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Product Code: MT-2209
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10 Day Fly, Train & Tour Holiday from Beijing's incredible Great Wall to Shanghai's ancient water towns and city skyline
Offer Ends 31st October 2025
10 Day Fly, Train & Tour Holiday from Beijing's incredible Great Wall to Shanghai's ancient water towns and city skyline
Embark on an unforgettable journey through China’s historic wonders on this 10-day China Express Tour. Explore the vibrant capital of Beijing, home to the iconic Tiananmen Square, the Forbidden City and the remarkable Great Wall of China. Step back in time as you wander through Beijing’s maze-like Hutongs and visit a traditional courtyard home for a glimpse of local life. Discover the tranquil water towns of Wuxi and Suzhou, where charming canals, beautiful gardens and centuries-old traditions await. Sip locally produced Longjing tea in Hangzhou before marvelling at Shanghai’s spectacular skyline.
International economy flights to Beijing, returning from Shanghai
*For guests flying from SYD or MEL, you can request to fly with a premium carrier. See Upgrade Offers tab below for details.
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Welcome to Beijing – a city where ancient wonders stand side by side with modern marvels. Upon arrival at Beijing Airport, you will be greeted by a tour representative and transferred to your hotel, where check-in commences from 3:00pm.
Wake in China’s vibrant capital and begin your journey in Tiananmen Square, one of the largest public squares in the world and steeped in history. Known as the ‘Gate of Heavenly Peace’, it provides a grand approach to the Forbidden City, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. This sprawling complex of golden roofs and red walls was home to China’s last 24 emperors, serving as the political and ceremonial heart of the nation for nearly 500 years.
Then, uncover the charm of old Beijing in the winding Hutongs – narrow alleyways lined with traditional courtyard homes. Step inside one of these residences for a glimpse into local daily life. This evening, opt for a delicious Peking Duck dinner or watch the dazzling Golden Mask Dynasty show.
Start your day at a Jade Museum, where this lustrous gemstone has been cherished in Chinese culture for over four thousand years. Watch master craftsmen transform raw stone into exquisite designs before heading to one of the world’s greatest wonders – the Great Wall of China.
At the less-crowded Juyong Pass, follow the ancient stone pathway past watchtowers that rise above rolling hills. Feel the history beneath your feet and take in views that stretch endlessly into the horizon. Enjoy a picnic lunch amid this breathtaking landscape before returning to the city. This afternoon, you may choose to explore the serene pavilions and shimmering lake of the Summer Palace.
This morning, visit the Temple of Heaven, a masterpiece of Ming Dynasty architecture set in peaceful parkland. Once a sacred site for imperial ceremonies, its design symbolises harmony between heaven and earth.
Continue to the China Academy of Chinese Medicine Science to learn about Traditional Chinese Medicine – a 5,000-year-old practice blending herbs, acupuncture, massage, exercise, and diet to restore balance and wellbeing.
Later, board China’s famous bullet train for a high-speed journey to Wuxi (approx. 5 hours). Watch the scenery shift from urban skylines to rural countryside. Your Beijing Tour Guide will introduce you to your Shanghai Tour Guide before arrival, ensuring a smooth transition for the remainder of your trip.
Important:
Begin your day at the lovely Lake Lihu, a serene park fringed by the sparkling waters of Lake Taihu. This picturesque spot is steeped in legend – Chinese scholars once wrote of the romantic boat rides taken here by historical figures Fan Li and Xi Shi.
Visit a freshwater pearl factory to see how these lustrous treasures are cultivated and discover their importance in Chinese trade. Then travel by coach to Suzhou, often called the “Venice of the East”, where you may opt to cruise along the ancient canals.
Step into the elegance of the Lingering Garden, one of Suzhou’s UNESCO-listed classical gardens. With its winding paths, intricate rockeries, and still ponds, it’s a living masterpiece of Chinese garden design.
Continue to the Suzhou Silk Factory to witness the delicate process of silk production, from cocoon to luxurious fabric. This afternoon, travel to Hangzhou, once described by Marco Polo as “the most beautiful and magnificent city in the world”.
This evening, you may choose to witness the spectacular Impressions of West Lake performance, set against the shimmering waters of the lake itself.
Hangzhou, known as ‘Paradise on Earth’, has inspired poets and artists for centuries. Explore the UNESCO-listed West Lake, where willow-lined shores and arched bridges create postcard-perfect views. Take a boat cruise to explore the Lake’s beautiful scenery. Then travel to tea plantation to sample Longjing (Dragon Well) tea, one of China’s most prized green teas. Learn about the centuries-old tea culture before continuing to Shanghai.
Upon arrival in Shanghai this evening, you may opt to join a Huangpu River Cruise for dazzling views of Shanghai’s city skyline illuminated at night.
Start your day at The Bund, a striking promenade of colonial-era buildings set against the futuristic skyline of Pudong. Continue to bustling Nanjing Road, lined with shops and department stores, before visiting the Shanghai History Museum, where centuries of local history come to life through engaging exhibits.
This afternoon, enjoy free time to explore the city further and make your own way back to the hotel. Or join an optional guided Temple & Shopping Tour or evening Acrobatics Show which includes a late evening transfer back to your hotel.
Today is yours to experience Shanghai at your own pace. Your Tour Guide can suggest highlights or arrange optional tours, such as a fun-filled day at Shanghai Disneyland (including general admission and transfers) or a Shanghai Food Tour to discover the city’s culinary treasures.
After breakfast, check out and transfer to Shanghai Airport for your onward flight. Take with you unforgettable memories of China’s rich history, breathtaking scenery, and vibrant cities.
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Price based on departing from Melbourne, Sydney
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Pace & Fitness
The pace of this tour is fast paced. The tour covers multiple prefectures within China and can involve early starts and long travel days. Please be aware many iconic attractions in China can be overcrowded and busy, so please ensure you remain with your dedicated Tour Guide. A good level of fitness is required. You are required to move about unassisted, including boarding and alighting vehicles and other forms of transportation, walking up and down flights of stairs, and navigating uneven terrain and footpaths.
Tipping in China
Suggested local payment: $120 AUD pp
Tipping in China is a firm and customary element of the tourism industry and is therefore strongly recommended. The expected tipping amount is $12 AUD per person per day.
Visa requirement for China
As of 30 Nov 2024, ordinary Australian and New Zealand passport holders can enter China visa-free for visits of up to 30 days or less as per the visa waiver program. Full travel advice for China or for travel date extensions to the visa waiver program please visit Smartraveller
Baggage
Each person is entitled to a strict maximum of one bag not exceeding 20kg on tour, superseding any other baggage allowance. Excess baggage is not permitted. You are strongly encouraged to pack lightly.
Enjoy comfortable stays in 4-star hotels throughout your journey:
Note: Accommodation is based on locally rated standards and is subject to change. Your final Hotel List will be provided with your travel documentation no later than 30 days prior to departure.
Enhance your holiday with a range of optional experiences, payable directly to the Tour Guide in local currency (RMB). These cannot be prebooked or prepaid.
All optional programs are subject to change based on local conditions, timings, and operational capabilities.
Payment Policy
Due to high demand and the heavily discounted nature of this package, full payment is required at the time of booking to secure your reservation.
Cancellation Policy
This package is strictly non-refundable. A cancellation fee of 100% of the package price applies from the time of booking. Some airline taxes may be refundable, and this amount will be confirmed at the time of cancellation.
Amendments
Amendments, including name or date changes, may be treated as a cancellation and the above fees will apply. Amendment conditions can vary depending on whether international flights have been ticketed. Please speak with your consultant for more details.
Important Information
Exclusions
Meals not stated, beverages, optional programs, travel insurance (strongly recommended), China Visa (if required), tipping, personal expenses and anything not explicitly specified are at your own expense.
Pace & Fitness
The pace of this tour is fast paced. The tour covers multiple prefectures within China and can involve early starts and long travel days. Please be aware many iconic attractions in China can be overcrowded and busy, so please ensure you remain with your dedicated Tour Guide. A good level of fitness is required. You are required to move about unassisted, including boarding and alighting vehicles and other forms of transportation, walking up and down flights of stairs, and navigating uneven terrain and footpaths.
Tipping
The total expected tipping for this 10 Day Tour is $120 AUD per person.
Tipping in China is a firm and customary element of the tourism industry and is therefore strongly recommended. The expected tipping amount is $120 AUD per person paid to your Tour Guide. This amount is based on an estimated $12 AUD per person per day and is used to support all the local tour guides and drivers you will encounter along the way.
Solo Occupancy
A single supplement from $600 per person is payable in addition to the twin share price for solo occupancy. Single rooms are typically smaller than twin/double rooms in China.
Triple Share
Triple share is not available.
Extra Accommodation
Pre tour accommodation in Beijing starts from $350 total per room per night.
Post tour accommodation in Shanghai starts from $350 total per room per night.
Each rate listed is subject to hotel availability at time of booking. Pricing includes breakfast and a private airport transfer with a Driver Only. Pre and Post tour accommodation can be booked up until 90 days prior to departure date.
Child
This tour is designed for adults only; children under 18 years are not permitted on the tour.
Payment
Due to high demand and the package being heavily discounted, full payment is required to secure your booking.
Price
Surcharges may apply for select travel periods and departure cities. Prices are correct at time of publication and are subject to availability, change, cancellation or withdrawal without notice. All prices are in Australian dollars per person twin share unless stated otherwise.
Cancellation / Amendments
Due to heavily discounted product featured in this 10 Day Tour, the cancellation fee is 100% of the purchased price. In the event of cancellation and the full payment has been made, some airline taxes may be refundable and this amount will be advised to you at time of cancellation. Amendments to bookings are not permitted.
Deviation
Any request to deviate from the original dates or routing, including early arrival and stay behind, is subject to a flight deviation fee from $150 per person plus applicable airfare and tax difference. Packaged tour extensions are not subject to the deviation fee (applicable airfare and tax difference may still apply) if booked according to the original advertised dates and routing.
Breakaway
Guests must remain with the tour group at all times and may only leave the group if prior written approval has been obtained before departure or directly from the Tour Guide while in-destination.
Any guest who leaves the group without such approval will forfeit ongoing travel arrangements, including hotel accommodation and transportation. Aside from scheduled free time listed in the itinerary, all guests are required to stay with the group for the full duration of the tour unless previously arranged and approved by Ignite Travel Group.
In cases where it becomes necessary to leave the group unexpectedly, Ignite Travel Group or the local tour guide must be notified immediately.
Passport Copies
For international travel, each customer must provide a copy of the passport photo page at the time of booking. It is the responsibility of the customer to ensure all names are full names exactly matched to the passport with six months validity beyond trip completion. The customer is liable for all fees due to incorrect names, invalid passport information and expired passports. Passport data will be provided to vendors where required to facilitate the tour – including the purchase of group bullet train tickets within China.
Visa
As of 30 Nov 2024, ordinary Australian and New Zealand passport holders can enter China visa-free for visits of up to 30 days or less as per the visa waiver program for travel from 01 July 2024 to 31 December 2025. Travellers do not need to complete any pre-departure documents; however, it is advised that you print a copy of your travel documents, including your return flight itinerary, as you may be asked to show this at customs and immigration upon arrival into China.
Travellers entering China on a foreign passport, or any Australian or New Zealand passport holder travelling China for more than 30 days, must apply for a full visa before travelling to China. For eligibility requirements, latest costs and visa types, please see the Embassy of the People’s Republic of China. Full travel advice for China or for travel date extensions to the visa waiver program please visit Smartraveller
Baggage
Each person is entitled to a strict maximum of one bag not exceeding 20kg on tour, superseding any other baggage allowance. Excess baggage is not permitted. You are strongly encouraged to pack lightly. An additional light day bag or backpack is permitted on the coach. Due to high-speed train baggage restrictions, you may be required to pack a separate light bag or backpack containing essentials. Porterage is not included, and you are required to carry your own bags. Luggage and personal effects are at your own risk, and we hold no liability for lost or damaged belongings.
Transfers
Seat in coach airport transfers on group tour arrival and departure days are included.
Meals
Breakfasts offered by the Chinese accommodation providers are typically buffet style, with very limited vegetarian, vegan, gluten-free, and lactose-free options. For meals not included, your Tour Guide will escort you to preferred Western-friendly restaurants or suggest dining options nearby. Please notify us at the time of booking of any special dietary requirements or allergies. We endeavour to pass on your dietary requirements but cannot guarantee that they can be met, as certain choices may be limited or not catered for. You are required to reconfirm dietary requests with your Tour Guide whilst on tour.
Accommodation
All hotels featured in this itinerary are locally rated 4-star properties, selected by our trusted local suppliers. Please note that hotel ratings in China may differ slightly from those in Australia, as local standards and expectations can vary. While the hotel rooms in China are typically smaller than those found in Western hotels, they are comfortable and well-equipped. Rooms will either be twin (two single beds) or double (one double bed), and special bedding requests, though not always guaranteed, should be made at the time of booking. All rooms are lead-in category or run of house unless otherwise specified. We will request non-smoking rooms, but please note some hotels may have designated smoking rooms or floors. The hotels mentioned are indicative and subject to change, with final hotel details confirmed in your final documentation. The standard check-in time is from 3pm, and check-out is prior to 10am.
International Flights
Flights from Sydney or Melbourne are based on economy class with a Chinese carrier such as China Southern Airlines, China Eastern Airlines, Sichuan Airlines, or similar.
Flights from Brisbane, Adelaide, or Perth are based on economy class with the best available carrier, such as China Southern Airlines, Malaysia Airlines, Cathay Pacific, Singapore Airlines, or similar.
Outbound flights may depart one day prior to Day 1, and inbound flights may arrive one day after the final day. Flights are booked 8–10 months in advance and are based on full-service carriers with a predetermined airfare allowance. Should airfares, fuel surcharges, taxes, or fees increase before booking, an airfare supplement may apply. Our Flights Team will discuss options or offer an upgrade if desired. Please note that flights may not operate daily or directly to your destination. Failure to board any flight sector will automatically cancel all onward flights.
Premium Carrier Upgrade
Passengers flying from Sydney (SYD) or Melbourne (MEL) who prefer not to fly with a Chinese carrier can upgrade to economy class with a premium airline such as Cathay Pacific or Singapore Airlines from an additional $299 per person. This upgrade must be paid in full at the time of booking and is subject to flight availability. Our Flights Team will provide the best available airline options at the time of booking.
Fuel
In the unlikely event of a significant increase in fuel costs levied by third-party air, land and cruise transportation operators before travel, a fuel supplement may be passed on to the customer.
Group Size
You will meet like-minded travellers on tour and may even make lifelong friends. This holiday will proceed with a minimum group size of approximately 30 passengers and a maximum group size of approximately 46 passengers. If the tour does not operate due to minimum numbers, you will be offered a credit, alternative date or refund.
Optional Sightseeing
Optional sightseeing/programs are special unique experiences that you may add to your tour. Optional sightseeing as mentioned in the itinerary are payable directly to the Tour Guide in AUD or the local currency (RMB) and cannot be prepaid. In the event that some programs or venues may not be available, alternative programs may be offered or the Tour Guide. For any passenger not participating in optional sightseeing, they will be directed by the Tour Guide with where to remain until the optional sightseeing with other passengers attending is complete.
Train Transportation
All train transportation featured in the itinerary is based on 2nd class seating. Due to factors outside our control, such as operational changes, last-minute track maintenance, or unfavourable weather conditions, train travel may be substituted with a flight to maintain the continuity of the itinerary while prioritising the safety of all guests.
Beijing Sightseeing
Due to a daily ticket limit imposed at Beijing’s Forbidden City, there may be rare occasions where this attraction cannot be visited. In this event, your tour guide will secure an alternative visit to the Lama Temple or Gongwangfu Garden in Beijing. Unfortunately, tickets for international groups cannot be pre-purchased and are subject to the above daily ticket limit policy.
East China Itinerary (Day 4-10)
Please note that the order of Days 4 to 10 (East China) may be adjusted due to operational considerations, such as a bullet train being substituted for a domestic flight. If there are any changes to the itinerary, your Tour Guide will inform you, and all inclusions will remain unchanged.
Itinerary
The operating schedule and itinerary may be impacted without notice by adverse weather, seasonal factors, closures, local conditions, COVID-19, or other factors beyond our control, including force majeure. If attractions are not available due to reasons beyond our control, such as closures or adverse weather, alternatives will be provided where possible. The itinerary and its order, sightseeing, and transportation may be adjusted as deemed appropriate by the operator for optimum safety, enjoyment, and operation. Any reference to ‘optional’, ‘not included’, or ‘exclusions/excluded’ means at your own expense.
Health
It is the responsibility of the customer to check and comply with the health, vaccination, COVID-19 and immigration requirements of each origin and destination country, and health requirements imposed by air, tour, cruise and accommodation providers. Vaccinations, testing and quarantine costs are the expense of the customer. Comprehensive travel insurance with COVID-19 coverage is strongly recommended. Tap water in China may not be safe to drink. Drink only bottled water with intact seals.
Money
The currency in China is the Renminbi (RMB). ATMs are widely available in major Chinese cities. They accept major credit cards including at international hotels and restaurants. In some smaller cities, using international cards will be limited and local currency is suggested.
Shopping
China is a treasure trove for those looking to shop. From bustling markets to large shopping centres. Famously known for silk and jade products, China is also known for its pearl and tea produce, along with traditional Chinese medicine. Your itinerary will allow for stops at English speaking shops where you can browse/purchase products. Any purchase of products are at your own discretion. Please do not make any purchases if you are not comfortable or feel pressured into. Should you require any assistance with the language barrier, please seek assistance from your Tour Guide.
Documentation
Final documentation will be emailed 30 days prior to departure which includes a final hotel list, return flight itinerary and invoice with day by day itinerary.
Valued up to
Where a comparative ‘valued up to’ price is displayed with the advertised price, it should be taken as a comparison to a product of similar duration, standard of travel and inclusions to that destination that is available for sale to the public for a similar time of travel. Where a comparative product of the same duration cannot be found, an average price per day may be used. Where a comparative product of similar inclusions cannot be found, the products of multiple providers may be combined to produce a comparative price.
Travel Insurance
Travel insurance is not included and is strongly recommended. Ask our holiday experts for great coverage options.
Force Majeure
Force majeure means any natural disaster, accident, fire, act of God, act of war, terrorism, legally binding judgment, injunction, action of a court or other relevant authority, emergency, unplanned repairs, maintenance, strike, industrial dispute, work ban, blockade or picketing, travel ban, pandemic, epidemic or outbreak of infectious disease, or other event beyond our reasonable direct or indirect control. In case of force majeure or other extraordinary event that prevents safe travel, the supplier reserves the right to adjust, postpone or cancel the trip.
Product Code: MT-2209
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