds are gone.

Do you need a visa for China?

Visitors from most nations are required to obtain a visa for trips to mainland China. Be sure to apply before leaving your home country – if you don’t, your applications might be denied.

For most travel plans, you will need a single-entry tourist visa valid for 30 days. Generally, a standard 30-day single-entry visa can be issued in four to five business days and at a higher cost for an express application. Once issued, the visa must be used within three months.

For immigration purposes, Hong Kong is not considered part of mainland China and most nationalities, including EU, Australian, US, Canadian and South African citizens, do not require a visa to visit for varying periods of stay.

Please check with your local embassy for specific requirements for Hong Kong and mainland China, as requirements and conditions continuously change. Check with your Chinese embassy or a registered Visa Application Service Centre about what you need to do to apply well before your departure date.

The page is for general information only and may be subject to change. It is your responsibility to obtain relevant visa and travel information required for entry, departure and travel to each country or region you visit on your trip. You should confirm these with the relevant embassies and/or consulates.

Last updated: 20 March 2023

Is tipping customary in China?

Generally, tipping is not expected in mainland China, although leaving spare change at restaurants and giving a small amount to hospitality staff is becoming more commonplace (although not mandatory). For example, tipping porters and bartenders a small amount is no longer unusual. The culture of tipping is different in Hong Kong, where taxi drivers and restaurants will usually round up the bill, and service staff will generally expect a tip.

What is the internet access like in China?

Internet access is generally good in hotels and tourist areas, but it's limited in rural and remote areas. Some fast food chains, restaurants and cafes have free wi-fi available, but may require a Chinese phone number to receive the login code. The login prompts may also be in Chinese.

Chinese governments and authorities keep strong controls over internet access and many Western websites, including social media and news outlets, are censored. Sites and apps including Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, Google products (YouTube, Maps, Gmail, Drive), WhatsApp, Snapchat and Dropbox, as well as many international news outlets, will not work.

You may wish to download the WeChat app during your visit, which is the country’s most popular method of communication. It’s like WhatsApp crossed with Facebook, kind of.

For many expats and travellers, a Virtual Private Network (VPN) is used to limit this censorship. If you are insistent on using certain websites abroad, look into purchasing a reputable VPN – keep in mind most of the free ones, and some of the paid VPNs will not work. If you do decide to go down this route, still consider what you search for online or access while in China, as some of this content could land you in hot water with authorities if found out.

With all this in mind, you’ve got the opportunity to switch off and enjoy the sights around – that’s one way of looking at it!

Will my mobile phone work in China?

Mobile phone coverage is generally excellent in China's cities, and still very good in remote and rural areas.

If you have an unlocked phone, purchasing a local SIM on arrival is probably the cheapest and most reliable option to use your phone on the go.

If you wish to use global roaming while in China, be sure to contact your service provider to understand how much this will cost, as it's often extremely expensive.

What are the toilets like in China?

Squat toilets are most common in China, though Western-style flushable toilets can sometimes be found in modern hotels and restaurants. Be sure to carry your own toilet paper or tissue and hand sanitiser as these are rarely provided, especially in public places.

What will it cost for a ...?

China’s unit of currency is the Renminbi (CNY), or yuan. Prices here are approximate and shown in US dollars for ease of comparison:

  • Subway ride = 0.50 USD
  • Can of soft drink = 0.50-0.75 USD
  • Bottle of beer = 1-1.50 USD
  • Basic lunch = 2.10 USD
  • Basic rice or noodle dinner = 3.50 USD
  • Three-course dinner = 12 USD

Can I drink the water in China?

While water quality is improving, drinking tap water still isn't recommended in China due to the presence of pollution and natural contamination of water supplies.

For environmental reasons, try to avoid buying bottled water. Fill a reusable water bottle or canteen with filtered water. Ask your leader where filtered water can be found; some hotels we stay in may have drinking water available, often boiled to use for tea. It's also advisable to avoid ice in drinks and to peel fruit and vegetables before eating.

Are credit cards widely accepted in China?

Credit cards may work in big vendors in major cities like Beijing, Shanghai or Hong Kong but it's not guaranteed and less likely to work in smaller cities or towns.

WeChat and Alipay are the most prominent online payment methods in China. We strongly suggest you set up either WeChat or Alipay on your device before arriving.

This will require you to link a credit or debit card to the app and also set up a data roaming package so that you can make payments locally. A 3% transaction fee may also be charged for foreign accounts. Please check the terms and conditions when setting up an account.

What is ATM access like in China?

Bank of China or HSBC ATMs are the most widely accessible and reliable. However, it's rare to make cash payments in China nowadays, and even if vendors accept cash, they may not have the right change.

WeChat and Alipay are the most prominent payment methods now. We strongly suggest you set up WeChat or Alipay on your device prior to arriving. This will require you to link a credit or debit card to the app and set up a data roaming package so that you can make payments locally.

A 3% transaction fee may also be charged for foreign accounts. Please check the terms and conditions carefully.

What is the weather like in China?

China is huge – and so its weather is super diverse. Depending on what time of year you visit China and where you go, you can experience unrelenting heat and humidity in summer and thick snow cover throughout  winter .

China’s northern regions have hot and dry summers, while destinations on the eastern coastlines and in the south are more humid with a larger chance of monsoon rains and typhoons.

There’s a chance of snow across most of the country; however, this is much more likely in the northern reaches (Beijing and surrounds). Late winter and early spring can often bring a dust storm rolling in from the Gobi Desert to Beijing and northern China. Rainfall in Shanghai and the east coast is abundant between April and September but almost non-existent for large chunks of the year in Central and Western parts of the country.

Do I need to purchase travel insurance before travelling?

Absolutely. All passengers travelling with Intrepid are required to purchase travel insurance before the start of their trip. Your travel insurance details will be recorded by your leader on the first day of the trip. Due to the varying nature, availability and cost of health care around the world, travel insurance is very much an essential and necessary part of every journey.

For more information on insurance, please go to: Travel Insurance

What public holidays are celebrated in China?

  • 1 January : New Year’s Day
  • 4 February : Chinese New Year or Spring Festival (eve of the first lunar month)
  • 5 April : Qingming Festival
  • 1 May : Labour Day
  • 7 June : Dragon Boat Festival
  • 30 September : National Day

For a current list of public holidays in China, including those with moveable dates, go to timeanddate.com.

Is China a safe destination for LGBTQIA+ travellers?

Equal rights have a long way to go in China. The government heavily censors portrayals of same-sex relationships and, up until 2001, homosexuality was considered a mental illness. Same-sex couples are unable to marry or adopt in China, and discrimination laws and legal protections are not equal between LGBT and non-LGBT-identifying citizens.

That being said, China is a relatively hassle-free destination for LGBTQIA+ tourists who travel with discretion. Chinese people are generally tolerant and homophobic-related violence is incredibly rare. Low-key gay scenes/communities can be found in larger cities like Beijing, Shanghai and Hong Kong. While it’s common for friends of the same sex to hold hands, keep in mind any further displays of affection are frowned upon for both same-sex and heterosexual couples.

As with any public display or protest in China, there is much resistance from authorities and the government to any form of mass demonstration organised within China. Various events have been banned in recent years, not because they are promoting LGBTQIA+ rights, but because they are publicly promoting anything at all.

For more detailed and up-to-date advice, we recommend visiting  Equaldex  or  ILGA  before you travel.

If you are travelling solo on an Intrepid group tour, you will share accommodation with a passenger of the same gender as per your passport information. If you don’t identify with the gender assigned on your passport, please let us know at the time of booking and we’ll arrange the rooming configuration accordingly. For travellers who do not wish to share a room, most of our tours have the option to pay for an individual room.

Is China accessible for travellers with disabilities?

Intrepid is committed to making travel widely accessible, regardless of ability or disability. That’s why we do our best to help as many people see the world as possible, regardless of any physical or mental limitations they might have. We’re always happy to talk to travellers with disabilities and see if we can help guide them towards the most suitable itinerary for their needs and where possible, make reasonable adjustments to our itineraries.

Accessibility varies in China depending on where you are. Things are improving every year but given the vast size of China and varying rates of growth, you may find old areas are a lot more difficult to travel through than modern cities. In Shanghai, for example, most  public transport  is wheelchair-friendly, as are a lot of the sights, whereas Beijing is a lot more difficult to navigate.

In Chinese culture, disability has traditionally been seen as something to overcome rather than something to accommodate, which has hampered efforts to improve both cultural acceptance and access. This is changing, which is fortunate not only for travellers, but also for the 80+ million Chinese people living with physical and mental limitations.

If you do live with a visual, hearing or other impairment, let your booking agent or group leader know early on so they’re aware and suitable arrangements can be made. As a general rule, knowing some common words in the local language, carrying a written itinerary with you and taking to the streets in a group, rather than solo, can help make your travel experience the best it can be.

What to wear in China?

What you decide to pack and wear in China will depend on where you are and what time of year it is. The climate across China can vary a lot. Besides the usual lightweight clothing and comfortable walking shoes, you may want to consider packing a reusable dust mask as dust storms are common in certain regions across China.

Is it safe to travel to China?

China is generally a safe country to travel to, as long as you know where you’re going and stay alert. China is visited by travellers from all around the world and is of no danger to any person who understands local cultures and obeys local laws.

In saying this, China’s government does keep quite a tight lid on foreign influences, such as websites and news coverage, with internet censorship and public surveillance a common occurrence all over the country. Demonstrations and protests are prohibited in public places in China, and if you find yourself in one, or you take a photo or video of the event, this could land you in trouble.

How do I stay safe and healthy while travelling?

From Australia?

Go to: Smart Traveller

From Canada?

Go to:  Canada Travel Information

From the UK?

Go to:  UK Foreign Travel Advice

From New Zealand?

Go to:  Safe Travel

From the US?

Go to:  US Department of State

The World Health Organisation also provides useful health information.

Does my trip support The Intrepid Foundation?

Yes, all Intrepid trips support the Intrepid Foundation. Trips to this country directly support our global Intrepid Foundation partners Eden Reforestation Projects and World Bicycle Relief. Intrepid will double the impact by dollar-matching all post-trip donations made to The Intrepid Foundation.

Eden Reforestation Projects

Eden Reforestation Projects are helping to mitigate climate change by restoring forests worldwide; they also hire locally and create job opportunities within vulnerable communities. Donations from our trips support restoration across planting sites in 10 countries around the globe. Find out more or make a donation World Bicycle Relief

World Bicycle Relief provides people in low-income communities with bicycles to mobilise school kids, health workers, and farmers in far-out areas – giving them access to vital education, healthcare, and income. Donations help provide Buffalo Bicycles – specifically designed to withstand the rugged terrain and harsh environment of rural regions – to those who need them most. Find out more or make a donation

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    11-Day Small Group China Tour to Beijing, Xi'an, Guilin and Shanghai. 4.7 (9 reviews) The tour was excellent from A to Z. Our guides Kitty (Beijing), Lily (Xi'an), Monica (Guilin) and Mary (Shanghai) were knowledgeable, informative, caring and attentive. It was well curated, and we hit all the spots from modern to traditional to naturist.

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    Reviewed on April 14, 2024. Top 10 China Tours - private tour, flexible departure. 1. China Golden Triangle - 8 Days Best of China Tour. (Beijing | Xian | Shanghai (2D)) from $1,432. 2. First Touch of China - 10 Days Classic China Tour from Beijing. (Beijing | Xian | Guilin | Shanghai)

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    China Natural Wonders Discovery. 2-Week Beijing - Xi'an - Zhangjiajie - Guilin/Yangshuo - Shanghai Tour. The best choice for nature lovers. Witness the Hallelujah Mountains. View More. Family Happiness. 11-Day Beijing - Xi'an - Guilin - Shanghai. Top family itinerary. Experience China's countryside life together.

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    China Highlights. Todd · Traveled March 2024. China Highlights not quite as long as stated on the web site in my opinion. But, this trip is fantastic with the highlight for us being the Great Wall. You visit an area of the wall that is three hours outside of Beijing. With the views of something out of a movie.

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    The Great Wall, Forbidden City, Yangshuo and more - map out your next China adventure with Intrepid to discover Beijing, Shanghai, Xi'an and everything in between.

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    Why Book with China Discovery. Affordable and valuable price. 100% tailor-made packages. Highly rated customers reviews. Efficient customer support. China Discovery is leading China travel agency with good reviews on Tripadvisor, offering tailor-made China tours, vacation packages, cruise, etc. at reasonable prices.

  14. China Tours 2024/2025: Private and Tailor-Made China Vacations

    Home China Tours. China Tours 2024/2025: Private and Tailor-Made China Vacations. From December 1st, 2023 to November 30th, 2024, visitors from France, Germany, Italy, Netherlands, Spain, Singapore, and Malaysia can stay in China for up to 15 days without a visa for travel, business, transit, or visiting friends and family.

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    Price from $1757. More Tours ». 12 Days Shanghai Yangtze Cruise Xian Beijing China Tour. Shanghai / Yichang / Yangtze Cruise / Chongqing / Xian / Beijing. Price from $2,132. 10 Days Most Classic China Tour. Beijing / Xian / Guilin / Yangshuo / Shanghai. Price from $1,999. 13 Days China Superb Landscape Tour including Zhangjiajie.

  16. Top 8 Places to Visit in July in China 2024

    Top 10 China tours 2024/2025 for first visits and returns: embark on a lifetime experience. ... 2023. In recent years, China's summer has been getting much hotter, especially in the east and south of China. There are still some top places to go in July in China to appreciate natural landscapes and attend some great ethnic festivals, without it ...

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    China Tours 2024/2025: Most Popular Tours and New Experiences. From December 1st, 2023 to November 30th, 2024, visitors from France, Germany, Italy, Netherlands, Spain, Singapore, and Malaysia can stay in China for up to 15 days without a visa for travel, business, transit, or visiting friends and family. Starting March 14th, travelers from ...

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    Take a China Group Tour at the Lowest Price 2024. If you're first-timers in China and seeking the best value, you can select from our 25 best China group tours, each offering unique experience in various destinations. Enjoy a discount of about 30% compared to a private tour.

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    Travel this month, cool, picturesque and family-friendly summer resort destinations certainly rank high. Check the detailed climate, temperature and weather tips in China in July and inspire yourself by checking the top 10 destinations for summer vacation in China in July and plan your China summer tour in 2024. Click to Enlarge China ...

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    6 Days China History Tour of Beijing & Xian. Highlights: Temple of Heaven, Terracotta Warriors, etc. 6 Days Classic Chengdu & Lhasa Highlights Tour. Highlights: Chengdu Panda Base, Potala Palace, etc. 6 Days Kunming & Lijiang Tour. Highlights: Lijiang Old Town, Stone Forest Park, etc. 6 Days Suzhou & Hangzhou West Lake Tour.

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    Save up to £800 per person across all Japan tours Offer ends: 30 Apr 2024 View Offers. China holidays bring together a world of experiences like no other destination. A place where incredibly old and state-of-the-art rub shoulders, China is home to magnificent sights like the Great Wall and Terracotta Warriors to roly-poly pandas, vibrant ...

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    CHINA CRUISES. Explore China, where dynasties mingle and buildings scrape the heavens. With every passing century, the ancient and intricate society that is China becomes more complex and alluring. Get drawn into the palaces and courtyards of Beijing's Forbidden City, a huge palace complex once inhabited by rulers in the Ming Dynasty, and ...

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    Welcome to China - one of the world's oldest and most enduring cultures; all yours to explore. The Terracotta Warriors, Forbidden City, the giant panda and the flowing Yangzi - China is home to some of the world's most remarkable places. And as you venture deep into the cityscapes from Shanghai to Beijing, float past Yangshuo's limestone ...

  24. July 2023

    2023. July. Beijing Great Wall. Visiting the Great Wall is a delightful must for the first-time visitors to Beijing. China Travel Tips . July 2023. Beijing Attractions; Beijing Travel; How to Visit Yandai Xiejie Street in Beijing. ... Plan your Beijing tours in July? Many foreign visitors prefer choosing spring or autumn to visit Beijing due to ...