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China Best Adventure Tours, Hikes, Treks, & Cruises

10 best tours of china for 2024-2025, hiking enchanted china, boundless china, great wall, dynasties, & rivers, flavors of china, legendary yunnan, essence of china, explore shanghai, beautiful beijing & the wall, wonders of sichuan, 10 best treks, hikes, & adventures in china for 2024-2025, get inspired to travel to china, chinese cultural experiences, active china adventures, local chinese festivals, 6 best great wall of china trips for 2024-2025, 10 best china hotels for 2024-2025, bamboo garden hotel, park plaza hotel beijing wangfujing, han's royal garden hotel, ritz carlton, buddha zen hotel, harbour plaza chongqing, banyan tree, golden oriole hotel, guangdong victory hotel, china travel videos.

Fun Facts About China

• The Chinese New Year celebrations last 15 days. Each year has an iconic animal that represents it.
• Early chopsticks were originally used for cooking, not eating, around 5,000 years ago.
• China covers about the same area as the continental United States.
• The color red is considered to be a lucky color.
• The Terra Cotta army in Xi'an features an impressive 8,000 warriors, which likely took close to 40 years to make.
• China has over 1.38 billion people, making it the world's most populous country.
• China is the world's largest exporter of goods.
• Although China spans five traditional time zones, they were all united into one single time zone.
• Table tennis is China's national sport.
• Half of the pigs in the whole world are found in China.

China Travel Guide

• Beijing   - See the modern capital city built around the ancient structures of the Forbidden City, Summer Palace, and Great Wall.
• Shanghai – Visit the famous Yu Garden nestled within China's booming financial metropolis.
• Hong Kong  -  Although not technically a part of China, this highly developed port region serves as a thriving commercial hub for much of Asia.
• Chengdu - Known to many Chinese as the most laid-back city, you can see everything from pandas to 7th Century stone carvings in this lush oasis
• Yangshuo  -  Stand on the banks of the Li River and marvel at the beauty of the towering limestone mountains and natural beauty of Southern China
• Terracotta Warriors – Perhaps the most fascinating artifacts of the Qin Dynasty, these statues served as guardians and now form a part of an impressive museum
• Xi’an -  What was the capital of China during 13 dynasties still holds an important place in the preservation of Chinese culture, home to the Shaanxi Museum & the Giant Wild Goose Pagoda.

Top 12 Things to Do and See in China - Must-See Attractions & Experiences

Best times to travel to china, history, politics, and culture of china, the diverse wildlife of china, top 12 things to do on a mekong river cruise - must-see attractions & experiences, best time to visit china, the best time to take a cruise on the mekong river, how to choose the best mekong river cruise, what is there to do on a mekong river cruise, china travel faqs, chinese cuisine, real china travel stories, my china travels, top china travel destinations, china trips by departure date.

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China Adventure Travel: Top Things to Do

Many people who travel China are attracted by its splendid history and culture. Other groups of travelers visit China to seek adventure in this vast country, with its huge cities, grasslands, mountains, and deserts.

If you're planning an adventure tour in China, here are our top recommendations for adventurous China travel.

1. Hike on the Great Wall (Wild Hike)

Reputed as being an "eighth wonder of the world", the Great Wall attracts numerous tourists from all over the world. For tourists who long for adventure, the best way is to hike the wall.

Trekking from Jiankou to Mutianyu, you will explore a wild and precipitous Great Wall section at Jiankou and a fully-restored section at Mutianyu.

Climb wooden ladders, step over the centuries-old bricks, descend a 50-degree slope, and walk through watchtower ruins. The fabulous mountain scenery, the ruined wall, and the history behind it will make this 5-hour hike incredibly rewarding.

2. Hike among the Longji Rice Terraces in Longsheng

Start a hike from Longji Ancient Zhuang Village to Ping'an Village . The scenery along the route is incredible, with seasonal colors, ancient minority houses, and a magnificent view of the Longji Rice Terraces.

Beautiful when the sun reflects in the water of the paddy fields and glowing with yellow ears when the harvest is ripe, the Longji (Dragon's Backbone) Rice Terraces are a feast for the eyes.

When hiking among the rice fields, you will meet local people (mostly ethnic people) and see what their daily life is like. If you are interested in ethnic cultures, you can explore and see their unique wooden houses.

3. Cycle in Yangshuo's Countryside

Surrounded by limestone pinnacles and rice paddies, and with two clean rivers passing through it, Yangshuo is an ideal destination for cycling.

Start cycling from West Street, continue along China National Highway 321 (G321) to Moon Hill, and then go back to Yangshuo. Passing through a series of small villages, karst hills, and rice paddies, the 26-kilometer ride (16 miles) will let you soak up the sights of the beautiful natural surroundings. Read more details on cycling in Yangshuo .

4. Go Rock Climbing at Moon Hill

Yangshuo is considered the best place for rock climbing in China in terms of its feel, quality, quantity, and range of difficulty levels. Moon Hill stands out among hundreds of crags developed for rock climbing in Yangshuo.

Moon Hill has 15 rock climbing routes, of which the one pioneered by the American rock climbing whizz, Todd Skinner, is very popular. While climbing, you are rewarded by being able to appreciate the beautiful views from the karst arch.

If Moon Hill looks above your level, there are plenty of less demanding crags. See Rock Climbing in Yangshuo .

5. Trek on the Yellow Mountains

The Yellow Mountains is a range that is beloved by the Chinese. It is grand, strange, baffling, arduous, steep, flourishing, and spacious.

Start from the foot of the Yellow Mountains in Yungu Temple, then explore off the beaten path in West Sea Grand Canyon, and finally hike down the Yellow Mountains via the Western Steps.

On a 4-day hiking tour , the majestic peaks, legendary pines, oddly shaped rocks, and phantasmagoric sea of clouds along the route will not let you down.

6. Trek in Tiger Leaping Gorge

This is the only hiking route in China that is as famous as Nepal's Annapurna Circuit, Sweden's Kungsleden, and Canada's West Coast Trail. It is regarded as one of the 30 most beautiful classic hiking routes in the world.

The amazing gorge views make backpackers around the world yearn for it. Tiger Leaping Gorge is one of the deepest canyons in the world. The Jinsha (Yangtze) River rushes through the 3,900-meter-deep canyon.

Trekking through Tiger Leaping Gorge, you will pass waterfalls and side canyons, walk down the steep cliffs, and see where the raging torrent is confined to 9 meters wide. This is the narrowest part of the gorge, where a tiger can easily jump over the Jinsha River, which is how it got its name. The great scenery of the distant Jade Dragon Snow Mountain will accompany you all the way.

7. Visit Everest Base Camp

There is nothing more exciting than going to Mount Everest , the highest mountain in the world at 8,848 meters (29,029 feet) above sea level.

Climb to Everest Base Camp at 5,180 meters (16,995 feet). There, you can feel the thin air, appreciate the majestic Himalayan mountains, and explore Rongbuk Monastery, which is the highest monastery in the world.

8. Go Rafting on Shennong Stream

Shennong Stream is a side gorge in the middle section of the Three Gorges of the Yangtze River. It has a total length of 60 kilometers, with a rafting section of 20 kilometers. The peaks on its banks are exotic and lofty.

Rafting on the clear waves of the stream on a boat shaped like a flat bean gives you a sense of primitive wildness. In the stream, there are more than 60 sections of rapids, long shallows, riffles at the coves, and shoals.

The average daily water flow of the stream is 20 cubic meters per second, the steepest drop of which is up to 3 meters. All of these ensure you enjoy this extreme sport experience.

9. Go Kayaking in Sai Kung, Hong Kong

If you yearn to explore an endless array of tropical coves, then go to Sai Kung. It is located on the east coast of Hong Kong , and is considered to be Hong Kong's back garden.

Head to Hoi Ha Beach in Sai Kung Country Park where you can rent kayaks to start an adventure in the sea, providing you with a 360-degree view of natural beauty as you cruise over starfish and coral beds.

10. Ride a Camel in the Desert in Dunhuang

Dunhuang is an important city along the Silk Road with a vast desert area. In ancient times, merchants followed the Silk Road, traveling and trading between the East and the West. You can ride a camel in the desert and imagine how caravans crossed the desert over 1,000 years ago.

Create an Adventure Tour in China with Us

We are based in China and know the best destinations and routes for cycling, hiking, and rafting. Just tell us your interests and needs, and let us tailor-make a unique and exciting adventure for you. See our recommended China Hiking Tours for inspiration.

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China Delights Small Group Tour

"The Great Wall at Mutianyu (Beijing) we took the chair lift option which meant we could ride the toboggan back down." Carl, traveled in October 2019

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

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Great Wall to Great Cities: Beijing to Shanghai China Journey

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China Silk Road 10 Days: Xian, Zhangye, Jiayuguan, Dunhuang, Turpan, Urumqi, Kashgar

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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.

Fabulous fascinating experience well managed with excellent extra activities. In addition to the main attractions we were treated to some extras that really delighted us and that we wouldn’t be able to do ourselves without being on this tour eg meal and origami in a couple of homes and tai chi dancing. A couple of improvements to achieve 5 stars in our view would firstly be to make the itinerary a little less exhausting by not starting so early every morning and maybe taking out some of the repeat museum stops to help facilitate perhaps.... Secondly, there was too much pressure on us as customers to have small amounts of local cash readily segregated for multiple reasons making us all feel uncomfortable which could have been avoided by the tour company increasing the price and managing this for us ie Lunch and tea should have been included in Chengdu to be consistent with other cities and tips for your guides and drivers should have been included, just as they were for when we were handed over to other guides as part of the itinerary.... In summary , amazing as the whole experience was, we now feel in need of a holiday to get over feeling exhausted!

Tour was excellent. Better than expected. Amy (the tour leader) was particularly good. Great itinerary - a lot packed into a short time.

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"We enjoyed the sites and local ethnic and cultural experiences along with the educational exposure we obtained. We enjoyed the personal touch and attention to detail by most of our tour guides. We can tell some tour guides are more passionate and more experienced than others and that can make a difference. For some of the tour guides that struggle with the English language should be reconsidered as a tour host because they lacked either the experience or attention to detail that many more seasoned guides have that differentiated them and made the experience less desirable. Overall, the attention to our safety and providing us an experience of a lifetime was worth it.

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EXPLORE THE MIDDLE KINGDOM

Kaleidoscopic china.

"We've been in your country only 5 days, but already we've seen the wonders of a lifetime -- the Great Wall of China, a structure so huge and marvelous that it can be seen from space; the ancient city of Xi'an; and the Tomb of the Great Emperor and the buried army that guards him still. These are the wonders of ages past. " - President Reagan,  Remarks At Fudan University In Shanghai, China, 1984

There are many more places in China that President Reagan didn't have time to visit. China Adventure Club, a division of Great Wall Adventure Club , the most trusted China luxury adventure tour operator, will bring you the best experiential vacations in China.

The Great Wall, Inner Mongolia, Pingyao, Datong

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As the world's oldest continuous culture and country, China has long captured the imagination of writers, artists, and adventurers with its exotic landscapes and fantastic treasures. We offer our clients unique views of the "middle kingdom." As an extension of the Great Wall Adventure Club, we know how to give our guests a glimpse into China's wonder and mystery. With its wild jungles, scenic rivers, high mountaintops, bustling Muslim markets and bazaars, and ethnic minority villages where life is relatively untouched by the outside world, China is a place where anything is possible. At China Adventure Club, we want to show you a side of China that is rarely seen by the average visitor. This side of China will leave you with memories that will last a lifetime. 

These include among one of the most remote, wild, and likewise unique locations in the "Central Kingdom" that are not otherwise swiftly accessible. We intend to bring you the China that is often unnoticed by international visitors. You will further discover more relating to global power and begin to recognize its complexity and selection. China Adventure club assures the same high standards of top quality in every place you are going to.  On your China expedition, you will have local English-speaking guides with you so that you will get the best possible value for your breathtaking trips. Customarily with China Adventure Club, we will certainly care about establishing the transport and holiday accommodation you desire for your trip. 

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Scott hanson, american tv sportscaster. (toured china in july 2012).

  "I don't often do endorsements, but I am happy to recommend The Great Wall Adventure Club to any and all who are thinking of travelling to China. The company was thorough and professional from first contact until the hour I departed. They routinely went above and beyond the call of duty to make my trip smooth and unforgettable. Joe, my guide, was excellent! Fun, informative, always on time (early, in fact) and a clear communicator.  

If you are browsing for a terrific, trustworthy tour company in China -- look no further. I loved my experience with The Great Wall Adventure Club!"  

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From trekking through the Himalayas to exploring remote villages, China offers endless opportunities for adventure seekers. Whether you’re a thrill-seeker or a nature lover, discover the excitement and beauty of China’s rugged terrain with our guide to adventure travel. Get off the beaten path and experience the ultimate adrenaline rush while immersing yourself in the country’s rich culture and history.

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About China Adventure

The founder of China adventure are three enthusiastic lovely ladies who are passionate about travel themselves. Before starting this company, they have worked in travel industry for over 10 years. They have travelled every corner of China, also travelled to many countries outside China. However, what they love most is still Tibet and places related to Tibet such as western Sichuan, Yunnan，Inner Mongolia and Qinghai province. During their time in travel industry, it gives them great fulfillments and satisfaction to witness the travelers enjoy themselves in the trip organized by them. For the founders, they feel it’s their mission to present the unique landscapes and profound culture to the world and also to offer as many as job opportunities to the local people as possible... View More

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• See Giant Pandas Up Close on Visits to Three Different Sites Compare China itineraries—we don't think you'll find another that offers the panda immersion ours does, with unhurried visits to three different panda research bases: Dujiangyan Panda Base, which focuses on rescuing injured and ill wild pandas and disease control; the newly rebuilt Gengda Wolong Panda Center, which integrates scientific research, captive breeding and reintroduction of pandas into the wild; and Dujiangyan Panda Valley, a new facility that is both a panda research and breeding base and a center for conservation education.
• A Rare Opportunity to Volunteer with Panda Care At Dujiangyan Panda Base, you'll have an optional opportunity to help with aspects of the pandas' care. This could involve preparing their food, cleaning enclosures, and other tasks that place us directly into the daily activities of the pandas' caregivers at this research base. Please note we cannot guarantee that this volunteer opportunity will always be available. 
• Exclusive Access to Search for Pandas & Other Rare Wildlife   This is a genuine Nat Hab privilege: We have secured special permits to visit remote sectors of a totally untouristed nature reserve deep within the Minshan Mountains, a global biodiversity hotspot that's home to some of the world’s most endangered wildlife. We'll search for giant pandas and moon bears that inhabit the park, though we won't expect  to see them, as both are highly elusive. We have better chances to find other rare Chinese animals like takin, goral, serow and golden pheasant, within a completely natural habitat that few tourists have ever laid eyes on—and only a handful of Westerners (mostly other Nat Hab travelers). The terrain is steep and heavily forested, and animals are often sheltered, camouflaged or seen at a distance—but just being in their midst in such a quiet, wild place is a moving experience.
• Get Close to Golden Snub-Nosed Monkeys Visit a golden monkey nature reserve where we're sure to have close-up encounters with a habituated family group of these entertaining primates. It's a rare opportunity to see and photograph this endangered species that is endemic to a very limited part of central and southwest China. 
• Our Small Groups Go Places Larger Groups Can't  Because we limit this trip to approximately 12 guests, we’re able to take you where larger bus tours cannot go, including a remote national park where we have exclusive permits to search for wild pandas (though they are exceptionally elusive and rarely seen).
• Travel with Two Guides for Exceptional Expertise Our China trips benefit from the leadership of two guides: a native English-speaking Nat Hab Expedition Leader accompanied by a warm and hospitable Chinese naturalist guide who is highly trained in natural history and interpretation, not to mention being our cultural and linguistic "go-between." It's an optimal combination of interpretive guiding, cultural knowledge and personalized attention.
• Experience Traditional Tibetan Culture   Our travels include an overland traverse along the edge of the vast Qinghai-Tibet Plateau, where small villages, prayer flags and chortens dot the landscape. Learn more about the deeply traditional Tibetan Buddhist culture, which offers a dramatic counterpoint to the urban setting of Chengdu.
• Savor Outstanding Sichuan Cuisine While nature may be your primary interest, food lovers will be thrilled by the culinary delights this trip offers. Sichuan is famed for its piquant cuisine, and we get to sample a wide selection of restaurants and dishes, with items carefully chosen by our local guide to appeal to Western palates. Since food is typically served family-style at a large round table, multiple tastes and dietary preferences can be catered for at every meal (though be sure to make special needs known to us ahead of time). And you won't be eating only in hotels or touristy restaurants: we choose locations popular with local people, for a truly authentic Chinese dining experience that Western visitors will also enjoy.
• Our Accommodations Offer the Best in Location and Comfort From a 5-star luxury hotel in Chengdu to a quiet mountain inn where other travelers are few, our comfortable lodgings place you in close proximity to famous Chinese landmarks and remote and wild natural settings. Each offers a regional experience of China with plenty of amenities. 
• Travel with Expert Expedition Leaders  Our Nat Hab Expedition Leaders are outstanding North American naturalist guides who are passionate about China and its wildlife. In addition, you’ll travel with a Chinese tour guide who is a nature expert, ensuring an optimal balance of scientific knowledge, authentic cultural insight and attentive personal service. Furthermore, our Expedition Leaders have the benefit of additional training and resources from WWF's renowned scientists and researchers. See Expedition Leader bios and traveler comments regarding the quality of our leaders.
• Our Quality-Value Guarantee Ensures Your Outstanding China Tour With Natural Habitat Adventures, you receive our exclusive guarantee that clearly states that we will meet the high expectations we set forth in our promotional materials. To our knowledge, this is the most ambitious guarantee made by any adventure travel company. Read our important promise.
• Feel Good About Your Carbon-Neutral Journey We care deeply about our planet, as we know you do. When you travel with us, the carbon emissions from your trip are 100% offset—including your round-trip flights from home. Natural Habitat Adventures has been the world’s first carbon-neutral travel company since 2007.

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Deep in the forested hills of southeastern Guizhou rests the remote Huanggang village, a Dong minority enclave where music teacher Wu Xianliang lives and works.

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Discover china’s wild side.

China is a nation of people and their stories. Of joy and struggle, tradition, and innovation. Of mighty rivers, vast wilderness, and sprawling megacities. It’s a tale 5,000 years in the making, and we’re just getting to the most exciting chapter.

We are the travel company that punches through the tourist bubble to get to the real stories. We empower you to discover the China that lives amid the aromatic sizzle of street-side woks, in bustling city markets and far-flung mountain villages, and most of all, in the hearts of the people you will meet along the way. Play your part in the story of a nation set to shape the 21st century. 

Come with us and enjoy exclusive luxury travel experiences in China

Our favorite private journeys.

Island Flavors: A Culinary Journey Through Taiwan

Origins of the Yangtze: Trekking the Jinsha River Valley

Dunhuang Discovery: Desertscapes and Grottoes

Inside Guizhou: A Discovery of Miao, Buyi, and Dong Traditions

Bendi Stories: Teaching Dong Music in Huanggang Village, Guizhou  

How to Visit the Great Wall of China in 2024 

The Most Interesting Snakes in China

Where to Travel in China in Summer 

Farewell to The Opposite House, Beijing

Off the Beaten Path: A Guide to China’s Lesser-Known Festivals

Bendi Stories: Artistry of Tea in Songyang  

Faces of WildChina: Estela Li 李思淼

Sustainable Sites: Green Initiatives in China’s Cities

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• Michael Lee Beijing,Chengdu,Pingyao,Shanghai,Xi'an,Ya'an/Mt. Ermeishan We had an amazing trip perfectly designed for my family that included my parents and you View More
• Christopher Dorfman An extremely enjoyable trek with fantastic views of the snaking wall and the surrounding autumnal mountainous countryside, contrasting with the crowds View More

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China Express

8 days, beijing to shanghai.

• Jan 1 2021 - Dec 31 2024
• From Jan 1 2025

Peak season notice: Golden Week falls between October 1st and 7th each year. Please note that Golden Week is a semi-annual 7-day or 8-day national holiday for the people of China. This is a very busy time of the year for domestic tourists, so expect some crowding at major attractions. We recommend booking these dates well in advance as accommodations and transportation availability is extremely limited.

• Full itinerary
• Tour details

Walk backwards in time along the Great Wall and stare down an army of Terracotta Warriors before leaping into the future of Shanghai's incredible high-rise towers on this fast-paced tour of China’s highlights. With the perfect blend of guided activities and free time to explore on your own, this adventure is made for those who want to get a taste of China in a short amount of time.

Beijing to Shanghai

Is this tour for me, travel style: classic.

All of the highlights, culture, access, and I-can’t-believe-we-did-that moments, all at a great price.

Service Level: Standard

Comfortable tourist-class accommodations with character; mix of public and private transport.

Physical Rating: 2 - Light

Light walking and hiking suitable for most fitness levels. Nothing too challenging.

Trip Type: Small Group

Small group experience; Max 16, avg 12

Age requirement: 12+

All travellers under age 18 must be accompanied by an adult.

Check Your Visa Requirements

Before booking, use our handy entry requirements tool so you know which documents you need to enter and travel through the countries on your trip.

See how your trip uplifts communities

In a number of impactful ways, your adventure directly benefits the local people and places we visit.

Help us spread love around the world with Trees for Days. Together with Planeterra, we'll plant one tree in your name for every travel day.

Trees planted for this trip: 8

More from China Express

Places visited

Day 1 beijing.

Arrive at any time.

Exclusive Inclusions:

Day 2 beijing.

Enjoy an included visit to the Great Wall.

Day 3 Beijing/Xi'an

Take the Beijing metro to visit the Forbidden City and Tiananmen Square. Later, board a fast train to Xi'an.

Day 4 Xi'an

Visit one of China’s greatest archaeological treasures—the Terracotta Warriors. After, the day is yours to explore as you wish.

Meals included:

Day 5 xi'an/shanghai.

Say goodbye to Xi'an this morning and hop on the fast train to the bustling city of Shanghai.

Day 6 Shanghai

Take the train to Suzhou today for a day exploring in the city. Visit Suzhou's famed Master of the Nets Garden, one of the most beautiful in China and recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Admire the impressive Tiger Hill Pagoda and its surrounding landscape.

Day 7 Shanghai

After an orientation walk along Shanghai's famous Bund, you are free to explore the delights of this modern Chinese city. In the evening, head to the theatre for an intense acrobatic performance that will keep you on the edge of your seat.

Day 8 Shanghai

Depart at any time.

What's Included

• Your Welcome Moment: Welcome Moment - Meet Your CEO and Group
• Your Discover Moment: Shanghai
• Great Wall excursion
• Tiananmen Square and Forbidden City guided tour
• Terracotta Warriors tour
• Master of the Nets Garden and Tiger Hill Pagoda visit
• Shanghai orientation walk and acrobatic show
• All transport between destinations and to/from included activities

Accommodations

Hotel (7 nts)

1 lunch Allow USD245-320 for meals not included.

Transportation

Train, local bus, metro, private van/bus, walking.

Staff & experts

English-speaking Chinese CEO (Chief Experience Officer) throughout.

Available extras  (Add these to your tour when you book)

My own room - from $499.00.

If you're travelling solo and would prefer to have your own private room throughout your trip, select this option during the online booking process.

Make it a private tour

Book this tour as a private departure, with your own CEO and all the benefits of a G Adventures group tour.

Wildlife Exploration Tours

China has among some of the most abundant plant life in the world.  There are more than 32,000 species of higher plants, and almost all the major plants that grown in the northern hemisphere's frigid, temperate and tropical zones are represented in China. In addition, there are more than 7,000 species of woody plants, including 2,800 tree species.  The metasequoia, Chinese cypress, cathaya tree, China fir, golden larch, Taiwan fir, Fujian cypress, dove-tree, eucommia and camplotheca acuminata are found only in China. The metasequoia, a tall species of arbor, is considered as one of the oldest and rarest plants in the world.

In a concerted effort to protect the nation's zoological and botanical resources, and save species close to extinction, China has established 932 nature reserves to protect forests and wildlife, with a total area of 79.71 million ha. The 12 nature reserves in China, namely, Sichuan's Wolong, Jilin's Changbai Mountains, Guangdong's Dinghu Mountains, Guizhou's Fanjing Mountains, Fujian's Wuyi Mountains, Hubei's Shennongjia, Inner Mongolia's Xilingol, Xinjiang's Mr. Bogda, Yunnan's Xishuangbanna, Juangsu's Yancheng, Zhejiang's Tianmu Mountains and Guizhou's Maolan, have joined the "International People and Biosphere Protection Network."  Heilongjiang's Zhalong, Jilin's Xianghai, Hunan's Dongting Lake, Jiangxi's Poyang Lake, Qinghai's Bird Island and Hainan's Dongzhai Harbor have been included in the listing of the world's important waterfowl wetlands.  

China Exploration has been devoting to wildlife and plants tours in order to protect these resources of human being. With our service, a few organization and wild life lovers have succeeded their scientific or educational tours in China. And we appeal for the support from more naturist or organizations worldwide. If you know any special animal or plants resources in China, please tell us and we will arrange you there; if you don't know, we will recommend some we know for you.

Some of our impressive wildlife tours:

• Wild Elephant Watching Tour in Xishuangbanna  ( 2 pax Canadian in July of 2007 )
• Wild wolf Watching Tour in  Qixinglazi Nature Reserve  ( 2 pax American in Feb of 2008 )
• Giant Panda Photo Tour in  Wolong ( 1 German in July of 2007 )
• Panda Volunteer Project in  Bifengxia ( 12 American in May of 2009 )
• Wild Panda watching in Wolong  ( 2 American in August of 2007 )
• Wild Deer Watching in Labahe River  ( 2 British in Feb of 2009 )
• Birding in Wawushan and Qinghai  ( 5 Austrian in August of 2008 )

All Tours & Activity

Wild Animal Tour in East Tibetan Plateau

China wild animals in Tibet.At east Tibetan plateau, a lot of big mountain and dense forest existed, which build up the paradise for wild animals. Blue sheep, White lipped Deer, Leopard, Pandas and Alpine marmot, will bring us great fun.

Wildlife Photography Tour in Mt. Gaoligongshan and Changqing

China Wildlife Photography Tour:Organize photograph tours to Changqing nature reserve and Gaoligongshan nature reserve, good place for wild panda,golden monkeys,Golden Takin,Crested Ibis,Hoolock gibbon,Assamese macaque,grey-cheeked monkey.

Sichuan Birding

Sichuan birding tour|wild bird|bird watching-china:A total of about 1,300 bird species have been recorded in China, and over 600 of theses have been recorded in Sichuan.There is also a high number of bird species at least 60 unique to China.

• Bird-watching Place in Yunnan

Yunnan is also well known for its year-round mild climate and the word 'Yunnan' actually means 'South of the Clouds. There are numerous excellent areas for bird watching in Yunnan.

Birding Tour in China

Wild birds|Native birds|Birds watching:China is a good place for birding. Its enormous geographic diversity provides ideal habitat for lots of birds; around 1250 species in fact, with over 60 endemics, including 14 pheasants, 7 Laughing thrushes.

• Wild Elephant Watching in Xishuangbanna

The wild elephant in China live only in the tropical rainforest of Xishuangbanna and Banna Wild Elephant Valley, 50 km north of Jinghohng city, is the place that the wild elephants move about most often.

• Panda Volunteer Tour

As home of Giant Panda, Sichuan possesses quite a lot of Panda Nature reserve and research base. It is a must visit for any of tourist to Sichuan, but have you thought of close touch with panda in stead of a simple watch through cage?

Wild Plants watching tour in Mt. Siguniangshan

Wild Plants tour of flower Watching in Mt.Siguniang：The rich recourses of Mt. Siguniangshan provided us the best place for flower watching in west China. Some of the plants existed: Meconopsis simplicifolia, Meconopsis integrifolia.

Bird watching tour in Qinghai-Tibetan Plateau

Qinghai birding tour|wild bird|bird watching:Qinghai Lake is the largest inland saline lake in the country and is an excellent place for bird watching:Over 200 species of birds have been recorded around the lake.

• Sites and Reserves to watch birds

China birding area|bird reserve|bird species:Chinaexploration tells you the best time and place to observe bird in china.

All Themes We Are Professional

Overland off-road tour.

• 14 Days West China Insight Overland Adventure Tour
• Applying Chinese Driving license and renting a Chinese car for a self-driving Overland Tour in China
• How to drive into China by our own car?
• 2018 China Exploration Overland from South to North

Culture & Folklore Tour

• 15 Days Taichi Learning & Tibet Tour
• Confucianism Learning Tour
• Insight Cultural Exploration in Sichuan of Southwest China
• China Train Tour

Wildlife Exploration Tour

Trekking & hiking tour.

• 1 Day Great Wall Hiking from Jinshanling to Simatai (Eastern Section)
• 1 Day Great Wall Hiking from Huanghuacheng to Xishuiyu
• 2 Days Great Wall Hiking from Gubeikou to Simatai (Eastern part)
• 2 Days Great Wall Hiking from Gubeikou to Wohushan
• Xiahe, Langmusi, Ruorgai & Jiuzhaigou Six-day Tour
• Six-day Lanzhou & Langmusi Horse Riding Tour
• Xiahe & Langmusi Horse Riding Six-day Tour
• Langmusi Horse Riding and Jiuzhaigou Eight-day Tour
• Photo Tours in Xiapu and Hakka Building of Fujian
• Photo Tour in China

Students education tour

Honeymoon tour, bussiness mice tours.

• Business Opportunity Exploration Trip
• Best MICE City of Chengdu in West China
• Project of Small Business Owner investing in China

Don’t Find the Favorate one?

• Where to go All Destinations Beihai Beijing Changsha Chengdu Chongqing Dali Dalian Datong Dunhuang Guangzhou Guilin Guizhou Hangzhou Harbin Hongkong Huangshan Inner Mongonia Jiangxi Jiuzhaigou Kham Kunming Lanzhou Lijiang Luoyang Nanjing Ningxia Qingdao Qinghai Sanya Shandong Shanghai Shangrila Shenyang Suzhou Wuhan Tour Xi��an Tour Xiamen Tour Zhangjiajie
• Tour feature All interests Business MICE China Self-Driving Classic & Sightseeing Culture & Folklore Eco-Tour Food Tour Family Tour Historic Sites Natural Landscape Panda Tour Photo Tour Private & Custom Tour School & Education Trekking & Hiking Wildlife Exploration Visa free Tour Yangtze Cruise Tou
• Tour Duration All Durations Less than a day 1 day 2 to 3 days 4 to 5 days 6 to 9 days 9+ days

• Email: [email protected]
• Telephone: 86-28-86270775

EXPLORE   | SAVOUR HIKE | REPEAT

View some of our upcoming and popular tours here.

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Why choose us.

Expert Local Guides

Our guides are local experts who know the best spots for adventure in Shanghai and China.

Hidden Gem Destinations

We take you to the most unique and hidden destinations that most tourists never see.

10 Years Worth of Experience

M2Adventure boasts an impressive 10 years of experience in crafting high-quality tours around China.

What Our Customers Say

"M2 is my first choice of any travel group within China. This is my 8th trip with them and many more to come. They are consistent with excellent planning, well organized, fun, friendly and knowledgeable team leaders. You meet like-minded people and most importantly you will have fun."

Agnes Sophie R

“I have been on several overnight (Great Wall hiking, Silk Road) and day trips (guided city walks, cinema river hiking) by M2 and truly enjoyed all of them. Fantastic team which cares for everyone’s safety and makes sure everyone is having fun. It has always been an adventure and good opportunity to build a community if you’re new in Shanghai. Good organization and reliable (English) communication as well as fair pricing. I can totally recommend M2 and their trips!"

"Went on an amazing breakfast walking tour of Shanghai with M2. My sister is visiting me in Shanghai and it was the perfect introduction to the local area and food. Recommend the tour for tourists and people living in Shanghai too. Wonderful experience and Nan Nan is the best guide!! <3 Great price and wide range of delicious food."

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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. 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 will be struck by how diverse this land can be. Immerse yourself in the rich tapestries of history and the charm of local villagers. The diversity of  culinary traditions  and natural beauty combine to create an experience like nothing else. Come for the Great Wall and stay for the dim sum. This is China, loud and proud.

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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.

Public holidays that may impact travel include:

Chinese New Year

Spring Festival

Qingming Festival

Dragon Boat Festival

National Day

Please note dates of China's public holidays may vary.

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.

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

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 LGBTQIA+ and non-LGBTQIA+ 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?

Intrepid takes the health and safety of its travellers seriously and takes every measure to ensure that trips are safe, fun and enjoyable for everyone. We recommend that all travellers check with their government or national travel advisory organisation for the latest information before departure:

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

The new way to discover an ancient world.

Spend an unforgettable summer at camp in China.

8 weeks between June-August

The best camps in China, in scenic locations

Be a camp counselor and teach whatever you love

Summer camp on a whole new level.

There's a role for everyone..

Volunteer abroad with like-minded international staff and locals at the best summer camps in China. From teaching English in China to waterfront roles, outdoor education to football coaching, as a camp counselor you'll can teach a range of different camp activities.

Award-winning support

You won't find support like this anywhere else. With expert knowledge, in-depth preparation, and 24/7 on the ground support as you volunteer in China. We've got you covered - our China experts have even featured in The Guardian .

Preparation days

Our full-support promise includes a group Prep Day, either in-person or online, to ensure that you're 100% ready for your summer.

Discover your China after camp.

Once you've finished camp you'll get time to explore China. There's nothing else quite like it - it's a unique experience in an incredible part of the world.

The new way to see an ancient world.

Pay in 3 easy interest instalments.

To make it affordable and accessible, we’ve broken the price down into easy payments. And, if our standard payment plan doesn't work for you, our team are more than happy to build one just for you.

What’s included

• Summer camp placement
• Food and accommodation
• Visa assistance
• 90 days medical insurance
• Up to 30 days of travel after camp
• Pre-departure orientation weekend
• Access to online workshops
• Offline resources
• Receive a stipend of £60 a week
• 24-hour support in China

3rd party fees

There are some 3rd party fees required to go to camp. These are paid to organisations like the Chinese government and background check agencies.

• Advanced Police Check - £65
• Medical Check - Varies based on GP
• Visa - £151 (plus at least one trip to Manchester or Edinburgh)
• Flights - Prices vary with returns averaging around £500

Brought to you by the people behind Camp Leaders

Since 1999, we've helped over 60,000 young people experience the summer of a lifetime in America. The same expert team of travellers are here every step of the way for your journey to Asia.

We’ll see you in China.

A little girl in traditional costume poses for pictures among blossoms in Zhengding County of Shijiazhuang, north China's Hebei Province, April 17, 2024.(Photo: Xinhua)

The upcoming Qingming Festival holidays, which fall from Thursday to Saturday, are driving a notable peak for the ...

Multiple Chinese online tourism agencies (OTAs) have recorded a surge in bookings for the five-day May Day holidays, ...

China’s Golden Week Travel Signals a Revival. Plus, Why U.S. Travel Is Still Lagging

Peden Doma Bhutia , Skift

May 30th, 2024 at 12:42 AM EDT

China’s outbound travel is coming back, driven by favorable visa policies, increased airline capacity, and a growing interest in diverse global destinations. However, challenges remain, particularly in travel to the U.S.

Peden Doma Bhutia

In a rebound of international travel, over 1.5 million Chinese citizens embarked on outbound trips during the recent Golden Week holiday , marketing technology firm China Trading Desk told Skift.

This surge points to a significant revival in global travel following the easing of pandemic-related restrictions.

The relaxation of visa policies between China and several countries has played a crucial role in this uptick. During the Golden Week in late April and early May, the growth rate of inbound and outbound bookings outpaced domestic tourism, Trip.com Group told Skift.

Popular Destinations and Emerging Trends

According to data from Trip.com Group, Chinese tourists visited nearly 200 countries and over 3,000 towns worldwide during the Golden Week period.

Thailand emerged as the top destination, with over 215,000 Chinese tourists between April 27 and May 4, according to China Trading Desk’s data. Factors such as visa-free entry offer by Thailand, shorter flight durations, and cost-effectiveness compared to other destinations have driven this trend.

While strong, the numbers still haven’t reached pre-pandemic levels, said Subramania Bhatt, CEO of China Trading Desk.

The popularity of outbound travel is further evidenced by Ctrip’s report of a 190% year-on-year increase in the number of outbound tourists. Alibaba’s Fliggy also noted a near doubling in outbound travel bookings during the five-day holiday, with per capita spending on outbound travel surpassing 2019 levels significantly.

Alipay transactions reflect this increased spending, with a 77% rise in overseas markets during the initial days of Golden Week, particularly in destinations like Thailand and Malaysia.

Challenges in US-China Travel

Travel to the U.S. still faces hurdles , with flight capacity between the two countries around 25% of pre-Covid levels. During the 2019 Labor Day holiday, 70,000 travelers journeyed from China to the U.S., but most recently it was around 42,000.

Bhatt cited several reasons for this:

• Limited Flight Availability: There’s a slower resumption of direct flights and connectivity between China and the US, impacting the ease of planning trips.
• Visa Processing Delays: Longer visa processing times have been a deterrent, likely due to staffing issues and backlogs caused by the pandemic.
• Geopolitical Tensions: Ongoing political tensions between China and the US may make some potential travelers hesitant.
• Concerns Over Racial Treatment: There is apprehension about the treatment of Chinese individuals in the U.S., which can influence travel decisions.

Airline Capacity and Pricing Trends

Though limited, there has been a gradual restoration of airline service and that has helped. Fliggy said that the average price per person for international air tickets dropped by more than 10% compared to the previous year.

The preference for Asian destinations remains strong, with 9 out of the top 10 outbound destinations being in Asia. Bhatt attributed this to the ease of travel, increased flight availability, and visa-free access in many Southeast Asian countries, as well as Hong Kong, Taiwan, and Macau.

Europe continues to attract Chinese tourists, with over 100,000 travelers heading to European countries excluding the UK during the holiday season, according to China Trading Desk’s data. Trip.com reported notable increases in travel to Spain, Turkey, Austria, Slovenia, Italy, and Georgia, with year-on-year growth exceeding 1.5 times.

Domestic capacity in May still accounts for 92% of all seats to, from and within China this month, with international making up the remaining 8%, according to aviation data firm OAG .

Shifts in Travel Preferences

There is a notable shift towards exploring less traditionally frequented destinations. Austria, Turkey, Morocco, and other less traditionally frequented destinations by Chinese tourists saw the fastest growth rates in bookings, indicating a shift towards exploring new and diverse destinations

Fliggy also reported that bookings for long-distance travel to places like Austria, Turkey, Morocco, Russia, Portugal, Georgia, Egypt, Spain, Kazakhstan, and Brazil quadrupled compared to the previous year.

Additionally, Trip.com group noted significant increases in travel to Middle Eastern destinations such as Oman, Saudi Arabia, and Kuwait, with numbers more than tripling year-on-year.

Saudi Arabia and Qatar are set to increase the number of direct flights connecting China and Hong Kong, capitalizing on the resurgence of Chinese tourists. Having welcomed 140,000 Chinese tourists last year, Saudi Arabia aims to attract 5 million Chinese visitors by 2030.

The Daily Newsletter

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Tags: alibaba , alipay , asia monthly , china , china airlines , china outbound , coronavirus recovery , ctrip , fliggy , golden week , trip.com group

Photo credit: Fliggy reported that bookings to Turkey, Morocco, Georgia, Egypt and Kazakhstan have quadrupled compared to the previous year. Rachel Claire / Pexels

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Resurgam festival, a massive yard sale and more things to do this weekend

Comedian Dave Attell is in town, Zephyr Ice is serving up cool treats and food trucks are out in force (there's an app that will tell you where).

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We’re not entirely sure how the weekend weather is going to shake out, but either way there’s a whole lot going on, so let’s get to it.

Maine Roller Derby skaters competing at Happy Wheels Skate Center in Westbrook. Photo by Jim Vernier

On Saturday and Sunday, Maine Roller Derby’s first international tournament happens at Happy Wheels Skate Center in Westbrook. There will be several exciting flat-track bouts, and if you’re a Mainer, tickets are half off.

Get a discount on tickets to Maine Roller Derby’s international tournament

Max Abraham runs through Moon Tide Park while performing with the band Corpus Chicanery at last year’s Resurgam festival. Shawn Patrick Ouellette/Staff Photographer

The Resurgam Music and Arts Festival is Sunday from 11:30 a.m. to 7 p.m. at Ocean Gateway marine terminal and surrounding areas. The list of performers is about 17 miles long and includes Oshima Brothers Band and professional hula hoop and circus artist Nettie Loops.

Resurgam festival returns this weekend with music, arts and more

Local musician Toby McAllister, pictured here at The Press Room in Portsmouth, would of course play at a local venue on his perfect day. Photo by Corey Fitzgerald and courtesy of Toby McAllister

Another musician you can see at Resurgam is Toby McAllister from Sparks The Rescue. McAllister unpacked his perfect Maine day for us, and it includes a hike in Grafton Notch and a stop at Puzzle Mountain Bakery in Newry for cookies.

My Perfect Day: Hiking Old Speck, eating tacos and sweets, playing a show – for musician Toby McAllister, it all strikes a chord

Comic Dave Attell plays the State Theatre in Portland, June 8. Photo courtesy of the State Theatre

There’s plenty else cooking this weekend , including Yoga in the Park on Saturday and the Walk the Working Waterfront tour. Both are in Portland. Or you can shop till you drop at Maine’s Ultimate Spring Yard Sale Saturday at Cumberland Fairgrounds. Need a few laughs? Grab a ticket to see comic Dave Attell at the State Theatre Saturday.

Waterfront tour, giant yard sale, comic Dave Attell

Zephyr proudly tells its customers that everything is made in house with real fruit and no dyes. Photo by Megan Gray

Satisfy your sweet tooth with something a little different this weekend. Zephyr Ice in Portland serves shaved ice atop a scoop of regular or vegan ice cream. Choose from a variety of syrup flavors, all made in-house with real fruit.

For cool, customizable treats, breeze on in to Zephyr Ice

Mainely Burgers food truck. Shawn Patrick Ouellette/Staff Photographer

Should you fancy a food truck fix, check out our massive, always growing food truck guide and get busy chowing down.

A guide to 87 food trucks rolling through Maine

A Foodtruckalico Instagram post featuring the Ugly Dumpling food truck. Photo by Justin Velgos

For even more food truck fodder, we suggest heading to Food Truckalico on Instagram . A couple of times a week, the account shares details about where and when you can find trucks in the Portland area.

Follow the food trucks with Food Truckalico on Instagram

A newspaper article about a Comegato sighting from web series “Tracking the Comegato.” Photo courtesy of Kate Kaminski

If the weather does indeed relegate you to the indoors, curl up on the couch and fire up the new web series “Tracking the Comegato” about a beastly human-weasel hybrid that may or may not exist.

Could this human-weasel hybrid from Maine join the ranks of Bigfoot?

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