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Backpacking China

Discover the icons of China on an unforgettable 13-day adventure. Walk the Great Wall and explore the Forbidden City in Beijing, meet the pandas in Chengdu, and stand before the historic Terracotta Warriors. Next, marvel at the waterfalls of Furong Ancient Town and ride the world's tallest outdoor elevator in the 'Avatar' mountains of Zhangjiajie, before wrapping up your journey in the vibrant city of Shanghai.

  • All Trips and Excursions
  • All Accommodation
  • No Hidden Charges
  • International Flights
  • Airport Transfers
  • Travel Insurance
  • Visa

Backpacking China

£1539 from
Pay £250 deposit
  • Length13 Days
  • Avg. Age20-45
  • No. Of Activities10
  • Avg. Group Size6-20
  • Starting PointBeijing
  • Ending PointShanghai

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Route Map

Tour Itinerary

DAY 1

Arrival In Beijing

Your incredible journey begins as you land in Beijing. Check into your hotel at any time and start discovering this remarkable city at your own pace. Use this first day to get your bearings and settle in. Your Tru Leader will share suggestions for local attractions and dining spots. The group gathers this evening for a welcome dinner together. Get ready for an unforgettable 13-day adventure!

  • Room TypeHotel
DAY 2

Journey To The Great Wall

An early start takes us to one of the world's most iconic landmarks - the Great Wall of China! We'll explore the Mutianyu section, which is exceptionally well preserved and less busy than other areas. You can walk at your own rhythm, capture photos and absorb the magnificence of this ancient wonder. After this spectacular first full day in China, we return to central Beijing for a relaxed evening and delicious local cuisine.

  • Room TypeHotel
  • Activities IncludedGreat Wall of China, Mutianyu
DAY 3

Discovering The Imperial Palace

Today we explore the Forbidden City, the world's largest surviving royal palace complex. We'll wander through countless ancient structures and temples alongside our Tru Leader, who will explain their importance in Chinese history and culture. Later, we board an overnight train bound for Xi'an, where we'll arrive refreshed and ready to explore.

  • Room TypeHotel
  • Activities IncludedForbidden City, Overnight train to Xi'an
DAY 4

Xi'an City Walls And Evening Markets

Welcome to Xi'an! We begin by exploring the impressive 8km City Wall, which offers spectacular views across the city. Inside, you'll learn about local customs and traditions, with the option to try on traditional clothing. Lunch features fantastic local noodles, but save room for tonight's street food adventure. Your guide will help you navigate the culinary delights to match any preference!

  • Room TypeHotel
  • Activities IncludedWalking tour of Xi'an, Street Food Tour (Muslim quarter)
DAY 5

The Terracotta Army Experience

Prepare for something truly extraordinary that photographs cannot capture. In 1974, farmers uncovered more than 8000 life-sized figures buried with Emperor Qin Shi Huang in 210-209 BCE to guard him in the afterlife. These Terracotta Warriors are absolutely essential when visiting Xi'an. This evening we'll take it easy in the city, resting up before our journey to Chengdu.

  • Room TypeHotel
  • Activities IncludedTerracotta Warriors
DAY 6

Journey To Chengdu

We catch the train to Chengdu, arriving early afternoon. After settling into our hotel, we explore Kuanzhai Alley, browsing local shops, enjoying tea and picking up souvenirs. Tonight features a traditional Hot Pot Experience, essential when in Chengdu. Afterwards, we'll seek out sweet treats at the night markets - perhaps some Tanghulu!

  • Room TypeHotel
  • Activities IncludedKuanzhai Alley
DAY 7

Giant Panda Encounter

Get ready to meet China's beloved national animal! We visit the Chengdu Research Base of Giant Panda Breeding, a research facility housing over 100 pandas across 165 acres. We arrive early morning when the pandas are most active. With luck, we might spot Red Pandas as well! After a wonderful day of panda watching, we return to the city for dinner and evening entertainment.

  • Room TypeHotel
  • Activities IncludedPanda Research Base
DAY 8

Waterfall Village Adventure

We travel from Chengdu to Furong Ancient Town, arriving mid-afternoon and immediately setting out to explore. This stunning village is built directly on a waterfall, with water flowing throughout the settlement. The evening illuminations create a cinematic atmosphere. We'll dine here and watch one of the spectacular light shows - a truly magical moment!

  • Room TypeHotel
  • Activities IncludedWalking tour of Furong Ancient town
DAY 9

Avatar Mountains And Sky Elevator

Just when you thought the trip couldn't get more breathtaking, we bring you to Zhangjiajie National Park, also called the Avatar Mountains. This is one of the most stunning landscapes you'll ever witness. After exploring the park, we'll ride the World's Tallest Elevator - a glass lift that ascends 326 metres in just 1 minute 32 seconds. The views from the summit are absolutely otherworldly. Tonight over dinner, we'll compare our incredible photographs from the day!

  • Room TypeHotel
  • Activities IncludedZhangjiajie National Park (Avatar Mountains)
DAY 10

More National Park Adventures

One day simply isn't enough to appreciate this place, so we return for further exploration. If you want to visit the Glass Bridge or Tianmen Mountain, today is your opportunity, or simply spend the day wandering this enchanting National Park. It's our final day in nature before returning to city life, so savour every moment!

  • Room TypeHotel
  • Activities IncludedZhangjiajie National Park (Avatar Mountains)
DAY 11

Cross-Country To Shanghai

Today we travel across China to Shanghai, so pack your snacks and queue up your podcasts! We arrive late afternoon and check into our final hotel. After dropping bags and freshening up, we head out for dinner in this vibrant metropolis. Your excellent guide will match the mood - whether you want rooftop bars for a big night out or something more relaxed, they've got you covered!

  • Room TypeHotel
DAY 12

Final Day In Shanghai

Our last full day on tour means one more chance to discover Shanghai! We'll visit Yu Garden, a stunning 5-acre classical Chinese garden dating from 1559, located in the old city and known as the Garden of Peace and Comfort. We'll also browse the shops for last-minute souvenirs to bring home. Tonight we gather for a farewell dinner - one more hotpot to celebrate our amazing journey through China!

  • Room TypeHotel
  • Activities IncludedYu Garden
DAY 13

Departure Day

What an extraordinary experience it's been! After 13 amazing days, we reach our final morning in China. Your guide will be available to offer recommendations on what to see and where to go if you're staying longer before heading home. Until we meet again!

    Tour Dates

    Optional Extras

    £75
    £75
    £75

    All This Included & More!

    • Great Wall of China
    • Forbidden City
    • Walking tour of Xi'an
    • Street food tour (Muslim quarter)
    • Terracotta Warriors
    • Kuanzhai Alley
    • Panda Research Base
    • Walking tour of Furong Ancient town
    • Zhangjiajie National Park (Avatar Mountains)
    • Yu Garden