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Rail journey · Wendy Wu Tours · 18 nights

Ancient Empires of China & Japan

  • International flights, domestic transportation and guided touring with entrance fees included
  • Stay in three to four star accommodation throughout the eighteen night journey
  • Guided visits to iconic sites with local cultural experiences and traditional meals
From
$13,780 pp twin share
Was $14,980 pp
$16,180 pp solo share
18 nights
Enquire
Departs 20 October 2026 Returns 25 November 2028
Duration18 nights
OperatorWendy Wu Tours
StyleRail journey
HighlightEpic three-week journey through ancient China and Japan by road, boat, rail and air
Walk the Great Wall and explore the Forbidden City in Beijing. View the Terracotta Army and cruise the dramatic Li River landscape. Discover Japanese castles, gardens and historic quarters in Osaka, Hiroshima…

The ultimate tour for those wishing to combine the very best of two ancient nations. Join us on an incredible journey from Beijing to Tokyo by road, boat, rail and air on this epic three-week tour!

When & how much

Departures & Pricing

Departs
20 October 2026
Returns 25 November 2028
Returns
25 November 2028
Duration
18 nights
From pp twin share
$13,780 pp
Was $14,980 pp
From pp solo cabin
$16,180 pp
  • 20 Oct 2026 - 07 Nov 2026
    Land only: from $12,580 pp twin share / $14,980 pp sole use
    Flight inclusive: from $13,780 pp twin share / $16,180 pp sole use *
  • 03 Nov 2026 - 21 Nov 2026
    Land only: from $12,580 pp twin share / $14,980 pp sole use
    Flight inclusive: from $13,780 pp twin share / $16,180 pp sole use *
  • 09 Mar 2027 - 27 Mar 2027
    Land only: from $14,180 pp twin share / $16,960 pp sole use
    Flight inclusive: from $15,380 pp twin share / $18,160 pp sole use *
  • 16 Mar 2027 - 03 Apr 2027
    Land only: from $14,180 pp twin share / $16,960 pp sole use
    Flight inclusive: from $15,380 pp twin share / $18,160 pp sole use *
  • 23 Mar 2027 - 10 Apr 2027
    Land only: from $13,880 pp twin share / $16,660 pp sole use
    Flight inclusive: from $15,080 pp twin share / $17,860 pp sole use *
  • 30 Mar 2027 - 17 Apr 2027
    Land only: from $13,880 pp twin share / $16,660 pp sole use
    Flight inclusive: from $15,080 pp twin share / $17,860 pp sole use *
  • 06 Apr 2027 - 24 Apr 2027
    Land only: from $14,180 pp twin share / $16,960 pp sole use
    Flight inclusive: from $15,380 pp twin share / $18,160 pp sole use *
  • 04 May 2027 - 22 May 2027
    Land only: from $13,180 pp twin share / $15,780 pp sole use
    Flight inclusive: from $14,380 pp twin share / $16,980 pp sole use *
  • 11 May 2027 - 29 May 2027
    Land only: from $12,880 pp twin share / $15,480 pp sole use
    Flight inclusive: from $14,080 pp twin share / $16,680 pp sole use *
  • 07 Sep 2027 - 25 Sep 2027
    Land only: from $13,180 pp twin share / $15,780 pp sole use
    Flight inclusive: from $14,380 pp twin share / $16,980 pp sole use *
  • 14 Sep 2027 - 02 Oct 2027
    Land only: from $13,180 pp twin share / $15,780 pp sole use
    Flight inclusive: from $14,380 pp twin share / $16,980 pp sole use *
  • 21 Sep 2027 - 09 Oct 2027
    Land only: from $14,180 pp twin share / $16,780 pp sole use
    Flight inclusive: from $15,380 pp twin share / $17,980 pp sole use *
  • 12 Oct 2027 - 30 Oct 2027
    Land only: from $14,180 pp twin share / $16,780 pp sole use
    Flight inclusive: from $15,380 pp twin share / $17,980 pp sole use *
  • 19 Oct 2027 - 06 Nov 2027
    Land only: from $13,880 pp twin share / $16,480 pp sole use
    Flight inclusive: from $15,080 pp twin share / $17,680 pp sole use *
  • 26 Oct 2027 - 13 Nov 2027
    Land only: from $13,880 pp twin share / $16,480 pp sole use
    Flight inclusive: from $15,080 pp twin share / $17,680 pp sole use *
  • 02 Nov 2027 - 20 Nov 2027
    Land only: from $13,880 pp twin share / $16,480 pp sole use
    Flight inclusive: from $15,080 pp twin share / $17,680 pp sole use *
  • 07 Mar 2028 - 25 Mar 2028
    Land only: from $15,180 pp twin share / $18,160 pp sole use
    Flight inclusive: from $16,380 pp twin share / $19,360 pp sole use *
  • 14 Mar 2028 - 01 Apr 2028
    Land only: from $15,180 pp twin share / $18,160 pp sole use
    Flight inclusive: from $16,380 pp twin share / $19,360 pp sole use *
  • 21 Mar 2028 - 08 Apr 2028
    Land only: from $15,180 pp twin share / $18,160 pp sole use
    Flight inclusive: from $16,380 pp twin share / $19,360 pp sole use *
  • 28 Mar 2028 - 15 Apr 2028
    Land only: from $15,180 pp twin share / $18,160 pp sole use
    Flight inclusive: from $16,380 pp twin share / $19,360 pp sole use *
  • 04 Apr 2028 - 22 Apr 2028
    Land only: from $15,180 pp twin share / $18,160 pp sole use
    Flight inclusive: from $16,380 pp twin share / $19,360 pp sole use *
  • 11 Apr 2028 - 29 Apr 2028
    Land only: from $14,680 pp twin share / $17,660 pp sole use
    Flight inclusive: from $15,880 pp twin share / $18,860 pp sole use *
  • 09 May 2028 - 27 May 2028
    Land only: from $14,680 pp twin share / $17,480 pp sole use
    Flight inclusive: from $15,880 pp twin share / $18,680 pp sole use *
  • 16 May 2028 - 03 Jun 2028
    Land only: from $14,680 pp twin share / $17,480 pp sole use
    Flight inclusive: from $15,880 pp twin share / $18,680 pp sole use *
  • 05 Sep 2028 - 23 Sep 2028
    Land only: from $14,680 pp twin share / $17,480 pp sole use
    Flight inclusive: from $15,880 pp twin share / $18,680 pp sole use *
  • 12 Sep 2028 - 30 Sep 2028
    Land only: from $15,180 pp twin share / $17,980 pp sole use
    Flight inclusive: from $16,380 pp twin share / $19,180 pp sole use *
  • 19 Sep 2028 - 07 Oct 2028
    Land only: from $15,180 pp twin share / $17,980 pp sole use
    Flight inclusive: from $16,380 pp twin share / $19,180 pp sole use *
  • 10 Oct 2028 - 28 Oct 2028
    Land only: from $15,180 pp twin share / $17,980 pp sole use
    Flight inclusive: from $16,380 pp twin share / $19,180 pp sole use *
  • 17 Oct 2028 - 04 Nov 2028
    Land only: from $15,180 pp twin share / $17,980 pp sole use
    Flight inclusive: from $16,380 pp twin share / $19,180 pp sole use *
  • 20 Oct 2028 - 07 Nov 2028
    Land only: from $15,180 pp twin share / $17,980 pp sole use
    Flight inclusive: from $16,380 pp twin share / $19,180 pp sole use *

* Prices and category availability are subject to change without notice. Land only prices exclude international flights.

Upgrades, transfers, accommodation and more can be quoted on enquiry — call 1300 414 198.

Day by day

Itinerary

  1. 1

    Fly To Beijing

    Fly to China’s historical capital, Beijing. Depending on your time of arrival, the rest of the day is yours to start soaking up the local culture.

  2. 2

    Walk On The Great Wall

    This morning is dedicated to China’s most iconic sight – the Great Wall. Taking a walk on this incredible structure is the best way to appreciate the sheer magnificence of the wall itself and the dramatic scenery that surrounds it. In the afternoon, enjoy the idyllic landscapes of the Summer Palace. End the day enjoying a traditional Peking Duck dinner.

  3. 3

    Explore The Forbidden City

    Begin the day soaking up the harmonious ambience of the glorious Temple of Heaven where you can mingle with the locals and watch or participate as they practise Tai Chi, dance or play cards. Next, take a leisurely stroll in a traditional hutong neighbourhood and visit a family at home, to learn about life living in the hutongs. Later, head to Beijing's symbolic heart, Tiananmen Square, before entering the sprawling magnificence of the Forbidden City to explore this complex full of imperial riches.

  4. 4

    Travel To Xian

    Board the bullet train to the ancient city of Xian. Upon arrival, enjoy some time at leisure at Xian's Muslim Quarter, where you will find an array of food stalls selling a wealth of flavours. In the evening, enjoy a traditional Shui Jiao dumpling dinner and a lively Tang Dynasty dance show.

  5. 5

    Terracotta Warriors

    After their fortuitous discovery in the 1970s, the Terracotta Army of China’s first Emperor, Qin Shi Huang, has intrigued visitors ever since. Spend the morning viewing the enigmatic ranks of life-sized warriors, followed by a visit to the workshop of the craftsmen who recreate them. Later, stroll on the beautifully preserved 14th century city walls that enclose Xian’s old town and visit a local brewery for a refreshing beer tasting.

  6. 6

    Fly To Guilin

    Today, transfer to the airport and fly to Guilin, best known for its incredible natural landscapes. Upon arrival, stroll around Zhengyang Pedestrian Street and the picturesque Ronghu Lake and admire the Sun and Moon Pagodas – two towering examples of traditional Chinese-Buddhist architecture.

  7. 7

    Cruise the Li River

    Take a relaxed 4-hour cruise along the Li River to the charming town of Yangshuo, where you will spend 1 night. Around every river bend is a view to take your breath away as jagged peaks loom over rural scenes of lush greenery, grazing buffalos and local fishermen. In Yangshuo, enjoy some time strolling along West Street and visit the local markets.

  8. 8

    Visit the Reed Flute Caves

    Begin the day exploring Yangshuo's stunning countryside, then return to Guilin via Reed Flute Cave to admire its vibrant stalagmites and stalactites.

  9. 9

    Fly To Shanghai

    Today, fly from Guilin to the cosmopolitan city of Shanghai.

  10. 10

    Explore Shanghai

    Today's explorations include the traditional Yu Garden, a stroll through the old town and learning about the age-old silk production process at a silk factory. Enjoy time at leisure to explore the Bund and Nanjing Road. This evening view the city from the Huangpu River on a panoramic cruise.

  11. 11

    Goodbye China, Hello Japan

    It’s time to say goodbye to China and hello to Japan! Fly to the vibrant city of Osaka.

  12. 12

    Osaka Castle

    Explore Osaka Castle, take a short cruise along the Yodogawa River and stroll through vibrant Dotonbori, a restaurant mecca, where you can sample local delicacies for lunch. The remainder of the day is free for you to explore this fascinating city.

  13. 13

    Discover Okayama & Kurashiki

    Transfer by bullet train to Okayama and visit Koraku-en Garden, one of the three great gardens of Japan. Continue to Kurashiki to explore the beautifully-preserved Bikan Historical Quarter, where the streets along the banks of the Kurashiki River are lined with white-walled kominka (traditional houses). Continue to Hiroshima, a vibrant and forward-thinking city.

  14. 14

    Explore Hiroshima & Miyajima

    Hop on a ferry to the holy island of Miyajima and visit Itsukushima Shrine. Return to Hiroshima and find a moment to reflect at the Peace Memorial Park and Museum, paying homage to the victims of the 1945 atomic bombing. Later, ascend to the observation deck of Orizuru Tower and enjoy the panoramic views.

  15. 15

    Travel To Kyoto

    Transfer by bullet train to Kyoto. Capital for 1,000 years this enchanting city is the epitome of traditional Japan. Visit Ryoan-ji Temple, home to Japan’s most famous Zen garden and Kinkaku-ji Temple, also known as the ‘Golden Pavilion’.

  16. 16

    Explore Kyoto

    Visit Fushimi Inari Shrine, remarkable for its 10,000 torii gates and then head to Nishiki Market, also known as ‘Kyoto’s Kitchen’ with its lively open-air market specialising in all things food! Also visit a restored wooden Japanese townhouse to experience the rituals of a tea ceremony and try your hand at the traditional art of origami.

  17. 17

    Bullet Train To Hakone

    Transfer by bullet train to Hakone. Upon arrival, enjoy a boat trip on Lake Ashi before riding the Komagatake Ropeway cable car. Savour views of the surrounding landscape and weather permitting, the breathtaking cone of Mount Fuji. Later, continue to Tokyo, Japan’s capital city.

  18. 18

    Contrasts of Tokyo

    Tokyo is the ultimate 24-hour city, but look behind its frantic, high-tech frontage and you will find plenty of tranquil backstreets and old temples to explore. Begin at the observation deck of the 634-metre Skytree, before wandering through the old district of Asakusa. Stop to explore the ancient Buddhist Senso-ji Temple and drive past the Imperial Palace Plaza. End your tour with a dinner cruise on Tokyo Bay.

  19. 19

    Fly Tokyo To Australia

    Days 19–20

    Fly to Australia, arriving home the same or following day.

What you get for the price

Inclusions & exclusions

What’s included

  • International flights and current taxes (excluded if a land only option is selected).
  • Domestic transportation.
  • Touring with guides and entrance fees.
  • 3 – 4 star accommodation.
Where you’ll stay

Accommodation

  • Mercure Beijing Downtown
  • Lanxi International Hotel
  • Lijiang Waterfall Hotel
  • Grand Rezen Hotel
  • DoubleTree by Hilton Pudong
  • Hotel Plaza
  • Rihga Royal Hotel Hiroshima
  • Rihga Royal Hotel Kyoto
  • Sunshine City Prince Hotel
From the operator

Common questions about this voyage

How long is this journey?
This itinerary runs for 20 days and 18 nights.
When can I travel?
Departures are currently scheduled between 20 Oct 2026 and 25 Nov 2028, subject to live availability.
Are there different departure options?
Yes, multiple departures may be available depending on your preferred travel period.
Can I travel solo?
Solo pricing may be available on selected departures, and final options can be confirmed at enquiry.
Are discounts available?
Seasonal or loyalty discounts may be available on selected departures at the time of enquiry.
Ready to lock in?

Book this rail journey

Send us an enquiry and a consultant will be in touch, or call 1300 414 198 for personal help choosing a departure.

Enquire about this rail journey
The fine print

Terms & conditions

Read the operator’s full booking conditions
  • Flight Inclusive rates only: These include airline fuel surcharge and taxes. Correct as of 1 June 2026. Please note supplements may apply if lead in economy rates are not available.
  • Tipping is generally not part of the culture in Japan; however, you may wish to tip your National Escort at your discretion. For guidelines on tipping in China see below. Customary tipping amount of approximately RMB520 per person (AU$113) is paid locally in China.
  • Depending on airline schedules, you may depart and/or arrive on Day 2. Extra nights' accommodation (pre or post tour) or stopovers may be required at an additional cost.
  • Flight Inclusive rates only: Based on departures from Sydney, Melbourne, Brisbane, Adelaide & Perth. Departures from other cities and flight upgrades available on request.
  • Please note: cherry blossoms & autumn leaves are weather dependent and it is not guaranteed that they will be in bloom at the time of your arrival.
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Travel at 60 Social Getaways

Travel further when you're not travelling alone

Our Social Getaways are small-group holidays designed especially for over-60s Australians who want the freedom of a great trip without the work of planning every detail. A Travel at 60 host travels with the group, the operator handles the logistics, and you get to focus on the bit that matters — the people, the places, and the stories you'll bring home.

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From (twin) $13,780 pp
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Enquire