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Cruise · Wendy Wu Tours · 18 nights

Charms of China

  • International flights and current taxes included
  • Four-star accommodation throughout the journey
  • Touring with guides and entrance fees covered
From
$10,090 pp twin share
Was $10,590 pp
$11,235 pp solo share
18 nights
Enquire
Cruise Snapshot
18 Nights

A journey through China's imperial history, dramatic mountain landscapes, Yangtze River cruise and rural ethnic villages, ending in Shanghai

  • Imperial Beijing, Forbidden City and Great Wall walk
  • Terracotta Warriors and ancient Xian Muslim Quarter
  • Zhangjiajie peaks, glass elevator and Tianmen Mountain cable car

Trip Details

Departs
31 August 2027
Returns
11 November 2028
Embarks
Operator
Wendy Wu Tours

Discover China’s many contrasts, from its ancient imperial history and world-famous landmarks to the towering peaks of Zhangjiajie and the breathtaking landscapes and rich ethnic cultures of Guizhou. Enjoy a cruise along the mighty Yangtze River and venture off the beaten track to discover traditional village life, fascinating local customs and the diverse cultures of rural China, before finishing in the vibrant metropolis of Shanghai.

When & how much

Departures & Pricing

Departs
31 August 2027
Returns 11 November 2028
Returns
11 November 2028
Duration
18 nights
From pp twin share
$10,090 pp
Was $10,590 pp
From pp solo cabin
$11,235 pp
  • 31 Aug 2027 - 18 Sep 2027
    Land only: from $8,890 pp twin share / $10,035 pp sole use
    Flight inclusive: from $10,090 pp twin share / $11,235 pp sole use *
  • 12 Oct 2027 - 30 Oct 2027
    Land only: from $8,890 pp twin share / $10,035 pp sole use
    Flight inclusive: from $10,090 pp twin share / $11,235 pp sole use *
  • 19 Oct 2027 - 06 Nov 2027
    Land only: from $8,890 pp twin share / $10,035 pp sole use
    Flight inclusive: from $10,090 pp twin share / $11,235 pp sole use *
  • 04 Apr 2028 - 22 Apr 2028
    Land only: from $9,890 pp twin share / $11,085 pp sole use
    Flight inclusive: from $11,090 pp twin share / $12,285 pp sole use *
  • 13 Apr 2028 - 01 May 2028
    Land only: from $9,290 pp twin share / $10,485 pp sole use
    Flight inclusive: from $10,490 pp twin share / $11,685 pp sole use *
  • 06 May 2028 - 24 May 2028
    Land only: from $9,890 pp twin share / $11,085 pp sole use
    Flight inclusive: from $11,090 pp twin share / $12,285 pp sole use *
  • 23 May 2028 - 10 Jun 2028
    Land only: from $9,890 pp twin share / $11,085 pp sole use
    Flight inclusive: from $11,090 pp twin share / $12,285 pp sole use *
  • 17 Aug 2028 - 04 Sep 2028
    Land only: from $9,890 pp twin share / $11,085 pp sole use
    Flight inclusive: from $11,090 pp twin share / $12,285 pp sole use *
  • 12 Sep 2028 - 30 Sep 2028
    Land only: from $9,890 pp twin share / $11,085 pp sole use
    Flight inclusive: from $11,090 pp twin share / $12,285 pp sole use *
  • 12 Oct 2028 - 30 Oct 2028
    Land only: from $9,290 pp twin share / $10,485 pp sole use
    Flight inclusive: from $10,490 pp twin share / $11,685 pp sole use *
  • 24 Oct 2028 - 11 Nov 2028
    Land only: from $9,890 pp twin share / $11,085 pp sole use
    Flight inclusive: from $11,090 pp twin share / $12,285 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 Beijing, China's historical capital. Depending on your time of arrival, the rest of the day is yours to start soaking up the local culture.

  2. 2

    Imperial Beijing

    This morning, visit Beijing's symbolic heart, Tiananmen Square, before exploring the magnificent Forbidden City, home to centuries of imperial history and treasures. Continue to the Temple of Heaven, a stunning example of traditional Chinese architecture. This evening, enjoy a delicious traditional Peking duck dinner.

  3. 3

    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 both the wall itself and the dramatic scenery that it crosses. You will then have an opportunity to visit a jade factory, where you have the opportunity to buy a small handcrafted piece. Enjoy the afternoon strolling through the idyllic gardens of the Summer Palace and admire the traditional Chinese landscapes and exquisite architecture.

  4. 4

    Ancient Xian

    Board the bullet train to Xian, the ancient former capital. Take a walking tour of the narrow and winding streets of the lively Muslim Quarter and gain an insight into the city's fascinating culture and significance as the start of the Silk Road. In the evening, enjoy a dumpling dinner and Tang Dynasty dancing 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 and visit the workshop to see where they are intricately recreated. Return to Xian and round off the day with a refreshing beer tasting at a local brewery.

  6. 6

    Fly to Zhangjiajie

    Fly to Zhangjiajie, where breathtaking landscapes of towering sandstone pillars and lush forests await. On arrival, visit Huanglong Cave, an impressive underground wonderland of vast caverns, dramatic stalactites and underground rivers.

  7. 7

    Discover Zhangjiajie

    Begin the day with a ride in the remarkable Bailong glass elevator. Embedded into the mountain, the elevator soars up the mountain side to a towering height of 326 metres in as little as two minutes! Soak up the amazing views of the 'First Bridge under the Sun' and Hallelujah Mountain. Continue to Emperor Mountain and Helong Park before taking a cable car down.

  8. 8

    Tianmen Mountain

    Soar up the heights of Tianmen Mountain in the world's longest cable car, a 7-kilometre journey taking approximately 40-minutes. Atop the Mountain, marvel at Tianmen Cave, nicknamed 'Heaven's Door', standing proudly at the top of 999 steep steps and take a thrilling walk along a glass skywalk, aptly named the 'Walk of Faith'.

  9. 9

    Board your cruise

    Drive 4-hours to Yichang where you will board your Yangtze River cruise vessel for the next four-nights.

  10. 10

    Yangtze River Cruise

    Days 10–12

    A man-made marvel, the Three Gorges Dam showcases this massive feat of engineering. But as you cruise upstream nature takes over, revealing some of the world's most dramatic scenery. Over the next three days prepare for one breathtaking panorama after another, take a side trip to the attractive Shennong or Goddess Stream and enjoy various shore excursions.

  11. 13

    Zhaoxing Dong Village

    Disembark from your cruise vessel in Chongqing and board a bullet train to Congjiang, in Guizhou Province. Continue to Zhaoxing Dong Village, one of China’s largest Dong settlements. This large and well-preserved Dong village, considered one of the most beautiful villages in China, gives a fascinating glimpse into the life and culture of this ethnic minority people.

  12. 14

    Xijiang

    Explore the beautiful Tangan Rice Terraces, taking in the sweeping views of layered rice fields and surrounding mountains. Then drive to Xijiang Miao Village, where you’ll enjoy a traditional Miao lunch accompanied by the famous “Mountain & River” rice wine-pouring ceremony.

  13. 15

    Guizhou Ethnic Villages

    Discover Guizhou’s ethnic heritage with visits to Langde Miao Village, where you’ll enjoy a traditional music and dance performance, Shiqiao Papermaking Village to see handmade paper being produced, and Qingman Embroidery Village to admire intricate Miao embroidery, before continuing to Guiyang.

  14. 16

    Huajiang Canyon Bridge & Waterfall

    Today, visit two of Guizhou’s most notable attractions. Drive to Huajiang Canyon Bridge, the world’s highest bridge, standing 625 metres above the Huajiang Grand Canyon before continuing on to Huangguoshu Waterfall, one of China’s most famous waterfalls.

  15. 17

    Fly to Shanghai

    Transfer to Guiyang Airport and fly to the cosmopolitan city of Shanghai, also known as the ‘Paris of the East’. On arrival, transfer to the city and enjoy a cruise along the Huangpu River, offering views of Shanghai's iconic waterfront.

  16. 18

    Explore Shanghai

    Shanghai is China’s great metropolis, where east and west collide on streets lined with futuristic skyscrapers and 10th-century temples. Today’s explorations include the Yu Garden, a silk mill, and the quaint old town before admiring the colonial architecture along the Bund. This evening, scale the heights of Jin Mao Tower for incredible views of the city.

  17. 19

    Depart Shanghai

    Days 19–20

    Transfer to the airport for your flight back 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.
  • 4* accommodation.
  • Domestic transportation.
  • Touring with guides and entrance fees.
Where you’ll stay

Accommodation

  • Mercure Beijing Downtown
  • Lanxi International Hotel
  • Zhangjiajie Expert Village Sunshine Courtyard Hotel
  • Victoria Yangtze River Cruise
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 31 Aug 2027 and 11 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 cruise

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 cruise
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 November 2026. Please note supplements may apply if lead in economy rates are not available.
  • Customary tipping amount of approximately RMB 1206 (2027), RMB 1240 (2028) 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.
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