Our Japan Week Sale is here! Save up to £800pp across all tours

Solos can save up to £1,750 with free single supplements on selected tours. Find out more

The Award-Winning Tour Specialist
Close

Dreams of Nature

  • Duration
    22 days
  • Tour Type
    Group Tour
  • Tour Style
    Go Beyond
  • Price From
    £5,090pp
  • Read Reviews
OFFERS
Save on all destinations for 2024-25

Save up to £500 per person on over 900 tours Offer ends: 30 Apr 2024 View Offers

Embark on an epic journey that encompasses some of China's most impressive UNESCO World Heritage sites and most incredible natural landscapes. Gaze over the mythical Zhangjiajie, whose mist-swathed, soaring peaks were the inspiration for the blockbuster film Avatar, cruise through the tranquil vistas of the Li and Yangtze rivers and walk the serpentine rice terraces of Longji.

Amongst the incredible scenery you'll meet the people who call it home, from simple farmers tending their crops to the minority hilltribe communities who will invite you into their village, and stumble on ancient traditions in the most unlikely of places.

  • Fully Inclusive
    Touring with Guides and entrance fees
  • Included Meals
    Breakfasts: 20 , Lunches: 18 , Dinners: 15
  • Accommodation
    20 nights in 4 star accommodation
  • Visa Included
    Visa fees for UK passport holders
  • Cruise
    Yangtze River Cruise, Li River Cruise
  • Physical Rating 4Learn More
    X A good level of fitness is required as you can expect to be walking, or taking part in a physical activity like cycling, for longer periods of time on several days throughout the tour, and may be required to tackle some more challenging terrain. Download the detailed tour dossier for details of your chosen tour. Learn More
    Extended walking. Physical activities on challenging terrain.
Travel Expert

How can we help?

For advice on where to go, what to do and how to choose your perfect tour, talk to our Travel Experts.

Call 0808 274 8594

Tour Highlights

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

Tour Experiences

Tour Itinerary

This tour is ideal for those who have a reasonable amount of time and are looking to explore lesser known sections of China and take part in more active touring, with more walking and outdoor activity.

  • Days 1-2
    Fly to Guilin (via Shanghai)
    Days 1-2: Fly to Guilin (via Shanghai)

    Arrive into Shanghai and take a connecting domestic flight to Guilin. Stay overnight in Guilin.

    • Dinner
  • Day 3
    Longji Rice Terraces
    Day 3: Longji Rice Terraces

    Travel to the iconic Longji Rice Terraces and head out for a three-hour walk through the traditional rural landscapes. There are several viewpoints boasting picture-postcard views of the extensive rice terraces that cover the hillside in intricate patterns. Drive back to Guilin.

    • Breakfast
    • Lunch
  • Day 4
    Yangshuo's Landscapes
    Day 4: Yangshuo's Landscapes

    Take a gentle cruise along the Li River to Yangshuo. Lined with dramatic limestone cliffs, the serenity of life on the riverbanks is a wonderful sight. Later, take a walk through this idyllic wonderland and get an insight into life here. There's an option to take a rewarding hike to Moon Hill for beautiful views.

    • Breakfast
    • Lunch
    • Dinner
  • Day 5
    Tai Chi & Bamboo Rafting
    Day 5: Tai Chi & Bamboo Rafting

    Start the day with a relaxing and invigorating session of Tai Chi, taking a class with a master to learn this ancient martial art. This afternoon, there is an option to go bamboo rafting on the Yulong River. Drift past verdant riverbanks and under ancient bridges as you paddle on the glass-like water. This evening, you have the option of enjoying the magical Liu Sanjie night show.

    • Breakfast
    • Lunch
  • Day 6
    Reed Flute Cave
    Day 6: Reed Flute Cave

    Drive back to Guilin and spend the afternoon exploring Reed Flute Cave and learning about the South China pearling industry at a pearl factory. Take the bullet train to Zhangjiajie.

    • Breakfast
    • Lunch
    • Dinner
  • Days 7-8
    Explore Zhangjiajie
    Days 7-8: Explore Zhangjiajie

    A scenic area of over 3,000 sandstone pillars, rising from misty folds of subtropical forest and cloaked in vibrant green vegetation, Zhangjiajie's striking beauty is unforgettable. Ravines and gorges, streams and waterfalls and a plethora of endangered plants and animal species complete this idyllic scene. Over the next two days, enjoy some beautiful walks, take a cruise on Lake Baofeng and spend time exploring Huanglong Cave, also known as ‘Yellow Dragon Cave'. Trek to Jinbian Stream and explore the Ten-Mile Natural Gallery. You will also see the famous Yuanjiajie Avatar Mountain and Emperor Mountain. Travel by road to Changhsa.

    • Breakfast
    • Lunch
    • Dinner
  • Day 9
    Orange Island
    Day 9: Orange Island

    Begin at Hunan Museum, a treasure trove of ancient relics and artworks. Step into history at Yuelu Academy, a hub of learning for centuries, nestled by scenic Mt. Yuelu. In the late afternoon, explore the bamboo and sculpture gardens of Orange Island, where a towering 32-meter statue of Chairman Mao Zedong stands. Later, indulge in the lively Yangfan night market.

    • Breakfast
    • Lunch
    • Dinner
  • Day 10
    Yichang
    Day 10: Yichang

    Catch the train to Yichang and board your Yangtze cruise vessel, home for the next four nights.

    • Breakfast
    • Lunch
    • Dinner
  • Days 11-13
    Yangtze River Cruise
    Days 11-13: Yangtze River Cruise

    A man-made marvel, the Three Gorges Dam showcases this massive feat of engineering. But as you cruise upstream, nature takes over, revealing some of the world’s most dramatic scenery including the Three Gorges themselves. A voyage along China’s riverine treasure is a chance to relax and enjoy a slower pace, whilst absorbing extraordinary countryside. Over the next three days, take a side trip to the attractive Goddess or Shennong Stream and enjoy various shore excursions.

    • Breakfast
    • Lunch
    • Dinner
  • Day 14
    Leshan Grand Buddha
    Day 14: Leshan Grand Buddha

    Disembark the ship and take a bullet train to Leshan to see the 71-metre-high UNESCO-listed Grand Buddha. Completed in the year 803, it is said that the Buddha's presence has calmed the turbulent waters of the river. View the Buddha from below on a short boat trip. Later, continue and drive to Emeishan.

    • Breakfast
    • Lunch
    • Dinner
  • Day 15
    Explore Mount Emei
    Day 15: Explore Mount Emei

    Mount Emei, or Emeishan, is the cradle of the Buddhist religion in China with the first temple built on its peak in the 1st century. Pilgrims and tourists mix amongst the lush vegetation and inconspicuous old temples, all admiring the striking and diverse natural beauty of the mountain and its setting. Spend the day soaking up the ambience and exploring.

    • Breakfast
    • Lunch
    • Dinner
  • Day 16
    Pingle Ancient Town
    Day 16: Pingle Ancient Town

    Dating back to the Han Dynasty, Pingle was a stopping point on the Tea Horse Road. Take time to walk through its maze of teahouse-lined streets before seeing the bamboo forest from above on the Jinji Rope Bridge. Drive back to Chengdu.

    • Breakfast
    • Lunch
  • Day 17
    Huanglong Pools
    Day 17: Huanglong Pools

    Take the bullet train to Nine Village Valley and visit Huanglong Valley, home to hundreds of vivid pools in striking colours, formed by thousands of years of mineral deposits tumbling gently down through the bright green forests. Take a chairlift ride over the pools and visit Huanglong Temple.

    • Breakfast
    • Lunch
  • Day 18
    Nine Villages Valley
    Day 18: Nine Villages Valley

    A national park of ragged peaks, sapphire lakes, abundant forests and rushing waterfalls, the Nine Villages Valley, Jiuzhaigou National Park is considered one of China's most beautiful areas. Named after the nine Tibetan settlements scattered through the valley, the park is a World Biosphere Reserve, full of endemic flora and 140 species of birds. Spend the day exploring and later, enjoy traditional lamb skewers.

    • Breakfast
    • Lunch
    • Dinner
  • Day 19
    Shuzheng Village
    Day 19: Shuzheng Village

    Visit Shuzheng Village, the largest settlement in the park. Spend some time with a local Tibetan family who will give you an insight into daily life in Nine Villages Valley. A lovely afternoon walk takes you from Rhinoceros Lake, passing Tiger Lake ending at Reed Lake – an excellent way to really appreciate the local scenery. Pass an old watermill and Tibetan prayer flags en route.

    • Breakfast
    • Lunch
    • Dinner
  • Day 20
    Bullet Train to Chengdu
    Day 20: Bullet Train to Chengdu

    Take the bullet train to Chengdu and enjoy an afternoon of leisure in Chengdu town.

    • Breakfast
    • Lunch
  • Day 21
    Chengdu Panda Reserve
    Day 21: Chengdu Panda Reserve

    Spend the morning visiting the giant pandas. This afternoon, absorb the culture at People's Park. People-watching here is an endless pleasure, from the lively locals playing mahjong to the singles looking for love in Matchmaker's Corner. In the evening, enjoy a delicious Sichuanese dinner and an optional 'face-changing' show.

    • Breakfast
    • Dinner
  • Day 22
    Fly Chengdu to UK
    Day 22: Fly Chengdu to UK

    Fly to the UK, 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 2
    Lijiang Waterfall Hotel
    1 North Shanhu Road, Guilin, Guangxi Province
    Lijiang Waterfall Hotel
    Located in Guilin's city center and opposite the attractive Sun and Moon pagodas, the Lijiang Waterfall Hotel offers luxury rooms equipped with a flat screen satellite television, a minibar, a safety deposit box and a stunning en-suite bathroom with complimentary toiletries. The hotel also boasts an outdoor swimming pool and a fitness centre. Guests can enjoy Chinese, Japanese, Korean and Western cuisines in the onsite restaurant.
  • Nights 2
    Elite Garden Hotel
    Elite Garden Hotel
    In the centre of Yangshuo, the 4-star Elite Garden Hotel offers spacious guest rooms designed and decorated to make you feel at home, all equipped with free internet access, complimentary bottled water and a coffee machine. The private bathrooms include both bath and shower facilities.
  • Nights 2
    Zhangjiajie Expert Village Sunshine Courtyard Hotel
    598 Wuling Road, about 100 meters north at the intersection of Osmanthus Road and Wulingyuan District, Zhangjiajie, Hunan, 427400, China
    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.
  • Nights 2
    Holiday Inn Express Changsha Shengfu
    East & South corner in Wuling Rd and Zhengtangpo Rd, Tianxin, Changsha, China, 410000
    Holiday Inn Express Changsha Shengfu
    A contemporary 4-star hotel, the Holiday Inn Express Changsha Shengfu, is conveniently located around 5 km from Hunan Forest Botanical Garden and 6 km from Tianjiling National Forest Park. The clean and minimalist rooms offer a comfortable stay without forgoing a wide variety of amenities. Featuring high speed Wi-Fi and a buffet breakfast, the hotel also provides a pillow menu, flat-screen TV with premium and satellite channels along with a well-appointed ensuite bathroom.
  • Nights 2
    Le Méridien Emei Mountain Resort
    No 555 Mingshan Road South Section, Leshan, Sichuan, 614200
    Le Méridien Emei Mountain Resort
    Situated in the heart of the Sichuan Province, Le Méridien Emei Mountain Resort offers 4-star luxury accommodation, exuding elegance and premium comforts. Nestled at the foot of the mountains, the hotel boasts striking views in addition to the assortment of bars and restaurants offering a variety of delectable cuisines. There are also multiple pools and a fitness centre. All rooms feature a contemporary design and are equipped with a flat-screen TV, high speed Wi-Fi and luxury linens.
  • Nights 3
    Xin Liang Hotel
    No.246, Shangdong St., Chengdu·Sichuan
    Xin Liang Hotel
    The 4-star Xin Liang Hotel is centrally located in the Chunxi Road Business District, adjacent to Tianfu Square, making it an ideal starting point for exploring Chengdu. The hotel draws inspiration from Bashu culture, seamlessly blending elegant and modern elements, providing a tranquil oasis in the bustling city. Featuring Wi-Fi and a continental breakfast, the property also provides rooms with soundproof windows, a work desk, refrigerator, and a flat-screen TV featuring satellite channels.

The best times to visit China are in spring (April to May) and autumn, (September to October) when temperatures are warm and humidity low.

City Average Temperate Monthly Rainfall
  • Chengdu
  • 6°c
  • 8mm
  • Guilin
  • 8°c
  • 63mm
  • Shanghai
  • 5°c
  • 74mm
  • Yangshuo
  • 10°c
  • 53mm
  • Zhangjiajie
  • 4°c
  • 35mm
City Average Temperate Monthly Rainfall
  • Chengdu
  • 8°c
  • 12mm
  • Guilin
  • 10°c
  • 97mm
  • Shanghai
  • 7°c
  • 59mm
  • Yangshuo
  • 10°c
  • 81mm
  • Zhangjiajie
  • 6°c
  • 50mm
City Average Temperate Monthly Rainfall
  • Chengdu
  • 12°c
  • 20mm
  • Guilin
  • 13°c
  • 137mm
  • Shanghai
  • 10°c
  • 94mm
  • Yangshuo
  • 14°c
  • 114mm
  • Zhangjiajie
  • 10°c
  • 92mm
City Average Temperate Monthly Rainfall
  • Chengdu
  • 17°c
  • 44mm
  • Guilin
  • 19°c
  • 247mm
  • Shanghai
  • 16°c
  • 74mm
  • Yangshuo
  • 20°c
  • 224mm
  • Zhangjiajie
  • 16°c
  • 167mm
City Average Temperate Monthly Rainfall
  • Chengdu
  • 22°c
  • 78mm
  • Guilin
  • 24°c
  • 352mm
  • Shanghai
  • 21°c
  • 84mm
  • Yangshuo
  • 24°c
  • 312mm
  • Zhangjiajie
  • 20°c
  • 218mm
City Average Temperate Monthly Rainfall
  • Chengdu
  • 24°c
  • 107mm
  • Guilin
  • 27°c
  • 347mm
  • Shanghai
  • 25°c
  • 182mm
  • Yangshuo
  • 26°c
  • 293mm
  • Zhangjiajie
  • 24°c
  • 243mm
City Average Temperate Monthly Rainfall
  • Chengdu
  • 26°c
  • 224mm
  • Guilin
  • 29°c
  • 231mm
  • Shanghai
  • 29°c
  • 146mm
  • Yangshuo
  • 28°c
  • 200mm
  • Zhangjiajie
  • 26°c
  • 193mm
City Average Temperate Monthly Rainfall
  • Chengdu
  • 26°c
  • 201mm
  • Guilin
  • 29°c
  • 173mm
  • Shanghai
  • 29°c
  • 214mm
  • Yangshuo
  • 28°c
  • 186mm
  • Zhangjiajie
  • 26°c
  • 155mm
City Average Temperate Monthly Rainfall
  • Chengdu
  • 22°c
  • 119mm
  • Guilin
  • 26°c
  • 82mm
  • Shanghai
  • 25°c
  • 87mm
  • Yangshuo
  • 26°c
  • 83mm
  • Zhangjiajie
  • 22°c
  • 108mm
City Average Temperate Monthly Rainfall
  • Chengdu
  • 18°c
  • 35mm
  • Guilin
  • 21°c
  • 66mm
  • Shanghai
  • 20°c
  • 56mm
  • Yangshuo
  • 22°c
  • 85mm
  • Zhangjiajie
  • 17°c
  • 111mm
City Average Temperate Monthly Rainfall
  • Chengdu
  • 13°c
  • 16mm
  • Guilin
  • 16°c
  • 64mm
  • Shanghai
  • 14°c
  • 52mm
  • Yangshuo
  • 16°c
  • 69mm
  • Zhangjiajie
  • 12°c
  • 69mm
City Average Temperate Monthly Rainfall
  • Chengdu
  • 8°c
  • 5mm
  • Guilin
  • 11°c
  • 43mm
  • Shanghai
  • 8°c
  • 44mm
  • Yangshuo
  • 12°c
  • 44mm
  • Zhangjiajie
  • 6°c
  • 35mm
+ -
Dreams of Nature map

Places Visited: UK - Shanghai - Guilin (2N) - Yangshuo (2N) - Zhangjiajie (2N) - Changsha (2N) - Yangtze River Cruise (4N) - Emeishan (2N) - Chengdu (1N) - Nine Villages Valley (3N) - Chengdu (2N) - UK

Download Detailed Itinerary

Tour Dates & Prices

All of our tour departures include international flights and taxes in the price. If the dates we have available for this tour don't suit your needs, or you are not sure travelling as part of a group is for you, maybe a Private Tour would be more ideal. If your tour departs in less than 30 days, please call our travel experts to book.

Offers
Applicable

Spring Sale Offer

Save up to £500 per person on over 900 tours

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.

Fetching Price Information - please wait

Depart UK
Return Date
Price
Offer
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
Price
Offer
Booking Options

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.

Group Tour includes

Additional Price Information

Your Wendy Wu Stories

Who better to show you the delights of this tour than those who have experienced it for themselves? Our customers tell us they love the fact that everything is included on their tour, from fabulous hotels and delicious dining to thrilling sightseeing and authentic experiences they just couldn’t get anywhere else. Filmed by our wonderful National Escorts, here are some of our customers enjoying Dreams of Nature with Wendy Wu Tours.

What our Customers Say

Rated 4.7 out of 5 based on 5023 reviews on Feefo Logo

Extensions and Stopovers

From our China Blog

Read our latest articles or travel inspiration, exciting news about our destinations and all things Wendy Wu Tours

18
May

From Peaks to Pandas: A Journey Through China’s Stunning Natural Landscapes

Imagine standing amidst the towering sandstone pillars of Zhangjiajie, which inspired the...
15
Jul

China’s Top 10 Tourist Attractions

Now we know this is going to be controversial – China is a country full of wonders – ancient,...
14
May

Top Picks for China on Amazon Prime, Netflix and Audible

Our top picks for Amazon Prime, Netflix and Audible which take you on a journey 8,197 miles east to...
Read more China blogs
Call us on 0800 1445 282 to book this tour