This 18-day Ultimate China Adventure Group Tour takes you from the neon buzz of Hong Kong to the imperial grandeur of Beijing , packed with epic landscapes, culture, and unforgettable moments. Kick off with sunset views from Victoria Peak and street food at Temple Street Night Market before heading into Yangshuo’s dreamlike karst mountains for cycling, kayaking, bamboo rafting, and countryside life. Cruise through Chongqing’s glowing skyline on the Yangtze and explore its wild mix of futuristic monorails and hidden cave districts, then dive into Chengdu to meet giant pandas, learn Mandarin basics, and feast on fiery Sichuan hot pot.
Continue to Xi’an to walk ancient city walls and stand face-to-face with the legendary Terracotta Warriors. Train onward to Shaolin Temple for kung fu training, then experience spiritual hikes and historic grottoes before arriving at the iconic Great Wall – here you’ll hike and even sleep under the stars. Finish in Beijing exploring the Forbidden City, local hutongs, and vibrant markets. A full-throttle journey of iconic sights, local culture, and lifelong memories.
Arrive in Hong Kong and drop your bags before heading straight out to explore what the city has to offer. Cruise across Victoria Harbour on the iconic Star Ferry, then ride the tram up to Victoria Peak for stunning sunset views. Stroll along the Avenue of Stars and finish the night at Temple Street Night Market, packed with food, shopping, and buzzing atmosphere.
After a short briefing, travel by high-speed train to Guilin before continuing to Yangshuo. Settle into your new surroundings and enjoy a relaxed evening exploring this laid-back riverside town. Head into town and join your travel buddies for your first meal together in China. Let the adventure begin!
Start the day with an optional Chinese cooking class before kayaking along the scenic Li River, surrounded by dramatic karst mountains. Alternatively, unwind with a traditional hot cupping session, an ancient therapy to reduce tension and hike up your energy.
Cycle through peaceful countryside before drifting down the Yulong River on a bamboo raft with incredible views. Later, visit Moon Hill and nearby caves for mud baths and hot springs. In the evening, enjoy a karaoke evening or a night out on the town with the group.
Try rock climbing on Yangshuo’s famous karst cliffs or visit a local farming village, also the home of one of your guides, for an authentic glimpse into rural life.
Travel to Chongqing via Guilin, drop your bags at base for a couple of nights, and take to the water for a night cruise along the Yangtze River. See the mega-city all lit up from the water and explore the lantern-lit streets of Hongya Cave, filled with delicious food stalls and vibrant nightlife.
Visit Liziba Station and the famous monorail that passes through a residential building, explore historic air raid shelters, and stop by the amazing People’s Great Hall. Enjoy panoramic city views of Chaotianment Dock, where the river Yangtze meets the Jialing, and climb up to Eling Park. In the evening, experience Chongqing’s buzzing nightlife in the lively Guanyinqiao district.
Journey to Chengdu and settle in before exploring People’s Park and the lively Kuanzhai Alley, known for its street food and traditional architecture.
Visit the world-famous Giant Panda Breeding and Research Centre – the world’s largest home to these beautiful animals and watch them up close. You may even spot a few little-ones! Later, learn some Mandarin words and phrases with your group leader and optionally enjoy a traditional Sichuan opera performance, with face-changing masks, fire breathing and gripping music.
Take a trip to see the giant Leshan Buddha, carved into a cliff face and looking out onto the river. Back in Chengdu, enjoy a famous, fiery Sichuan hot pot dinner and see where the night takes you.
Travel by train to Xi’an and explore this historic city. Cycle along the ancient city walls for an incredible view, or wander through the vibrant Muslim Quarter filled with street food and local culture – not forgetting the Bell and Drum Towers! Grab yourself a street food feast and mooch around the Silk Road Market.
Visit one of China’s greatest archaeological wonders — the Terracotta Warriors. Seeing the life-sized soldiers guarding China’s first emperor’s mausoleum is going to be one of the highlights of China! Spend the afternoon exploring at your leisure or visit the Big Goose Pagoda’s music and light show in the evening.
Catch the bus to Dengfeng and take part in a Kung Fu class led by a local master from the legendary Shaolin temple. After you’ve tried your best, watch the masters in action in an impressive martial arts performance. Enjoy your evening by building on your Mandarin skills in another lesson, and maybe finish the night off with a pub quiz.
Opt to discover the home of Kung Fu in the Shaolin Temple or hike to Dharma Cove to explore this spiritual place for Buddhist pilgrims. Or you could decide to explore the Longmen Grottoes, home to thousands of ancient carved Buddhas. You have a free night this evening. An early start awaits tomorrow!
Ride the bullet train to Beijing and head straight to the Great Wall of China. Hike along a quieter, less-restored section before spending the night nearby on a quiet segment, soaking in this once-in-a-lifetime experience under the stars. Have another Mandarin lesson around the campfire. (Between October and April, we stay in a cosy guest house near the wall instead of camping, due to extreme cold.)
Wake up to incredible views of sunrise from the Great Wall, before returning to the city. Spend the day exploring Beijing your way – from the galleries of the art districts to the imperial gardens of the Summer Palace. The choice is yours!
Have a wander around Tiananmen Square and the Forbidden City, one of China’s most iconic landmarks. Climb up Jingshan Park and check out the palace from above. In the evening, maybe try an unreal Chinese circus show or a traditional Peking Roast Duck dinner fit for an emperor.
Wrap up your adventure with a visit to the Temple of Heaven or explore the historic hutongs and local markets of the Nanluo district. Maze your way through the siheyuan courtyards and stop off at a few cafes, bars and handicraft shops on the way. Say goodbye to your travel crew and reflect on an unforgettable journey across China.
To make your booking, choose your departure date and any optional extras you'd like. Not sure about extras, or need extra accommodation before or after your tour? No worries, just let us know later by email.
How the price works: the tour price is shown in the booking panel, then a 1.75% online booking fee is added at checkout — that's the price you see on the tour page. You'll see both lines before you pay. No card surcharges, and nothing is added after that.
Once you've booked, we'll send your booking confirmation along with important information about your tour.
Travelling solo? Great! Most of the people you meet on tour will also be on a solo adventure! If you are curious as to who you could be travelling with, or want to make some friends before arriving, join our Travel Community and reach out to your potential new travel mates!
Booking with ULTIMATE is easy! We take payments securely via Mastercard or Visa Credit and Debit Card and we will charge you in Australian Currency (AUD). Your deposit is flexible and if you can no longer travel, you can save your deposit for a later trip or destination if you notify us 30 days before your scheduled tour date.
Making your booking is easy. Choose a date below, and if you have any questions about extras, deposits, or meeting other travellers, just get in touch — we're happy to help.
Where does the tour start and finish?
Starts in Hong Kong and ends in Beijing on Day 18, beginning Mondays at 4:30pm and ending at 10am. Recommend arriving on the morning of Day 1 or booking a pre-tour night at the Hong Kong hostel. Recommend flying out of Beijing International Airport at the end.
Who will I be travelling with?
Like-minded travellers from all over the world; no more than 20 others.
Do I need vaccinations?
Consult your GP. Japanese Encephalitis isn’t needed for Beijing but recommended for extended time in rural areas. Organise vaccines at least 4-6 weeks before your trip.
Can I book extra nights?
Yes, add additional nights before or after your trip at checkout, or get in touch to chat with the crew.
Can you help me organise flights & insurance?
They recommend Skyscanner.com for flight comparisons and offer a recommended travel insurance provider.
Do I need a visa?
Citizens of Australia, NZ, UK, Canada and many EU countries can enter China visa-free for up to 30 days; check specific requirements. China does not accept Emergency Travel Documents — keep your passport safe. Visa rules can change without notice.
What happens if my flight is delayed?
Let them know as soon as possible via call or email with updated flight details so the airport transfer can be rearranged; the Welcome Booklet has the relevant contact number.
Where will we be staying?
A combination of hostels, and an epic night of camping or a guesthouse on or next to the Great Wall.
Is airport transfer included on arrival?
No, not included, but can be added at extra cost for flights out of Beijing Daxing or Beijing Capital Airport (not available from Hong Kong International Airport). Provide flight details at least 14 days before the tour starts.
How can I access my money while travelling and how much should I bring?
Easy to get by for $450-$600 for the trip covering food, souvenirs and fun (budget the higher end). Bring a debit/travel money card for ATM withdrawals, or exchange local currency on arrival; withdraw small amounts at a time.
When is the best time to travel to China?
A year-round destination, but spring (April-June) and autumn (September-October) offer the most comfortable conditions on the Hong Kong to Beijing route. Winter (November-February) is quieter, offering unique views like the Great Wall under snow.
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