Intrepid Travel

Premium China

Premium China

Embark on a 12-day Premium journey that weaves together China’s layered history, famous icons, cultural heritage and celebrated cuisine. Uncover modern China in Shanghai, then step back in time to the villages of Huizhou. See the magnificent karst hills of Yangshuo and come face to face with the Terracotta Warriors in Xi’an. Walk an original section of the Great Wall – one of the Seven Wonders of the World – and revel in the big show of Beijing. Of all China’s assets, its greatest is its people, so you’ll also visit traditional family homes for homecooked meals and travel with an expert local leader to uncover a lesser-known side of the country.

Activities

  • Shanghai – Shanghai cuisine welcome dinner
  • Shanghai – City walking tour
  • Huizhou – Bamboo weaving family visit
  • Huizhou – Stone tablet inscription printing demonstration
  • Huizhou – Home-cooked lunch
  • Huizhou – Tangmo village tour
  • Shanghai – rooftop bar (one drink included)
  • Yangshuo – Walking Tour
  • Yangshuo – Xianggong Hill & Tea Farm Visit
  • Yangshuo – Cooking class
  • Xi’an – Muslim Quarter Walking Tour
  • Xi’an – Muslim Quarter dumpling dinner
  • Xi’an – Terracotta Warriors Tour – leader led
  • Xi’an – Home-cooked lunch
  • Beijing – Forbidden City
  • Beijing – Tiananmen Square
  • Beijing – Wood mortise and tenon demonstration
  • Beijing – Hutong home-cooked lunch
  • Beijing – Hutong walking tour
  • Beijing – Jingshan Park
  • Great Wall – Huanghuacheng Section
  • Beijing – Beijing duck dinner

Highlights

  • Feast on authentic Chinese cuisine during Exclusive Experiences, including a homecooked lunch with a local family in Huizhou and a delicious duck dinner in a Beijing courtyard.
  • Take in the scenery of Yangshuo – with karst hills dotted along Li River, you’ll be surrounded by mountain views, sip on perfectly brewed green tea and take part in a traditional countryside cooking class.
  • Get a sense of the scale of China’s epic history when you come face to face with the Terracotta warriors and visit a lesser-known section of the Great Wall during an Exclusive Experience – this is one of the Seven Wonders of the World, after all!
  • Journey to the peaceful Huizhou villages, home to the quintessential image of white walled, black tiled traditional houses, and enjoy a Feature Stay in a heritage hotel converted from the mansion home of a famous Ming Dynasty poet.
  • Discover the bright lights of modern China in Shanghai and uncover a different side of Beijing as you wander through the city’s hutongs, followed by a homecooked lunch in an authentic hutong house.

05/15/2025 through 10/17/2027
05/15/2025 through 10/21/2027

Day 1 Also known as “The Paris of the East,” Shanghai is a youthful and cosmopolitan city with a tantalizing blend of Eastern and Western culture. Across the Huangpu River you will see Pudong district’s futuristic skyline, including Shanghai Tower and Oriental Pearl TV Tower. The gorgeous Yu Garden has traditional pavilions, towers and ponds and definitely lives up to its nickname, "Garden of Happiness."
Day 2 Also known as “The Paris of the East,” Shanghai is a youthful and cosmopolitan city with a tantalizing blend of Eastern and Western culture. Across the Huangpu River you will see Pudong district’s futuristic skyline, including Shanghai Tower and Oriental Pearl TV Tower. The gorgeous Yu Garden has traditional pavilions, towers and ponds and definitely lives up to its nickname, "Garden of Happiness."
Day 3
Day 4 Also known as “The Paris of the East,” Shanghai is a youthful and cosmopolitan city with a tantalizing blend of Eastern and Western culture. Across the Huangpu River you will see Pudong district’s futuristic skyline, including Shanghai Tower and Oriental Pearl TV Tower. The gorgeous Yu Garden has traditional pavilions, towers and ponds and definitely lives up to its nickname, "Garden of Happiness."
Day 5

Nestled in the Guangxi Zhuang Autonomous Region, Yangshuo offers an enchanting escape amid some of China’s most breathtaking landscapes. This picturesque town is renowned for its dramatic karst mountains, lush river valleys, and meandering Li River, which has earned it a spot among the top natural wonders of the world. A boat ride along the Li River reveals stunning views of limestone peaks that have been immortalized in traditional Chinese ink paintings, making for an unforgettable experience.

Yangshuo's vibrant market scene and lively West Street are the heartbeats of the town, where visitors can immerse themselves in local culture. The street is lined with charming cafes, boutique shops, and food stalls offering regional delicacies, including the famous Yangshuo beer fish. For those seeking adventure, the surrounding countryside provides ample opportunities for outdoor activities, from cycling through terraced rice fields to exploring the caves and hills that dot the landscape.

A must-visit attraction is the Moon Hill, a natural archway that offers panoramic views of the surrounding area from its summit. The climb to the top is a rewarding challenge, showcasing the unique geological features of the region. Additionally, the nearby Yulong River, often referred to as the "Little Li River," provides a more serene setting for bamboo raft rides and riverbank picnics.

A fun fact about Yangshuo: it was a key location for the filming of the popular Chinese film "The Longest Day in Chang'an," which highlighted its stunning landscapes and traditional architecture. This cinematic recognition has further amplified Yangshuo's allure, drawing travelers eager to experience the scenery seen on screen. For an unforgettable visit, plan your trip between April and October when the weather is pleasant and perfect for exploring this scenic gem.


Day 6

Nestled in the Guangxi Zhuang Autonomous Region, Yangshuo offers an enchanting escape amid some of China’s most breathtaking landscapes. This picturesque town is renowned for its dramatic karst mountains, lush river valleys, and meandering Li River, which has earned it a spot among the top natural wonders of the world. A boat ride along the Li River reveals stunning views of limestone peaks that have been immortalized in traditional Chinese ink paintings, making for an unforgettable experience.

Yangshuo's vibrant market scene and lively West Street are the heartbeats of the town, where visitors can immerse themselves in local culture. The street is lined with charming cafes, boutique shops, and food stalls offering regional delicacies, including the famous Yangshuo beer fish. For those seeking adventure, the surrounding countryside provides ample opportunities for outdoor activities, from cycling through terraced rice fields to exploring the caves and hills that dot the landscape.

A must-visit attraction is the Moon Hill, a natural archway that offers panoramic views of the surrounding area from its summit. The climb to the top is a rewarding challenge, showcasing the unique geological features of the region. Additionally, the nearby Yulong River, often referred to as the "Little Li River," provides a more serene setting for bamboo raft rides and riverbank picnics.

A fun fact about Yangshuo: it was a key location for the filming of the popular Chinese film "The Longest Day in Chang'an," which highlighted its stunning landscapes and traditional architecture. This cinematic recognition has further amplified Yangshuo's allure, drawing travelers eager to experience the scenery seen on screen. For an unforgettable visit, plan your trip between April and October when the weather is pleasant and perfect for exploring this scenic gem.


Day 7 Xi'an is the capital of Shaanxi (Shen-hsi) Province, and the cultural center of the historic and agriculturally rich Wei River valley. Historical interests include the tomb of China's first emperor, Shih 0Huang Ti; Shaanxi Provincial Museum; the Big and Little Goose Pagodas; and the Great Mosque. Other points of interest include the tombs of the Tang emperors (618-906); four tumuli (burial mounds); Xi'an Hot Springs; and Banpo, a Neolithic village.
Day 8 Xi'an is the capital of Shaanxi (Shen-hsi) Province, and the cultural center of the historic and agriculturally rich Wei River valley. Historical interests include the tomb of China's first emperor, Shih 0Huang Ti; Shaanxi Provincial Museum; the Big and Little Goose Pagodas; and the Great Mosque. Other points of interest include the tombs of the Tang emperors (618-906); four tumuli (burial mounds); Xi'an Hot Springs; and Banpo, a Neolithic village.
Day 9

Visit Beijing, China’s capital! This majestic city offers plenty of grand monuments, ancient landmarks, and breathtaking sights for you to explore.

Begin your Beijing adventure in the heart of the city. Beyond Tiananmen Square, the city’s austere (and infamous) political center erected by Chairman Mao, lies the remarkable Forbidden City. This imperial palace, perhaps the most famous attraction in Beijing proper, will amaze you with its bright red façade and impressive museum, home to beautiful pieces of Chinese art. Nearby Tian Tan or Temple of Heaven, the imperial center for prayer over many dynasties, is fashioned in the same exquisite Chinese architectural style and bursts with lavish reds and golds. Travel mere steps from Tiananmen to gaze in wonderment at the National Center for the Performing Arts, whose illuminated glass dome sparkles over a mirror-like pool of blue water.

After visiting the city’s historic landmarks, unwind by browsing unique markets and enjoying some delicious culinary treats. Restaurants throughout Beijing serve savory and crispy peking duck, a staple in the city, but be sure to sample sweet cakes and rice desserts on bustling Wangfujing Snack Street. From lovely jade beads, to vintage tea pots, to distinctive souvenirs, the Panjiyuan Antique Market is the quintessential stop for shopping in Beijing.

Venture just north of the capital to see the Great Wall of China, a UNESCO World Heritage site and one of the world’s most iconic man-made wonders. This vast landmark, whose twisting steps are set upon lush hilltops, is an absolute must-see on any trip to Beijing. The Great Wall’s overwhelming immensity is guaranteed to leave you awestruck.


Day 10

Visit Beijing, China’s capital! This majestic city offers plenty of grand monuments, ancient landmarks, and breathtaking sights for you to explore.

Begin your Beijing adventure in the heart of the city. Beyond Tiananmen Square, the city’s austere (and infamous) political center erected by Chairman Mao, lies the remarkable Forbidden City. This imperial palace, perhaps the most famous attraction in Beijing proper, will amaze you with its bright red façade and impressive museum, home to beautiful pieces of Chinese art. Nearby Tian Tan or Temple of Heaven, the imperial center for prayer over many dynasties, is fashioned in the same exquisite Chinese architectural style and bursts with lavish reds and golds. Travel mere steps from Tiananmen to gaze in wonderment at the National Center for the Performing Arts, whose illuminated glass dome sparkles over a mirror-like pool of blue water.

After visiting the city’s historic landmarks, unwind by browsing unique markets and enjoying some delicious culinary treats. Restaurants throughout Beijing serve savory and crispy peking duck, a staple in the city, but be sure to sample sweet cakes and rice desserts on bustling Wangfujing Snack Street. From lovely jade beads, to vintage tea pots, to distinctive souvenirs, the Panjiyuan Antique Market is the quintessential stop for shopping in Beijing.

Venture just north of the capital to see the Great Wall of China, a UNESCO World Heritage site and one of the world’s most iconic man-made wonders. This vast landmark, whose twisting steps are set upon lush hilltops, is an absolute must-see on any trip to Beijing. The Great Wall’s overwhelming immensity is guaranteed to leave you awestruck.


Day 11

Visit Beijing, China’s capital! This majestic city offers plenty of grand monuments, ancient landmarks, and breathtaking sights for you to explore.

Begin your Beijing adventure in the heart of the city. Beyond Tiananmen Square, the city’s austere (and infamous) political center erected by Chairman Mao, lies the remarkable Forbidden City. This imperial palace, perhaps the most famous attraction in Beijing proper, will amaze you with its bright red façade and impressive museum, home to beautiful pieces of Chinese art. Nearby Tian Tan or Temple of Heaven, the imperial center for prayer over many dynasties, is fashioned in the same exquisite Chinese architectural style and bursts with lavish reds and golds. Travel mere steps from Tiananmen to gaze in wonderment at the National Center for the Performing Arts, whose illuminated glass dome sparkles over a mirror-like pool of blue water.

After visiting the city’s historic landmarks, unwind by browsing unique markets and enjoying some delicious culinary treats. Restaurants throughout Beijing serve savory and crispy peking duck, a staple in the city, but be sure to sample sweet cakes and rice desserts on bustling Wangfujing Snack Street. From lovely jade beads, to vintage tea pots, to distinctive souvenirs, the Panjiyuan Antique Market is the quintessential stop for shopping in Beijing.

Venture just north of the capital to see the Great Wall of China, a UNESCO World Heritage site and one of the world’s most iconic man-made wonders. This vast landmark, whose twisting steps are set upon lush hilltops, is an absolute must-see on any trip to Beijing. The Great Wall’s overwhelming immensity is guaranteed to leave you awestruck.


Day 12

Visit Beijing, China’s capital! This majestic city offers plenty of grand monuments, ancient landmarks, and breathtaking sights for you to explore.

Begin your Beijing adventure in the heart of the city. Beyond Tiananmen Square, the city’s austere (and infamous) political center erected by Chairman Mao, lies the remarkable Forbidden City. This imperial palace, perhaps the most famous attraction in Beijing proper, will amaze you with its bright red façade and impressive museum, home to beautiful pieces of Chinese art. Nearby Tian Tan or Temple of Heaven, the imperial center for prayer over many dynasties, is fashioned in the same exquisite Chinese architectural style and bursts with lavish reds and golds. Travel mere steps from Tiananmen to gaze in wonderment at the National Center for the Performing Arts, whose illuminated glass dome sparkles over a mirror-like pool of blue water.

After visiting the city’s historic landmarks, unwind by browsing unique markets and enjoying some delicious culinary treats. Restaurants throughout Beijing serve savory and crispy peking duck, a staple in the city, but be sure to sample sweet cakes and rice desserts on bustling Wangfujing Snack Street. From lovely jade beads, to vintage tea pots, to distinctive souvenirs, the Panjiyuan Antique Market is the quintessential stop for shopping in Beijing.

Venture just north of the capital to see the Great Wall of China, a UNESCO World Heritage site and one of the world’s most iconic man-made wonders. This vast landmark, whose twisting steps are set upon lush hilltops, is an absolute must-see on any trip to Beijing. The Great Wall’s overwhelming immensity is guaranteed to leave you awestruck.


08/10/25 - 08/21/25

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09/07/25 - 09/18/25

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10/09/25 - 10/20/25

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10/12/25 - 10/23/25

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10/16/25 - 10/27/25

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03/15/26 - 03/26/26

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04/02/26 - 04/13/26

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