China Experience

This in-depth tour has proven to be one of the most popular we offer in China. Experience the Middle Kingdom as you take in the major tourist attractions in China and visit some of its lesser-known sites. See the majestic splendour of Beijing, visit the Great Wall of China and discover the Terracotta Warriors before travelling to Hong Kong to soak up the electric vibe. From sizzling Sichuan dishes in Chengdu and a cruise along the Yangzi River to the tranquillity of the Buddhist temples in Emei Shan, experience the true essence of China - you won't be disappointed. TRIP UPDATES FOR 2019: From 1st January 2019 this trip will become 19 days in length due to high-speed day trains replacing some overnight trains and the departure day of the week will change to Monday to match the Yangtze River boat schedule. The included destinations and activities will remain the same. Full details on these changes will be available in the coming months. Highlights/r/n

• This is one of our most comprehensive trips in China, taking in key destinations from north to south with plenty of variety in experiences and sights along the way. 
• Travel by overnight trains to get a sense of the vastness of this country as well as zip between cities on the fast and efficient high-speed train network.
• Sail through the iconic scenery of the Yangzi River as you meander through the dramatic Three Gorges over three days on a cruise.
• Like everything it does, China’s ancient history is on an epic scale. No matter how many guide books you have read, nothing truly prepares you for the grandeur and immensity of sights like the Great Wall, Tiananmen Square, Leshan Big Buddha and the Terracotta Army (or thousands of local tourists at the Forbidden City!). It's modern day man-made sights are just as impressive too such as skyline of Shanghai and the enormous Yangzi River hydroelectric dam.
• Learn about the endangered (and adorable) giant pandas’ struggle for survival, and get up close to these unique creatures in Chengdu. Chengdu is more than just pandas though - read about why it's one of our favourite cities in China here: https://www.intrepidtravel.com/adventures/chengdu-china-travel-guide/.
• Escape the cities to discover China's natural beauty. Trek up the peaks of Emei Shan for a stay in a monastery, waking to the sound of drums and prayers and surrounded by early morning mists. Cycle through scenes from traditional Chinese paintings - the picturesque limestone karts of Yangshuo.