26-day China Loop

Today marks the beginning of your thrilling China backpacking adventure! Upon your arrival in vibrant Hong Kong, you'll gather with your group and Adventure Leader in the mid-afternoon for a comprehensive trip briefing, where you'll learn all about the exciting experiences awaiting you in the upcoming weeks.

Following the briefing, we'll treat you to a breathtaking view of Hong Kong by heading up Victoria Peak to catch the sunset over the city skyline. Afterwards, we'll make our way to Tsim Sha Tsui, where you'll have the opportunity to witness the captivating 'Symphony of Light' show from the Avenue of Stars. And if you've worked up an appetite after a busy day, fret not! Your Adventure Leader will be there to guide you through the bustling Temple Street Night Market, ensuring you find the perfect spot for a late-night dinner.

Bright and early this morning, we'll be up and ready to make our way to the train station. Our destination? Guilin, via the bullet train. Once we arrive in Guilin, a bus will take us to your hostel in Yangshuo, where we expect to arrive by early evening. If you're feeling adventurous, why not explore Yangshuo and sample some of the local delicacies for your first taste of the region?

Today, it's all about you! Enjoy a free day in Yangshuo and consider these exciting optional activities:

Try your hand at traditional Chinese cooking at a friendly culinary institute.
Embark on a kayaking adventure along the breathtaking Li River.
Experience relaxing Chinese traditional therapies like Hot Cupping.

Your day begins with an unforgettable bike ride around the stunning local area. Followed by a scenic cruise down the Yulong River on bamboo rafts. If you're bringing a camera (which is highly recommended), make sure it's waterproof!

Later in the day, you can choose to visit the Moon Hill complex for mud baths and hot springs. In the evening, join your fellow travelers for some local fun.

In the morning, you can choose to embark on a rock climbing adventure among the beautiful limestone peaks that dot the region. It's a feast for the eyes, so don't miss this opportunity to scale these incredible landscapes.

Later, get a glimpse into rural life in China as you head to a local village and learn about farming in the Yangshuo region.

Bid farewell to your Adventure Leader in Yangshuo as you embark on your journey to Chengdu. Travel by train across the country and be greeted by your new Adventure Leader upon arrival. You'll then head to your hostel to check in.

Today is a once-in-a-lifetime experience as you visit the Giant Panda Breeding and Research Center. Learn about the center's mission to breed and reintroduce pandas, and get up close to these incredible creatures (though you can't hold them).

In the afternoon, brush up on your Chinese skills with a Mandarin lesson led by your Adventure Leader. You'll learn key phrases to make the most of your time in China. If you're interested in China's historical culture, consider attending a traditional Sichuan opera show in the evening.

This morning you can enjoy a lazy lie in to recover from the night before or get up early and explore the sights of Chengdu – perhaps enjoy a spot of shopping.

After lunch, you have the option to visit the Chengdu People’s Park. There are many scenic spots in this park, including the Gold Water Stream, the Goldfish Island and the Potted Landscape Garden. Besides appreciating the charming landscape, tourists can sail on the artificial lake, drink tea in the teahouse by the lake and watch all kinds of exhibitions and performances on the Rockery Square.

Around 5pm you will say goodbye to the Adventure Leader and board your train to travel to Xian. Here you will meet your new Adventure Leader and go to your hostel.

Have a relaxed morning or consider visiting a local rehabilitation center working with children with autism. In the early afternoon, explore Chengdu with a visit to Jinli and Chengdu People's Park. Enjoy the scenic spots, artificial lake, teahouse, exhibitions, and performances.

In the evening, you'll transfer to Xi'an, your next stop on this incredible China backpacking adventure. Meet your new Adventure Leader upon arrival and head to your hostel for some well-deserved rest.

This morning, make the most of your free time and explore nearby museums, temples, or indulge in some retail therapy. In the afternoon, you can opt for a bike ride on the ancient city walls that date back to the Ming Dynasty. Later, explore the Bell-Drum Towers and the bustling Muslim Quarter to learn about the Silk Road's history and savor local street food.

Today, you're in for a treat with a visit to the iconic Terracotta Warriors, a must-see in China. Explore this UNESCO World Heritage Site, where life-size terracotta sculptures depict the imperial guard troops of Emperor Qin Shi Huang. In the evening, enjoy a music and light fountain show on the North Square of the Big Wild Goose Pagoda.

You're off to Dengfeng, just outside Shaolin! Once you arrive, choose to join a kung-fu lesson and demonstration in the region where this martial art began. After dinner, attend your second Mandarin lesson and see how much you've learned.

Early risers can visit the world-famous Shaolin Temple, the birthplace of kung-fu. Take a hike up to the Dharma Cave, a spiritual spot for Buddhist pilgrims. Alternatively, explore the Longmen Grottoes, a UNESCO World Heritage Site featuring 100,000 carved Buddhas. The evening is yours to explore or rest.

Kick off the day early with a bullet train to Beijing, where you'll embark on one of the tour's most incredible experiences – a visit to the Great Wall. Hike on secluded, unrestored parts of the Wall, and watch the sunset from one of the Wonders of the World.

Please note: Due to cold weather, we stay in a guesthouse near the Wall between April and September.

Start your day early to witness the stunning sunrise across the Great Wall of China. Afterward, head back to Beijing for a day of exploration. Join us for a walk through Tiananmen Square, a visit to the Forbidden City, and a stroll around Jingshan Park. In the evening, be entertained with a mesmerizing acrobatics show.

Enjoy a free day and explore Beijing's fake good markets for shopping. You can also visit the nearby Temple of Heaven. In the afternoon, explore the historic Nanluo district, famous for its hutongs, siheyuan courtyards, bars, cafes, and handicraft shops.

Make the most of your morning and afternoon to explore Beijing's highlights, such as the 798 art district, the Summer Palace, or any other recommendations from your Adventure Leader. In the late afternoon, board a night train bound for Hangzhou.

After arriving in Hangzhou, enjoy a late breakfast at your hostel. We hope you had a good rest on the train. Next, embark on a stunning boat tour on West Lake to one of its beautiful islands.

In the afternoon, you can choose an optional activity or take some time to relax. Explore the China National Tea Museum or visit the serene Lingyin Temple. In the evening, don't miss a breathtaking hike up Jiuyao Mountain for a stunning sunset view. Before heading back to street level for dinner, explore Hefang Road, the town's famous ancient street.

Kickstart your day with a beautiful hike to the Nine Creeks, passing through the enchanting Misty Woods. Once back at the hostel, freshen up and enjoy lunch before checking out.

In the afternoon, we're off to our next destination on the China backpacking tour – Shanghai! You'll arrive early in the evening, just in time to check in and explore the local area.

After a relaxing morning, get ready for a special Mandarin lesson led by professional teachers from the Mandarin Garden Chinese Language School. Later, visit the bustling historical site, Yu Gardens, before exploring People's Square and the world's busiest shopping street, Nanjing Road. Conclude your day with a stroll along the Bund, taking in global architecture. Wrap up the day with an awe-inspiring view of Shanghai's skyline from a rooftop bar.

Today is your day to explore the bustling city of Shanghai. Your Adventure Leader will provide recommendations, and here are some options for your day:

Disneyland Shanghai!
Visit the Shanghai Museum.
Explore Moganshan Art Street.
Discover Zhujiajiao Watertown.
In the evening, why not head out for a night on the town with your fellow travelers?

It's time to head to your final destination, Fujian. Hop on a bullet train to Longyan, bid farewell to your Shanghai Adventure Leader, and embark on a 6-hour journey. As you arrive, immerse yourself in the verdant tea-growing hills and visit a traditional mud roundhouse, the homes of the local Hakka people.

This evening, you'll reach your guesthouse and relax after a long day of travel.

It's time to head to your final destination, Fujian. Hop on a bullet train to Longyan, bid farewell to your Shanghai Adventure Leader, and embark on a 6-hour journey. As you arrive, immerse yourself in the verdant tea-growing hills and visit a traditional mud roundhouse, the homes of the local Hakka people.

This evening, you'll reach your guesthouse and relax after a long day of travel.

Your day begins with an unmissable experience – a walking tour around the Fujian Tulou UNESCO World Heritage Site. Explore Hakka Minority Roundhouses, picturesque villages, tea fields, and partake in a traditional tea ceremony and tea tasting. You'll also visit the tea plantations for an opportunity to purchase tea.

In the evening, relax with a movie night or embrace your inner rock star with some karaoke.

we hop on our bikes to traverse the enchanting Fujian region. Along the way, we'll make a pit stop at the world's most colossal roundhouse, a true marvel of architecture. And don't fret if you feel the need for a breather – our trusty support vehicle will be right there to give you a lift, ensuring a stress-free adventure.

Our journey will lead us to a charming local village where you'll have ample time to immerse yourself in the local culture and discover hidden gems.

In the afternoon, it's all about leisure and preparation for an early transfer tomorrow. Here's a pro tip: have your breakfast ready in advance – your future self will be truly grateful!

As the sun rises on this final day of our China backpacking tour, we'll gather for a scenic minibus transfer to Zhangzhou Station. From there, we'll board a train bound for Hong Kong, marking the end of an unforgettable adventure.

It's time to bid farewell to the wonderful companions you've journeyed with, cherishing the memories and experiences that have filled your heart throughout this incredible expedition.