Gems of China

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New Release Fully Guided Locally Guided Coach River Cruise
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 Trip Length
16 Days
 Trip Starts
Beijing
 Trip Finishes
Shanghai
16 Day Gems of China Itinerary (Wendy Wu)
Countries Explored: China
Cruise Line
Victoria Cruises
Victoria Cruises
No Reviews
Trip Style
Classic Tours
Accommodation
4 Star
Max. Group Size
28
Pace
Leisurely
Guide Level
Fully Guided, Locally Guided
Trip Code
GC16

Overview

Book online and enjoy exclusive savings on Wendy Wu's 16 Day Gems of China. Uncover the ancient, modern, and natural gems on this all-encompassing tour of China's must-see sights and unforgettable experiences. Marvel at China’s most incredible landscapes, from the sweeping views atop the mighty Great Wall, to the impressive Three Gorges onboard your 3-night Yangtze River cruise, and the soaring peaks that inspired the blockbuster film 'Avatar' at Zhangjiajie National Park.

Immerse yourself in the local culture of Xian's Muslim Quarter, feast your eyes and taste buds on dumplings with...read more a side of Tang Dynasty dancing, and get to know the nation's favourite bear at Chengdu's Panda Conservation Centre.

Itinerary

Fly to to Beijing, China's historical capital. Depending on your time of arrival, the rest of the day is yours to start soaking up the local culture. (D)

This morning head to Beijing's symbolic heart, Tiananmen Square, where you will discover the magnificence of the Forbidden City and find a complex full of imperial treasures. Take a leisurely stroll through the narrow alleys of the warren-like hutongs and learn more about living in this traditional area. Later, soak up the harmonious ambience of the Temple of Heaven. In the evening, sit down to enjoy the local delicacy, Peking duck. (B/L/D)

This morning is dedicated to China's most iconic sight – the Great Wall. Taking a walk on this incredible structure is the best way to appreciate the sheer magnificence of the wall and the dramatic scenery that surrounds it. Visit a jade factory, where you will be able to buy a small handcrafted piece. Jade is revered throughout China and is said to bring fortune and prosperity to those who wear it. Spend the afternoon at the idyllic Summer Palace, strolling through traditional Chinese gardens and seeing the exquisite architecture. (B/L/D)

Travel by bullet train to Xian, China's ancient former capital. Take a walking tour of the narrow and winding streets of the lively Muslim Quarter and gain an insight into the city's fascinating culture and significance as the start of the Silk Road. In the evening, enjoy a dumpling feast and Tang Dynasty dancing show. (B/L/D)

After their fortuitous discovery in the 1970s, the Terracotta Army of China's first emperor, Qin Shi Huang, has intrigued visitors ever since. Spend the morning viewing the enigmatic ranks of these life-size warriors and visit the Xian Art Ceramics and Lacquer Workshop. Later, take a stroll on the beautifully preserved ancient city walls that enclose Xian's old town. (B/L/D)

Board the bullet train to Chengdu, the capital of the Sichuan province. Take a stroll through People's Park to see Matchmaker's Corner, where parents search for suitable partners for their children. (B/L/D)

Visit Chengdu's famous Panda Conservation Centre to see and learn about China's celebrated bears up close in surroundings that mirror their natural habitat. A look around the informative museum gives an overview of the reserve's breeding programme. Later, drive to Chongqing where you will board your Yangtze River Cruise. (B/L/D)

As you cruise downstream, nature takes over, revealing some of the world's most dramatic scenery including the Three Gorges themselves. Over the next two days, prepare for one breathtaking panorama after another. Enjoy various shore excursions as well as a side trip to Goddess or Shennong Stream. This is a chance to get a glimpse of life on the river banks. (B/L/D)

Visit the Three Gorges Dam, the largest hydroelectric dam in the world. Appreciate the scale of this hydroelectric project from the viewing area and visit the small museum. Disembark your Yangtze River Cruise and drive to Zhangjiajie, a scenic area of over 3,000 sandstone pillars, rising from misty folds of subtropical forest and cloaked in vibrant green vegetation. (B/L/D)

Enjoy a full day of exploring Zhangjiajie National Park. Begin at the Yuanjianie Scenic Area before riding the Bailong glass elevator to Mihun Stage and enjoy amazing views of the majestic peaks. Continue to Emperor Mountain to visit Helong Park from where you will take a cable car down and head to Ten-Mile Natural Gallery. Later, enjoy a scenic cruise on Lake Baofeng. Sightseeing today will involve around 4-5 hours of walking. (B/L/D)

Explore the colourful stalagmites and stalactites of the Huanglong Cave, stretching over 120 acres in area. Head to Zhangjiajie's Glass Bridge, the world's longest glass-bottomed bridge, and take an exhilarating walk across while soaking up the panoramic views. (B/L/D)

Take a cable car to the beautiful Mount Tianmen and walk on the thrilling glass skywalk. Visit Tianmen Cave, nicknamed 'Heaven's Door' and Jun Sheng Sandstone painting gallery. Later, transfer to the airport for your onward flight to Shanghai. (B/L/D)

Today we visit the peaceful Yu Gardens and the atmospheric alleys of the old town. Admire the magnificent colonial architecture with a stroll along the historical waterfront Bund, before visiting the Silk Factory. This evening, view the city from the Huangpu River on a panoramic cruise, before sampling some traditional Shanghai cuisine. (B/L/D)

Fly to Australia, arriving home the same or following day. (B)

Trip Inclusions

  • Uncover the ancient treasures of Beijing
  • Walk on the Great Wall of China
  • Experience the spectacular Terracotta Warriors
  • Cruise along the scenic Yangtze River
  • Take an exhilarating walk across Zhangjiajie's Grand Canyon
  • Enjoy the vibrant city of Shanghai

  • International flights and current taxes
  • 4 star accommodation
  • Domestic transportation
  • Touring with guides and entrance fees
  • All meals
  • 14 Breakfasts, 13 Lunches, 14 Dinners

  • Mercure Beijing Downtown, Beijing (4 star): The 4-star Mercure Beijing Downtown is very well connected across the city, with easy access to the city centre and multiple transport links. The elegant and spacious guests rooms offer free internet access and satelite TV.
  • Dajing Castle Hotel, Xian (4 star): Formerly known as Grand Park, the Dajing Castle hotel is a 4-star hotel located in the heart of Xi'an's Beilin district. Blending traditional and contemporary elements, the guestrooms boast comfortable interiors that exude style and elegance. Each room is equipped with modern amenities, including a flat-screen TV with cable channels, a minibar, and a safety deposit box. The ensuite bathroom is well-appointed with bathrobes and slippers for added convenience. The hotel features Wi-Fi, a fitness center, sauna, massage service, buffet breakfast and atrium bar.
  • Xin Liang Hotel, Chengdu (4 star): 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.
  • Victoria Yangtze River Cruise, Yangtze River (4 star): Sail along the Yangtze River in comfort, aboard one of the wonderful 4-star vessels of the Victoria Cruise fleet. Relax in your Superior Cabin situated on the Main Deck, equipped with Wi-Fi access, an ensuite bathroom, and a private balcony - a tranquil retreat for you to relax and take in the scenic beauty around you. Onboard entertainment may include informative lectures, painting demonstrations, Tai Chi, lessons in the Mandarin language and more! Amenity package upgrades are available upon enquiry with our Reservations team.
  • Zhangjiajie Expert Village Sunshine Courtyard Hotel, Zhangjiajie (4 star): 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.
  • Hongqiao Jin Jiang Hotel, Shanghai (4 star): Located in the heart of bustling Shanghai and nearby airport, the Jin Jiang Hongqiao Hotel welcomes visitors to a luxurious and relaxing retreat from the city. Guests will have easy access to the major metropolitan area as well as the Shanghai Public Library and Honggiao Golf Club.

  • Itinerary and inclusions are subject to change
  • Flight Inclusive rates only: These include airline fuel surcharge and taxes. Correct as of 1 May 2024. Please note supplements may apply if lead in economy rates are not available.
  • Customary tipping amount of approximately RMB875pp (AU$190pp) is paid locally in China.
  • Extra nights' accommodation (pre or post tour) or stopovers may be required at an additional cost.
  • Flight Inclusive rates only: Based on departures from Sydney, Melbourne, Brisbane, Adelaide & Perth. Departures from other cities and flight upgrades available on request.
Classic Tours
Classic Tours

Everything is taken care of including your flights, accommodation, sightseeing and entrance fees listed on your itinerary and all your meals. Read more

Airfares Included
Airfares Included

Wendy Wu include return international economy-class flights from Australia as part of their fully inclusive tours. Upgrades are available too! Read more

Our Tour Guides
Our Tour Guides

On all of our tours you will be escorted by a dedicated National Escort, tasked with the responsibility to keep you safe, happy, entertained and inspired. Read more

Prices & Dates

There are currently no departures available on this trip. Either it's the end of the season and new departures will be released shortly, or this itinerary has been changed and will no longer continue. Feel free to contact us for information about when next seasons dates will be released or click here to view the general release dates for all destinations.

Note
Tour & cruises prices are per person. Prices shown have savings applied, are subject to availability and may be withdrawn at any time without notice. Pricing and trip details are correct at this point in time, however are subject to confirmation at the time of booking and are subject to change by Wendy Wu. For cruise itineraries, cabin images are sourced from Wendy Wu. These should be treated as indicative only. Cabin inclusions, upholsteries and room layout may differ to the image(s) shown depending on the ship selected and your sailing dates.

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