9 day Incredible China
Description:
Itinerary:
Beijing – Arrival
Your China adventure begins! Upon landing at either Beijing Capital International Airport (PEK) or Beijing Daxing International Airport (PKX), you’ll be greeted with a warm welcome and transferred straight to your hotel. It’s time to shake off the jet lag and get excited for the journey ahead!
Overnight: Beijing Chunhuiyuan Hot Spring Resort (or similar)
Transfers: A group transfer will be provided at a designated time. If your flight arrives outside of this scheduled transfer window, you will need to arrange your own transportation between the airport and the hotel at your own expense.
Beijing
After a hearty breakfast, step into China’s imperial past with a visit to Tiananmen Square, the grand gateway to the Forbidden City and one of the largest public squares in the world. The rest of the day is yours to relax, explore independently, or join one of our exciting optional excursions for deeper insight into Beijing’s culture and heritage.
Overnight: Beijing Chunhuiyuan Hot Spring Resort (or similar)
Meals: Breakfast
Optional Activities:
Beijing Golden Mask Dynasty Show USD$65 per person
The Golden Mask Dynasty Show is an enchanting theatrical performance set in ancient China, featuring a blend of dance,
acrobatics, and special effects, including an on-stage waterfall. Held in Beijing, the show tells the romantic and dramatic
tale of a queen of the mythical Golden Mask Dynasty and her love for a rival general, beautifully weaving themes of love,
conflict, and reconciliation.
Forbidden City Tour USD$55 per person
Explore the Forbidden City, a vast imperial palace complex that served as the home of Chinese emperors for nearly 500
years, from the Ming to the Qing dynasty. Covering 180 acres, it consists of nearly 10,000 buildings, surrounded by a large
defensive wall and moat. Known for its stunning architecture, intricate wooden carvings, and gold decorations, the
Forbidden City symbolizes imperial power and authority.
Forbidden City Availability
Due to a daily limit on ticket availability for the Forbidden City, entry cannot be guaranteed and is subject to availability. To
secure entry, we will pre-book tickets on behalf of all guests in advance using passport information, without requiring prior
individual authorization. If tickets cannot be secured, an alternative visit to The Imperial Ancestral Temple will be arranged.
Please note, this arrangement is made to ensure the smooth operation of the tour and does not involve any additional
charges.
note – if you choose not to participate in today’s optional tour, you will be dropped off at a designated location and informed of the
scheduled pick-up time and place (typically 4–5 hours later). Should you prefer to return to the hotel earlier, you may do so
by taxi at your own expense.
*note optional tours are not included in the main package and must be paid for on-site. The listed price is per person. Operation of the tour is subject to a minimum group size being met.
Beijing – Great Wall
Today’s adventure takes you to one of the Seven Wonders of the World—the Great Wall of China! Visit the Juyongguan section, a historically significant and beautifully preserved part of the Wall, located 60 km from central Beijing. Feel the awe of walking along this massive structure, which stretches over 21,000 kilometers! On the return journey, stop by one of China’s largest jade exhibitions, where you’ll learn how jade has been cherished in Chinese culture for centuries. Then, delve into the charm of old Beijing through the hutongs – narrow alleyways lined with traditional courtyard homes known as Siheyuan.Your local guide will take you into one of these private homes for an authentic glimpse into traditional life. This cultural walking tour reveals Beijing’s storied past, with temples, small shops, and local families providing a vibrant backdrop. The evening is yours to relax or join an optional cultural show.
Overnight: Beijing Chunhuiyuan Hot Spring Resort (or similar)
Meals: Breakfast
Optional Activities:
Beijing Peking Duck Evening Dinner USD$35 per person
Indulge in a classic Beijing Peking Duck banquet, a culinary tradition steeped in imperial history and flavor. Your dining experience begins with the dramatic tableside carving of the roasted duck—its golden, crispy skin expertly sliced and served alongside tender meat. Wrap the duck in delicate pancakes, layering it with hoisin sauce, fresh cucumber, and scallions for the perfect bite. The meal is rounded out with a variety of traditional side dishes, soups and seasonal vegetables, all enjoyed in a warm, relaxed setting that reflects Beijing’s rich gastronomic heritage,
Beijing Hutong Life Tour USD$25 per person
Discover the timeless charm of old Beijing through the historic hutongs – narrow alleyways lined with traditional courtyard homes known as Siheyuan. As you wind through these lively lanes, you’ll step inside one of the residences for a closer look at local family life, offering an authentic glimpse into Beijing’s cultural heritage and daily traditions.
*note these optional tours are not included in the main package and must be paid for on-site. The listed price is per person. Operation of the tour is subject to a minimum group size being met.
Beijing – Wuxi
Begin your day at a Chinese herbal institute, where you’ll learn about Traditional Chinese Medicine. Continue to the Temple of Heaven, a sacred imperial site and architectural gem. Morning visits offer the chance to see locals practicing Tai Chi and other exercises. In the afternoon, board a high-speed bullet train to Wuxi, reaching speeds of up to 300 km/h. On arrival, meet your local guide and transfer to your hotel to relax or explore at your leisure.
Overnight: Wuxi Mingdu Hotel (or similar)
Meals: Breakfast
Wuxi – Suzhou
Visit the scenic Brilliance of Lake Lihu, a peaceful park on the shores of Lake Taihu. This area has a storied past—ancient scholars like Fan Li and Xi Shi were said to have sailed here. Soak in the tranquil scenery, bridges, gardens, and poetic atmosphere. Next, stop by a freshwater pearl farm, where you’ll learn how these lustrous gems are cultivated and harvested. In the afternoon, continue your journey to Suzhou, renowned for its classical gardens and silk-making heritage.
Overnight: Qingneng Yishang PLUS Hotel (or similar)
Meals: Breakfast
Optional Activities:
Suzhou Grand Canal Cruise USD$40 per person
Experience a leisurely cruise along Suzhou’s ancient canal, gliding from the city to the scenic Grand Canal. This is the perfect way to soak in the charming view and tranquil atmosphere of a traditional water town.
*note this optional tour is not included in the main package and must be paid for on-site. The listed price is per person. Operation
of the tour is subject to a minimum group size being met.
Suzhou – Hangzhou
With a history that dates back to 514 BC, Suzhou is often called the “Venice of the East.” During your visit, you’ll explore the renowned UNESCO-listed Lingering Garden, celebrated for its stunning landscape and classical design. Following this, you’ll stop by a silk spinning factory, where you can witness first-hand the exquisite craftsmanship that has made China famous for its luxurious silk.
Overnight: Holiday Inn Hangzhou Xiaoshan Zhong’an (or similar)
Meals: Breakfast
Optional Activities:
Romantic Show of Song-Cheng USD$70 per person
Immerse yourself in the Romantic Show of Song Cheng, one of Hangzhou’s most iconic performances. This dazzling production blends stunning choreography, vibrant music, and cutting-edge sound and lighting effects to bring the legends and history of Hangzhou to life. Through this immersive audio-visual journey, you’ll witness scenes from ancient daily life in the Liang-Zhu culture, the majestic splendor of the Southern Song Dynasty court, the heroic spirit of the Yue family army, and heart-touching retellings of beloved tales like “The Butterfly Lovers” and “The Legend of the White Snake.” It’s more than a show – it’s a vivid celebration of Chinese culture, history, and romance you won’t want to miss.
*note this optional tour is not included in the main package and must be paid for on-site. The listed price is per person. Operation
of the tour is subject to a minimum group size being met.
Hangzhou – Shanghai
Hangzhou, celebrated as one of China’s tea capitals, offers an essential experience at a local tea house. Today, you’ll visit the Tea House at Meijiawu Tea Village, located in the scenic hinterland of West Lake Park, a key area for Longjing Tea production. Immerse yourself in the beautiful surroundings while learning the art of making Longjing Tea, from picking and frying the leaves to tasting the brew. Afterwards, enjoy a short boat ride on the UNESCO-listed West Lake, taking in the enchanting views of willow-draped islands.
Finally, you’ll drive to Shanghai to visit the iconic Bund, where modern skyscrapers on the eastern side of the Huangpu River contrast with traditional European-style architecture on the western side.
Overnight: Kaiyuan Mingtin Hotel, Shanghai Changxing Island (or similar)
Included Meals: Breakfast
Optional Activities:
Shanghai Huangpu River Cruise USD$50 per person
Shanghai, the city that never sleeps, is captivating by day and absolutely mesmerizing by night. As evening descends, hop aboard a scenic Huangpu River cruise to witness the city’s most dazzling lights from the waterway that divides it into two distinct worlds. On the west bank, marvel at the historic Bund, a Gallery of World Architecture, where colonial-era buildings shine brilliantly against the modern city skyline. Across the river on the east bank, the futuristic towers of Lujiazui Financial District—including the Oriental Pearl Tower and Shanghai Tower—glow in a dreamlike display of color and light. This unforgettable cruise offers a unique perspective of Shanghai’s blend of old-world charm and modern marvels, making it one of the city’s must-do experiences.
*note this optional tour is not included in the main package and must be paid for on-site. The listed price is per person. Operation
of the tour is subject to a minimum group size being met.
Shanghai
Discover The Bund, Shanghai’s iconic waterfront promenade, known for its colonial-era architecture and views of modern Pudong’s glittering skyline. This area is a powerful reminder of Shanghai’s role in international trade and politics in the early 20th century. The rest of the day is free for you to enjoy the city – shop on Nanjing Road, explore hidden alleys, or relax at a local teahouse.
Overnight: Kaiyuan Mingtin Hotel, Shanghai Changxing Island (or similar)
Meals: Breakfast
Optional Activities:
Shanghai Chinese Acrobatic Show USD$70 per person
Prepare to be amazed as you take your seat at the ERA Shanghai Acrobatic Show, an extraordinary spectacle that combines jaw-dropping physical feats, theatrical artistry, and cutting-edge stagecraft. Set in a state-of-the-art theater, the show celebrates China’s legendary acrobatic heritage through a series of high-energy, visually stunning performances. Watch as gravity-defying contortionists, fearless aerialists, and precision-driven acrobats push the boundaries of human ability. Each act is enhanced by dynamic lighting, immersive soundscapes, and vibrant costumes, blending traditional acrobatics with modern technology and storytelling. Whether it’s a high-speed stunt or an elegant balance routine, every moment is choreographed to captivate and inspire. The ERA show isn’t just a performance —it’s an unforgettable journey through strength, grace, and imagination, and a true highlight of any visit to Shanghai.
Shanghai Insight Tour USD$45 per person
Embark on a journey through Shanghai’s architectural and cultural highlights with this enriching half-day tour. Begin at the vibrant Lujiazui Financial and Trade Zone, the economic heart of the city. Here, you’ll visit the iconic Jinmao Tower, a soaring 88-story skyscraper standing at 420.5 meters tall with a total construction area of 290,000 square meters. Aptly named the “Gold Luxuriance Building”, it represents a stunning fusion of traditional Chinese design and state-of-the-art construction technology, offering a striking example of Shanghai’s rapid modern transformation. The tour continues to Xintiandi, a stylish district that blends historic charm with a modern atmosphere. Famous for its unique Shikumen-style architecture, this pedestrian friendly area features trendy boutiques, cozy cafés and galleries offering a brief but memorable glimpse into the city’s evolving urban lifestyle.
*note this optional tour is not included in the main package and must be paid for on-site. The listed price is per person. Operation
of the tour is subject to a minimum group size being met.
Shanghai – Depart
Enjoy one last breakfast before being transferred to the airport for your return flight. Take this time to reflect on the unforgettable memories and incredible experiences from your journey across China!
Meals: Breakfast
Transfers: A group transfer will be provided at a designated time. If your flight arrives outside of this scheduled transfer window, you will need to arrange your own transportation between the airport and the hotel at your own expense.
Inclusions:
- One-time group airport transfers upon arrival and departure (Additional transfers for separate flights can be arranged at extra cost)
- One-way high-speed bullet train from Beijing to Wuxi in 2nd class
- 8 nights’ accommodation in quality 4-star hotels
- Daily breakfast as outlined in the itinerary
- Experienced English-speaking guide throughout the tour
- Comfortable, air-conditioned vehicle transport throughout the tour
- All sightseeing and entrance fees included as outlined in the itinerary
- Daily bottled water provided (1 per person)
*Please note this program is exclusively available for adult travelers aged 18 and older and group size is a minimum of 20 persons.
Exclusions:
- International airfare & taxes
- Meals not specified in the itinerary
- Tips & gratuities (mandatory $10 USDF per person/per day)
- Personal expenses like beverages, laundry, and phone calls
- Optional tours and activities
- Visa fees
- Travel insurance (highly recommended)
- Costs incurred due to flight delays or airline schedule changes
- Trip delay or interruption caused by airline schedule change
- Any items or services not clearly listed in the itinerary
Optional activities:
Day 02 – Forbidden City – $55 USD per person
Day 02 – Beijing Golden Mask Dynasty Show – $65 USD per person
Day 02 – Beijing Hutong Life Tour – $25 USD per person
Day 03 – Beijing Peking Duck Dinner – $35 USD per person
Day 05 – Suzhou Grand Canal Cruiser – $40 USD per person
Day 06 – Romantic Show of Song – $70 USD per person
Day 07 – Shanghai Huangpu River Night Cruise – $50 USD per person
Day 08 – Shanghai Chinese Acrobatic Show – $70 USD per person
Day 08 – Shanghai Insight Tour – $45 USD per person