Best of China

No Reviews No Booking FeesDedicated Travel Advisor
Fully Guided Adventure Small Group
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 Trip Length
12 Days
 Trip Starts
Beijing
 Trip Finishes
Shanghai
12 Day Best of China Itinerary (G Adventures)
Countries Explored: China
Trip Style
National Geographic Journeys
Budget
Affordable
Max. Group Size
15
Pace
Leisurely
Guide Level
Fully Guided
Trip Code
ACBNG

Overview

Book online and enjoy exclusive savings on G Adventures 12 Day Best of China. Combine the hustle and bustle of China’s booming cities with the tranquility of rural life on this unforgettable adventure. Explore hidden corners of Beijing’s Forbidden City; trek atop the majestic Great Wall; and sample street food in Xi’an, home to the incredible terra-cotta army. Then venture into the countryside, enjoying a paddle on the scenic Li River and learning to cook up regional specialties in Yangshuo. Along the way, discover ancient customs that contrast with rapidly modernizing lifestyles, revealing China’s t...read morerue allure.

Itinerary

Arrive at any time. Arrival transfer is included. Enjoy Beijing’s famed Peking duck at our welcome dinner tonight. (D)

Today, we discover one of the most iconic wonders of the world—the Great Wall of China. This impressive series of fortifications was built between the 3rd century BC and the 17th century AD along China’s northern border, and spans more than 20,000 kilometers. We’ll explore the less-visited Mutianyu section, taking in sweeping views of the countryside from the ancient watchtowers. Opt to ascend a section of the wall by cable car; then hike up to Mutianyu’s highest point and choose to slide back down to the entrance in a toboggan. (B)

Hear tales of emperors and their concubines, a long crafted culture and rich tradition. Witness how ancient Chinese customs are still valued today, while also blended with modern technology and western influences. (B)

Accommodation this evening will be in Soft Sleeper train cars which have 8-9 compartments per cabin. Each compartment includes 4 beds (two upper and two lower beds) and a sliding door which can be locked. Beds include a quilt, pillow, sheet, and reading lamp with space for luggage in each compartment. (B)

In the evening, explore the multicultural feel of the Muslim Quarter with shopping lanes and street-side food stalls selling naan, kebabs, and a fine array of sweets. Opt to try some of the best street food in China – the spicy beef and lamb kebabs are always a favourite. (B)

Visit the famed terra-cotta army, fashioned more than 2,000 years ago to protect the tomb of Qin Shi Huang, China’s first emperor. We’ll spend half a day learning about this archaeological treasure and admiring the artistic detail of the thousands of life-size sculptures. Afterward, enjoy lunch in a nearby village, where local farmers first discovered the terra-cotta warriors in 1974. Opt for a dumpling banquet this evening, getting a chance to taste traditional northern Chinese cuisine. (B/L)

Fly to Yangshuo in China's lush southwestern region, situated at the meeting point of the Li and Yulong Rivers and ringed by dramatic limestone peaks. Float down the Li River on a traditional vessel, winding around karst towers and gliding past terraced rice fields and local fishermen on bamboo boats. Tonight, we’ll enjoy dinner at a G Adventures–supported restaurant, which provides rural women with opportunities to become self-reliant. (B/D)

Venture further into the scenic countryside this morning, trekking through peaceful rural villages, fruit orchards, and rice paddies. Later, delve into the region’s cuisine on a visit to a Yangshuo market, where we’ll learn about the ingredients used to prepare typical dishes. Then try your hand at whipping up some of these local specialities at a cooking class, and enjoy your creations for dinner. (B/D)

Rise early for a private tai chi class with a local expert and learn about the health benefits of this ancient Chinese exercise, practiced by millions around the world. Later, travel to the town of Yangshuo and wander through its quaint, café-lined streets. Spend the afternoon at leisure, and opt to enjoy a stunning theatrical performance over the Li River. (B)

Fly to Shanghai, one of China’s most bustling metropolises. Set off on a stroll of the Bund, the downtown riverfront district, and take in Shanghai’s colonial architecture and futuristic skyline—a mesmerizing mix of old and new. Explore the city on your own time this evening. (B)

Spend the day soaking up vibrant Shanghai on your own. Opt to visit the Shanghai Museum, home to a world-class collection of ancient Chinese art; roam the beautiful Yuyuan Garden, a classical Chinese garden dating to the Ming era; enjoy a spectacular acrobatic show; ascend to the top of the iconic Oriental Pearl, one of the tallest TV towers in the world; and much more. (B)

Depart at any time. (B)

Trip Inclusions

  • Walk the Great Wall and cycle along the Xi'an city walls.
  • Explore Beijing's traditional alleys and backstreets known as hutongs.
  • Enjoy a performance of shadow puppetry.
  • Face the Terracotta Warriors and visit the farming community where they were discovered.
  • Learn to cook local specialities at a rural cooking school.

  • Your Journeys Highlight Moment: Chinese Shadow Puppetry, Xi'an
  • Your Journeys Highlight Moment: Tai Chi Class, Yangshuo
  • Your G for Good Moment: Jia Community Restaurant, Yangshuo
  • Your Foodie Moment: Central Chinese Cooking Class - Yangshuo, Yangshuo
  • Your Discover Moment: Shanghai
  • Arrival transfer
  • Visit Tiananmen Square, the Forbidden City, and the Temple of Heaven
  • Visit Beijing's traditional hutongs
  • Excursion to the Great Wall
  • Xi'an Muslim quarter orientation walk and Gao’s Grand Courtyard
  • Cycle along the Xi'an city walls
  • Terracotta warriors tour
  • Lunch in a local village
  • Li River boat ride
  • Walk through the countryside with village visits
  • Shanghai orientation walk
  • Internal flights
  • All transport between destinations and to/from included activities

  • Hotels (10 Nights), Soft-sleeper train (1 Night)

  • CEO (Chief Experience Officer) throughout, local guides

  • 11 breakfasts, 1 lunch, 3 dinners

  • Private bus, plane, boat, train, bicycle, walking

  • Accommodation, itinerary and inclusions subject to change.
  • Price is for land, cruise and internal flights as specified. Flights not specified are not included
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Brochure

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G Adventures National Geographic (2023-24)

Combining National Geographic’s more than 130 years of global exploration, science, and storytelling, with the fun, responsible, and culturally immersive travel experiences for which G Adventures is a global leader. Support global initiatives, community projects, and enjoy access to exclusive ventures. Dive into a blend of comfort and discovery, just...more as the renowned National Geographic explorers did.

Prices & Dates

There are currently no departures available on this trip. Either it's the end of the season and new departures will be released shortly, or this itinerary has been changed and will no longer continue. Feel free to contact us for information about when next seasons dates will be released or click here to view the general release dates for all destinations.

Note
Tour & cruises prices are per person. Prices shown have savings applied, are subject to availability and may be withdrawn at any time without notice. Prices and trip information are correct at the time at this point in time, however are subject to confirmation at the time of booking and are subject to change by G Adventures. For cruise itineraries, cabin images are sourced from G Adventures. These should be treated as indicative only. Cabin inclusions, upholsteries and room layout may differ to the image(s) shown depending on the ship selected and your sailing dates.

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