✓ Return international airfares with a full-service carrier
✓ Return airport transfers
✓ All rail tickets as per itinerary
✓ 8 nights in 4-star accommodation
✓ 4 nights on a majestic Yangtze River cruise
✓ Daily breakfast, 8 lunches and 6 dinners
✓ Escorted by an English-speaking guide throughout
✓ Incredible sightseeing as per the itinerary
✓ Dedicated private transportation throughout
✓ 24/7 customer service and your own Dedicated Support Agent
Travel with the experts for a carefully curated, value-packed discovery of the world's most iconic destinations. Our tours are bursting with must-see sights, rich experiences and quality inclusions, all at an unbeatable price. Bucket list dreams are ticked off on these all-encompassing journeys.
Your phenomenal tour through China awaits! Begin your trip with an international flight to Beijing. Upon arrival at the Beijing Capital International Airport you will be greeted by your tour guide and transferred to your hotel. Take the evening to settle in and prepare for your first day of touring tomorrow.
Today we'll discover some of Beijing’s most extraordinary imperial treasures. You will begin at Tiananmen Square, one of the largest and grandest public plazas in the world and the site of several important events in Chinese history. From here you'll proceed to the expansive Forbidden City, an iconic palace complex in central Beijing. Enter its imposing walls and tour this vast network of courtyards and lanes that was once the exclusive domain of the Ming Dynasty.
Optional Tour: Hutong Tour and Lunch
Enjoy an exciting rickshaw tour through the traditional hutongs – narrow laneways lined with siheyuan, traditional courtyard residences. Enjoy a meal with a friendly local family before returning to your hotel.
Please note - tonight we will be changing hotels in Beijing.
Today’s excursion is one of the most anticipated of our trip – a visit to the Great Wall of China. Often recognised as one of the seven wonders of the world, this UNESCO World Heritage site is a staggering feat and a bucket list destination. Here we'll get a chance to climb a portion of this architectural marvel, which stretches an astonishing 21,000km.
En route back to the city we'll visit one of the largest jade exhibitions in Asia and learn all about China’s most precious and celebrated stone.
Before returning to your hotel, you’ll also experience a complimentary oriental foot massage at a traditional Chinese medical center where you'll learn about alternative treatments for illness. You'll also have the chance to consult with a Chinese medical professional.
This morning you'll experience the exhilaration of the bullet train as you travel from Beijing to Jinan, the capital of eastern China's Shandong province. Upon arrival in Jinan, you'll be greeted by your guide before beginning a tour of one of city's main natural and cultural landmarks: Daming Lake. The freshwater 'Lake of the Great Splendour', as it is also known, covers 200 acres in the city's centre and is home to nine small islands. It's surrounded by parkland, which includes traditional Chinese gardens and scenic pavilions
From here we'll proceed to the Black Tiger Spring, one of the country's most significant. According to local legend, there was a black rock in front of the cave that resembled a tiger and the sound of the water rushing out echoed its roaring.
Later this evening we'll transfer to the city of Tai'an by bus, where we'll check into our hotel and spend the rest of the night at leisure.
Enjoy a day of leisure, exploring the city at your own pace. Tai'an is host to a great number of historical and cultural sites. Alternatively, you can join a selection of optional tours with our experienced local guide.
Optional Tour: The Confucius Temple Complex
Located in the center of Qufu City, this temple was originally built as early as 478 BCE, shortly before the death of Confucius, to commemorate the great philosopher. The temple was built according to the specification for imperial palaces; it is one of the three greatest ancient building complexes in the country and is inscribed on the UNESCO World Heritage List. It was here in Qufu City that Confucius was born and resided.
Optional Tour: Ancient Village Tribe of Shandong
Enjoy a folk performance and watch the art of paper cutting – an art form, which is believed to date back to the second century CE. It is one of the oldest and most popular folk arts in the country.
Optional Tour: The Feng Shan Sacrifice Performance
Also called the 'emperors' sacrificial ceremonies', this historic religious ritual was once conducted by China's ancient emperors, who would make pilgrimages to Mount Tai, where they would pray to the gods. The live performance chronicles the history of sacrifice on this sacred mountain, through modern sound and light technology and unique choreography. Perhaps the show's greatest feature is the use of the 180-degree natural panorama as the stage.
This morning we'll travel to Hangzhou by bullet train. Upon arrival we'll embark on a tour of the city, renowned for its beauty and abundance of cultural heritage. It was in fact once described by Marco Polo as “the most beautiful and magnificent city in the world”.
Hangzhou is the political, economic and cultural center of the Zhejiang Province and one of the most popular tourist destinations in China. We'll visit the picturesque West Lake area, enveloped by mountains on three sides and home to numerous temples, pagodas, pavilions, gardens, causeways and artificial islands. Arguably the most beautiful lake in the country, it has inspired famous poets, scholars and artists since the ninth century. While here, we’ll also visit a tea plantation where you can learn all about picking tea leaves and how they are processed.
Today we'll travel to Suzhou and explore the lovely Master of the Nets Garden, one of the finest gardens in China, and an attraction for which Suzhou is renowned. You will explore the beautiful garden and admire the effortless cohesion of art, nature, and architecture that has attracted thousands of visitors since 1140 CE.
Optional Tour: Grand Canal
After lunch, you'll have the option to take a boat trip along the longest canal in the world – Suzhou's Grand Canal. Some sections of this man-made canal date as far back as the fifth century BCE and it is now a UNESCO World Heritage site. There are many beautiful homes to admire along this impressive waterway.
After breakfast, spend the morning perusing the most famous silk factory in China to understand the manufacturing processes and the fabric's rich history, before being transferred to Shanghai via bus.
Upon arrival in Shanghai, we'll visit the Nanjing Road Shopping District, one of the world’s busiest pedestrianised shopping streets featuring more than 600 businesses. Next we'll discover the history and culture of Shanghai at the Shanghai Museum. The building’s impressive architecture features a round top and a square base, symbolizing the ancient Chinese philosophy of 'round sky, square earth'. We'll then continue on to Shanghai's renowned waterfront – known as the Bund, or Waitan. This promenade, which sits next to the Huangpu River, is where you'll witness the collision of the old and new sides of this global financial hub.
Optional Tour: Huangpu River Cruise
Enjoy an evening tour of the Huangpu with a leisurely river cruise, allowing you to take in the most famous sites of Shanghai from a new perspective, including: the Monument to the People's Heroes, the Bund, the Oriental Pearl TV Tower, the dramatic skyline of the Pudong business district, the bustling International Passenger Station of Shanghai Harbour, the docks and the Wusong Ancient Fort.
Today we transfer by high-speed train to Yichang, the gateway to the Yangtze River. This is the starting point of our Yangtze River Cruise, your home for the next four nights.
The Yangtze River is the largest river in Asia and the third largest in the world. The river begins in the remote mountainous regions and winds its way through stunning gorges to bring life to millions of people. We board the luxury cruise in the evening and receive an introduction on cruise events and onboard activities. Take some leisure time in the evening to unpack and relax.
Begin your morning with an invigorating exercise onboard in the presence of the beautiful gorges. Spend your day at leisure on the boat or participate in one of our optional excursions. This evening, attend the Captain's Welcome Banquet and enjoy the entertainment of a Chinese dinner dance.
Optional tour: Three Gorges Dam Site Excursion
The Three Gorges Dam Site is one of the largest construction projects undertaken by mankind and is the biggest hydroelectric power project in the world. It is certainly a sight to behold and a must-see while cruising the mighty Yangtze.
Optional tour: Tribe of the Three Gorges Excursion
One of the few remaining scenic spots not to have been influenced by the Three Gorges Dam project, this leafy area showcases Ba-Shu Culture.
Today, you may choose to embark on an exciting optional excursion or opt for a day of leisure onboard the ship. In the afternoon we'll continue to cruise into the western section of Xiling Gorge.
Optional tour: Lesser Three Gorges
Explore the Lesser Three Gorges, a shining pearl hidden in the remote mountains. You'll leave the cruise ship behind and board a smaller vessel to sail through the narrow jade waters of the Lesser Three Gorges region, lined by sheer cliffs and mountains drenched in greenery.
Optional tour: White Emperor City Excursion
White Emperor City is an ancient temple complex overlooking the western end of Qutang Gorge, located atop Baidi Mountain on the northern bank of the Yangtze River in Fengjie County. The city received its name from a rebel general who, after coming to the mouth of the gorge, saw white fog in the shape of a flying dragon rising from a well. He took this as an omen and built the city here, calling himself the “White Emperor”. From the site visitors can enjoy views that look back toward the Qutang Gorge – a sight that's depicted on the back of the Chinese 10-yuan bill. (Trip offered when river conditions permit).
Today you will pass through the exquisite mountains of Eastern Sichuan. Choose to participate in the optional excursions or pamper yourself with a massage and relax for your last full day onboard.
This evening enjoy the farewell dinner to celebrate your memorable trip through China. Pack your bags in preparation for disembarking tomorrow.
Optional tour: Fengdu Ghost City
If you’re feeling brave today then why not visit the Fengdu Ghost City. Regarded as the City of Ghosts, this complex of temples, shrines and monasteries, built on Ming Mountain depict instruments of punishment and paintings of demons, demonstrating the Chinese people's imagination of hell.
Optional tour: Shibaozhai
A 12-storey wooden pagoda built against the rock, 18th-century Shibaozhai is located in Zhong County on the south bank of the Yangtze River. There are intriguing stelae (upright stone slabs that typically bear a commemorative inscription or relief design) of past dynasties on each floor. Visitors will also appreciate the spectacular views of the Yangtze River from the windows of each floor during climbing.
After disembarking your cruise today, you'll be transferred to Chongqing Jiangbei International Airport for your scheduled flight home. Say farewell to your guide and fellow travellers knowing that you’ve made some lifelong connections and enduring memories. We hope you enjoyed your journey to China with us!
Arrive home today, with memories to last a lifetime.
For further information on your cruise, click HERE.
Deposits & Payment
Booking Process
Airfare Information
Premium Economy or Business Class upgrades
Please specify this as a 'Special Request' when completing your booking and you will be quoted for the additional fare. In the event your selection is unavailable, or that you are dissatisfied with the quote, you will be provided with a full refund.
Land Only discount
A reduction of $500 per person applies if you wish to arrange your own airfares. To purchase a land-only fare, please select this option in the booking process under 'Departure City'.
Please note, if you are not arriving or departing as per the group itinerary, airport transfers are also no longer included. If you would like us to arrange this service for you, please refer to the ‘Extra services’ section for pricing.
How to extend your stay
Some customers like to enhance their holiday by extending their stay pre- and/or post-tour. If you wish to do so, please follow these steps:
Please note, a supplement of $150 per person (plus any applicable fare and tax differences) applies to deviate from the standard itinerary. We will contact you via email with a quote and proposed flight itinerary, and then proceed with collecting the additional payment required to confirm your request.
You can enhance your holiday by arriving or departing before or after the tour, adding a stopover package en-route or booking a tour extension. On this tour you can choose from the following options:
Airport chauffeur
Take the hassle out of getting to the airport with private chauffeur transfers to and from your home airport. Your personal chauffeur will meet and greet you, attend to your luggage and drive you to your destination in a luxury vehicle.
Additional surcharges may apply depending on pick-up time, tolls and government levies.
Airport Chauffeur can be selected once you have finalised your tour purchase and paid your deposit. When completing your Passenger Booking Form, you will be asked if you would like to add this service, where any applicable cost will be added to your final balance.
Pre and post tour accommodation (deviating from group flights forfeits your group airport transfers)
Arrival and departure airport transfers
Your transfer may be shared with other Inspiring Vacations customers.
Please specify in the 'Special Request' field when making your purchase your preferred travel arrangements and if you would like our team to book additional nights' accommodation and/or airport transfers. The additional cost for these land arrangements will be added to your final payment invoice and are subject to availability.
Airport lounges
Escape busy airport terminals and relax at a cosy and catered lounge instead. Departure lounge access in Sydney $70 per person (up to 6 hours); Melbourne & Brisbane $55 per person (up to 3 hours).
Airport lounge passes can be selected once you have finalised your tour purchase and paid your deposit. When completing your Passenger Booking Form, you will be asked if you would like to add this service, where any applicable cost will be added to your final balance.
Optional Tours
Payable on tour in local currency.
Shore Excursions
Payable on tour in local currency.
Fitness Requirements
While the tour itinerary should give you some guidance and overview to the expected requirements, to determine if this tour is right for you we categorise each of our tours in terms of their intensity. These guidelines are to ensure that each tour group is conducted as expected and to ensure the overall satisfaction of all Inspiring Vacations customers.
As a general rule, porterage is not included, therefore at all times you are expected to handle your own luggage where help may not be available.
This particular tour is categorised as a “4”
Accommodation
The accommodation listed is subject to change. Any changes will be of an equal or higher standard. Bedding configurations (double or twin) are requests only. All efforts will be made to meet your preferences however any changes are beyond our control.
Single Supplement
$650pp in additional to the twin share price.
Triple Share
Not available. Third traveller must purchase the Single Supplement surcharge.
Travel Insurance
Travel insurance is required to protect yourself against the unexpected.
We have partnered with nib to offer our customers competitive rates for their travel insurance. You can book comprehensive or budget cover simply by clicking HERE to arrange your policy.
Visa & Passport information
It is the travellers responsibility to ensure they have a valid passport. The passport must be valid for a minimum of 6 months from your intended date of return to Australia.
Australian passport holders will require a visa to enter China
Please note the visa is only valid for 3 months from date of issue
How: In person/Online
Cost: $105 per person + processing fee (subject to change)
Visa Type: Tourist Visa / Single Entry
When to apply: 30 days prior to departure
Please note: Do NOT apply for your visa until you receive your tour documentation from Inspiring Vacations 30 days prior to your departure.
Tour Documentation
Final documentation, including e-tickets and hotel details, will be provided approximately 30 days prior to travel.
Group Size
2 - 40 people
Trip Style - Group Tour
Unparalleled value for money is the name of the game. These tours tick all the boxes with loads of inclusions: sightseeing highlights, quality accommodation, transfers, private transportation, breakfasts and some meals. You will be travelling with up to 40 Inspiring Vacations guests and the tour will be escorted by an expert, local tour leader.
Children
Children must be 5 years old or over and share a room with parents at all times. Children are the same price as adults.
Tour Length
The total length of the tour in days includes time spent inflight and is subject to change, depending on the flight schedule. Please refer to the day-by-day itinerary for the time spent in your destination(s).
Refundable deposit within 28 days of purchase:
For cancellations made within 28 days of paying the deposit on any tour, your deposit can be refunded in full or can be transferred to a new booking should you decide to change to another package or destination. Please note this change of mind guarantee does not apply for bookings made within 90 days of departure, after which time our standard 48 hour cooling off period applies. After this time, your booking becomes non-refundable.
All cancellation or change requests must be advised in writing to our Customer Service Team at support@inspiringvacations.
Refund times will vary and the timeframe of which will be advised at the time of cancellation. Any refund of deposit will be issued back to the original form of payment.
Any bookings made prior to 13 March 2020 must abide by the original payment term conditions.
Transferrable second installment up until 90 days before scheduled departure:
Following the second installment payment and up until 90 days before your departure only, should you wish to postpone your travel or transfer to another package, we can provide you with a credit note of the current balance paid on your booking, to be used to rebook within 18 months of the credit being issued.
Any change request must be advised in writing to our Customer Service Team at support@inspiringvacations.
Any bookings made prior to 13 March 2020 must abide by the original payment term conditions.
Please refer to our full Terms and Conditions for more details
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