China Travel Insights

Culture & Nature Tour of China's Yunnan Province - 8 Days

Dive into the cultural and natural landscapes of China's Yunnan province on this immersive eight-day tour. You'll visit ancient towns, explore Buddhist temples, and wander through karst forests, all while connecting with the local people's customs and beliefs. Discover the legends and dance of the Yi in Kunming, mingle with the Bai in Xizhou, make a Naxi baba pancake with a family in Lijiang, learn to write characters from a dongba (shaman) in Baisha, and sit down with a Buddhist lama in Shangri-La.

Chinese Culture, Religion & History Tour of Beijing & Shandong Province - 9 Days

Delve deep into Chinese culture on this immersive, nine-day tour, visiting temples, palaces, and shrines. Sample succulent Peking duck and explore the Forbidden City in Beijing before hiking along the iconic Great Wall. See a spring-fed lake in beautiful Jinan, Shandong province's capital, then transfer to Tai'an to ascend Mount Taishan, China's most sacred mountain. Visit the hometown of Confucius and explore European influences in Qingdao before discovering the tenets of Taoism on Mount Laoshan.

Food Tour of Hong Kong & Macau - 6 Days

Immerse yourself in the foodie paradises of Hong Kong and Macau on this tempting six-day tour. Savor the culinary fusion of their Asian/colonial pasts, beginning with the tasty dim sum dishes of Hong Kong and a street food tour in Kowloon. Discover Lantau Island’s lush landscape, Big Buddha, and freshest seafood before heading to Macau to explore the city’s Baroque architecture and indulge in Portuguese and Chinese-inspired dishes.

Food Tour of Hong Kong, Macau & the Pearl River Delta - 9 Days

Explore the confluent flavors of East and West on this nine-day food tour through Hong Kong, Macau, and the cities of the Pearl River Delta. From Hong Kong's favorite tradition of yum cha to Portuguese custard tarts in Macau and seafood congee in the Pearl Delta, foodies will revel in the blend of tastes and cultures. Hop on a tram up Victoria Peak for incredible Hong Kong views, wander the cobblestones of Macau, ride a boat through the canals of Fengjian, and roam a Ming-era garden in Shunde.

Hike China's Great Wall from Coast to Summit – 9 Days

Fulfill your dreams of hiking along the Great Wall of China on this nine-day adventure. From Qinhuangdao, where the Wall meets the Bohai Sea, you'll hike across mountain passes, through watchtowers, over "wild" unrestored sections, and past lakes and dense forests, ending in mountainous Shixiaguan. Walk in the footsteps of Ming Dynasty warriors as you immerse yourself in the history of the Great Wall with your expert guide on this once-in-a-lifetime trekking experience along China's historic icon.

Discover China's Yunnan Province - 8 Days

Explore the many wonders of China's Yunnan province on this eight-day adventure. Wander among karst giants in the Stone Forest near Kunming, learn about the local Bai people in Zhoucheng and Xizhou, and make specialties such as Yunnan ghost chicken at a cooking class in Dali. Then, head to Lijiang to see the mountains reflected in the famous Black Dragon Pool before ending your trip with a cable car ride up the epic Jade Dragon Snow Mountain and a hike through the dramatic Tiger Leaping Gorge.

Trek Along the Great Wall of China – 6 Days

Spend six days hiking along China's most enduring symbol, the Great Wall, on this bucket-list adventure. Begin in Beijing with a classic Peking duck dinner, then start your multiday trek at the ancient section of Gubeikou. Enjoy sunrise over the Wall, walk through watchtowers, hike along original and restored sections, and savor the endless views across the mountains from this ancient military fortification. After your first step, you'll understand why the Great Wall is one of the New Seven Wonders of the World.

Discover China's Great Wall, Terracotta Army & Pandas: Beijing, Xi'an & Chengdu - 9 Days

Discover quintessential China on this nine-day journey through Beijing, Xi'an, and Chengdu. In the capital, tour the UNESCO-listed Forbidden City, savor a Peking duck dinner, and take a day trip to the Great Wall of China. Witness the warriors of the Terracotta Army near Xi'an and walk or cycle along its ancient city walls, then head to the Sichuan province to experience the sights and tastes of Chengdu and meet the adorable pandas at a nearby research center.

Discover Shanghai & Huangshan Mountain - 6 Days

Experience China's soaring peaks and skyscrapers on this six-day getaway that takes you from the bright lights of vibrant Shanghai to the otherworldly serenity of awe-inspiring Huangshan Mountain. You'll travel by train between them, stopping to explore the traditional heritage villages of Honcun and Xidi before spending the night on Huangshan Mountain for hiking and spectacular sunset views. Then, return to Shanghai to wander the grand promenades, ancient alleys, and beautiful gardens.

Foodie Tour of China's Golden Triangle: Shanghai, Xi'an & Beijing - 8 Days

Dive into the varied and exciting cuisine of China's Golden Triangle on this eight-day trip for food lovers. Sample traditional benbang flavors in Shanghai's waterfront district, fly to Xi'an for a cooking lesson in a local home and witness the incredible Terracotta Warriors up close. Taste specialties in Xi'an's ancient Muslim Quarter, then train to the capital for a classic Peking duck dinner and explore the flavors of Beijing's hutongs before capping off your trip with a hike along the iconic Great Wall of China.

Highlights of China: Beijing, Xi'an & Guilin - 8 Days

Immerse yourself in the rich culture and ancient history of legendary China during this comprehensive eight-day highlights tour. Settle into Beijing, where you'll try Peking duck, see the Forbidden City, and walk along the Great Wall. Fly down to Xi'an to see the world-famous Terracotta Army, then switch to natural wonders, such as the epic rock formations on the Li River, in the southern town of Giulin.

Cultural Discovery in Beijing & Xi'an - 6 Days

Hit the ground running on this short but immersive cultural exploration of China that begins in Beijing, the evocative capital. Discover the artifacts and architecture at the Forbidden City, and meet locals in the ancient, winding hutongs. Spend a day hiking along the famous Great Wall before taking a train down to the ancient capital of Xi'an, where you'll visit the world-renowned Terracotta Army, learn the art of calligraphy, and walk along one of the oldest city walls in China.

1 Week in China - 5 Unique Itinerary Ideas

With strategic planning you can cover China´s highlights, like Beijing, Xi´an, and Shanghai, in a week. In those three cities alone you´ll find the Great Wall, Terracotta Army, and Yu Garden, a centuries-old green space. Or, if you´re thristing for an off-the-beaten path adventure, consider a sampan ride down the Li River or head to Yunnan, near Tibet, for nature excursions to mystical mountain peaks. Consult the itineraries below to find out which journey is right for you.

Discover China, Hong Kong and Macau - 12 Days

Take a great trip to China and experience the country's most famous attractions. Trek the Great Wall, explore the world's largest palace, the Forbidden City, view the amazing 2,000-year-old Terracotta Warriors, and visit Hong Kong and Macau on this comprehensive trip.

Family Trip to Beijing and Shanghai - 8 Days

This week-long tour, designed for families with children, covers the most famous cities in China: Beijing and Shanghai. Explore the treasures of the labyrinthian Forbidden City, hike the Mutianyu section of the iconic Great Wall, visit the Summer Palace by boat, and enjoy panoramic city views from the Oriental Pearl TV Tower. Cap it off with a true family favorite: an epic day at Shanghai Disneyland.

Discover the Best of China: Beijing to Shanghai - 14 Days

Experience China's most famous attractions on this two-week tour. Trek the Great Wall, explore the world's largest palace, view the 2,000-year-old Terracotta Warriors, admire pandas at Chengdu Panda Base, and visit the countryside in Guilin and Yangshuo. You'll end the trip in Shanghai, a mesmerizing modern metropolis.

Classic China Family Trip: Beijing, Shanghai, Xi'an, & More - 15 Days

Take your kids to China, a nation of ancient history and modern wonders. Your family will be immersed in Chinese culture and visit the country's most famous sights, including the Great Wall, the Forbidden City, and the Terracotta Warriors. This tour also includes family-friendly activities for families to learn and experience China's treasures.

Explore the Province of Yunnan - 7 Days

Explore the beauty of Yunnan Province on this week-long trip, starting in the capital city of Kunming with hikes through karst landscapes and a visit to Yuantong Temple. Then transfer to the old walled city of Dali and explore the ancient old towns of Shaxi where you'll learn about the local Bai population. End your trip in Lijiang with hikes up Jade Dragon Snow Mountain and through Tiger Leaping Gorge, stopping to admire the famous scene at Black Dragon Pool.

Explore China's Ethnic Villages - 5 Days

This tour of China's Guizhou province leads you through its incredibly-preserved ethnic villages, where you'll learn about these distinct cultures and traditions, viewing untouched architecture and enjoying pristine nature. You'll start in the city of Guiyang with a night tour, followed by the exploration of traditional Kaili Miao villages with their distinct clothing and architecture. Enjoy the beauty of Gaoyao's terraced rice fields before ending the trip with visits to the ethnic villages of Basha Miao and Zhaoxing Dong, where you'll discover unique traditions.

Hong Kong and Macau Family Trip - 5 Days

Discover the best of Hong Kong on this family trip, starting with a  bus tour of the city, a ride up the gondola to Victoria Peak, and an evening at Stanely Market. Spend two days riding roller coasters, playing games, and learning about marine life at Hong Kong's Disneyland and Ocean Park. End your trip with a day in Macau, complete with a ferry ride and a visit to the Venetian Resort.

Discover China's Highlights: Beijing, Xian, Chengdu, Shanghai - 11 Days

This comprehensive China trip offers something for everyone. Experience China's most famous attractions, from trekking the Great Wall to witnessing the Terracotta Warriors to enjoying a boat trip to Zhuajiajiao Water Town to admiring cute pandas at Chengdu Panda Base. Your trip starts in Beijing, the Chinese capital, and continues on to Xi'an, the ancient Tang Dynasty capital, and Chengdu, the capital of Sichuan province, concluding in the modern metropolis of Shanghai.

Splendor of the Great Wall - 8 Days

Zig-zagging more than 3,852 miles (6,200 km) through deserts, plains, hills, and oceans, the Great Wall is a breathtaking wonder. Make your dream of hiking the Great Wall come true with this itinerary that is perfect for active travelers. Beginning and ending in Beijing, you will discover the classic hiking sections of the Great Wall from Huanghuacheng to Jinshanling, which offer breathtaking panoramas of the countryside. The trip concludes with a tour of Beijing, China's capital city that is steeped in history yet rapidly transforming into a modern wonder.

10 Days in China - 5 Unique Itinerary Ideas

In 10 days you can see China's highlights plus embark on an active adventure, like cycling around rural villages in Guangxi. If you're a history buff, consider a greatest hits tour of Beijing's Forbidden City, a hike along the Great Wall, and a visit to the Terracotta Army in Xi'an. To go off the beaten path, combine the highlights with a cruise down the Yangtze River—and if you're really adventurous, travel from Beijing to Tibet and continue on to Mt. Everest.

2 Weeks in China - 5 Unique Itinerary Ideas

With two weeks you can plan a diverse vacation that covers every major area China, plus the Tibetan Plateau. A highlights tour would include the historic sights of ancient capitals like Beijing, Xi'an, and Luoyang. A more rounded itinerary would feature not only historic sights like the Forbidden City, Great Wall of China, and Terracotta Army, but you could spend time with giant pandas in Chengdu and experience Tibetan culture in Lhasa. The five itineraries below offer all these options and many more.

Discover China: Yunnan & Western Sichuan - 14 Days

This two-week tour focuses mainly on western China and covers some of the most off-the-beaten-path locales in Sichuan province and the Tibetan Plateau. It's an itinerary packed with outdoor adventure as you'll visit high-altitude villages, ancient Buddhist temples, and unspoiled national parks. Excursions to the mountain paradise of Shangri-La, the biological reserve of Jade Dragon Snow Mountain, and the peaks of Mount Siguniang are just a few of the many highlights of this unforgettable trip.

Essential China: Hong Kong, Chengdu, Zhangjiajie, & Guilin - 10 Days

This grand China adventure kicks off in Hong Kong with day trips around the city plus a jaunt to Macau, known as the "Las Vegas of Asia." Then it's off to Chengdu, the capital of Sichuan province, where you'll visit a giant panda breeding center before heading to Zhangjiajie and its famous towering sandstone cliffs. The trip culminates with a boat ride down the Li River in the tranquil southern region of Yangshuo.

Hike the Great Wall of China - 5 Days

The Great Wall of China is one of the New 7 Wonders of the World and an integral part of China's historical legacy. But rather than see it on a mere day trip, you'll spend a few days hiking various sections of the wall along with an expert guide. During the tour, you'll walk the ramparts along restored sections and gain a deeper understanding of Chinese culture as you chat with villagers and sample local cuisine—you can even camp near the wall if weather permits.

Highlights of Xi'an - 5 Days

Xian was one of the original historical capitals of China for over 1,000 years. Over five days you'll discover its secrets and highlights, such as the ancient City Walls and of course the thousands of clay statues that comprise the Terracotta Army. You'll cap the adventure with a trip to Luoyang where you'll see thousands of Buddhist rock carvings that date to the 5th century.

Shanghai & Suzhou Highlights - 5 Days

In five days you can experience the highlights of Shanghai plus take a day trip to one of the most romantic cities in the region: Suzhou. First, you'll tour Shanghai's historic gardens and old neighborhoods, like the French Concession quarter, which is now a Bohemian enclave. Then you're off to Suzhou and adjacent Tongli, a town on a canal so beautiful it's known as the "Venice of Asia."

Best of Beijing - 5 Days

Spend a quick five days touring the most historic sights of China's capital, like the Forbidden City and Summer Palace. You'll arrive in Beijing and visit Tiananmen Square before heading off for a hike on the Great Wall. Then you'll tour one of the nation's holiest sites, the Temple of Heaven, and cap the trip with a boat ride on the lake at the imperial Summer Palace.

Beijing, Guilin, & Shanghai - 7 Days

This seven-day trip to China covers three historic and beautiful areas that couldn't be more different. You'll arrive in Beijing, and tour landmarks from its imperial past, like the Forbidden City and Great Wall. Then you're off to the south of the country for river tours amid the limestone mountains of Yangshuo followed by some relaxation in the modern metropolis of Shanghai.

Explore the Yunnan Province - 7 Days

You'll pack an incredible week with the highlights of China's Yunnan province. After arriving in the city of Kunming, you'll transfer to Dali and visit the Stone Forest, a natural marvel of towering limestone rocks. Then you'll tour other historic towns and cities that were once fixtures on the ancient tea trading routes while also visiting incredible natural wonders like Jade Dragon Snow Mountain and Black Dragon Pool.

China's Highlights - 7 Days

This weeklong tour follows a route from Beijing to Shanghai—two great metropolises of China. You'll land in Beijing and tour ancient royal stomping grounds like the Summer Palace, Temple of  Heaven, and Forbidden City.  After visiting the Great Wall of China you'll catch a bullet train to Shanghai and tour its most famous neighborhoods plus make a day trip to the ancient water city of Suzhou, known as the "Venice of Asia."

Yangtze River Cruise -7 Days

Get ready for an adventure into the very heart of China as you embark on a five-star cruise down the Yangtze River. The journey begins in Beijing, where you'll not only visit the Forbidden City but you'll take a walk on the Great Wall, too. Then you're off to Chongqing where you'll board a riverboat for three days on jade waters flanked by towering cliffs before finishing the trip in Shanghai.

Beijing, Xi'an, Shanghai Tour - 7 days

In just a week you'll manage to cover many of the highlight cities of China, from ancient Xi'an to modern Shanghai. This "golden triangle" tour begins in the nation's capital of Beijing, where you'll visit the most incredible landmarks like the Imperial City and the Great Wall of  China. Then you're off to Xi'an to see the famous Terracotta Army before finishing the trip in the metropolitan playground of Shanghai.

China's Highlights & Yangtze River Cruise - 10 Days

Over 10 days you'll experience ancient capitals of China like Beijing and Xi'an, which are regarded as the cradles of Chinese civilization. Beyond touring historic sights like Tiananmen Square and the Great Wall, you'll visit the thousands of Terracotta Warriors at Xi'an. Capping this trip is a five-star cruise down the Yangtze River followed by a couple of days in Shanghai, a modern metropolis with limitless options for fun and adventure.

Tour of Shanghai, Chengdu, Lhasa, Xi'an, & Beijing - 14 Days

This 14-day itinerary covers the highlights of China and more, beginning in Shanghai before flying to Sichuan province to visit the largest Giant Panda breeding center in the world. After stopping in Tibet's capital of Lhasa for a cultural tour, you'll head to the ancient capital of China, Xi'an and see its historic Terracotta Army. The trip culminates in Beijing with a visit to the Forbidden City and a walk around the most iconic landmark in the country: the Great Wall of China.

Beijing, Xi'an, Chengdu, Guilin & Shanghai Tour - 14 Days

This two-week China getaway combines the nation's major tourist draws with cultural exchanges and even a family-friendly trip to an amusement park. It starts in Beijing, where you'll tour the Forbidden City plus take an excursion to the Great Wall. Next, you'll see the famous Terracotta Army of Xi'an, spend time with giant pandas in Chengdu, enjoy a riverboat excursion amid the limestone mountains of Guilin, and cap it all with a tour of modern Shanghai and a trip to Disneyland.

China's Ancient Capitals & Yangtze River Cruise - 14 Days

Over 14 days you'll visit the ancient capitals of China, walk the historic Great Wall, see the Terracotta Army of Xi'an, plus take a cruise up the longest river in Asia, the Yangtze. It's a luxurious ride that leads to the Three Gorges Dam, the largest hydroelectric power station in the world. All in all, this itinerary perfectly combines history, culture, and the cradles of Chinese civilization into one adventure.

Bike Tour of Southwest China: Shangri-la, Bai Shui Tai, Lijiang, Dali & More - 11 Days

Bike around southwest China on this tour of Yunnan region. Start in the appropriately-named Shangri-la, then bike to Bai Shui Tai. From here, you'll spend some days biking and hiking the magnificent Tiger Leaping Gorge before setting out to the area surrounding the Jade Dragon Snow Mountain. The tour ends in the historic town of Dali. Besides astonishing landscapes, this cycling tour will take you through historic rural villages, and introduce you to various Chinese minority cultures.

China in April: Travel Tips, Weather, and More

April is marked by rain showers and cherry blossoms, signaling spring in here. April straddles the tourist shoulder season and peak tourist season, which picks up in May. It’s an ideal time to explore China without the crowds and cold.

China in February: Travel Tips, Weather, and More

Once the new year’s celebrations wind down, it is shoulder season in China. Unless you want to partake in the world’s largest migration, it’s best to time your trip before or after Spring Festival, the Chinese New Year, a two-week festival that sometimes occurs in February (timing is based on the lunar calendar). The Chinese New Year starts on February 12 in 2021 and February 1 in 2022. Most businesses close during the holiday as those who can afford it head home for the holidays. Traveling post-holiday can be a bargain. Those brave enough to face the fierce cold that blankets much of China in February are rewarded with a spectacular winter wonderland.

China in March: Travel Tips, Weather, and More

Many parts of China are thawing out from below-freezing temperatures as spring beckons. Shoulder season continues, making this an ideal time to visit China's most sought-after destinations before the high tourist season begins and travel costs go up.

China in May: Travel Tips, Weather, and More

April showers bring May flowers, making China a kaleidoscope of colors in May. Temperatures and crowds increase, particularly the first week in May, a week-long workers’ holiday. May is a wonderful time to visit virtually every part of the country, from Xinjiang to the Great Wall to Hong Kong before the sweltering summer weather arrives.

China in July: Travel Tips, Weather, and More

July is hot—literally and figuratively—but its cities come alive with festivals, food, and fun. The extra daylight ensures jam-packed days to explore by land or water. Beat the heat by immersing yourself in Chinese culture, from cooking classes and crafts to folk festivals to nightly variety shows.

China in June: Travel Tips, Weather, and More

June is all about enjoying the great outdoors now that winter has gone and the sticky summer humidity has not quite started. The warmer the weather, the more tourists who arrive in China. There are several festivals in June, including the Dragon Boat Festival, in which revelers take to the water to race in colorful dragon boats, making this an ideal time to experience Chinese culture firsthand.

China in August: Travel Tips, Weather, and More

The height of summer can be an exciting time to visit China despite the heat and humidity. Cities are bustling and lively with throngs of travelers and locals soaking up the summer sunshine. Visitors are treated to several folk festivals this month, making it a uniquely special time to visit China.

China in September: Travel Tips, Weather, and More

As it approaches fall, the air is crisp and cool, and China is awash in crimson and gold. September is a splendid time to visit, as fall combines the best of travel: comfortable temperatures, fewer travelers, and more bang for the buck.

China in October: Travel Tips, Weather, and More

Simply one of the best times of the year, October checks off all the boxes: wonderful weather, smaller crowds, stunning foliage, and exceptional value. A magical time in China, fall is festive and fun no matter your destination.

China in November: Travel Tips, Weather, and More

November is a time of transition: the hordes of tourists have gone home, the sweltering heat and humidity that blankets much of China during the summer is a mere memory, and fall foliage has disappeared. It’s a golden opportunity to visit China thanks to the lack of crowds, decent weather that fluctuates from fall to winter, and moderate travel costs.