Grand Tour of China
China tour information
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| Great Wall of China | Terracotta Warriors | Pandas | Yangtze River Cruise | Li River Cruise | Beautiful Scenery | Temples & Palaces | UNESCO World Heritage | Cultural Show | Shopping |
A Tour That Sees Everything
27 days from £2490
To get the most from one visit to China, look no further than the Grand Tour. This comprehensive itinerary includes all the main sights as well as allowing some time for relaxation. After the Wall and the Warriors, enjoy a four night cruise on the Yangtze River and relax in delightful Dali.
Special Offer
Save £100 pp on 27th April 2011 departure!
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Days 1-2 : UK – Beijing
Fly overnight to Beijing, China's capital city and transfer to the hotel before our welcome dinner which includes the local delicacy, Peking Duck.
Days 3-4 : Beijing
Sightseeing today includes a stroll through Tiananmen Square, past Chairman Mao’s Mausoleum to the treasure-filled Forbidden City, which has the largest and best preserved collection of ancient buildings in China. The next day, walk on the magnificent Great Wall which stretches over 3,000 miles to the Gobi Desert and then visit the unique Temple of Heaven.
Days 5-6 : Beijing – Xian
Indulge in some shopping at the bustling markets and tour the exquisite Summer Palace. Enjoy a fascinating Chinese Acrobatic show in the evening. The next day, walk along Liulichang’s ancient shop fronts and calligraphy market before boarding the overnight train to the former ancient capital of Xian.
Days 7-8 : Xian
Arrive in Xian in the morning. Visit the Little Wild Goose Pagoda and the renowned Shaanxi Museum which is home to thousands of priceless relics. We also stroll through the lively Muslim Quarter to visit the Great Mosque and explore the Islamic food markets. In the evening we will enjoy a traditional Shui Jiao dumpling meal followed by a performance of Tang Dynasty dancing. The next day, visit one of the most important archaeological discoveries of the 20th century – the Terracotta Warriors, followed by a walk along the Ancient City Wall.
Day 9 : Xian – Yichang - Yangtze River Cruise
Fly to Wuhan and transfer by coach to Yichang (approx 4.5 hours) to board our Yangtze River Cruise vessel for the next four nights.
Days 10-12 : Yangtze River Cruise
Enjoy a tour of the Three Gorges Dam before cruising upstream through some of the most dramatic scenery in the world. Over the next three days, we will take a side-trip to the striking Shennong Stream in a pea-pod boat or visit the Lesser Three Gorges and enjoy various shore excursions along the way.
Days 13-14 : Chongqing – Kunming
Disembark from our cruise vessel this morning and visit the Panda House at Chongqing Zoo, before flying to Kunming, also known as the ‘City of Eternal Spring’. In the evening we sample the famous Across the Bridge Noodles. The next day, explore the picturesque Stone Forest where the huge limestone columns form surreal shapes and images.
Days 15-16 : Kunming – Dali
Travel by coach to the enchanting town of Dali. The next day, relax and enjoy a cruise on Erhai Lake, participate in a traditional tea tasting, visit the Three Pagodas and explore Dali’s Ancient Quarter.
Day 17 : Dali – Kunming
Visit Xizhou Village to explore the bustling local market and the Yen Family House, an ancient courtyard home, before returning to Kunming.
Day 18 : Kunming – Guilin
Visit the flower market before flying to the beautiful city of Guilin.
Days 19-20 : Li River Cruise – Yangshuo – Guilin
Cruise the stunning Li River and enjoy the breathtaking landscape of beautiful limestone hills, tranquil fishing scenes and picturesque villages. We continue downstream to the town of Yangshuo set in the lush green rice paddies of Southern China. The next day, explore the colourful local markets, walk along the cobblestone streets and soak in the atmosphere of this charming town before returning to Guilin where we visit Mt Diecai. We also see the cormorant fishermen.
Day 21 : Guilin – Shanghai
Visit the colourful stalagmites and stalactites of Reed Flute Caves before flying to the cosmopolitan city of Shanghai, also known as the ‘Paris of the East’.
Day 22 : Shanghai
Sightseeing today includes a stroll through the beautiful Yu Gardens and the Old Town as well as a visit to the Shanghai Museum. We also walk along the famous Bund with its colonial architecture. Our dinner this evening will be of traditional Shanghai cuisine.
Day 23 : Shanghai – Suzhou
Travel by coach to the charming city of Suzhou, also known as the ‘Venice of the East’. Visit two of the finest oriental gardens: the Humble Administrator’s Garden and the Garden of the Master of the Nets, a local silk mill still in operation today and enjoy a cruise on the ancient Grand Canal.
Days 24-25 : Suzhou – Hangzhou
Continue by coach to beautiful Hangzhou, one of China’s former imperial capitals. Visit the local markets and experience an oriental tea-tasting. The next day, visit the Temple of Inspired Seclusion, Six Harmonies Pagoda and enjoy a relaxing cruise on West Lake.
Day 26 : Hangzhou – Shanghai
Return to Shanghai and explore the restored Xintiandi area with its unique 1920’s style shikumen buildings. In the evening, enjoy a cruise on the panoramic Huangpu River.
Day 27 : Shanghai – UK
Fly to the UK, arriving home later the same day or the following morning depending on airline chosen.
Dates and Prices
Tour departs Wednesday and returns Monday
*Tour departs Saturday and returns Thursday
**Tour departs Sunday and returns Friday
- Prices are fully inclusive from the UK and based on London Heathrow departures
- Regional departures available at no additional charge (subject to availability)
- World Traveller Plus supplement from £680pp
- Other flight upgrades available on request
- Land only from £2,090pp (Beijing - Shanghai)
- Single supplement from £660 (no supplement if you are willing to share)
- Tipping payable locally US$90pp
Dubai Extension - 4D/3N
Day 1: Arrive Dubai
Transfer from the airport to your hotel in Dubai.
Day 2: Dubai
Enjoy a half day tour to discover the delights of Dubai which highlights the contrasts between the old and the new in this fast growing and exciting city. Visit some of Dubai’s new landmarks on Beach Road, drive along the Dubai Creek, stroll through the narrow lanes of the historic Bastakiya area, with its beautifully restored old buildings and visit the Dubai Museum. We also cross the creek in an Abra (water taxi) and explore Dubai’s traditional souks. The afternoon is at leisure to further explore Dubai. (B)
Day 3: Dubai
Enjoy the day at leisure to further explore Dubai. (B)
Day 4: Depart Dubai
Transfer from your hotel to Dubai Airport for your onward flight. (B)
Hotel Prices:
Marco Polo Hotel 3* from £290pp
Traders Hotel 4* from £360pp
Sheraton Jumeirah Beach Resort & Towers 5* from £440pp
Price from £ 290.00pp
Other Supplement from:
Tour departs any day subject to availability and seasonal variation
Single supplement from £190
Sole passenger price from £480
Includes: accommodation, local transportation, touring, entrance fees, guides and meals as stated
Excludes: flights, departure taxes, visa and tipping
Emirates Extension - 5D/4N
Day 1: Arrive Dubai
Transfer from the airport to your hotel in Dubai.
Day 2: Dubai
Enjoy a half day tour to discover the delights of Dubai which highlights the contrasts between the old and the new in this fast growing and exciting city. Visit some of Dubai’s new landmarks on Beach Road, drive along the Dubai Creek, stroll through the narrow lanes of the historic Bastakiya area, with its beautifully restored old buildings and visit the Dubai Museum. We also cross the creek in an Abra (water taxi) and explore Dubai’s traditional souks. (B)
Day 3: Sharjah
The Emirate of Sharjah is regarded as the cultural centre of the Middle East. Visit the Natural History Museum, the corniche with the golden Al Majara Souk, Al Naboodah House, the Al Arsa Souk and the Central Souk, famous for its carpets and curios. Later, return to Dubai. (B)
Day 4: Abu Dhabi
Capital of the UAE, Abu Dhabi is a cosmopolitan metropolis rising out of the sand. Visit the beautiful corniche, Dhow building yards, stunning palaces and the Petroleum Museum for an insight into the industry that has transformed the UAE. Later, return to Dubai. (B)
Day 5: Depart Dubai
Transfer from your hotel to Dubai Airport for your onward flight. (B)
Hotel Prices:
Marco Polo Hotel 3*+ from £520pp
Traders Hotel 4* from £590pp
Sheraton Jumeirah Beach Resort & Towers 5* from £690pp
Price from £ 520.00pp
Other Supplement from:
Tour departs any day subject to availability and seasonal variation
Single supplement from £260
Sole passenger price from £800
Includes: accommodation, local transportation, touring, entrance fees, guides and meals as stated
Excludes: flights, departure taxes, visa and tipping
Expo Extension - 2D/1N
The World Expo 2010 in Shanghai is the chance for China to bring the world home, and the world to feel at home in China. The city will be turned into a centre for exhibitions, events and forums along the Expo theme, 'Better City, Better Life'. It hopes to build a powerful and lasting example of sustainable and harmonious urban living. The Expo will take place from 01 May 2010 – 31 October 2010
Day 1: Shanghai Expo
Transfer from your hotel to the Shanghai Expo. Enjoy the day experiencing the sights and sounds of this extravaganza with pavilions constructed by countries from all four corners of the globe. Your entrance
ticket is included and your exploration of the Expo site will be at your own leisure. Later, transfer back to your hotel.
Day 2: Depart Shanghai
Transfer from your hotel to Shanghai Airport for your onward flight. (B)
Price from £ 190.00pp
Other Supplement from:
Tour departs any day subject to availability and seasonal variation
Single supplement from £60
Sole passenger price from £280
Includes: accommodation, local transportation, entrance fees and meals as stated
Excludes: flights, departure taxes, visa and tipping
Hainan Island - 6D/5N
Day 1: Arrive Sanya
Transfer from Sanya Airport to the five-star Crowne Plaza Hotel at Yalong Bay. Hainan Island is located off the southern coast of China and lying at a similar latitude to Hawaii. The island enjoys a year-round tropical climate with an average temperature of between 22-26 ºC.(B)
Days 2-5: Sanya
Spend the next four days at leisure to enjoy the hotel facilities, stroll along the beautiful beach or further explore Hainan Island. Visit the Tropical Wildlife Park which is home to the 'Macaque' monkey, experience the many watersports on offer such as snorkelling, water-skiing and parasailing or play a round of golf. All activities are optional and paid locally. (B)
Day 6: Depart Sanya
Transfer from your hotel to Sanya Airport for your onward flight. (B)
Hotel Information:
Crowne Plaza Hotel at Yalong Bay
With its beachfront location, this tropical delight has all modern amenities. Facilities at the hotel include Café Trio with its open concept kitchens and poolside setting serving Chinese, Japanese and Italian cuisine, a Thai restaurant and a Seafood restaurant. The Havana Bar features tapas, exotic cocktails and live music. There is also a pool bar and a lobby lounge. Other facilities at the hotel include an outdoor swimming pool, fitness centre, Tea Tree Spa with sauna and jacuzzi and a gift shop. The hotel boasts 463 comfortable rooms with air-conditioning, satellite TV with DVD player, tea/coffee making facilities, mini-bar, hairdryer and a safe deposit box.
Price from £ 410.00pp
Other Supplement from:
Tour departs any day subject to availability and seasonal variation
Single supplement from £390
Sole passenger price from £800
Includes: accommodation, local transportation and meals as stated
Excludes: flights, departure taxes, visa and tipping
Hong Kong Extension - 4D/3N
Day 1: Arrive Hong Kong
Transfer from the airport to your hotel in Hong Kong.
Day 2: Hong Kong
Enjoy a half day island tour visiting Victoria Peak, Stanley Market, Aberdeen Fishing Village and an optional sampan ride (paid locally). The afternoon is at leisure. (B)
Day 3: Hong Kong
Enjoy the day at leisure to further explore Hong Kong. (B)
Day 4: Depart Hong Kong
Transfer to Hong Kong Airport for your onward flight. (B)
Hotel Prices:
BP International 3*+ star from £260pp
Park Hotel 4* from £290pp
Harbour Grand Kowloon 4*+ from £390pp
Intercontinental Grand Stanford 5* from £390pp
Price from £ 260.00pp
Other Supplement from:
Tour departs any day subject to availability and seasonal variation
Single supplement from £160
Sole passenger price from £420
Includes: accommodation, local transportation, touring, entrance fees, guides and meals as stated
Excludes: flights, departure taxes, visa and tipping
Hong Kong & Lantau Island - 4D/3N
Day 1: Arrive Hong Kong
Transfer from Hong Kong Airport to your hotel.
Day 2: Hong Kong
Enjoy a half day island tour visiting Victoria Peak, Stanley Market, Aberdeen Fishing Village and an optional sampan ride (paid locally). The afternoon is at leisure. (B)
Day 3: Lantau Island
Travel by ferry across the Victoria Harbour to Silvermine Bay and visit beautiful Cheung Sha beach. This is followed by Tai O Fishing Village, where many homes are built on stilts. Then travel to Ngong Ping Plateau to see the Giant Buddha and explore Po Lin Monastery where you will enjoy a vegetarian lunch. Later, visit the culturally themed Ngong Ping Village before ending the day with a spectacular ride aboard the Skyrail cable car. (B,L) If the cable car is cancelled due to poor weather or any other reason, alternative transportation will be arranged.
Day 4: Depart Hong Kong
Transfer from your hotel to Hong Kong Airport for your onward flight. (B)
Hotel Prices:
BP International 3* from £350pp
Park Hotel 4* from £380pp
Harbour Grand Kowloon 4*+ from £480pp
Intercontinental Grand Stanford 5* from £480pp
Price from £ 350.00pp
Other Supplement from:
Tour departs any day subject to availability and seasonal variation
Single supplement from £160
Sole passenger price from £510
Includes: accommodation, local transportation, touring, entrance feels, guides and meals as stated
Excludes: flights, departure taxes, visa and tipping
Hong Kong & Macau - 4D/3N
Day 1: Arrive Hong Kong
Transfer from the airport to your hotel in Hong Kong.
Day 2: Hong Kong
Enjoy a half day island tour visiting Victoria Peak, Stanley Market, Aberdeen Fishing Village and an optional sampan ride (paid locally). The afternoon is at leisure. (B)
Day 3: Macau
Transfer to the port for a hydrofoil ride across the Pearl River Estuary to Macau. Visit the sights of this former Portuguese colony including the ruins of the St. Paul Church, Ama Temple and Macau Museum (closed Mondays). There will also be the opportunity to visit one of the local casinos for which Macau is famous (minimum age 18). Return by hydrofoil to Hong Kong. (B,L)
Day 4: Depart Hong Kong
Transfer to Hong Kong Airport for your onward flight. (B)
Hotel Prices:
BP International 3* from £370pp
Park Hotel 4* from £400pp
Harbour Grand Kowloon 4*+ from £500pp
Intercontinental Grand Stanford 5* from £500pp
Price from £ 370.00pp
Other Supplement from:
Tour departs any day subject to availability and seasonal variation
Single supplement from £160
Sole passenger price from £530
Includes: accommodation, local transportation, touring, guides, entrance fees and meals as stated
Excludes: flights, departure taxes, visa and tipping
Hong Kong Shopping - 4D/3N
Day 1: Arrive Hong Kong
Transfer from the airport to your hotel in Hong Kong.
Days 2-3: Hong Kong
Enjoy a two day shopping tour (5 hours per day) including Chinese Dim Sum lunches at local restaurants. During the two days, visit the Horizon Plaza, Aberdeen Fishing Market, Porcelain and Jewellery factories, Stanley Market, Jade Market and the Ladies’ Market. (B,L)
Day 4: Depart Hong Kong
Transfer to Hong Kong Airport for your onward flight. (B)
Hotel Prices:
BP International 3* from £390pp
Park Hotel 4* from £420pp
Harbour Grand Kowloon 4*+ from £520pp
Intercontinental Grand Stanford 5* from £520pp
Price from £ 390.00pp
Other Supplement from:
Tour departs any day subject to availability and seasonal variation
Single supplement from £160
Sole passenger price from £550
Includes: accommodation, local transportation, touring, entrance fees, guides and meals as stated
Excludes: flights, departure taxes, visa and tipping
Tokyo Extension - 4D/3N
Day 1: Arrive Tokyo
Transfer from the airport to your hotel in Tokyo.
Day 2: Tokyo
Enjoy a full day tour of the vibrant and cosmopolitan city of Tokyo, Japan’s capital city. Begin with a visit Meji Jingu Shrine, dedicated to the Emperor and his wife and stroll through the Imperial Palace. Browse the colourful stalls and traditional souvenir shops along Nakamise Shopping Street that lead to Asakusa Kannon Temple and then drive through the Ginza entertainment area. Also enjoy a symphony cruise on Tokyo Bay. (B,L)
Day 3: Tokyo
Enjoy the day at leisure. (B)
Day 4: Depart Tokyo
Transfer to Tokyo Airport for your onward flight. (B)
Hotel Prices:
Tokyo Prince Hotel 3* from £540pp
The Prince Park Tower Hotel 4* from £660pp
Hotel Nikko Tokyo 5* from £890pp
Price from £ 540.00pp
Other Supplement from:
Tour departs any day subject to availability and seasonal variation
Single supplement from £190
Sole passenger price from £730
Includes: accommodation, local transportation, touring, entrance feels, guides and meals as stated
Excludes: flights, departure taxes, visa and tipping
Tokyo, Mt Fuji & Bullet Train Extension - 4D/3N
Day 1: Arrive Tokyo
Transfer from the airport to your hotel in Tokyo.
Day 2: Tokyo
Enjoy a full day tour of the vibrant and cosmopolitan city of Tokyo, Japan’s capital city. Begin with a visit to the Meji Jingu Shrine, dedicated to the Emperor and his wife and stroll through the Imperial Palace. Browse the colourful stalls and traditional souvenir shops along Nakamise Shopping Street that lead to Asakusa Kannon Temple and then drive through the Ginza entertainment area. Also enjoy a symphony cruise on Tokyo Bay. (B,L)
Day 3: Mt Fuji & Hakone day tour
Travel to the scenic and serene Mt Fuji area, Japan’s most famous and iconic attraction. Drive along the beautiful Five Lakes region, which is one of the best locations from which to photograph this famous picture-perfect icon. Enjoy amazing views from the Mt Fuji 5th station (weather permitting) and Owakudani, a hot spring crater area formed by the last eruption of Mt Hakone 3,000 years ago. Also enjoy a cruise on Lake Ashi before taking a cable car on the Mt Komagatake Ropeway. Later, return to Tokyo by the super-fast Shinkansen (bullet train). Return to the hotel under your own arrangements. (B,L)
Day 4: Depart Tokyo
Transfer to Tokyo Airport for your onward flight. (B)
Hotel Prices:
Tokyo Prince Hotel 3* from £690pp
The Prince Park Tower Hotel 4* from £810pp
Hotel Nikko Tokyo 5* from £1,040pp
Price from £ 690.00pp
Other Supplement from:
Tour departs any day subject to availability and seasonal variation
Single supplement from £190
Sole passenger price from £880
Includes: accommodation, local transportation, touring, entrance feels, guides and meals as stated
Excludes: flights, departure taxes, visa and tipping
This document is designed to be read in conjunction with the other pre-departure information provided by Wendy Wu Tours including the tour itinerary as described in our brochure and/or website. It aims to provide a straightforward description of the physical activities involved in sightseeing or travelling during the tour.
If there are any particular challenges, from the length of time spent on your feet, the length of drives and flights, to the standard of remote accommodation for our more adventurous tours; they will be explained here.
All passengers must read this document to ensure the itinerary is suitable for their interests and physical capabilities. This is not your final itinerary and therefore does not mention all the sites visited. The order of sightseeing is subject to change.
| Grand Tour of China Tour Dossier |
