Price based on tour starting 13 May 2025

Price based on departing from Melbourne, Sydney

Extra charges apply for:

• Brisbane ($300pp)
• Adelaide ($300pp)
• Perth ($300pp)

Optional sightseeing/programs are special unique experiences that you may add to your tour. Optional sightseeing as mentioned in the itinerary are payable directly to the Tour Guide in AUD or the local currency (RMB) and cannot be prepaid. In the event that some programs or venues may not be available, alternative programs may be offered or the Tour Guide. For any passenger not participating in optional sightseeing, they will be directed by the Tour Guide with where to remain until the optional sightseeing with other passengers attending is complete.

Itinerary

Our multi-stop China tours are carefully designed to give an insight into the highlights, culture and unique beauty of each region. Each day will be different, with a combination of travel days, sightseeing and free time to explore or take a breather as you wish.

Pace

The pace of this tour is fast paced. The tour covers multiple prefectures within China and can involve early starts and long travel days. Please be aware many iconic attractions in China can be overcrowded and busy, so please ensure you remain with your dedicated Tour Leader/Guide (s).

Fitness

A medium level of fitness is required. You are required to move about unassisted, including boarding and alighting vehicles and other forms of transportation, walking up and down flights of stairs, and navigating uneven terrain and footpaths.

Tipping in China

Tipping in China is a firm and customary element of the tourism industry and is therefore strongly recommended. The expected tipping amount is $12 AUD or 60 RMB per person per day – paid locally to your local English-speaking Tour Leader/Guide per destination/region.

Visa requirement for China

As of 01 July 2024, ordinary Australian and New Zealand passport holders can enter China visa-free for visits of up to 15 days or less. Travellers do not need to complete any pre-departure documents; however it is advised that you print a copy of your travel documents, including your return flight itinerary, as you may be asked to show this at customs and immigration upon arrival into China.

Travellers entering China on a foreign passport, or any Australian or New Zealand passport holder travelling China for more than 15 days, must apply for a full visa before travelling to China. A single-entry fee for Australian passport holders starts from $95 AUD per person, however this can vary depending on the required visa type, validity and other additional fees imposed by the Chinese Visa Application Service Centre or other visa service provider. Along with a valid passport, you must provide all required documentation, including a printed visa application form, digital and printed photographs, a photocopy of your passport bio page, and a travel itinerary including flight details. For eligibility requirements, latest costs and visa types, please see the Embassy of the People’s Republic of China. Full travel advice for China can be found on Smartraveller.

Transfers

Group tour airport transfers are included providing you are arriving on the first and last day of tour.

Chinese culture

Chinese culture tend to honour tradition, but they also embrace many parts of Western popular culture. Thanks in part to the lasting influence of Confucianism, Chinese customs include a strong sense of family, a deep respect for hierarchy, and an appreciation for harmony over conflict.

Baggage

Each person is entitled to a strict maximum of one bag not exceeding 20kg on tour, superseding any other baggage allowance. Excess baggage is not permitted. You are strongly encouraged to pack lightly.

Group size

You will meet like-minded travellers on tour and may even make lifelong friends. This holiday will proceed with a minimum group size of approximately 30 passengers and a maximum group size of approximately 46 passengers. If the tour does not operate, you will be offered a credit.

Beijing – Chunhuiyuan Hot Spring Resort or similar

Suzhou – Holiday Inn Suzhou or similar

Wuxi – Grand Park Hotel Wuxi or similar

Hangzhou – Holiday Inn Hangzhou or similar

Shanghai – Novotel Shanghai Qingpu Excellence or similar

Yangtze River Cruise – China Goddess Cruises No1 or similar

Chengdu – An Tai Jin Yun Hotel Chengdu or similar

Xian – Grand Dynasty Culture Hotel or similar

Note: The accommodation and cruise mentioned above is listed for visa purposes and is subject to change. Please refer to your confirmed Hotel List provided to you at the time of Final Documentation sent no later than two weeks prior to departure.

Please note: Hotel rooms in China are generally smaller compared to Western standards. All hotel rooms will feature either a twin room (two single beds) or a double room (1 double bed). All bedding requests cannot be guaranteed however all special requests should be made known at time of booking. The standard check-in time is from 3pm and check-out is prior to 10am.

Visa

As of 01 July 2024, ordinary Australian and New Zealand passport holders can enter China visa-free for visits of up to 15 days or less. Travellers do not need to complete any pre-departure documents; however it is advised that you print a copy of your travel documents, including your return flight itinerary, as you may be asked to show this at customs and immigration upon arrival into China.

Travellers entering China on a foreign passport, or any Australian or New Zealand passport holder travelling China for more than 15 days, must apply for a full visa before travelling to China. A single-entry fee for Australian passport holders starts from $95 AUD per person, however this can vary depending on the required visa type, validity and other additional fees imposed by the Chinese Visa Application Service Centre or other visa service provider. Along with a valid passport, you must provide all required documentation, including a printed visa application form, digital and printed photographs, a photocopy of your passport bio page, and a travel itinerary including flight details. For eligibility requirements, latest costs and visa types, please see the Embassy of the People’s Republic of China. Full travel advice for China can be found on Smartraveller.

Need help with your China visa application? Click here for a comprehensive guide.

Important Information 

Exclusions

Meals not stated, beverages, optional programs, travel insurance (strongly recommended), China Visa (single entry from 95 AUD pp), tipping, personal expenses and anything not explicitly specified are at your own expense.

Payment

A first deposit from $499 per person is required to secure your booking. A second deposit (partial payment) is due 10 months before departure – the amount to be advised at the time of booking. The final balance will be due 5 months before departure. Full payment is due at the time of booking for departures within 5 months.

Fitness

A medium level of fitness is required. You are required to move about unassisted, including boarding and alighting vehicles and other forms of transportation, walking up and down flights of stairs, and navigating uneven terrain and footpaths. You will be required to carry your own baggage to and from hotels, terminals and stations. This trip is not suitable for travellers requiring wheelchair, mobility scooters or facilities for disabled guests. Other walking aids may be permitted if you are able move about unassisted at the required pace. For advice on whether this trip is suitable for you, you must disclose physical ailments at the time of booking.

Pace

The pace of this tour is fast paced. The tour covers multiple prefectures within China and can involve early starts and long touring and travel days which includes time spent onboard the coach/train – see day by day itinerary for more details on your itinerary. Please be aware many iconic attractions in China can be overcrowded and busy, so please ensure you remain with your dedicated Tour Guide. One to two nights at each destination is standard. Scheduled free days allow some downtime, or alternatively, you have the flexibility to explore further and book optional programs (at your own expense).

Tipping

Tipping is a firm and customary element of the tourism industry and is therefore strongly recommended. The expected tipping amount is $12 AUD or 60 RMB per person per day. While tipping is not mandatory, it is a common practice in China and a gesture of appreciation which is shared amongst the local guides and drivers who have serviced your tour. The tipping amount can be paid in AUD or RMB to your expert tour guide in each region. As most tour guides in China consider tipping a part of their income, please don’t feel intimidated should the tour guides approach you as they bid you farewell.

Solo Occupancy

A single supplement from $1,100 per person is payable in addition to the twin share price for solo occupancy. Single rooms are typically smaller than twin/double rooms in China.

Triple Share

Triple share is not available.

Extra Accommodation

Pre-tour accommodation in Beijing with breakfast in the same tour hotel can be added for one or two persons subject to availability of the following rates; Valid for travel in Oct 2024 to Oct 2025: from $300 per room per night. Beijing Airport transfers are included in this price.

Post-tour accommodation in Xian is not available. You may choose to purchase your own accommodation post-tour however the transfer to Xian Airport will be forfeited and any additional cost in airfares and deviation fees may apply.

Child

This tour is best enjoyed to adult travellers and is not suitable for children under 12 years of age. Children 12 years and above are subject to the adult price and must be accompanied by an adult.

Price

Surcharges may apply for select travel periods and departure cities. Prices are correct at time of publication and are subject to availability, change, cancellation or withdrawal without notice. All prices are in Australian dollars per person twin share unless stated otherwise.

Amendment

Each amendment is subject to a fee from $75 per person. Additional fees and fare differences from third-party suppliers including air, tour, cruise and accommodation providers may apply.

Cancellation

Cancellation is subject to a fee from $550 per person. Additional fees and fare differences from third-party suppliers including air, tour, cruise and accommodation providers may apply.

Deviation

Any request to deviate from the original dates or routing, including early arrival and stay behind, is subject to a flight deviation fee from $150 per person plus applicable airfare and tax difference. Packaged tour extensions are not subject to the deviation fee (applicable airfare and tax difference may still apply) if booked according to the original advertised dates and routing.

Passport

For international travel, each customer must provide a copy of the passport photo page at the time of booking. It is the responsibility of the customer to ensure all names are full names exactly matched to the passport with six months validity beyond trip completion. The customer is liable for all fees due to incorrect names, invalid passport information and expired passports.

Visa

As of 01 July 2024, ordinary Australian and New Zealand passport holders can enter China visa-free for visits of up to 15 days or less. Travellers do not need to complete any pre-departure documents; however it is advised that you print a copy of your travel documents, including your return flight itinerary, as you may be asked to show this at customs and immigration upon arrival into China.

Travellers entering China on a foreign passport, or any Australian or New Zealand passport holder travelling China for more than 15 days, must apply for a full visa before travelling to China. A single-entry fee for Australian passport holders starts from $95 AUD per person, however this can vary depending on the required visa type, validity and other additional fees imposed by the Chinese Visa Application Service Centre or other visa service provider. Along with a valid passport, you must provide all required documentation, including a printed visa application form, digital and printed photographs, a photocopy of your passport bio page, and a travel itinerary including flight details. For eligibility requirements, latest costs and visa types, please see the Embassy of the People’s Republic of China. Full travel advice for China can be found on Smartraveller.

Need help with your China visa application? Click here for a comprehensive guide.

Health

It is the responsibility of the customer to check and comply with the health, vaccination, COVID-19 and immigration requirements of each origin and destination country, and health requirements imposed by air, tour, cruise and accommodation providers. Vaccinations, testing and quarantine costs are the expense of the customer. Comprehensive travel insurance with COVID-19 coverage is strongly recommended. Tap water in China may not be safe to drink. Drink only bottled water with intact seals.

Money

The currency in China is the Renminbi (RMB). ATMs are widely available in major Chinese cities. They accept major credit cards including at international hotels and restaurants. In some smaller cities, using international cards will be limited and local currency is suggested.

Shopping

China is a treasure trove for those looking to shop. From busting markets to large shopping centres. Famously known for silk and jade products, China is also known for its pearl and tea produce, along with traditional Chinese medicine. Your itinerary will allow for stops at English speaking shops where you can browse/purchase products. Any purchase of products are at your own discretion. Please do not make any purchases if you are not comfortable or feel pressured into. Should you require any assistance with the language barrier, please seek assistance from your Tour Guide.

Baggage

Each person is entitled to a strict maximum of one bag not exceeding 20kg on tour, superseding any other baggage allowance. Excess baggage is not permitted. You are strongly encouraged to pack lightly. An additional light day bag or backpack is permitted on the coach. Due to high-speed train baggage restrictions, you may be required to pack a separate light bag or backpack containing essentials. Porterage is not included, and you are required to carry your own bags. Luggage and personal effects are your own risk, and we hold no liability for lost or damaged belongings.

Transfers

Seat in coach airport transfers on group tour arrival and departure days are included.

Meals

Breakfasts offered by the Chinese accommodation providers and are typically buffet style, with limited vegetarian, vegan, gluten-free and lactose-free options. For meals not included, your Tour Guide will escort you to preferred Western friendly restaurants or suggest dining options nearby. Please notify us at the time of booking of any special dietary requirements and allergies. We endeavour to pass on your dietary requirements but cannot guarantee that they can be met as certain choices may be limited or not catered for. You are required to reconfirm dietary requests with your Tour Guide whilst on tour.

Accommodation

Hotel rooms in China are generally smaller compared to Western standards. All hotel rooms will feature either a twin room (two single beds) or a double room (1 double bed). All bedding requests cannot be guaranteed however all special requests should be made known at time of booking. All rooms are lead-in category or run of house unless otherwise specified. All hotel rooms will be requested as non-smoking, however please be aware that some hotels offer smoking rooms and smoking floors. Hotel names mentioned are indicative and subject to change based, with final group tour hotels being confirmed on your final documentation. All hotel ratings are local or self-ratings provided by the supplier. The standard check-in time is from 3pm and check-out is prior to 10am.

International Flights

Flights based on economy class with a Chinese carrier including China Southern Airlines, Hainan Airlines, China Eastern Airlines, Air China, Sichuan Airlines or Xiamen Airlines (subject to availability).

The outbound flight may depart one day prior to day 1 shown on the itinerary. The inbound flight may arrive one day after the final day shown on the itinerary. Flights are booked approximately 8 to 10 months prior to departure. The flights included in your package are based on full service Chinese based carriers with a specific predetermined airfare allowance. Should there be a significant increase in airfares, fuel levies, taxes or government fees at the time of booking flights, then an airfare supplement may be imposed. The flights team will discuss options with you prior to ticketing, should this situation arise, or offer you an upgrade amount should you wish to fly a premium carrier instead. Flights may not operate daily or directly to your destination. No show of any flight sectors will result in the automatic cancellation of all onward flights by the airline.

Fuel

In the unlikely event of a significant increase in fuel costs levied by third-party air, land and cruise transportation operators before travel, a fuel supplement may be passed on to the customer.

Group Size

You will meet like-minded travellers on tour and may even make lifelong friends. This holiday will proceed with a minimum group size of approximately 30 passengers and a maximum group size of approximately 46 passengers. If the tour does not operate due to minimum numbers, you will be offered a credit or alternative date.

Optional Programs

Optional programs are special unique experiences that you may add to your tour. Optional programs are payable directly to the Tour Guide in AUD or the local currency (RMB) and cannot be prepaid. In the event that some programs or venues may not be available, alternative programs may be offered or the Tour Guide. For any passenger not participating in optional programs, they will be directed by the Tour Guide with where to remain until the optional program with other passengers attending is complete.

Yangtze River Cruise Ship

The itinerary featured is based on China Goddess No.1 sailing from Yichang to Chongqing. The China Goddess No.1 is the first vessel of the China Goddess series cruise ships and features cultures of ancient Chinese and Mt. Wu Goddess. With a total capacity of only 234 passengers, this ship is an

ideal choice for those who prefer a smaller cruise ship. All food onboard are offered in both Chinese and western buffet style. Facilities include a main dining room, lounge bar, sun deck, gym, beauty salon and more. Cruise service fee of CNY150 is included in the tour price however tipping and any other additional onboard personal expenses or shore excursions are additional costs.

Yangtze River Shore Excursions

3 shore excursions are included as per the itinerary, all other shore excursions mentioned are payable directly to the Tour Leader in AUD or the local currency (RMB) and cannot be prepaid. All shore excursions mentioned are subject to weather, water levels and scenic spot maintenance. In the event some of the programs may not be available, your Tour Leader will liaise with the Cruise Ship staff to arrange an alternative program or a refund.

Cabins onboard Yangtze River Cruise

The cabin onboard the Yangtze River Cruise is based on a lead-in Balcony Cabin. All bedding is based on twin (2 single beds) due to the size of the rooms which is approximately 20sqm and includes an ensuite bathroom with shower and private balcony.

Itinerary

The operating schedule and itinerary may be impacted without notice by adverse weather, seasonal factors, closures, local conditions, COVID-19 or other factors beyond our control including force majeure. This includes the multi-night Yangtze River Cruise which is also subject to water levels. If attractions are not available due to reasons beyond our control such as closures or adverse weather, alternatives will be provided where possible. The itinerary and its order, sightseeing and transportation may be adjusted as deemed appropriate by the operator for optimum safety, enjoyment and operation. Any reference to ‘optional’, ‘not included’ or ‘exclusions/excluded’ means at your own expense.

Train Transportation

Due to factors outside of our control, such as operational changes, last-minute track maintenance, or unfavourable weather conditions, train travel may be substituted with a flight to maintain the continuity of the itinerary while prioritising the safety of all passengers. All train transportation is based on 2nd class (economy).

Breakaway

Customers must remain with the tour group at all times and must not leave the tour unless written approval is provided before departure.

Documentation

Final documentation will be emailed within two weeks of departure. An itinerary/flight details are required for China visa requirements, a preliminary itinerary will be provided to you at least 30 days prior to departure to ensure you can complete necessary visa documentation forms.

Travel Insurance

Travel insurance is not included and is strongly recommended. Ask our holiday experts for great coverage options.

Force Majeure

Force majeure means any natural disaster, accident, fire, act of God, act of war, terrorism, legally binding judgment, injunction, action of a court or other relevant authority, emergency, unplanned repairs, maintenance, strike, industrial dispute, work ban, blockade or picketing, travel ban, pandemic, epidemic or outbreak of infectious disease, or other event beyond our reasonable direct or indirect control. In case of force majeure or other extraordinary event that prevents safe travel, the supplier reserves the right to adjust, postpone or cancel the trip.