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North China Getaway

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North China Getaway
North China Getaway
North China Getaway
Fully Guided Adventure Small Group Rail
Our Price From
US$1,160
Save up To $224
Twin Share (Per Person)
 Trip Length
12 Days
 Trip Starts
Beijing
 Trip Finishes
Shanghai
12 Day North China Getaway Itinerary (Intrepid)
Countries Explored: China
Trip Style
Basix
Departures
Budget
Affordable
Max. Group Size
16
Pace
Moderate
Guide Level
Fully Guided
Trip Code
CBRF

Overview

Book online and enjoy exclusive savings on Intrepid's 12 Day North China Getaway. Discover the breathtaking countryside and rich cultural history of China's north on this 12-day trip bookended by the bright city lights of the country’s biggest hubs. From the dizzying heights of Huangshan, the Great Wall and waterfront Shanghai to the underground pits that hold thousands of Terracotta Warriors, this trip explores the diversity and significance of China. Go beyond the tourist trail, immersing yourself in the local ways of life, with hand-picked experiences to choose from and curated stays in small read more village guesthouses along the way. Northern China is a feast for the senses, especially your appetite.

Itinerary

Nimen Hao! Welcome to China. The capital of the most populous country on earth, Beijing is a food-centric city with ancient sites and modern architecture around every corner. Your adventure begins with an important welcome meeting at 6 pm this evening. Following the meeting, settle into your hotel and then perhaps get together with your newfound travel crew and head out for dinner – your local leader will have a couple of recommendations.

Enjoy a few hours of free time in the morning to explore Beijing before taking a 3-hour private bus to a section of the original Great Wall– the Gubeikou section. Built as a northern defensive line for Beijing (then called Youzhou), this section of the Great Wall was first constructed between AD550 and AD557, then fortified during the early years of the Ming Dynasty. You’ll spend the night in a family-run guesthouse nearby, and while the facilities are more basic than some of the other accommodation on this trip, the homegrown hospitality more than makes up for it. Most travellers tonight choose to eat at the guesthouse for dinner as it's a great chance to sample local produce and delicious home cooking.

Embrace an early start and make the trek from the Gubeikou section of the Great Wall to the Jinshanling section. Hike over steep, remote terrain for around 5–6 hours, taking in incredible views along this comparatively quiet trail. Some parts of the wall are unrestored, so you'll need to concentrate hard to keep your footing, while other stretches will take you off the wall to walk alongside it through the countryside. The trek will be challenging, but the sight of the wall snaking through the hills as far as the eye can see and the feeling of being immersed in ancient history will be ample reward for your efforts. After the hike, return to the guesthouse, put your feet up, have a few beers or maybe learn how to play mahjong with the locals.

Take a 3-hour drive back to Beijing before midday and make use of your last free afternoon in the capital. Consider checking out the Temple of Heaven while you're in the city, or tuck into a Peking Duck banquet right in its birthplace. Keep in mind that this evening you’ll board a 13-hour overnight train bound for Xi’an, so maybe stock up on snacks and supplies for the journey. While comfortable, the train isn’t luxurious, but it's certainly one of the best ways to come face to face with the vastness of this country. Be sure to have a good book or a device loaded with binge-worthy shows for the journey.

Welcome to Xi’an – the capital of Shaanxi Province and the largest city in northwest China. Head to the hotel to leave your luggage. Then make the 2-hour journey by public transport to the acclaimed Terracotta Warriors. Spend a few hours at this incredible archaeological find, buried for 2000 years before being discovered in 1974 by farmers digging a well. These clay statues of soldiers, horses and chariots were commissioned by the Emperor Qin Shi Huang as part of his mausoleum after he ascended to the throne in 264 BC. Three main pits are open for viewing, where just under 2000 of the total 6000 warriors – each an individual with a different costume, height, and even facial expression – are on display. Return to Xi'an in the late afternoon, check into your hotel and enjoy a relaxing evening. Xi’an’s Silk Road history means it has an exciting mixture of cultures, especially found in its food options. Why not try one of the many food specialties in Xi'an for dinner? Your leader will be able to advise on some of the best to try.

This morning, head on a leader-led walking tour to the Muslim Quarter, which features narrow streets of quaint shops, lively food markets, and the life of Chinese Muslims. Then enjoy some free time until your evening train. You can choose to visit the Bell Tower, which according to legend was built to restrain dragons that were causing earthquakes, or the Drum Tower, which is full of instruments once used to mark time and warn the population in emergencies after the walking tour. Another option is to explore the 13-kilometre-long City Walls and attached Gates where you can rent a bike on top and cycle the whole circle of the City Wall. In the evening, board your second overnight train bound for Shanghai (approximately 16 hours).

Blending 21st-century architecture with old-world character, Shanghai pulses with the beat of contemporary China. Arrive and take the busy subway to your accommodation. Enjoy a full day of exploration, but don't worry if you can't see everything you want to today – you’ll be back later on in your trip. Get a taste of the city during the roaring 1920s with a leader-led walk of the Bund, a strip of spectacular art deco-style buildings. Wander the narrow winding lanes (nongtangs) of Old Shanghai, where you can get a glimpse of local life. Explore the European-influenced French Concession, then pound the pavement along Luwan's Huaihai Road – a busy shopping street. The area's tree-lined avenues and many Tudor mansions earned it the nickname 'Paris of the East'. When night falls, why not get together with a few of your travel pals for a taste of Shanghai’s eclectic food scene.

Travel into stunning countryside by bullet train to Huangshan, otherwise known as Yellow Mountain. The 72 sharp peaks of Huangshan provide some of China's most breathtaking scenery, as well as a respite from the bustle of the city. Spend the next two days in a guesthouse with free time to explore the area as you wish. Two popular trails are the Eastern Steps (7. 5 kilometres, approximately 3–4 hours) and the Western Steps (15 kilometres). It’s recommended to take the cable car to the summit, explore the area and then descend via the Western Steps. Whatever you choose, the dramatic limestone peaks framing this region make for some breathtaking vistas. After taking in the natural beauty of Huangshan during the day, return to the guesthouse for a well-earned evening rest.

Jump on public bus again and travel to the picturesque villages of the Huizhou region (approximately 2 hours). A number of these villages are now World Heritage listed, and you may recognise the ramshackle, ornate buildings from the film ‘Crouching Tiger, Hidden Dragon’. Arrive in Hongcun, check-in to your village guesthouse and then set out on a guided tour by your leader of cobbled alleys and Ming Dynasty architecture. Following this short walk, you have the rest of the afternoon and evening free to spend as you wish. Perhaps you might like to clamber up into the hillsides for panoramic views over the traditional settlements. Or maybe you'd prefer to explore the surrounding villages on two wheels. Your group leader will have all the information on bicycle hire and other optional activities.

Bid farewell to the glorious countryside and make the 3-hour journey back to Shanghai by bullet train. You’ll arrive back mid-afternoon, and if there’s time, consider booking into a traditional tea ceremony to learn how important this drink is to Chinese culture. Tonight is cause for celebration, so why not gather with your travel crew and go all out in one of Shanghai’s great restaurants. If you haven't already, tonight is the perfect chance to try the city's famous xiao long bao (steamed soup dumplings).

With no activities planned for today, you are free to leave the accommodation at any time, provided you comply with your accommodation’s internal check-out policies. That doesn’t mean your adventure has to stop here! If you’d like to spend more time in Shanghai, we’ll be happy to organise additional accommodation (subject to availability).

Trip Inclusions

  • China is a land of contrasts. From soaking up the bright city lights of Shanghai’s waterfront to exploring the unearthed Terracotta Warriors outside of Xi’an, you’ll get to see it all for yourself!
  • Spend two nights at the base of the Great Wall in a locally run guesthouse, and follow in the footsteps of soldiers from hundreds of years ago when you trek the lesser-visited Gubeikou to Jinshanling section.
  • This adventure offers plenty of opportunity to get active among the wonders of China. Explore city laneways on walking tours, climb the steps of the Yellow Mountain, trek the Great Wall and cycle countryside lanes in Hongcun.
  • Two overnight trains means you'll maximise your time in each destination, get to know your fellow travellers over a game of mahjong, and have a real sense of the vast size of the country.
  • We’re all about authentic experiences, so go local every step of the way with an experienced local leader, public transport, and family-run guesthouses and lodgings wherever possible.

  • Twin-share Guesthouse/Hostel (7 nights)
  • Hotel (2 nights)
  • Overnight Hard Sleeper Train (2 nights)

  • No meals are included on this trip.

  • Accommodation, itinerary and inclusions subject to change.
  • Price is for land, cruise and internal flights as specified. Flights not specified are not included
  • Intrepid regularly update their itineraries throughout the year based on feedback and local conditions. Therefore the itinerary you see now may differ from when you booked. Global Journeys will provide you with detailed trip notes at the time of quoting, along with a finalised itinerary and trip notes before your trip departs.
Trip Style: Basix
Trip Style: Basix

Our Basix trips are designed for travelers of any age on a budget. Using simple, clean and centrally located accommodation (typically with a 2-to-2.5-star average rating), local transport where we can, along with plenty of free time. This means you can do the things that suit your budget and interests, rather than paying for inclusions you don’t want. Meals are generally not included, but your experienced local leader will have some great suggestions!

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Since 1989, Intrepid has been taking travellers beyond the ordinary to discover the real and remarkable. With small groups, passionate local leaders, and a commitment to responsible travel, every journey is crafted to connect you deeply with the people and places you visit. From iconic landmarks to hidden gems, Intrepid combines comfort, culture, and more curiosity for adventures that truly matter, all backed by a global network and guaranteed departures for peace of mind.

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Wednesday 18 Mar 2026 18 Mar 26 Beijing
Sunday 29 Mar 2026 29 Mar 26 Shanghai
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Wednesday 16 Dec 2026 16 Dec 26 Beijing
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Wednesday 17 Mar 2027 17 Mar 27 Beijing
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Wednesday 31 Mar 2027 31 Mar 27 Beijing
Sunday 11 Apr 2027 11 Apr 27 Shanghai
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Wednesday 14 Apr 2027 14 Apr 27 Beijing
Sunday 25 Apr 2027 25 Apr 27 Shanghai
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Wednesday 05 May 2027 05 May 27 Beijing
Sunday 16 May 2027 16 May 27 Shanghai
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Wednesday 19 May 2027 19 May 27 Beijing
Sunday 30 May 2027 30 May 27 Shanghai
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Wednesday 09 Jun 2027 09 Jun 27 Beijing
Sunday 20 Jun 2027 20 Jun 27 Shanghai
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Wednesday 07 Jul 2027 07 Jul 27 Beijing
Sunday 18 Jul 2027 18 Jul 27 Shanghai
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Wednesday 04 Aug 2027 04 Aug 27 Beijing
Sunday 15 Aug 2027 15 Aug 27 Shanghai
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Wednesday 18 Aug 2027 18 Aug 27 Beijing
Sunday 29 Aug 2027 29 Aug 27 Shanghai
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Wednesday 01 Sep 2027 01 Sep 27 Beijing
Sunday 12 Sep 2027 12 Sep 27 Shanghai
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Wednesday 15 Sep 2027 15 Sep 27 Beijing
Sunday 26 Sep 2027 26 Sep 27 Shanghai
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Wednesday 13 Oct 2027 13 Oct 27 Beijing
Sunday 24 Oct 2027 24 Oct 27 Shanghai
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Wednesday 27 Oct 2027 27 Oct 27 Beijing
Sunday 07 Nov 2027 07 Nov 27 Shanghai
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Wednesday 10 Nov 2027 10 Nov 27 Beijing
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Wednesday 24 Nov 2027 24 Nov 27 Beijing
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Wednesday 15 Dec 2027 15 Dec 27 Beijing
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Wednesday 18 Mar 2026 18 Mar 26 Beijing
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Wednesday 28 Oct 2026 28 Oct 26 Beijing
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Wednesday 25 Nov 2026 25 Nov 26 Beijing
Sunday 06 Dec 2026 06 Dec 26 Shanghai
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Was: $1,615
US$1,408
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Wednesday 16 Dec 2026 16 Dec 26 Beijing
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Wednesday 17 Mar 2027 17 Mar 27 Beijing
Sunday 28 Mar 2027 28 Mar 27 Shanghai
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US$1,670
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Wednesday 31 Mar 2027 31 Mar 27 Beijing
Sunday 11 Apr 2027 11 Apr 27 Shanghai
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Wednesday 14 Apr 2027 14 Apr 27 Beijing
Sunday 25 Apr 2027 25 Apr 27 Shanghai
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Wednesday 05 May 2027 05 May 27 Beijing
Sunday 16 May 2027 16 May 27 Shanghai
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US$1,785
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Wednesday 19 May 2027 19 May 27 Beijing
Sunday 30 May 2027 30 May 27 Shanghai
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Wednesday 09 Jun 2027 09 Jun 27 Beijing
Sunday 20 Jun 2027 20 Jun 27 Shanghai
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Wednesday 07 Jul 2027 07 Jul 27 Beijing
Sunday 18 Jul 2027 18 Jul 27 Shanghai
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Wednesday 04 Aug 2027 04 Aug 27 Beijing
Sunday 15 Aug 2027 15 Aug 27 Shanghai
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Wednesday 18 Aug 2027 18 Aug 27 Beijing
Sunday 29 Aug 2027 29 Aug 27 Shanghai
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Wednesday 01 Sep 2027 01 Sep 27 Beijing
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Wednesday 15 Sep 2027 15 Sep 27 Beijing
Sunday 26 Sep 2027 26 Sep 27 Shanghai
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Wednesday 13 Oct 2027 13 Oct 27 Beijing
Sunday 24 Oct 2027 24 Oct 27 Shanghai
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Wednesday 27 Oct 2027 27 Oct 27 Beijing
Sunday 07 Nov 2027 07 Nov 27 Shanghai
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Wednesday 10 Nov 2027 10 Nov 27 Beijing
Sunday 21 Nov 2027 21 Nov 27 Shanghai
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Wednesday 24 Nov 2027 24 Nov 27 Beijing
Sunday 05 Dec 2027 05 Dec 27 Shanghai
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Wednesday 15 Dec 2027 15 Dec 27 Beijing
Sunday 26 Dec 2027 26 Dec 27 Shanghai
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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. Pricing and trip details are correct at this point in time, however are subject to confirmation at the time of booking and are subject to change by Intrepid. For cruise itineraries, cabin images are sourced from the cruise-line and 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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