China Experience
From $2,459 Land Only (trip code: CHXP) 28 days
From $2,459, 28 days, China
Trip Highlights
- Discover one of the most fascinating lands on the planet
- Visit iconic cultural sites and experience some of the most breathtaking scenery in the world
- Walk the Great Wall of China
- Get lost in the Forbidden City
- Learn Kung Fu from the Masters in Shaolin
- Learn the art of Dumpling making in Xi’an
- Stand to attention with the Terracotta Warriors
- Spend quality time with Giant Pandas
- Volunteer with local Chinese children
- Explore the incredible scenery of Guilin
- Take in the views from the top of the Oriental Pearl Tower in Shanghai
Trip Summary
See full itineraryWhat's included?
- All accommodation
- Meals as per the itinerary
- Airport pick-up
- Trip to the Great Wall of China
- Trip to the Forbidden City
- Four-hour Kung Fu lesson
- Giant Panda volunteering
- Transport as per your planned itinerary
- Services of a tour guide in each city
- 24-hour emergency support
What's not included?
- All flights
- Travel insurance
- Some meals
- Transfer to Shanghai International Airport
- Tips and gratuities (approximately $5 per day)
- Transport to and from volunteer project
- Bottled water
Our China experience is an incredible journey of discovery starting in the capital Beijing. From the Great Wall of China to the Terracotta Warriors of Xi'an, you'll be blown away by the sights and sounds of this country.
Take in the bustling metropolis of Beijing, host to the 2008 Summer Olympics and home of the Forbidden City and Tiananmen Square. See the world famous Terracotta Army, get close to Giant Pandas, master the art of Kung Fu, explore the incredible scenery of Guilin and volunteer in a school or orphanage.
This trip will truly give you a taste of China - one you'll never forget.
When do I want to go?
Showing all departures (6)
| Dates of Departures | Duration | Price (Land Only) | Trip Status | ||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 3 June 2012 | 28 days | $2,459 | Available | Book now | |
| 1 July 2012 | 28 days | $2,759 | Available | Book now | |
| 5 August 2012 | 28 days | $2,669 | Available | Book now | |
| 2 September 2012 | 28 days | $2,459 | Available | Book now | |
| 7 October 2012 | 28 days | $2,459 | Available | Book now | |
| 4 November 2012 | 28 days | $2,459 | Available | Book now | |
What will I be doing?
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The sites of Beijing (Days 1 to 6)
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Confucius, Kung Fu in the Shaolin Temple, and Longmen Grottos (Days 7 to 10)
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Terracotta Warriors and the local culture (Days 11 to 13)
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Panda conservation and community volunteering (Day 14 to 20)
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Guilin to Shanghai (Days 21 to 28)
The sites of Beijing: Days 1 to 6
Next LegDestination info
The country we know today as China actually derives from a long line of smaller civilisations dating back six millennia. China’s influence on modern life is nothing short of remarkable having given the world a huge array of inventions such as paper, the compass, gunpowder and even pasta. The country is steeped in traditions and ancient practices and it is all just waiting to be rediscovered by you.
China’s rapid development over the last 20 years has helped transform it into a global economic super power, but its historic roots are here to stay. You only have to visit one of the many temples, the Great Wall or the Terracotta Army to see that!
- Location: Beijing
Day 1: Arrival in Beijing
On arrival at Beijing International Airport, you will be met by one of our programme representatives who will take you to your hostel accommodation in the city. Depending on your time of arrival you will have time to relax after your long journey or start exploring this exciting city independently. A welcome meal will be held the following evening as participants are likely to be arriving at different times throughout the day.
No meals included.
Day 2: Tiananmen Square / Forbidden City
Beijing is a fantastic city and is a great place to start your journey. It is packed full of history and ancient Chinese culture. For your first morning you will be visiting Tiananmen Square followed by the Forbidden City, a beautiful imperial palace complex from the Ming and Qing dynasties. It is the largest ancient temple complex in the world. In the evening, a welcome dinner will be held for the group, giving you the opportunity to sample the famous Beijing Roast Duck!
Breakfast, lunch and dinner included.
Day 3: Great Wall of China
No trip to China would be complete without a visit to the Great Wall. Today we visit what is perhaps the most famous section at Badaling approximately 80km northwest of Beijing. Built during the Ming dynasty; this beautiful section of the Great Wall winds through stunning mountainous scenery. A comfortable pair of shoes is a must today as the walk along the wall can be steep and uneven at times. The views from the wall are simply breathtaking and will no doubt be one of the images that stays in your mind for many years to come.
Breakfast, lunch and dinner included.
Day 4: Summer Palace / Beijing Hutong tour
After an early breakfast, we head to the incredible Summer Palace, a vast public park full of temples with two thirds of the grounds occupied by a lake.
Having had a tasty lunch, we take a Hutong tour to see some of the many narrow streets hidden away in the depths of the city. This is a great opportunity to see a completely different side of Beijing and will leave you feeling worlds away from the modern high rise buildings that occupy the city centre.
Breakfast and lunch included.
Day 5: Free time
Today you will have free time to explore the city. You may like to visit some of the many other sites the city has to offer including the Temple of Heaven, the Beijing 2008 Olympic Park with the Birds Nest Stadium as it’s incredible centre piece, or delve into the local markets in search of a bargain souvenir from your time in China’s capital. Your tour guide will also be able to make some recommendations for you.
Breakfast included.
Day 6: Free time
There is no rush today. You may like to have a lay in, enjoy a lazy breakfast or do some last-minute shopping. You will have free time today until the evening when we board an overnight train bound for Qufu. The journey takes 8.5 hours and you will be given a bunk bed in a Yingwo (hard sleeper).
Breakfast included.
Destination info
The country we know today as China actually derives from a long line of smaller civilisations dating back six millennia. China’s influence on modern life is nothing short of remarkable having given the world a huge array of inventions such as paper, the compass, gunpowder and even pasta. The country is steeped in traditions and ancient practices and it is all just waiting to be rediscovered by you.
China’s rapid development over the last 20 years has helped transform it into a global economic super power, but its historic roots are here to stay. You only have to visit one of the many temples, the Great Wall or the Terracotta Army to see that!
- Location: Qufu, Zhengzhou, Luoyang
Day 7: Qufu: Confucius Temple / Kong Family Mansion / Mausoleum
Your train should arrive in Qufu at approximately 8am. On arrival you will be met and taken to your guest house accommodation to freshen up and have breakfast. After breakfast you will be taken on a cultural tour of Qufu. The city is most famous for being the home of an ancient philosopher named Confucius, also known as Master Kong, who lived, studied and is buried there. Master Kong was responsible for the creation of Confucianism which had a profound effect over Chinese culture.
As part of your fascinating tour today, you will be visiting the Confucius Temple, Kong Family Mansion and the Cemetery of Confucius; discover more about his incredible life and how his teachings affect modern day life in China today.
Breakfast, lunch and dinner included.
Day 8: Zhengzhou: Transfer by train to Zhengzhou and free afternoon
After breakfast, you will travel by bus to Yanzhou railway station to board the train to Zhengzhou. The train journey is approximately 6 hours and there are stunning landscapes to enjoy along the way. On arrival in Zhengzhou you will have some free time to relax.
Breakfast included.
Day 9: Shaolin Temple / 4-hour Kung Fu lesson
Today you will visit the home of Shaolin Martial Arts, the spiritual Shaolin Temple. Learn Kung Fu from the master during your 4-hour lesson and enjoy the picturesque mountain scenery surrounding the temple. At the end of the day, we travel to Luoyang City where we spend the night.
Breakfast , lunch and dinner included.
Day 10: Luoyang: Longmen Grottos / overnight train transfer to Xi’an
The Longmen Grottos are quite different to anything else you are likely to see in China - hundreds of doorways carved into the rock of the mountain side lead to chambers containing statues and niches. The spectacular centre piece is the statue of Sakymuni which towers to almost 8 metres, carved out of the mountain rock. Your visit to the Grottos will be focused around the Guyang Cave which is the earliest of all the Longmen Grottos, this particular cave is packed full of hundreds of intricate sculptures and statues.
In the afternoon we travel to Xi’an by train. The journey time is approximately 5 hours, arriving in Xi’an at around 8pm where you will be met and taken to your accommodation.
Breakfast, lunch and dinner included.
Destination info
The country we know today as China actually derives from a long line of smaller civilisations dating back six millennia. China’s influence on modern life is nothing short of remarkable having given the world a huge array of inventions such as paper, the compass, gunpowder and even pasta. The country is steeped in traditions and ancient practices and it is all just waiting to be rediscovered by you.
China’s rapid development over the last 20 years has helped transform it into a global economic super power, but its historic roots are here to stay. You only have to visit one of the many temples, the Great Wall or the Terracotta Army to see that!
- Location: Xi’an
Day 11: Orientation, free time, foot massage and welcome dinner
Your Xi’an orientation will be held in the morning today, so you must be ready by 10am. During the orientation you will be introduced to the volunteering project that Real Gap is involved in within this historic city and you may also be able to meet volunteers from Real Gap. After your orientation, our Chef will cook some delicious Chinese food for you to try. In the afternoon you will have free time to explore the city.
In the evening, a welcome dinner will be held where you will have the opportunity to try a traditional Chinese Hot Pot. After dinner you can indulge in some total relaxation as you are treated to a foot massage!
Breakfast, lunch and dinner included.
Day 12: City tour and Karaoke party
In the morning, after breakfast, you will be taken on a tour of intriguing Xi’an city with its ancient city walls, Bell Tower, marking the geographical centre of the ancient city and Drum Tower. After lunch on Muslim Street you will have the rest of the afternoon free to explore this fascinating part of the city.
In the evening a Karaoke party will be arranged for you, a great opportunity to impress your new found friends and locals alike! The party is included in the programme but you will be required to pay for your own drinks.
Breakfast included.
Day 13: Terracotta Warriors
After breakfast we will see the world famous Terracotta Warriors, a spectacular site which is likely to leave you speechless; with hundreds and hundreds of life size warriors, all individual, standing to attention complete with horses alike. This is the most significant archaeological excavations of the 20th century.
In the afternoon you will be taken to visit the Shaanxi history museum where you will able to learn more about Xi’an and how it was the capital city of China over 3 dynasties totalling more than 1100 years.
In the evening, we will have dinner in a restaurant near the Wild Goose Pagoda. Entry into the Pagoda is not included.
Breakfast and dinners included.
Destination info
The country we know today as China actually derives from a long line of smaller civilisations dating back six millennia. China’s influence on modern life is nothing short of remarkable having given the world a huge array of inventions such as paper, the compass, gunpowder and even pasta. The country is steeped in traditions and ancient practices and it is all just waiting to be rediscovered by you.
China’s rapid development over the last 20 years has helped transform it into a global economic super power, but its historic roots are here to stay. You only have to visit one of the many temples, the Great Wall or the Terracotta Army to see that!
- Location: Qingling mountains, Xi’an, Guilin
Day 14 - 15: Panda conservation volunteering
For the next two days you will have the unique opportunity to work with one of China’s most treasured possessions - the Giant Panda, in remote the wilderness area in the foothills of the Qingling mountains. The future of the Giant Panda is uncertain with the global population of these magnificent creatures in decline, but this is your opportunity to play a part in securing the future of these lovable rogues. The centre that you will be based at is not only home to a number of Giant Pandas but also other species which are indigenous to China including Lesser Panda (Red Panda), Crested Ibis, Golden Monkey and the sheep-like Takin.
During your time at the centre you may be involved in some of the following activities:
- Feeding the animals
- Observing behaviours during feeding and cleaning times
- Cleaning the animal enclosures and watering holes, giving you a great opportunity to get up close to these wonderful animals
- Helping the local staff and keepers practice their conversational English
You will be staying at our own volunteer accommodation for the night of day 14 and will be taken back to your accommodation in Xi’an at the end of the day on day 15.
Breakfast, lunch and dinner included.
Day 16 - 18: Community volunteering
From day 16 to 18, you will have the chance to help with some much needed community work in the Xi’an, the project you are involved in will vary depending on the needs of the project at the time of your visit however your project will be one of the following:
- Teaching: You will have the opportunity to teach children in a primary school or you may be placed in the university.
- Childcare: You will be helping to look after young children in a care centre or kindergarten.
During the evenings of days 16 – 18, some great activities will be arranged for you.
Day 16: Tonight you will have the opportunity of having a traditional Chinese acupuncture experience or going to a beautiful Tang Dynasty Dancing Show. Please note entry to either are at your own cost and you will need to arrange your own transport back to the accommodation.
Day 17: Dumpling-making lesson, dumplings are something that Xi’an is famous for and you will of course be able to sample your handy work afterwards!
Day 18: Exploring the bustling bar street with its fantastic atmosphere. A great evening is sure to be had by all. Transport not included.
Breakfast, lunch and dinner included.
Day 19: Free day Xi’an
Today you will have free time to explore the city.
Breakfast included.
Day 20: Free day in Xi’an, overnight train to Guilin
Today you will have free time to do some last-minute shopping or sight-seeing. In the afternoon, you will be taken to the railway station to board the overnight train to Guilin. The journey takes approximately 29 hours.
Breakfast and lunch included.
Guilin to Shanghai: Days 21 to 28
Destination info
The country we know today as China actually derives from a long line of smaller civilisations dating back six millennia. China’s influence on modern life is nothing short of remarkable having given the world a huge array of inventions such as paper, the compass, gunpowder and even pasta. The country is steeped in traditions and ancient practices and it is all just waiting to be rediscovered by you.
China’s rapid development over the last 20 years has helped transform it into a global economic super power, but its historic roots are here to stay. You only have to visit one of the many temples, the Great Wall or the Terracotta Army to see that!
- Location: Guilin, Shanghai
Day 21: Arrival to Guilin
You will arrive into Guilin at around 11pm, where you will be met at the train station and escorted to the hotel.
No meals included
Day 22: Guilin / Yangshuo
After breakfast, you will be driven to Zhujiang Pier (40-minute drive) to start your boat cruise down the picturesque Li River, which is the highlight of any visit to Guilin, until you get to Yangshuo County. Along the river, you will be inspired by breathtaking views of peaks and pinnacles, crystal-clear water and picturesque pastoral views of rice paddies and water buffaloes. Visitors feel they have stepped into a traditional Chinese painting. After checking into your hotel, you will be free to explore Yangshuo and its famous West Street.
Breakfast and lunch included.
Day 23: Yangshuo
Free day to explore Yangshuo at your own pace.
Breakfast included.
Day 24: Yangshuo / Guilin
Morning free in Yangshuo. Return to Guilin with your guide and driver around noon time, today's excursion will bring you to Elephant Trunk Hill, Fubo Hill and ReedFluteCave;
Elephant Trunk Hill: the symbol of Guilin, a karst rock formation, resembling a giant elephant drinking water from the Li River.
ReedFluteCave: 5 kilometers away from the city center, famed as “A Natural Palace of Art”. The cave is filled with stalactites & stalagmites in a myriad of bizarre shapes. It is a showcase of nature’s splendor.
Breakfast and lunch included.
Day 25: Guilin / Shanghai
Today will be free to explore Guilin until your local guide escort you to the train station to catch your train to Shanghai. The journey takes approximately 23 hours.
Breakfast included.
Day 26: Shanghai
You will be arriving in Shanghai in the afternoon. Your tour guide will take you to your hostel to freshen up. After a short rest, you will be visiting the Xin Tian Di, in the evening, the Bund.
Breakfast included.
Day 27: Shanghai: Nanjing Road / Oriental Pearl Tower / free time with optional visit to world expo
After breakfast, we visit one of the most famous buildings in the Shanghai skyline, the Oriental Pearl TV tower which stands at an impressive 468 metres and is the tallest TV tower in Asia! In the afternoon, you will have free time to explore the city or you may like to visit the Shanghai World Expo Park.
Breakfast included
Day 28: Departure
After a fascinating and thoroughly memorable experience, it is time to bid farewell to your new found friends. Today is a free day with no activities planned, you are free to depart at any time, either to continue with your travels independently or make your own way to the airport for your flight home.
Breakfast included
Please note: Itineraries and activities are subject to change
Trip Notes Download
To get a detailed PDF of information for this trip including full itinerary, country guides and travel advice on visas, money, insurance and the local weather, download our trip notes. By doing so you’ll also be kept updated on all the latest news, offers and stories on this particular trip. Happy reading!
Additional Information & FAQs
Minimum age
Minimum age 17 years old, maximum dependent on health of participant.
Minimum numbers required on this trip
This trip requires minimum numbers to operate.
Accommodation
Throughout the programme in China you will be staying in a number of different types of accommodation including Backpackers Hostels, Volunteer Apartment, Guesthouses and Sleeper Trains.
Meals
Meals are included as per the programme itinerary, there are a number of lunches and dinners that are not included in the programme but this gives you the opportunity to try different things and make the most of the places you are visiting.
Advice & Safety
Throughout your programmes you will have the support and guidance of the programme co-ordinator and team. You will be provided with competent assistance and help with any questions or advice you may need during your stay.
You will be assigned a personal travel adviser who will co-ordinate your programme with you. Feel free to contact them at any time before you go, or when you are on your travels.
In addition, you will have access to a 24 hour emergency contact number so you can contact one of our staff at any time should you need to.
FAQ
1. How big are the group sizes?
Each trip will vary from around 5 to 10 people.
2. Will we have any free time?
Yes, enough time to explore more of the country’s sights or chill out and relax!
3. How much spending money will I need?
We recommend taking around £100 a week approx but this depends how you spend your money. China can be very cheap! However please be aware that tipping is part of Chinese culture and therefore allow $5 USD per day for tips and gratuities.
4. Do I need a visa to visit China?
Yes, you will need to apply for a tourist visa within 90 days of departure.
5. Will we get to see the Great Wall?
Yes of course! One of the star highlights of your trip.
What will I see in China?
16 photos
What other travelers thought
I've done this trip
Write reviewJake Finn - July 2011
Beijing Pandas Xi'an Shaghai
Yes
Yes
Victoria Burlow - July 2011
- Climbing the Great Wall of China - Foot massage and muslim markets in Xian - Visiting Guilin & Yangshuo - River cruise on the Li River - Visiting the mud caves in Yangshuo (not included) - Shanghai river cruise at night (not included)
1. BRING TOILET PAPER 2. Read up about Chinese manners and culture, and some aspects of it's history, especially the Great Wall, Terracotta warriors, and Confucius. It gives more meaning when you visit. 3. Don't be afraid to do things on your own on the free days, or take the underground or buses. Read up about the area and go exploring.
No
Yes
Emily-jane Sparks - June 2011
The trip just kept getting better and better. My highlights were all in Xi'an though. The panda experience was incredible, the staff at the volunteer house were great, the apartment was very spacious and the food was delicious. Working with the children was my ultimate highlight of the whole trip though - it was impossible not to enjoy it!
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Jessica Aldrich - March 2011
Awe Inspiring experience, Opened my eyes to new things, incredible
There were lots of highlights in the trip but I think the best parts were my time in Beijing, Xi'an and Shanghai. In those cities in particular I think the food was good, the excursions were interesting and there was lots to do.
1. Travel light- there's a lot of movement on the trip so you need to have a light bag. 2. Buy Travel Tissues before you leave- they will always come in handy for Chinese Public Loo's! 3. Make sure you have plenty of space on you memory cards for the huge amount of photo's you will take.
Yes
Yes
Kate Goulding - March 2011
Loved China, the best country i have visited.
All the excursions - Great Wall, Terracotta Warriors especially, Shanghai, karaoke!
1) Be open minded to new or different things. 2) Enjoy every experience as you might not get them again. 3) China is a developing country so be prepared.
Emma Moran - March 2011
Unforgettable - new friends, fantastic sights, amazing cities.....would do again!
There were so many hightlights to the China Experience it's hard to name just a few! It was incredible to see the Great Wall of China and walking around the Summer Palace was amazing in Beijing. Being able to see Pandas close up was unbelievable in Xi'an - not to mention the amazing local in country team there. Shanghai was a fabulous city and I could have stayed there for longer. The best part overall was meeting an amazing bunch of people who I hope to keep in contact with going forward.
1 - Remember to take toilet paper and hand gel with you everywhere! 2 - Try all new foods ... you may surprise yourself with what you actually like. 3 - Don't overpack, you will have to carry around that backpack and you can always buy more whilst you're out there.
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