en
- Adventure
- 12-day trip
- From €5,295 p.p.
China trip | Roundtrip China off the beaten track
During this special trip, you will pass some highlights not to be missed, but also go off the beaten track. In Beijing, discover the imperial heritage in the Forbidden City and stroll across one of the largest city squares in the world, Tiananmen Square. Explore the port city of Xiamen, still relatively undiscovered by international tourists. Take a ferry to the car-free Gulangyu Island and behold the colonial architecture and beautiful nature. Visit the distinctive Hakka villages, known for the unusual Tulou houses. End the trip in the metropolis of Shanghai. Cycle through the shady streets of the French Concession and admire the spectacular Skyline from the Bund.
Travel programme
Travel overview
- Day 1 Arrival in China
- Day 2 Beijing City Tour
- Day 3 The Great Wall of China
- Day 4 Beijing – Xiamen
- Day 5 Gulangyu
- Day 6 Hakka villages
- Day 7 Hakka villages
- Day 8 Via Zhangzhou to Xiamen
- Day 9 Xiamen – Shanghai
- Day 10 Vintage bike tour of the French Concession
- Day 11 Free day in Shanghai
- Day 12 Departure from China
Arrival in China
北京欢迎您们! Welcome to Beijing, the fascinating capital of China, where modern city life blends seamlessly with the empire's rich history. On arrival, you will be warmly welcomed by our local representative and transferred to your hotel, with the rest of the day at leisure. Relax after the flight or get acquainted with the atmosphere of this impressive metropolis.
Inclusief:
- Meet & Greet
- Private transfer to your hotel
- Overnight accommodation including breakfast
Exclusief:
- Intercontinental flight
Beijing city tour
In the morning, you’ll be picked up for a private city tour taking in the city’s highlights. You’ll start at the impressive Temple of Heaven, a masterpiece of classical Chinese architecture where emperors came for centuries to pray for a bountiful harvest.
You will then visit the world-famous Forbidden City, which for centuries was the powerful heart of the Chinese empire. As is customary in Chinese architecture, the complex faces south, symbolically turning away from the threat from the north. The main entrance overlooks the immense Tiananmen Square, the third-largest city square in the world. Construction of the Forbidden City was completed in 1420 under Emperor Yongle and it served as the imperial centre of power during the Ming and Qing dynasties until 1911. According to tradition, the complex contains no fewer than 9,999 rooms – one fewer than the heavenly palace – out of respect for the gods.
You’ll round off the day in the charming Hutongs near Houhai Lake, where you’ll catch a glimpse of traditional life in Beijing’s old residential neighbourhoods.
Inclusief:
- Excursion: City tour back in time to imperial China
- Overnight accommodation including breakfast
Great Wall of China
You’ll visit one of the world’s most iconic structures: the Great Wall of China. This impressive defensive structure winds its way across the highest mountain ridges and offers breathtaking views of the Chinese landscape. It is not only the symbol of China, but also a masterpiece of human perseverance and architectural ingenuity.
The first sections of the Wall were built over 2,000 years ago during the Qin Dynasty. During the later Ming Dynasty, the Wall was extended and reinforced to become the impressive structure we admire today. Originally, the Wall stretched for over 6,000 kilometres, from the Jiayuguan Fortress in the west, where the Gobi Desert begins, to the borders of ancient Manchuria in the east. Strategically positioned watchtowers afforded the imperial guards a sweeping view of the landscape. In the event of a threat, they lit warning fires to pass signals along the Wall. This ingenious system of communication, together with the imposing structure itself, served as protection against Mongol incursions.
Inclusief:
- Excursion: Visit to the Great Wall of China
- Overnight accommodation including breakfast
Beijing - Xiamen
After breakfast, you will be taken by private transfer to the airport for your domestic flight to Xiamen. On arrival, our local representative will be waiting for you in the arrivals hall and will take you to your accommodation.
The city of Xiamen, situated in the mountainous coastal province of Fujian, is often regarded as one of China’s most charming port cities. The city exudes a relaxed atmosphere, with its hilly streets, European architecture and unhurried pace of life. Xiamen offers a pleasant change from the hustle and bustle of city life and is an ideal place to explore south-eastern China at a leisurely pace.
Inclusief:
- Private transfer to the airport
- Domestic flight Beijing - Xiamen
- Private transfer to your hotel
- Overnight accommodation including breakfast
Gulangyu
You will visit the charming island of Gulangyu, just a short ferry crossing from Xiamen. Known for its natural beauty, colonial architecture and a host of interesting museums, this car-free island used to play an important role as an international trading and port post, and still exudes a cosmopolitan atmosphere. Stroll at your leisure along the network of winding paths, past mansions and gardens, and enjoy the peace and quiet away from the busy city life.
Inclusief:
- Excursion: Visit to the island of Gulangyu
- Overnight accommodation including breakfast
Hakka villages
Continue your journey to Yongding. Yongding County is situated in the south-western region of Fujian Province and is inhabited almost exclusively by the Chinese Hakka people. Hakka can be literally translated as ‘guest families’, and they are known for their characteristic tulou dwellings, which means ‘earth-built structures’. In the past, these tall, castle-like structures provided shelter and protection for the Hakka, who faced discrimination, as well as against roaming gangs. Of the ten UNESCO-protected buildings scattered across Fujian, five are located in Yongding.
First, you will visit the Tianluokeng Tulou Cluster, a collection of four circular buildings ranging from three to five storeys in height. The Tianluokeng dwellings are situated on a hill and are classic examples of a vanishing form of local architecture from southern China. More than just houses, it is a town compressed into a single building. All the village’s storehouses, wells and bedrooms are situated within the fortified walls, creating a fortress-like communal dwelling that offers protection against both bandits and wild animals. The building is well-lit, well-ventilated, windproof and earthquake-resistant. Explore the building and chat to the local residents with the help of your guide, who can act as an interpreter.
Continue your journey to the Chengqi House, one of the oldest and largest circular buildings in the area. The building is known as the ‘King of Tulou’ and was built in 1709. The complex consists of four circular buildings arranged around a central ancestral hall. Each ring varies in height from one to four storeys and features 400 rooms, wells, kitchens, granaries and a communal library. In its heyday, the complex could accommodate around 80 families, totalling more than 600 people. Imagine what life was like during Chengqi’s golden age as you explore these remarkable buildings.
Inclusief:
- Private transfer to guesthouse
- Excursion: Visit to the Hakka Houses (Tianluokeng & Chengqi House)
- Overnight accommodation including breakfast
Hakka villages
You will once again get to experience local life in the Hakka houses. Nestled amongst the rolling hills along a river, the Chuxi Tulou cluster is a collection of golden, earthen houses. All the buildings in the cluster share the word ‘qing’, which means ‘celebration’, and perfectly reflect the hospitable nature of the Hakka people, including the enormous Jiqing House, known for its 72 steps (and not a single nail), the Fuqing House and the Shengqing House.
In total, there are five circular and ten rectangular tulou here, and life goes on just as it has for generations. Observe daily life, from vegetables drying on the roof to colourful clothes fluttering in the wind as they dry.
You will then continue on to the Nanxi Tulou cluster. The settlement stretches for several kilometres and consists almost entirely of tulou, the most remarkable of which is Yanxiang House. This large, round dwelling, built during the Qing Dynasty, was designed in the shape of a dragon’s head and body and was once the home of a high-ranking official.
Inclusief:
- Excursion: Visit to the Hakka houses (Chuxi Tulou & Nanxi Tulou)
- Overnight accommodation including breakfast
Via Zhangzhou to Xiamen
You’ll travel back to Xiamen by transfer in around three hours, stopping en route in the charming riverside town of Zhangzhou. The city is known for its classical architecture, rich culture and craft traditions, such as lacquerware and tea production. The surrounding area is also famous for its tulou, traditional round mud-brick houses, and fertile farmland dotted with fruit orchards and tea plantations.
Once back in Xiamen, you’ll visit Zhongshan Road, the city’s main shopping street. This lively, pedestrianised boulevard really comes to life, especially in the evening. Stroll past stately colonial buildings, atmospheric illuminated façades and a colourful array of shops, restaurants and street stalls. Sample local and Taiwanese specialities and let yourself be surprised by the charming side streets that invite you to explore further.
Inclusief:
- Private transfer to your hotel incl. stop in Zhangzhou
- Overnight accommodation including breakfast
Xiamen - Shanghai
After breakfast, you will be picked up for transfer to the airport, where you will board your domestic flight to Shanghai. On arrival, you will be welcomed by our local representative and transferred comfortably to your accommodation. Your hotel is ideally located, within walking distance of both the Bund and the atmospheric Yu Gardens. From the iconic Bund, you overlook the impressive Pudong skyline, especially in the evening, when the skyscrapers are brilliantly illuminated, a magical sight.
Inclusief:
- Private transfer to the airport
- Domestic flight Xiamen - Shanghai
- Private transfer to your hotel
- Overnight accommodation including breakfast
Vintage bicycle tour French Concession
Your day begins with a special vintage bike ride through Shanghai. After a short journey by public transport to the lively Xintiandi district, you’ll meet your guide at a local café. Here, you’ll receive a safety briefing and adjust your bike before the adventure begins. Cycle through the tree-lined avenues of the French Concession, a neighbourhood brimming with colonial charm. Your guide will tell you about the international influences that have shaped Shanghai’s rich history. You’ll stop at the atmospheric Fuxing Park, where you’ll see locals dancing, practising Tai Chi or playing cards – a lively snapshot of everyday city life. Along the way, you’ll stop at a local street market for a quick snack break. Sample typical Shanghainese delicacies – savoury or sweet – and learn more about the local food culture and etiquette. Afterwards, you’ll visit a bustling market, where vendors hawk their wares and haggling takes place just as it has for centuries.
A spiritual interlude follows with a visit to a hidden Taoist temple, tucked away in a quiet neighbourhood. Here, discover more about Taoism and the simple lives of the monks who live there. After this inspiring morning, it’s time for a vegetarian lunch in a Buddhist canteen, where you’ll sample dishes that are in keeping with religious beliefs: simple, pure and full of flavour.
In the afternoon, you’ll visit Shanghai’s Old Town, with the famous Yu Gardens as the highlight. This classical garden is a masterpiece of Chinese landscape architecture, where stone hills, babbling brooks and graceful pavilions come together to form a harmonious miniature world. A wonderful way to round off a varied and authentic day in Shanghai.
Inclusief:
- Excursion: Vintage bicycle tour of the French Concession with stops
- Excursion: Visit to the old part of Shanghai
- Overnight accommodation including breakfast
Shanghai free day
On your final day in Shanghai, you’ll have complete freedom to continue exploring the city at your own pace. For example, visit the futuristic Pudong district, where you can climb the iconic Shanghai Tower. Standing at 632 metres tall, with 121 storeys above ground and 5 below, it is the tallest building in China and the second tallest in the world. The observation deck offers a spectacular panoramic view of the city’s skyline.
Another must-do is a stroll along the Bund, the world-famous promenade on the Huangpu River. Here you can admire impressive colonial architecture from the 1930s, a tangible reminder of Shanghai’s cosmopolitan past with strong European influences. From the Bund, it’s an easy walk to the lively East Nanjing Road. This bustling shopping street is brimming with colourful neon signs, international flagship stores and local food stalls. It’s the perfect place to experience the contemporary rhythm of this modern metropolis, amidst a mix of locals and international visitors.
Inclusief:
- Overnight accommodation including breakfast
Accommodations
Beijing New World Centre Tongpai Hotel
In the heart of Beijing, Pentahotel is conveniently located two minutes from Chongwenmen Metro Station and close to the most popular tourist attractions such as Tiananmen Square, the Forbidden City and the Temple of Heaven. Wangfujing and the Pearl Market are steps away from local cuisine and...
In the heart of Beijing, Pentahotel is conveniently located two minutes from Chongwenmen Metro Station and close to the most popular tourist attractions such as Tiananmen Square, the Forbidden City and the Temple of Heaven. Wangfujing and the Pearl Market are steps away from local cuisine and shopping opportunities. Pentahotel Beijing offers 307 rooms, each one spacious and efficiently designed. With high-speed internet, extensive amenities and comfortable beds, each room offers everything you need. You can relax in a relaxed atmosphere, at the lively pentalounge, an all-day lobby that serves as a café-bar.
Your stay: 3 nights
Intercontinental Xiamen
InterContinental Xiamen is a luxury hotel in the new financial area, adjacent to the picturesque coastal road and beach, within walking distance the JFC Shopping Mall and Banlam Grand Theatre. You can enjoy breathtaking sea views from the hotel rooms and the outdoor pool.
Your stay: 2 nights
Tulou Fuyulou Changdi Inn
Housed in a building over 100 years old, Tulou Fuyulou Changdi Inn offers accommodation in the folklore village of Hakkas in Longyan. At the accommodation, you can enjoy homemade Hakka dishes.
Each room at this guest house has air conditioning and a flat-screen TV. The rooms...
Housed in a building over 100 years old, Tulou Fuyulou Changdi Inn offers accommodation in the folklore village of Hakkas in Longyan. At the accommodation, you can enjoy homemade Hakka dishes.
Each room at this guest house is air-conditioned and has a flat-screen TV. The rooms are equipped with an electric kettle. Rooms have a private or shared bathroom. Slippers and free toiletries are provided for extra comfort.
Your stay: 2 nights
Intercontinental Xiamen
InterContinental Xiamen is a luxury hotel in the new financial area, adjacent to the picturesque coastal road and beach, within walking distance the JFC Shopping Mall and Banlam Grand Theatre. You can enjoy breathtaking sea views from the hotel rooms and the outdoor pool.
Your stay: 1 night
SSAW Boutique Hotel Shanghai Bund
The SSAW Boutique Hotel Shanghai Bund is located in Shanghai's bustling city centre. Located in the Huangpu district, close to metro lines 8 and 10, it is within walking distance of the famous Yu Garden, the Bund and the famous shopping street Nanjing Road.
Each room is equipped with high-quality mattresses,...
The SSAW Boutique Hotel Shanghai Bund is located in Shanghai's bustling city centre. Located in the Huangpu district, close to metro lines 8 and 10, it is within walking distance of the famous Yu Garden, the Bund and the famous shopping street Nanjing Road.
Each room is equipped with high-quality mattresses, air conditioning, a minibar, a small fridge, and a hairdryer.
The hotel also features an Oriental-style restaurant specialising in Cantonese and local dishes.
Your stay: 3 nights
Experiences
Excursion to the Great Wall of China
You will visit the Great Wall of China, which starts north of Beijing and stretches deep into the interior above Xinjiang province.
Destinations
Beijing
Beijing is the economic, political and educational centre of China. The city is famous for its Hutongs, traditional dwellings in small streets with a courtyard (siheyuan). Since the mid-20th century, many hutongs have been demolished to make way for new roads and buildings. A visit to Beijing offers a glimpse into China's imperial past. Highlights of Beijing include Tiananmen Square, the Forbidden City and the Olympic Stadium. It is also a good starting point for a visit to the legendary Great Wall of China.
China
Shanghai
Located at the mouth of the famous Yangtze River, the famous international metropolis of Shanghai is a bold and distinct mix of East and West. You will find some of the tallest skyscrapers in the world, historic shikumen houses with a style that is a blend of Chinese architecture and a European touch. Shanghai also has one of the richest collections of Art Deco buildings in the world. Must-see attractions include: the Yuyuan Gardens; the many traditional Chinese tea houses offering a wide range of tea, along with traditional Chinese delicacies; and the Shanghai Museum with its impressive ancient bronze exhibition. With such a wide range of attractions and all that this city has to offer, you will not get bored here.
Fujian Province
Located in southeast China, the coastal province of Fujian is home to two main tourist centres. The first of these is the seaside city of Xiamen, which - along with an attractive promenade - offers access to Gulangyu Island, which is known as the Gallery of International Architecture as it contains over 1,000 different building styles, from traditional Japanese houses to 19th-century European structures. Also accessible from Xiamen is the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Fujian Tulou, a collection of unique fortified earth buildings in the nearby mountains. The province's other chief hub is the capital of Fuzhou, which contains the downtown area known as 3 Lanes and 7 Alleys, where some Ming and Qing Dynasty buildings are preserved. From Fuzhou, it is also possible to organise trips to gorgeous Wuyi Mountain.
Xiamen
The vibrant and modern port city of Xiamen is located on China's southeast coast, across the street from Taiwan. With its long promenades and European architecture, the place has become known as a kind of Chinese Mediterranean. It is also the most famous embarkation point to the smaller Gulangyu Island. Seen by many as the pearl of the whole province, Gulangyu is a car-free island with meandering streets full of colonial villas, lush gardens and beautiful beaches. The city of Xiamen also boasts the world's longest elevated bicycle path, the Xiamen Bicycle Skyway. Don't miss the spectacular tropical views from Sunlight Rock and take an evening stroll along Yundang Lake.
Longyan
Longyan is a destination with an enchanting natural landscape and rich heritage in China's Fujian province. The prefectural city is home to an incredible 'Tulou', a traditional village of the Hakka people. The beautiful Guanzhai Mountain offers an extraordinary landscape to explore with its lakes, rivers, caves, forests and temples. At the flat summit, hikers can see stunning views of green lands dotted with villages, backed by layers of mountain peaks. Buildings from the Song, Ming and Qing dynasties are scattered across the mountains.
China trip | Roundtrip China off the beaten track
We offer the described trip from €5,295 per person.
The tour price is indicative and is subject to availability and the travel period, amongst other factors.
Included
• Domestic flights as specified in the itinerary, including hold luggage
• Overnight stays in excellent and distinctive accommodation
• All meals as specified in the ‘itinerary’
• All necessary private transfers as mentioned
• All excursions as mentioned in the ‘programme’, including a visit to the Great Wall of China, a visit to the Hakka houses and a vintage bike ride in Shanghai
• National park entrance fees, where applicable
• National Geographic travel guide or similar
• Administration fees (€50 per booking)
Positive impact of your trip:
• A contribution of €50 per person towards positive impact via the Avila Foundation
Not included
• Intercontinental flights
• Room category upgrade
• Travel and/or cancellation insurance
• Any visa fees
• Tourist tax (where applicable)
• Any departure tax when leaving the destination
• Personal expenses/tips
• Meals not specified and optional excursions
• Contribution to the Calamity Fund (€2.50 per booking)
• SGR contribution (€5 per person)