My understanding is that a visa is not required for the year 2026. Is there anything I need to know?

Travelers don't need a visa for Business or Tourism stays up to 30 days. A visa is required for longer stays. This policy is effective from February 17, 2026, through December 31, 2026. Travelers can complete their required arrival card online before arrival in China. The online service is available through a government portal, WeChat (Alipay) mini-program, or by scanning a QR code. Travelers who cannot complete the form online can do so upon arrival by scanning a QR code, using devices at their port of entry, or filling out a paper card.

Could you please elaborate on partially guided tour?

Partially guided tour, meaning you will travel with a local trip leader who coordinates transport and leads key sightseeing and cultural experiences. Major highlights are guided, while free time is built into the itinerary for independent exploration or optional activities, with your leader available for support and recommendations.

Could you please tell me whether the Forbidden City Tour in Beijing is included in your programme or whether I have to book it myself?

The Forbidden City tour in Beijing is included on this itinerary. Please note the disclaimer: The Forbidden City only allows 30,000 visitors per day. Tickets are in demand year-round, but particularly during July and August. Our local team will do their best to secure entrance tickets. In the odd case when tickets are not available, you will visit the Temple of Heaven instead, another must-see example of ancient architecture in Beijing and you will be notified.

Could you please provide detailed information on the itinerary, inclusions, and types of accommodations for the China tour?

What's next? We are pleased to offer a complimentary hold on the trip for 48 hours, after which a deposit of 800 is required to confirm your space.

From

US $4,790 per person

China Adventure

17 days

•

From Hong Kong to Beijing

4.9 (2 reviews)

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View all

From

US $4,790 per person

Price based on Cheapest Room

Price based on Shared Room

Price based on Private Single Room

Price based on Private Double Room

Intrepid Travel offers 5% discount for past passengers, saving $240

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Plan your adventure:

Platinum Operator: Intrepid Travel
City & Culture: Immerse yourself in rich history and local traditions
Group Tour: Join a group and forge lifelong friendships
Partially Guided: Independent travel, featuring selected guided excursions
Medium Intensity: Travelers should be comfortable with somewhat-demanding activities
Guided in English
Group Size 12 - 16
Ages 15+

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Image of a map showing the route of the tour

Itinerary

Intro
Introduction
Day 1
Hong Kong
Hong Kong
Included Activities
- Temple Street Night Market visit
- Leader-led orientation and group meeting
Optional Activities
- Peak Tram ride for panoramic views over Hong Kong
- Tian Tan Buddha visit
- Stroll along Victorian Harbor
- Dinner with local cuisine (dim sum or roast goose)
Landmarks
Tian Tan Buddha
Temple Street Night Market
Peak Tram
Day 2
Hong Kong to Chongqing
Hong Kong to Chongqing
Included Activities
- Bullet train travel to Chongqing
- Leader-led orientation walk (optional)
Optional Activities
- Order takeaway food from train station to seat
Day 3
Chongqing
Chongqing
Meals
Lunch (Traditional Chongqing hot pot in a former air raid shelter)
Included Activities
- Guided Chongqing city walking tour
- Longmenhao Old Street exploration
- Nanbing Road exploration
- Hongya Cave visit
- Yangtze River crossing on public cable car and ferry
- Traditional Chongqing hot pot lunch in former air raid shelter
Optional Activities
- Visit the trending site where train goes into a building
- Find the local spot where you exit a highrise building's 22nd floor onto a street
Landmarks
Hongya Cave
Longmenhao Old Street
Yangtze River
Day 4
Chongqing to Zhangjiajie City
Chongqing to Zhangjiajie City
Included Activities
- Bullet train travel to Zhangjiajie
- Leader-led orientation walk
Optional Activities
- Visit night markets
- Try local Hunan-style dishes
- Explore local parks
Landmarks
Zhangjiajie National Forest Park
Day 5
Tianmen Mountain / Zhangjiajie City
Tianmen Mountain / Zhangjiajie City
Included Activities
- Tianmen Mountain visit
- Tianmen Cave viewing
- Scenic cableway
Optional Activities
- Climb 999 steps (escalator alternative available)
Landmarks
Tianmen Mountain
Tianmen Cave
Day 6
Zhangjiajie National Forest Park
Zhangjiajie National Forest Park
Included Activities
- Zhangjiajie National Forest Park exploration
- Hiking along well-maintained trails
- Bailong Elevator (glass lift) ride
- Cable car
Landmarks
Zhangjiajie National Forest Park
Bailong Elevator
Day 7
Wulingyuan to Changsha
Wulingyuan to Changsha
Included Activities
- Bullet train travel to Changsha
- Nvshu script writing experience with local master
- Changsha local night market visit
Optional Activities
- Try sticky tofu, pig's feet, or crayfish at night market
- Explore Changsha at own pace
Day 8
Changsha to Shanghai
Changsha to Shanghai
Included Activities
- Bullet train travel to Shanghai
- Leader-led Bund walking tour
Landmarks
The Bund
Huangpu River
Day 9
Shanghai
Shanghai
Included Activities
- Leader-led French Concession walking tour
Optional Activities
- Shanghai Museum visit (Free entrance fee)
- Yuyuan Garden visit (CNY40)
- Shanghai Tower observation deck
- Farewell dinner with group
Landmarks
French Concession
Yuyuan Garden
Shanghai Museum
Shanghai Tower
Day 10
Shanghai
Shanghai
Optional Activities
- Wander through Yu Garden
- Shop on Nanjing Road
- Explore Jade Buddha Temple
- Dinner with group
Landmarks
Yu Garden
Nanjing Road
Jade Buddha Temple
Day 11
Shanghai to Wuxi to Shanghai
Shanghai to Wuxi to Shanghai
Included Activities
- Bullet train travel to Wuxi
- Huishan Ancient Town walking tour
- Xihui scenic area exploration
- Jichang Garden visit
Optional Activities
- Rooftop bars in Shanghai with Bund views
Landmarks
Huishan Ancient Town
Jichang Garden
Day 12
Shanghai to Xi'an
Shanghai to Xi'an
Meals
Lunch
Included Activities
- Bullet train travel to Xi'an
- Leader-led walking tour including Bell and Drum Towers
- Muslim Quarter walking tour and snack sampling
Optional Activities
- Dinner with local specialties (pao mo, hand-pulled noodles, meat skewers)
Landmarks
Bell Tower
Drum Tower
Muslim Quarter
Day 13
Xi'an
Xi'an
Included Activities
- Terracotta Warriors tour (leader-led)
Optional Activities
- Tang Dynasty Show (CNY290)
- Big Goose Pagoda visit (CNY80)
- Little Wild Goose Pagoda visit (CNY50)
- Explore Tang Paradise walking street
Landmarks
Terracotta Warriors
Big Wild Goose Pagoda
Little Wild Goose Pagoda
Day 14
Xi'an to Great Wall
Xi'an to Great Wall
Included Activities
- Bullet train travel to Beijing
- Private vehicle transfer to Great Wall area
- Sunset hike to Great Wall (recommended)
Landmarks
Great Wall of China
Day 15
Great Wall
Great Wall
Included Activities
- Great Wall visit and exploration
- Jinshanling section hike (approximately 2 hours)
Landmarks
Great Wall of China
Jinshanling Section
Day 16
Beijing
Beijing
Included Activities
- Tiananmen Square visit
- Forbidden City exploration
- Gate of Heavenly Peace viewing
Optional Activities
- Temple of Heaven visit (CNY40)
- Hutong family visit (CNY150)
- Lama Temple visit (CNY25)
- Acrobat show (CNY290)
- Farewell dinner with Beijing duck
Landmarks
Tiananmen Square
Forbidden City
Gate of Heavenly Peace
Temple of Heaven
Lama Temple
Day 17
Beijing
Beijing

Landmarks
Tian Tan Buddha
Temple Street Night Market
Peak Tram

Landmarks
Hongya Cave
Longmenhao Old Street
Yangtze River

Landmarks
Zhangjiajie National Forest Park

Landmarks
Tianmen Mountain
Tianmen Cave

Landmarks
Zhangjiajie National Forest Park
Bailong Elevator

Landmarks
The Bund
Huangpu River

Landmarks
French Concession
Yuyuan Garden
Shanghai Museum
Shanghai Tower

Landmarks
Yu Garden
Nanjing Road
Jade Buddha Temple

Landmarks
Huishan Ancient Town
Jichang Garden

Landmarks
Bell Tower
Drum Tower
Muslim Quarter

Landmarks
Terracotta Warriors
Big Wild Goose Pagoda
Little Wild Goose Pagoda

Landmarks
Great Wall of China

Landmarks
Great Wall of China
Jinshanling Section

Landmarks
Tiananmen Square
Forbidden City
Gate of Heavenly Peace
Temple of Heaven
Lama Temple

Accommodation
Guide
Meals
Additional Services
Transport

What's Not Included

Flights
Insurance
Optional
Additional Services

Operated by

Intrepid Travel

Platinum Operator

Rating: 4.5 (12,180 reviews)
Response time: 6 hours
Response rate: 96%
Cancellation policy: Learn more

Traveler Moments

Traveler Reviews

4.9

Overall rating based on 2 Reviews

Itinerary
4.5
Transport
5.0
Guide
5.0
Accommodation
5.0
Food
4.5
Tour Operator
4.5

Malcolm4.7•October 2026
A great tour highlighting some key Chinese experiences. Heavens gate, the warriors and the wall. All fantastic and...
A great tour highlighting some key Chinese experiences. Heavens gate, the warriors and the wall. All fantastic and better than I expected. Yes there's a lot of travel (train) but that's part of the experience and it's a big countryShow more
Traveled in September 2026
Reply from: Intrepid Travel
Thank you for taking the time to share your review. We're delighted to hear that the incredible sights and experiences of China exceeded your expectations. It's great to know you embraced the train travel as part of the adventure, and we appreciate you choosing to travel with Intrepid. We hope to welcome you on another journey soon.
Show more
Flying5.0•April 2026
I would like to express my highest appreciation for our guide, Jay Jiang, following our recent journey with Intrepid...
I would like to express my highest appreciation for our guide, Jay Jiang, following our recent journey with Intrepid Travel. Having travelled extensively and experienced many guided tours around the world, I can say with complete confidence that Jay Jiang is, without exception, the finest guide I have ever encountered. This is not only due to his outstanding professionalism, organisation, and the evident pride he takes in his work—qualities one might expect from an excellent guide—but far more because of who he is as a person. Jay Jiang is a man of genuine kindness, integrity, and quiet strength. He treats people with respect and warmth, and approaches his role with a rare sense of care and responsibility. Throughout the journey, he created an atmosphere in which everyone felt welcomed, supported, and at ease. What made this experience truly exceptional is that Jay Jiang did not simply guide us through China—he helped us understand it. Through his knowledge, insight, and thoughtful explanations, he offered a deeper perspective on the country, its history, and its development. His way of sharing went beyond facts; it reflected wisdom, reflection, and a sincere desire for us to truly connect with what we were seeing and experiencing. At the same time, Jay Jiang brought lightness and joy to the group. His sense of humour, his ability to engage with everyone, and even moments such as singing a Chinese song for us, made the journey not only informative but also genuinely enjoyable and memorable. He answered questions with patience and a smile, and his presence consistently uplifted the group. Jay Jiang embodies what a truly exceptional tour leader should be. He combines professionalism with humanity in a way that is rare and deeply appreciated. He has my utmost respect and gratitude. In my view, Jay Jiang deserves the highest possible rating. He is not only an outstanding guide, but also a person of remarkable character who leaves a lasting impression. Thank you, Jay Jiang, for an unforgettable experience through China.Show more
Traveled in March 2026
Reply from: Intrepid Travel
Thank you so much for taking the time to share such a heartfelt and generous review and for sharing your incredible pictures. We’re absolutely delighted to hear how profoundly Jay Jiang impacted your journey. Your words beautifully capture the care, insight, and warmth he brings to his role. We’re so glad he helped make your time in China truly unforgettable and we look forward to welcome you on another Intrepid adventure in the not so distant future.
Show more

Dates & Prices

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1 Adult2 Adults, 1 Child2 Children

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Ends on 11 Nov, 2026

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R
Ron
Asked on May 20th, 2026
My understanding is that a visa is not required for the year 2026. Is there anything I need to know?
Visa
- Intrepid TravelOperator•Written May 2026
  Travelers don't need a visa for Business or Tourism stays up to 30 days. A visa is required for longer stays. This policy is effective from February 17, 2026, through December 31, 2026.
  
  Travelers can complete their required arrival card online before arrival in China. The online service is available through a government portal, WeChat (Alipay) mini-program, or by scanning a QR code. Travelers who cannot complete the form online can do so upon arrival by scanning a QR code, using devices at their port of entry, or filling out a paper card.
D
Daniel
Asked on January 23rd, 2026
Could you please elaborate on partially guided tour?
Tour Details
- Intrepid TravelOperator•Written January 2026
  Partially guided tour, meaning you will travel with a local trip leader who coordinates transport and leads key sightseeing and cultural experiences. Major highlights are guided, while free time is built into the itinerary for independent exploration or optional activities, with your leader available for support and recommendations.
S
Sophie
Asked on December 8th, 2025
Could you please tell me whether the Forbidden City Tour in Beijing is included in your programme or whether I have to book it myself?
Tour Details
- Intrepid TravelOperator•Written December 2025
  The Forbidden City tour in Beijing is included on this itinerary. Please note the disclaimer: The Forbidden City only allows 30,000 visitors per day. Tickets are in demand year-round, but particularly during July and August. Our local team will do their best to secure entrance tickets. In the odd case when tickets are not available, you will visit the Temple of Heaven instead, another must-see example of ancient architecture in Beijing and you will be notified.
- S
  Sophie
  Traveler•Written December 2025
  Could you please let me know whether Intrepid can guarantee, without exception, that I will be able to obtain a ticket for the Forbidden City? I would also like to book a single room and hope that this will be possible at the time of booking.
- Intrepid TravelOperator•Written December 2025
  Single supplement is always On Request as its first come first serve. At the time of your booking when we request for your single supplement we can ask our local team to confirm if they can secure your ticket for the Forbidden City. Its really only during high season July - August where it can become difficult to get tickets so I don't foresee there being any issues since you are traveling in March but again we will double check this for you.
V
Veronica
Asked on November 13th, 2025
Could you please provide detailed information on the itinerary, inclusions, and types of accommodations for the China tour?
Accommodation
Tour Details
- Intrepid TravelOperator•Written November 2025
  What's next? We are pleased to offer a complimentary hold on the trip for 48 hours, after which a deposit of 800 is required to confirm your space.

Good to know

Tour ID: 326938

The practical details for your trip across China: money, plugs and flexible ways to pay, all in one place.

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Pay in installments
Spread the cost in interest-free biweekly installments of $216.
Deposit only
Book now with just a $400 deposit. The remaining balance is due 60 days before departure.
¥ - Yuan Renminbi
You’ll encounter Yuan Renminbi in China.
Plug types G, I
You’ll need an adapter for these sockets in China.

Currency
¥
Yuan Renminbi
China
Plugs & adapters
As a traveler from USA, Canada, South Africa you will need an adaptor for types G, I. As a traveler from England you will need an adaptor for type I. As a traveler from Australia, New Zealand you will need an adaptor for type G.
- Type G
  Used in China
- Type I
  Used in China
Visa
Whether you need a visa depends on your nationality and how long you stay. We can’t process visas for you, but here’s a quick indication for this trip.
This is only an indication. Visa rules depend on your passport, trip length and purpose. Always confirm with the official embassy or consulate before you travel.
Payment information
Pay now
A $400 deposit
Balance due
60 days before departure
Installments
Interest-free, every two weeks
Currency
USD
Booking fee
None
Book now with just a $400 deposit and pay the rest later. The remaining balance is due 60 days before departure, charged automatically to your card, or you can split it into interest-free biweekly installments of $216 at checkout. Everything is charged in USD, and TourRadar never adds a booking fee. Any trip departing before January 3rd, 2027 will need to be paid in full at checkout.
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From

US $4,790 per person

Price based on Cheapest Room

Price based on Shared Room

Price based on Private Single Room

Price based on Private Double Room

Intrepid Travel offers 5% discount for past passengers, saving $240

Select departure month

1 Adult2 Adults, 1 Child2 Children

Pay only $400 today. The rest is due 60 days before departure. Learn more

Best price guarantee Learn More

Plan your adventure:

China Adventure

Explore our featured adventures

Itinerary

Included Activities

Optional Activities

Included Activities

Optional Activities

Included Activities

Optional Activities

Included Activities

Optional Activities

Included Activities

Optional Activities

Included Activities

Included Activities

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Included Activities

Included Activities

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Optional Activities

Included Activities

Optional Activities

Included Activities

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Included Activities

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Included Activities

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Pay in installments

Deposit only

¥ - Yuan Renminbi

Plug types G, I

Currency

Plugs & adapters

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Payment information

Accepted for Intrepid Travel tours

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