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Inspiring China

  • Duration
    12 days
  • Tour Type
    Group Tour
  • Tour Style
    Classic
  • Price From
    £4,090pp

Beginning in Beijing, age-old city and capital, and ending in Chongqing, called a futuristic ‘cyberpunk’ city, embark on an adventure through some of China’s most striking destinations, admiring a fascinating combination of tradition and innovation as you go.

From walking on the Great Wall, seeing adorable giant pandas and admiring the spectacular nature of Zhangjiajie to riding high-speed trains and elevators and watching magical drone shows, this tour highlights the very best of this intriguing nation, old and new.

  • Fully Inclusive
    Touring with Guides and entrance fees
  • Included Meals
    Breakfasts: 10 , Lunches: 9 , Dinners: 10
  • Flights
    International flights and current taxes
  • Accommodation
    10 nights in 4 star accommodation
  • Visa Included
    Visa fees for UK passport holders
  • Group Tour
    Max Group Size: 28
  • Physical Rating 2Learn More
    X A reasonable level of fitness is required, as you'll be spending time on your feet and doing a bit of walking to cover short distances during your daily sightseeing. There will also be some climbing of steps and climbing on and off of coaches and boats. Download the detailed tour dossier for details of your chosen tour. Learn More
    Walking, some steps and extended time on your feet.

Tour Highlights

Our Inspiring China tour will see you exploring the most iconic sites, delving into deep-rooted culture and dining on delicious cuisine.

Tour Experiences

Glamorous Drone Light Show

Watch Chongqing's skyline come to life in a magical light show, where over 5,000 synchronised drones choreograph a stunning performance above the city's soaring riverside towers.

Discover Furong at Night

As night falls, watch Furong transform into a magical riverside town, with lantern-lit streets and the gentle glow of traditional stilt houses reflecting in the water.

The Cliff-Hanging Walkway

Take a walk along Tianmen Mountain's thrilling Cliff-Hanging Walkway. Stretching over the cliffs, it provides uninterrupted views of Zhangjiajie’s towering deep valleys and dense forests.

Tour Itinerary

This adventure is ideal for travellers who want to see the very best bits of this incredibly diverse destination. We have designed the tour to make the most of the time available to showcase the must-see sights and unforgettable experiences.

  • Days 1-2
    Fly overnight to Beijing
    Days 1-2: Fly overnight to Beijing

    Fly overnight to Beijing, China's historical capital. Depending on your time of arrival, the rest of the day is yours to start soaking up the local culture.

    • Dinner
  • Day 3
    Imperial Beijing
    Day 3: Imperial Beijing

    This morning head to Beijing's symbolic heart, Tiananmen Square, where you will discover the magnificence of the Forbidden City and find a complex full of imperial treasures. Take a leisurely stroll through the narrow alleys of the warren-like hutongs and learn more about living in this traditional area. Later, soak up the harmonious ambience of the Temple of Heaven. In the evening, sit down to enjoy the local delicacy, Peking duck.

    • Breakfast
    • Lunch
    • Dinner
  • Day 4
    The Great Wall
    Day 4: The Great Wall

    This morning is dedicated to China's most iconic sight – the Great Wall. Taking a walk on this incredible structure is the best way to appreciate the sheer magnificence of the wall and the dramatic scenery that surrounds it. Visit a jade factory, where you will be able to buy a small handcrafted piece. Jade is revered throughout China and is said to bring fortune and prosperity to those who wear it. Spend the afternoon at the idyllic Summer Palace, strolling through traditional Chinese gardens and seeing the exquisite architecture.

    • Breakfast
    • Lunch
    • Dinner
  • Day 5
    Dine on Dumplings
    Day 5: Dine on Dumplings

    Travel by bullet train to Xian, China's ancient former capital. Take a walking tour of the narrow and winding streets of the lively Muslim Quarter and gain an insight into the city's fascinating culture and significance as the start of the Silk Road. In the evening, enjoy a dumpling feast and Tang Dynasty dancing show.

    • Breakfast
    • Lunch
    • Dinner
  • Day 6
    Terracotta Warriors
    Day 6: Terracotta Warriors

    After their fortuitous discovery in the 1970s, the Terracotta Army of China's first emperor, Qin Shi Huang, has intrigued visitors ever since. Spend the morning viewing the enigmatic ranks of these life-size warriors and visit the Xian Art Ceramics and Lacquer Workshop. Later, take a stroll on the beautifully preserved ancient city walls that enclose Xian's old town, and stop by a local brewery to quench your thirst with some beer tastings.

    • Breakfast
    • Lunch
    • Dinner
  • Day 7
    Bullet Train to Chengdu
    Day 7: Bullet Train to Chengdu

    Board the bullet train to Chengdu, the capital of the Sichuan province. Take a stroll through People's Park to see Matchmaker's Corner, where parents search for suitable partners for their children.

    • Breakfast
    • Lunch
    • Dinner
  • Day 8
    Giant Pandas
    Day 8: Giant Pandas

    Visit Chengdu's famous Panda Conservation Centre to see and learn about China's celebrated bears up close in surroundings that mirror their natural habitat. A look around the informative museum gives an overview of the reserve's breeding programme. Later, drive to Chongqing where you will board your Yangtze River Cruise.

    • Breakfast
    • Lunch
    • Dinner
  • Day 9
    Yangtze River Cruise
    Day 9: Yangtze River Cruise

    Disembark from the cruise for around 2 and a half hours to visit Mt. ShuangGui. Here you will explore a national forest park known for its picturesque scenery and see the cliff brush writings of calligraphists here from the Song Dynasty to the present day.

    • Breakfast
    • Lunch
    • Dinner
  • Day 10
    Yangtze River Cruise
    Day 10: Yangtze River Cruise

    Today expect breathtaking views as you sail through the Wu and Qutang gorges before a relaxing cruise along the Goddess Stream in a smaller vessel.

    • Breakfast
    • Lunch
    • Dinner
  • Day 11
    Three Gorges Dam
    Day 11: Three Gorges Dam

    Visit the Three Gorges Dam, the largest hydroelectric dam in the world. Appreciate the scale of this hydroelectric project from the viewing area and visit the small museum. Disembark your Yangtze River Cruise and drive to Zhangjiajie, a scenic area of over 3,000 sandstone pillars, rising from misty folds of subtropical forest and cloaked in vibrant green vegetation.

    • Breakfast
    • Lunch
    • Dinner
  • Day 12
    Discover Zhangjaijie
    Day 12: Discover Zhangjaijie

    Begin the day with a ride in the remarkable Bailong glass elevator. Embedded into the mountain, the elevator soars up the mountain side to a towering height of 326 metres in as little as two minutes! Soak up the amazing views of the 'First Bridge under the Sun' and Hallelujah Mountain. Continue to Emperor Mountain and Helong Park before taking a cable car down. Later, explore the Ten-Mile Natural Gallery with a ride on the scenic train. End the day with a scenic sampan cruise on Lake Baofeng, a turquoise expanse of water amongst picturesque karst scenery.

    • Breakfast
    • Lunch
    • Dinner
  • Day 13
    Zhangjiajie's Glass Bridge
    Day 13: Zhangjiajie's Glass Bridge

    Explore the colourful stalagmites and stalactites of the Huanglong Cave, stretching over 120 acres in area. Later, brace yourself for an exhilarating walk across Zhangjiajie's Glass Bridge, the world's longest and highest glass-bottomed bridge spanning 430-metres over the Grand Canyon.

    • Breakfast
    • Lunch
    • Dinner
  • Day 14
    Tianmen Mountain
    Day 14: Tianmen Mountain

    Soar up the heights of Tianmen Mountain in the world's longest cable car, a 7-kilometre journey taking approximately 40-minutes. Atop the Mountain, marvel at Tianmen Cave, nicknamed 'Heaven's Door', standing proudly at the top of 999 steep steps and take a thrilling walk along a glass skywalk, aptly named the 'Walk of Faith'. Stop by Jun Sheng Sandstone painting gallery then transfer to the airport for your evening flight to Shanghai.

    • Breakfast
    • Lunch
    • Dinner
  • Day 15
    Bustling Shanghai
    Day 15: Bustling Shanghai

    Today we visit the peaceful Yu Gardens and the atmospheric alleys of the old town. Admire the magnificent colonial architecture with a stroll along the historical waterfront Bund, before visiting a silk mill. Next, head to the top of Jin Mao tower for incredible views of the city. This evening, view the city from the Huangpu River on a panoramic cruise and get a taste for Shanghainese cuisine.

    • Breakfast
    • Lunch
    • Dinner
  • Day 16
    Depart Shanghai
    Day 16: Depart Shanghai

    Fly to the UK, arriving home the same or following day.

    • Breakfast
  • Days 1-2
    Fly overnight to Beijing
    Days 1-2: Fly overnight to Beijing

    Fly overnight to Beijing, China's magnificent capital. Depending on your time of arrival, the rest of the day is yours to start soaking up the local culture.

    • Dinner
  • Day 3
    Imperial Beijing
    Day 3: Imperial Beijing

    This morning head to Beijing's symbolic heart, Tiananmen Square, before entering the magnificence of the Forbidden City, a complex full of imperial treasures. Later, soak up the harmonious ambience of the Temple of Heaven. In the evening, sit down to enjoy the local delicacy, Peking duck.

    • Breakfast
    • Lunch
    • Dinner
  • Day 4
    The Great Wall
    Day 4: The Great Wall

    This morning is dedicated to China's most iconic sight – the Great Wall. Taking a walk on this incredible structure is the best way to appreciate the sheer magnificence of the wall and the dramatic scenery that surrounds it. Visit a jade factory, where you'll have a chance to buy a small handcrafted piece then spend the afternoon at the idyllic Summer Palace, strolling through traditional Chinese gardens and admiring the exquisite architecture.

    • Breakfast
    • Lunch
    • Dinner
  • Day 5
    Fly to Zhangjiajie
    Day 5: Fly to Zhangjiajie

    Fly south to explore the breathtaking landscapes of Zhangjiajie, where soaring sandstone pillars and lush forests await.

    • Breakfast
    • Lunch
    • Dinner
  • Day 6
    Discover Zhangjaijie
    Day 6: Discover Zhangjaijie

    Begin the day with a ride in the remarkable Bailong glass elevator. Embedded into a cliff face, the elevator shoots up the mountain side to a towering height of 326 metres in as little as two minutes! Soak up the amazing views of the 'First Bridge under the Sun' and Hallelujah Mountain. Continue your exploration at Emperor Mountain and Helong Park, before descending by cable car.

    • Breakfast
    • Lunch
    • Dinner
  • Day 7
    Tianmen Mountain
    Day 7: Tianmen Mountain

    Soar up the heights of Tianmen Mountain by cable car which, at seven-kilometres, is the world's longest. Atop the Mountain, marvel at Tianmen Cave, nicknamed 'Heaven's Door', standing proudly at the top of 999 steep steps and take a thrilling walk along a glass skywalk, aptly named the 'Walk of Faith'.

    • Breakfast
    • Lunch
    • Dinner
  • Day 8
    Furong Ancient Town
    Day 8: Furong Ancient Town

    Today, brace yourself for an exhilarating walk across Zhangjiajie's Glass Bridge which spans 430-metres across the magnificent Grand Canyon. Travel to Furong Ancient Town this afternoon and explore its charming riverside streets, traditional stilt houses, and cascading waterfalls.

    • Breakfast
    • Lunch
    • Dinner
  • Day 9
    Chongqing Hot Springs
    Day 9: Chongqing Hot Springs

    Hop on a bullet train to travel to the futuristic city of Chongqing, arriving in the afternoon. Head to one of the city’s top hot spring resorts to relax in the naturally heated pools, or enjoy some free time to explore the bustling Jiefangbei Pedestrian Street at your own pace.

    • Breakfast
    • Lunch
    • Dinner
  • Day 10
    Discover Chongqing's Pandas & City
    Day 10: Discover Chongqing's Pandas & City

    Today you'll explore the best of what this fascinating and unique city has to offer. Begin with a visit to one of China's most beloved icons, the giant panda, then watch metro trains pass through a high-rise at the innovative Liziba Intersection. Later, admire the striking architecture of Chongqing with a scenic river cruise which also passes the dazzling lights of Hongya Cave.

    • Breakfast
    • Lunch
    • Dinner
  • Day 11
    Dazu Rock Carvings & Night Drone Show
    Day 11: Dazu Rock Carvings & Night Drone Show

    Travel to Dazu, home to the UNESCO World Heritage-listed Dazu Rock Carvings. Here, you'll find thousands of Buddhist, Taoist and Confucianist idols and symbols carved into rock faces over 70 sites. Made between the 9th and 13th centuries, they are some of the best preserved in China. Return to Chongqing for some leisure time before enjoying a farewell dinner by the harbour, followed by the Glamorous Drone Show, where over 5,000 drones illuminate the night sky in a mesmerising display of colour and precision, perfectly capturing the city’s vibrant energy.

    • Breakfast
    • Lunch
    • Dinner
  • Day 12
    Depart Chongqing
    Day 12: Depart Chongqing

    Depart Chongqing, arriving home the same or following day.

    • Breakfast

We draw from a wide range of hotels on our holidays, each one is chosen to suit the tour you are travelling on meaning your accommodation can range from a smart business hotel in one city to a family run guesthouse in a smaller town. Here are some examples of the type of hotel you can expect to find on this tour.

  • Nights 3
    Mercure Beijing Downtown
    Mercure Beijing Downtown
    The 4-star Mercure Beijing Downtown offers a convenient base with excellent citywide connections and easy access to central Beijing. The spacious, modern rooms come with free Wi-Fi, a minibar, kettle, and hairdryer, while the indoor pool, fitness centre, and generous breakfast buffet ensure a well-rounded stay.
  • Nights 3
    Zhangjiajie Expert Village Sunshine Courtyard Hotel
    Zhangjiajie Expert Village Sunshine Courtyard Hotel
    Close to the scenic area, the 4-star Zhangjiajie Expert Village Sunshine Courtyard Hotel, blends contemporary interiors with a classical garden style allowing you to embrace your natural surroundings and scenery. A buffet breakfast is available, serving both Chinese and Western cuisine while the tea room makes for a great spot to unwind. Each room is spacious and modern with Wi-Fi and air-conditioning.
  • Night 1
    Annai - Xizhou Ji Hotel
    Annai - Xizhou Ji Hotel
    Annai · Xizhou Ji Hotel is just a few minutes’ walk from the entrance of Furong Ancient Town. The hotel offers spacious, well-appointed rooms featuring air-conditioning, complimentary Wi-Fi, and modern bathrooms. Guests can enjoy a daily buffet breakfast with both Chinese and Western options, make use of the on-site gym, or relax with a drink at the hotel bar.
  • Nights 3
    Mercure Hotel Jiefangbei
    Mercure Hotel Jiefangbei
    Located in the heart of Jiefangbei, Mercure Chongqing Downtown is an elegant 4-star hotel. Enjoy modern, comfortable rooms, a Chinese and Western breakfast buffet, and superb facilities including a 24-hour gym, yoga room, and stylish lobby bar.
City Average Temperate Monthly Rainfall
  • Beijing
  • 1°c
  • 1mm
  • Chongqing
  • 8°c
  • 20mm
  • Zhangjiajie
  • 4°c
  • 35mm
City Average Temperate Monthly Rainfall
  • Beijing
  • 0°c
  • 5mm
  • Chongqing
  • 10°c
  • 21mm
  • Zhangjiajie
  • 6°c
  • 50mm
City Average Temperate Monthly Rainfall
  • Beijing
  • 6°c
  • 8mm
  • Chongqing
  • 14°c
  • 36mm
  • Zhangjiajie
  • 10°c
  • 92mm
City Average Temperate Monthly Rainfall
  • Beijing
  • 14°c
  • 21mm
  • Chongqing
  • 19°c
  • 105mm
  • Zhangjiajie
  • 16°c
  • 167mm
City Average Temperate Monthly Rainfall
  • Beijing
  • 20°c
  • 34mm
  • Chongqing
  • 23°c
  • 152mm
  • Zhangjiajie
  • 20°c
  • 218mm
City Average Temperate Monthly Rainfall
  • Beijing
  • 24°c
  • 78mm
  • Chongqing
  • 26°c
  • 171mm
  • Zhangjiajie
  • 24°c
  • 243mm
City Average Temperate Monthly Rainfall
  • Beijing
  • 26°c
  • 185mm
  • Chongqing
  • 29°c
  • 175mm
  • Zhangjiajie
  • 26°c
  • 193mm
City Average Temperate Monthly Rainfall
  • Beijing
  • 25°c
  • 160mm
  • Chongqing
  • 29°c
  • 134mm
  • Zhangjiajie
  • 26°c
  • 155mm
City Average Temperate Monthly Rainfall
  • Beijing
  • 20°c
  • 46mm
  • Chongqing
  • 24°c
  • 128mm
  • Zhangjiajie
  • 22°c
  • 108mm
City Average Temperate Monthly Rainfall
  • Beijing
  • 14°c
  • 22mm
  • Chongqing
  • 19°c
  • 92mm
  • Zhangjiajie
  • 17°c
  • 111mm
City Average Temperate Monthly Rainfall
  • Beijing
  • 5°c
  • 7mm
  • Chongqing
  • 14°c
  • 46mm
  • Zhangjiajie
  • 12°c
  • 69mm
City Average Temperate Monthly Rainfall
  • Beijing
  • -1°c
  • 3mm
  • Chongqing
  • 10°c
  • 25mm
  • Zhangjiajie
  • 6°c
  • 35mm
+ -
Inspiring China map

Places Visited: UK - Beijing (3N) - Zhangjiajie (3N) - Furong (1N) - Chongqing (3N) - UK

Tour Dates & Prices

All of our tour departures include international flights and taxes in the price. If your tour departs in less than 30 days, please call our travel experts to book.

If you can find a tour with the same inclusions cheaper, we will match it AND give you a reward. We will also match the price of any Wendy Wu Tour quoted elsewhere and we guarantee the price of your tour will never rise after you've paid.

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Depart UK
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Booking Options

Departures for Solo travellers only are available for this tour on selected dates.
In addition to being for solos only these departures feature smaller group sizes, free airport lounge access and complimentary cocktails on arrival.

Depart UK
Return Date
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There are no dedicated Solo departures for this year. You can enjoy any of our tours with no Single Supplement on our Happy to Share option or explore the solo departures in other years.

Depart UK
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Group Tour includes

Additional Price Information

Extensions and Stopovers

Extend your holiday or break up your journey with one of our extensions and stopovers. Choose from city breaks or some beach time, or spend more time in your chosen destination.

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