China: Winter Wonderland
Embrace the magic this Christmas with a once-in-a-lifetime adventure as China transforms into a winter wonderland and unique blend of cultures.
Begin your festive journey in Shanghai, where Christmas markets and the mesmerising lights of the city twinkle, and dining experiences offer a fusion of flavours. Head to Chengdu for a heart-warming encounter with giant pandas and a sizzling Sichuan hot pot. In Xian, uncover the secrets of the Terracotta Warriors, immerse yourself in a Tang Dynasty dancing performance, and indulge in a dumpling banquet.
Wrap up the year in the picturesque Gubei Watertown, nestled against the backdrop of the Great Wall, and welcome the New Year with a glass of champagne atop a secluded section of the wall. Step into the enchanting world of the annual Harbin Ice and Snow Festival, one of the oldest and largest in the world, where intricate sculptures and snowy landscapes come together to create a winter wonderland like no other.
Champagne on the Great Wall - Tick off one of the Wonders of the World from your bucket list with a champagne toast atop the remote Jinshanling section of the Great Wall, ushering in the New Year in style.
Terracotta Warriors Workshop - Visit a busy workshop where craftsmen create replicas of the famous Terracotta Warriors and watch them going about their age-old craft with astonishing speed and dexterity.
China's Gastronomical Delights - Indulge in a culinary adventure with China's finest delicacies, savoring delights like Shui Jiao dumplings, Sichuan hot pot, and the iconic Peking Duck.
Shanghai (2N) - Chengdu (2N) - Xian (2N) - Beijing (3N) - Gubei (1N) - Harbin (3N)
- International flights and current taxes (prices may vary depending on departure city)
- All Meals (refer to itinerary)
- Breakfasts: 13 /Lunches: 12 /Dinners: 13
- Domestic transportation
- Touring with guides and entrance fees
- 3-4 star accommodation
Day 1: Arrive To Shanghai
Fly to cosmopolitan city of Shanghai, also known as the 'Paris of the East'. Depending on your time of arrival, the rest of the day is yours to start soaking up the local culture.
Includes: Dinner
Day 2: Christmas Day In Shanghai
Today's Christmas Day explorations start with the peaceful Yu Gardens and then the atmospheric alleys of the old town. Admire the magnificent colonial architecture along the Huangpu River with a stroll along the Bund before visiting a silk factory. Enjoy your lunch at the renowned Lost Heaven, one of Shanghai's must-try restaurants inspired by indigenous recipes and cooking techniques from the Yunnan region. Later, wander through one of the city's festive Christmas markets, then cruise on the mighty Huangpu River for stunning views of the Shanghai skyline. This evening, enjoy a German-style feast.
Includes: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Day 3: Shanghai To Chengdu
This morning, explore Xintiandi with its 1920's style shikumen buildings. Then transfer to the airport for your flight to Chengdu, capital of Sichuan Province and home of the Giant Panda.
Includes: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Day 4: Chengdu
Start your day with a visit to Chengdu's renowned Panda Conservation Centre, where you can see and learn about China's celebrated bear. Later, spend 1-2 hours sightseeing around People's Park, visiting a teahouse and the famous Matchmaker's Corner where parents look for suitable suitors for their children. Tonight, enjoy a traditional Sichuanese hot pot meal.
Includes: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Day 5: Chengdu To Xian
Today, board your bullet train to the former ancient capital of Xian. This evening, dine on a delicious Shui Jiao dumpling banquet and watch a performance of Tang Dynasty dancing.
Includes: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Day 6: Xian
Visit one of the most important archaeological discoveries of the 20th century: the Terracotta Warriors. The figures were created over 2,000 years ago to accompany Emperor Qin Shihuang into the afterlife. Afterwards, visit the Xian Art Ceramics and Lacquer Exhibition Workshop to see smaller models of the warriors being made. Later, stroll on the beautifully preserved 14th century city walls that enclose Xian's old town.
Includes: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Day 7: Xian To Beijing
Transfer to the train station and take the speedy bullet train to Beijing, China's eminent capital city. In the afternoon, explore the Hutongs and have dinner with a local family.
Includes: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Day 8: New Year's Eve In Guibei Watertown
In the morning explore the Summer Palace, once a holiday retreat of the Qing emperors, before travelling to the charming Gubei Watertown, a beautifully recreated ancient town nestled against the backdrop of the Simatai section of the Great Wall, and enjoy the afternoon at leisure. You may wish to wander the town's canals, relax at a hot spring resort, or get cozy at a local teahouse. As the sun goes down, soar up to the heights of the Great Wall by cable car and watch a series of illuminations light up this ancient wonder. Stroll along the top before returning to the town to farewell the year with a delicious New Years Eve dinner.
Includes: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Day 9: Gubei To Beijing
Enjoy a leisurely morning then get ready for a once-in-a-lifetime walk on the Jinshanling section of the Great Wall. Toast the New Year with a glass of champagne atop the wall. Jinshanling is much less frequented by tourists than other parts of the Wall. The stark, yet magnificent surroundings allow you to put yourself in the shoes of those who walked this incredible edifice hundreds of years ago. Return back to Beijing by road and enjoy an evening at leisure.
Includes: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Day 10: Beijing - Harbin
Head to Beijing's symbolic heart, Tiananmen Square, and stroll into the sprawling magnificence of the Forbidden City. Entering through the Gate of Supreme Harmony, you will find a complex full of imperial riches. Transfer to the train station for your bullet train journey to Harbin, home to the Harbin International Ice Festival.
Includes: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Day 11: Harbin
Today you will visit the Shong Hua River, where you can observe ice water swimming, ice windsurfing and other amazing winter activities. Head across to Sun Island, located in the middle of the river. This is a popular outdoor retreat for locals to simply relax, picnic and enjoy this 38 square kilometre landscaped parklands. This evening you can mingle with people from all over the world to celebrate the joyous Ice Lantern Festival and admire thousands of spectacular ice carved animals, plants and buildings all brought to life in the beautifully illuminated festival grounds.
Includes: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Day 12: Harbin
This morning enjoy the festivities visiting Ice and Snow World. Here you will view the many sculptures on display. The inspiration for these sculptures is usually derived from traditional Chinese fairy tales or world famous monuments. There is a variety of optional activities on offer at Ice and Snow World, including the ice maze, ice bars, skating (at your own expense) and if time permits you will have free time to choose how you like to spend your time here. Later you will tour the city centre, filled with grand European-style buildings, including Central Avenue and Sophia Cathedral.
Includes: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Day 13: Harbin To Beijing
Transfer to the train station for your return bullet train journey to Beijing. This evening, farewell your group and tuck into a delicious local dish, Peking duck.
Includes: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Day 14-15: Depart Beijing
Transfer to the airport and fly back to Australia arriving home the following day.
Includes: Breakfast
* The above itinerary is subject to change.
- 24 Dec 2024 - 06 Jan 2025
from $8,880 pp twin share / $10,670 pp solo - 24 Dec 2025 - 06 Jan 2026
from $9,480 pp twin share / $11,330 pp solo - 24 Dec 2026 - 06 Jan 2027
from $10,480 pp twin share / $12,480 pp solo
Advertised pricing subject to departure date and availability. Please call 1300 414 198 to confirm up-to-the-moment availability and pricing.
Hongqiao Jin Jiang Hotel - Shanghai
Located in the heart of bustling Shanghai and nearby airport, the Jin Jiang Hongqiao Hotel welcomes visitors to a luxurious and relaxing retreat from the city. Guests will have easy access to the major metropolitan area as well as the Shanghai Public Library and Honggiao Golf Club.
Xin Liang Hotel - Chengdu
The 4-star Xin Liang Hotel is centrally located in the Chunxi Road Business District, adjacent to Tianfu Square, making it an ideal starting point for exploring Chengdu. The hotel draws inspiration from Bashu culture, seamlessly blending elegant and modern elements, providing a tranquil oasis in the bustling city. Featuring Wi-Fi and a continental breakfast, the property also provides rooms with soundproof windows, a work desk, refrigerator, and a flat-screen TV featuring satellite channels.
Dajing Castle Hotel - Xian
Formerly known as Grand Park, the Dajing Castle hotel is a 4-star hotel located in the heart of Xi'an's Beilin district. Blending traditional and contemporary elements, the guestrooms boast comfortable interiors that exude style and elegance. Each room is equipped with modern amenities, including a flat-screen TV with cable channels, a minibar, and a safety deposit box. The ensuite bathroom is well-appointed with bathrobes and slippers for added convenience. The hotel features Wi-Fi, a fitness center, sauna, massage service, buffet breakfast and atrium bar.
Mercure Beijing Downtown - Beijing
The 4-star Mercure Beijing Downtown is very well connected across the city, with easy access to the city centre and multiple transport links. The elegant and spacious guests rooms offer free internet access and satelite TV.
Gubei Water Town Hotel - Gubeikou Water Town
A short walk from the scenic spot and Gubei Water Town entrance, the 4-star Watertown Hotel offers an exceptional welcome with views of the Great Wall. The spa, along with an indoor and outdoor pool make for the perfect place to unwind, while the modern rooms are well- appointed with large windows, air-conditioning and Wi-Fi.
Harbin Yarrow Hotel - Harbin
Yarrow Hotel in Harbin is located close to Harbin’s local attractions, including the Harbin Amusement Park. Modern rooms include satellite television, air conditioning, a minibar and tea making facilities. The en-suite also has complimentary toiletries. The onsite restaurant provides Chinese and Western buffet breakfast for every guest.
Travel at 60 and supplier booking conditions apply.
- Flight Inclusive rates only: These include airline fuel surcharge and taxes. Correct as of 1 June 2024. Please note supplements may apply if lead in economy rates are not available.
- Customary tipping amount of approximately RMB840 (AU$183) 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.