Wendy Wu
Absolutely everything is take care of for you so you can just sit back, relax and enjoy the adventure. Their tours include return flights, all hotels, all meals, all transport in destination, all sightseeing and entrance fees, and even visas. Plus, you’ll be looked after every step of the way by one of their award-winning National Escorts who will show you the delights of their homeland.
Book your Wendy Wu escorted tour with Althams Travel and you can Save up to £1,500pp across all of their destinations including Japan, China, Southeast Asia, Central Asia, the Middle East, Africa, Europe and South America!
Days 1 - 2 Fly overnight to Beijing
Fly overnight 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.
- Dinner
Day 3 Imperial Beijing
This morning, 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. Take a leisurely stroll through the narrow alleys of the warren-like hutongs and learn more about living in this traditional area. Later, soak up the harmonious ambience of the Temple of Heaven, an orderly oasis in a bustling urban landscape, where you can mingle with the locals and watch or participate as they practise Tai Chi, dance or play cards. This evening, sit down to a traditional dinner of Peking duck.
- Breakfast
- Lunch
- Dinner
Day 4 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. Jade is revered throughout China, it is said to bring fortune and prosperity to those who wear it. Enjoy the afternoon strolling through the idyllic gardens of the Summer Palace and admire the traditional Chinese landscapes and exquisite architecture. This evening, enjoy an optional kung fu show.
- Breakfast
- Lunch
- Dinner
Day 5 Tang Dynasty Dancing
ly 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 feast and Tang Dynasty dancing show.
- Breakfast
- Lunch
- Dinner
Day 6 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 horses. Also visit the workshop to see where the warriors are intricately recreated in the style of their ancient counterparts and stroll on the beautifully preserved 14th-century city walls that enclose Xian's old town.
- Breakfast
- Lunch
- Dinner
Day 7 Board your cruise
Fly to Yichang and then travel by road to Maoping Dock to board your Yangtze River Cruise vessel.
- Breakfast
- Lunch
- Dinner
Days 8 - 10 Yangtze River Cruise
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.
- Breakfast
- Lunch
- Dinner
Day 11 Chongqing Panda House
Disembark from the cruise vessel and visit the Panda House in Chongqing. Later, board the bullet train to Guilin.
- Breakfast
- Lunch
- Dinner
Day 12 Li River Cruise
Take a relaxed cruise along the Li River to the charming town of Yangshuo. Around every river bend is a view to take your breath away as jagged karst peaks loom over rural scenes of lush greenery, grazing buffalo and local fishermen.
- Breakfast
- Lunch
- Dinner
Day 13 Yangshuo
Yangshuo sits in an exquisite rural location, surrounded by landscapes of emerald-green paddy fields and dramatic limestone karsts. Spend the morning exploring the countryside before returning to Guilin by road. Explore the impressive Reed Flute Cave and visit the South China Pearl Factory before stopping for a photo opportunity on the banks of the Li River to meet a cormorant fisherman.
- Breakfast
- Lunch
- Dinner
Day 14 Explore Shanghai
Take a walk around the picturesque Ronghu Lake and admire the Sun and Moon pagodas and then fly to the exuberant and cosmopolitan city of Shanghai. This evening, view the city from the Huangpu River on a panoramic cruise.
- Breakfast
- Lunch
- Dinner
Day 15 Discover Shanghai
Visit the charming Yu Garden, the old town and a silk factory and admire the colonial architecture with a stroll along the Bund. This evening, enjoy some tasty traditional Shanghainese cuisine.
- Breakfast
- Lunch
- Dinner
Day 16 Fly Shanghai to UK
Fly to the UK, arriving home the same or following day.
- Breakfast
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Fully Inclusive
Touring with Guides and entrance fees
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Included Meals
Breakfasts: 14 , Lunches: 13 , Dinners: 14
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Flights
International flights and current taxes
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Accommodation
14 nights in 4 star accommodation
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Cruise
Yangtze River Cruise, Li River Cruise, Huangpu River Cruise
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Group Tour
Max Group Size: 28
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Physical Rating 1
Walking, some steps and time on your feet
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Days 1 - 2 - Fly to Tokyo
- Dinner
Day 3 Tokyo City Tour
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,, the world's tallest tower, before wandering through the old district of Asakusa. Stop to seek out the tranquility of the ancient Buddhist Sensoji Temple, Tokyo's oldest. Next, drive by the Imperial Palace Plaza and later stroll through the classical landscapes of Hamarikyu Gardens. This evening, take a relaxed dinner cruise on Tokyo Bay for excellent city vistas.
- Breakfast
- Lunch
- Dinner
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Day 4 Mount Fuji
Take the super-fast bullet train to Odawara. Enjoy a boat trip on Lake Ashi for spectacular panoramas of this beautiful area before venturing up the Komagatake Ropeway. Next, ascend over 2,000 metres up Mount Fuji to the 5th Station, (weather permitting) and take in the breathtaking views over the Fuji Five Lakes area below.
- Breakfast
- Lunch
- Dinner
Days 5 Matsumoto Castle
Transfer to Matsumoto and explore the formidable 16th-century Matsumoto Castle. Stop at a Miso House to learn about the process of making this famous Japanese seasoning. Travel on to Takayama, nestled high in the mountainous Hida region, also known as the Japanese Alps.
- Breakfast
- Lunch
- Dinner
Day 6 Explore Takayama
Browse the local handicrafts and fresh produce at the Miyagawa morning market and wander past some of the lovely traditional houses. You'll also visit several of the excellent local museums – including the Festival Floats Museum, Kusakabe Folk Crafts Museum and Takayama Jinya. Also enjoy some free time in Kamisannomachi Street.
- Breakfast
- Lunch
- Dinner
Day 7 Shirakawago and Kanazawa
Get a glimpse of rural Japan at the UNESCO World Heritage-listed Shirakawago which is famous for its farmhouses built in the unique gassho-zukuri architectural style. Continue to Gokayama to have a go at washi paper making, then travel to Kanazawa and meander through the beautiful Kenrokuen Garden, one of the Three Great Gardens of Japan.
- Breakfast
- Lunch
- Dinner
Begin the day learning the process of making gold leaf. Next, stroll through traditional Higashi Chaya (Eastern Teahouse District), visiting Ochaya Shima – a historical geisha house. Later, journey to Kyoto. Capital for 1,000 years, until 1879, today Kyoto is the legacy of ancient Japan, full of tranquil temples, silk-clad geisha and sublime gardens.
- Breakfast
- Lunch
- Dinner
Day 9 Explore Kyoto
Start the day with a visit to Ryoanji, the 'temple of the peaceful dragon' and the famous Kinkakuji, also known as the 'Golden Pavilion'. In the afternoon, head to a restored Japanese wooden townhouse and try your hand at origami and enjoy the age-old rituals of a tea ceremony with a tea master.
- Breakfast
- Lunch
- Dinner
Day 10 Discover Nara
Visit Fushimi Inari Shrine, remarkable for its 10,000 vermilion torii gates. Continue to Nara, a relaxed and charming town virtually untouched by the ravages of modernity. Home to many archetypal pieces of early art and architecture, stroll through Nara Park to Todaiji Temple, meeting the resident sika deer en-route, before exploring Isuien Garden.
- Breakfast
- Lunch
- Dinner
Day 11 Koyasan
The holy mountain of Koyasan is home to over 100 monasteries nestled in a valley enclosed by peaks said to resemble a lotus flower. Arguably the most sacred mountain in all of Japan, Koyasan is the heart of Shingon Buddhism and the resting place of Japan's best known Buddhist, known as both Kukai and Kobo Daishi. Wander around Okunoin – a vast cemetery of 200,000 stupas and enjoy the tranquillity and spectacular views as you discover Kongobuji Temple and the Garan Temple Complex. Later, continue to Osaka.
- Breakfast
- Lunch
- Dinner
Day 12 Explore Osaka
Begin the day exploring Osaka Castle, which is one of Japan's most famous. Next, take a short cruise along the Yodogawa River and stroll through Dotonbori, a restaurant mecca, where you can sample the local delicacies for lunch. The remainder of the day is free for you to explore this fascinating city.
- Breakfast
- Lunch
- Dinner
Day 13 Fly Osaka to UK
Fly to the UK, arriving home the same or following day
- Breakfast
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Fully Inclusive
Touring with Guides and entrance fees
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Included Meals
Breakfasts: 11 , Lunches: 10 , Dinners: 11
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Flights
International flights and current taxes
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Accommodation
11 nights in 3+/4 star accommodation
- Group Tour
Max Group Size: 28
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Physical Rating 1
Walking, some steps and time on your feet
Days 1 - 2 Fly to Saigon
Fly overnight to Saigon, Vietnam's largest and most evocative city. Depending on your time of arrival, the rest of the day is yours to start soaking up the local culture.
- Dinner
Day 3 Discover Saigon
This morning, contemplate the struggles of guerrilla warfare at the Cu Chi Tunnels before returning to Saigon. This exuberant city is driving Vietnam forward into the modern world, but it is also a treasure trove of fascinating heritage. See the colonial Notre Dame Cathedral and visit the Central Post Office, the Reunification Palace, and the chilling War Remnants Museum.
- Breakfast
- Lunch
- Dinner
Day 4 Mekong Delta
Journey to Ben Tre to take a cruise on the Mekong. Paddle through the maze of palmlined canals and get a glimpse of daily life on the Mekong Delta. Enjoy a lunch of typical Mekong dishes. Make a stop at Vinh Trang Pagoda en route back to Saigon.
- Breakfast
- Lunch
- Dinner
Day 5 Journey to Hoi An
Fly to Danang and transfer to Hoi An. This afternoon take a walking tour of this charming town – a wonderfully laidback and wilfully traditional place, whose streets are a delight to wander. Visit an old merchant's house, Quan Cong Temple, the elaborate Japanese Bridge and the bustling market. Stop en route to visit Reaching Out, a social enterprise craft workshop, and watch the artisans at work.
- Breakfast
- Lunch
- Dinner
Day 6 Tra Que Village
Head out into the countryside to Tra Que, a small farming community that supplies many hotels and restaurants in the area with vegetables and herbs. Here you can enjoy the lush green countryside and stroll through the gardens to see the farmers at work. Later spend the afternoon at leisure back in Hoi An.
- Breakfast
- Lunch
- Dinner
Day 7 Imperial Hue
Leave Hoi An for Hue, taking a scenic route over the Hai Van Pass. The epitome of Vietnam's dynastic past, Hue is a dignified and scholarly city. Visit the imposing Imperial Citadel and Forbidden Purple City. The magnificent centrepiece of the Royal Empire, the citadel was extensively damaged during the Vietnam War. Visit the UNESCO World Heritage Royal Tomb of Minh Mang, a complex of 40 monuments set in surroundings of gardens and pools. Continue to the old Thien Mu Pagoda before taking a cruise on the Perfume River.
- Breakfast
- Lunch
- Dinner
Days 8 Fly to Hanoi
Fly to Hanoi. Take the afternoon at leisure or start your explorations of Vietnam's capital.
- Breakfast
- Lunch
- Dinner
Day 9 EXPLORE HANOI
Sightseeing today includes a wander through the Ho Chi Minh Quarter, where you'll visit Ho Chi Minh's Mausoleum (closed at certain times of year) and the Stilt House set in the gardens of the Presidential Palace. Also visit One Pillar Pagoda and the Confucian Temple of Literature. End the day's explorations with a cyclo tour through the Old Quarter and enjoy a flavourful Vietnamese coffee at a café overlooking Hoan Kiem Lake.
- Breakfast
- Lunch
- Dinner
Day 10 Halong Bay
Stay overnight on a traditionally designed boat on Halong Bay, cruising amongst the karst peaks on the tranquil green waters. A UNESCO World Heritage Site and a vision of awe-inspiring beauty, it isn't hard to see why it is one of Vietnam's most popular destinations. Dinner is included during your voyage.
- Breakfast
- Lunch
- Dinner
Day 11 Halong Bay - Hanoi
Rise early this morning for a beautiful sunrise over the bay. Return to Hanoi after brunch and later, attend The Quintessence of Tonkin show, a spectacular open-air performance celebrating the rich history of northern Vietnam.
- Breakfast
- Lunch
- Dinner
Day 12 Departure
Fly to the UK, arriving home the same or following day.
- Breakfast
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Fully Inclusive
Touring with Guides and entrance fees
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Included Meals
Breakfasts: 10 , Lunches: 9 , Dinners: 10
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Flights
International flights and current taxes
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Accommodation
10 nights in 4 star accommodation
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Cruise
Halong Bay Cruise
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Group Tour
Max Group Size: 28
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Physical Rating 1
Walking, some steps and time on your feet
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Days 1 - 2 Fly overnight to Kunming
Fly overnight to the relaxed city of Kunming, also known as the ‘City of Eternal Spring'.
Day 3 Discover the Stone Forest
This morning, meander through the formations of the UNESCO-listed Stone Forest. Visit Dianchi Lake and the Western Hills. Return to Kunming and tuck into local delicacy ‘Across the Bridge’ noodles for dinner. (B,L,D)
- Breakfast
- Lunch
- Dinner
Day 4 Travel to Dali
Drive to Dali, a charming town that offers a peek into bygone China. Wander the ancient quarter and see the magnificent Three Pagodas. (B,L)
- Breakfast
- Lunch
Day 5 Taoist Mountain Meditation
Weibaoshan is one of the Taoist religion’s most sacred mountains and has twenty temples dotted on its forested slopes. Take a scenic walk and discover a handful of these temples and meet with a Taoist priest who will introduce you to Taoist meditation techniques. (B,L)
- Breakfast
- Lunch
Day 6 Shaxi Ancient Town
Drive to Shaxi ancient town, nestled deep in the Himalayan foothills. Learn about the fascinating minority people who live in the area and enjoy a local lunch. Continue to Lijiang and spend the evening wandering the old town. (B,L)
- Breakfast
- Lunch
Day 7 Jade Dragon Snow Mountain
A magnificent mountain, the Jade Dragon Snow Mountain soars to 5,500 metres. Taking a chairlift, explore one of the stunning high meadows and enjoy the amazing vistas. Admire the fascinating Ming Dynasty frescoes at Baisha and see the intricate creations of the embroidery school. Next, meet a Shaman who will teach you to write the forgotten language of Dongba Pictograms. (B,L,D)
- Breakfast
- Lunch
- Dinner
Days 8 Tiger Leaping Gorge
Visit Black Dragon Pool Park for magnificent views of the Jade Dragon Snow Mountain. Journey to the 3,000-metre-deep Tiger Leaping Gorge. With its backdrop of snow-capped mountains, it is one of China's most extraordinary sights. Continue to the Tibetan monastery town of Zhongdian, also known as Shangri-La. Visit Dafo Temple and spend some free time exploring the old town. (B,L)
- Breakfast
- Lunch
Day 9 Rural Shangri-La
Visit Songzanlin Monastery before hiking 2-3 hours to Napa Hai. Here you are surrounded by towering mountains and lush grasslands brimming with flora and fauna. Next, visit a rural Tibetan-style village where you will learn about the villagers’ way of life, make butter tea and taste home-cooked dishes. (B,L,D)
- Breakfast
- Lunch
- Dinner
Day 10 Mystical Lhasa
Fly to Lhasa, the heart and soul of Tibet. The afternoon is free to relax and acclimatise to the altitude. (B,D)
- Breakfast
- Dinner
Day 11 Jokhang Temple & Barkhor Circuit
Wander around the Barkhor Circuit to see traditionally dressed locals, stalls of religious trinkets and prostrating pilgrims. Inside the Jokhang Temple, the devotion is palpable as queues of people worship in the flickering light of yak butter candles. There will also be a visit to Sera Monastery, one of the three great monasteries of Tibet, to witness the debating monks. Tonight, enjoy a Tibetan dinner and dance. (B,L,D)
- Breakfast
- Lunch
- Dinner
Day 12 Potala Palace
The Potala Palace is an architectural wonder, towering over the city. The former winter palace of the Dalai Lama, it houses thousands of rooms filled with old treasures. Next, explore Norbulingka, the summer residence of the Dalai Lama, set in parkland just outside the city. (B,L,D)
- Breakfast
- Lunch
- Dinner
Day 13 Shigatse
Travel across Tibet’s stark plains to Shigatse. Dominated by a fort reminiscent of the Potala, Shigatse is Tibet’s second city and the traditional seat of the Panchen Lama. Enjoy some free time to explore the local markets. (B,L,D)
- Breakfast
- Lunch
- Dinner
Day 14 New Tingri
Continue by road to New Tingri, admiring the awe-inspiring views of the mighty Himalayas as you go. (B,L,D)
- Breakfast
- Lunch
- Dinner
Day 15 Mount Everest
Rise early to make the final assault across the Gue-La Pass to Rongbuk, a monastic village festooned in colourful prayer flags. With Mount Everest dominating the horizon, stop by the world’s highest post office, then continue to Everest Base Camp Boundary Monument. Situated under the gaze of Everest’s north face, the views of the world’s highest peak are unsurpassed (weather permitting). A total of 1–2 hours will be spent on foot today. (B,L,D)
- Breakfast
- Lunch
- Dinner
Day 16 Everest Sunshine
Rise early to see a glorious sunrise over Everest (weather permitting) before returning to New Tingri. (B,L,D)
- Breakfast
- Lunch
- Dinner
Day 17 - 18 Shigatse & Gyantse
Return to Shigatse. The next day, visit Tashilhunpo Monastery and join the pilgrims on their evening ‘kora’ of the monastery. Continue to the pleasant town of Gyantse to visit the Gyantse Kumbum located inside the Pelkor Monastery. Visit a traditional folk house for some home brewed 'chang’. (B,L,D)
- Breakfast
- Lunch
- Dinner
Day 19 Tsedang
Travel along the Brahmaputra River to Tsedang. Visit Gangpo Ri, the ‘birthplace of the Tibetan people'. (B,L,D)
- Breakfast
- Lunch
- Dinner
Day 20 Yumbulhakang Palace
Perched on a hill over the Yarlung River, legend says that the ancient Yumbulhakang Palace was the first building in Tibet and the palace of the first Tibetan king. Continue to the Chang Chun Monastery and the King’s Tombs before returning to Lhasa. (B,L)
- Breakfast
- Lunch
Day 21 Chengdu
Fly to Chengdu in Sichuan Province. (B)
- Breakfast
Day 22 Chengdu Panda Reserve
Visit Chengdu’s famous Panda Conservation Centre, stroll around People’s Park, see Matchmaker’s Corner and stop by a traditional teahouse. In the evening, enjoy Sichuanese cuisine followed by an option to see a ‘facechanging’ show. (B,L,D)
- Breakfast
- Lunch
- Dinner
Day 23 Fly Chengdu to UK
Fly to the UK, arriving home the same or following day. (B)
- Breakfast
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Included Meals
Breakfasts: 21 , Lunches: 18 , Dinners: 14
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Flights
International flights and current taxes
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Accommodation
21 nights in 4 star accommodation
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Physical Rating 4
Extended walking. Physical activities on challenging terrain.
Days 1 - 2 Fly overnight to Seoul
Fly overnight to Seoul, the dazzling capital city of South Korea. Depending on your time of arrival, the rest of the day is yours to start soaking up the local culture. This evening meet your National Escort and fellow travellers to enjoy dinner at a local restaurant.
- Dinner
Day 3 Explore Seoul
A dynamic, 24-hour city, amongst the skyscrapers, nightlife districts and colossal shopping malls of Seoul there is an exceptional amount of culture and tradition, from busy teahouses to magnificent palaces. Start your day watching the Changing of the Guards ceremony, and then explore the Gyeongbok Palace. Next, learn to cook a delicious Korean classic -‘bibimbap’ in a cookery class which you'll get to eat for lunch. Also visit the UNESCO-listed Jongmyo Royal Shrine, and enjoy panoramic city views at the N Seoul Tower. After dinner, watch a non-verbal performance of Nanta – an award-winning show.
- Breakfast
- Lunch
- Dinner
Day 4 Visit Soswaewon Garden
Travel out of Seoul to the city and explore the bamboo forest of Juknokwon. Next, head to Damyang where you’ll discover the beauty of Soswaewon. This private garden built in the 16th century in the traditional style features essential elements to bring harmony, such as flowing water, trees and grasses. Continue to Gwangju, where you’ll spend some time discovering this artistic hub full of fascinating history.
- Breakfast
- Lunch
- Dinner
Days 5 Explore Seonamsa Temple
Head to Boseong, considered the best place in Korea to grow tea, and visit a green tea plantation, learning all about its production and enjoying a tasting. Continue to Suncheon for a stop at the 6th-century Seonamsa Temple. A UNESCO World Heritage Site, the temple grounds are also home to a beautiful arched stone bridge. Also visit Naganeupseong Fortress Village for a glimpse at a more traditional Korean lifestyle and a chance to take part in a handkerchief dyeing experience.
- Breakfast
- Lunch
- Dinner
Day 6 Travel to Busan
Head to Yeosu and ride the cable car over beautiful scenery and open water to Dolsan Island. Continue to Odongdo Island for more spectacular landscapes and take some time to appreciate the array of wild flowers that flourish here before travelling to the port city of Busan.
- Breakfast
- Lunch
- Dinner
Day 7 Discover Busan
The laidback to Seoul’s bustle, Busan is a city full of character and traditional features as well as mountains, beaches, temples and exquisite seafood. Start the day at the Jagalchi Fish Market then see the city from above at Busan Tower. Also browse the wares at Gukje Market. After lunch, walk over the Oryukdo Skywalk, a glass bridge set on a seaside cliff, soak up the peaceful nature of Dongbaekseom Island, and feel the sand between your toes on Haeundae Beach. Drive to Gyeongju.
- Breakfast
- Lunch
- Dinner
Days 8 Explore Gyeongju
A city of cultural and historical relics, Gyeongju is called ‘the museum without walls’. Capital of the Silla Kingdom for over 1,000 years the city is home to a staggering number of tombs, temples, statues and ruins, some of which you’ll explore today. Begin at the magnificent UNESCO World Heritage Bulguksa Temple, considered the pinnacle of Silla architecture, and Seokguram Grotto. After lunch, visit Gyeongju National Museum before visiting Tumuli Park, a collection of royal tombs, and take a stroll at Anapji Pond.
- Breakfast
- Lunch
- Dinner
Day 9 Visit Naksansa Temple
Travel to Sokcho stopping en route to explore the 1,300-year history of the Naksansa Temple, a seven-storey stone building overlooking the East Sea.
- Breakfast
- Lunch
- Dinner
Day 10 Explore Mount Seorak
Mount Seorak National Park is a spectacularly scenic area of high, cloudy peaks, craggy bluffs and fragrant pine forest. Designated a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve as a habitat for many rare species of plants and animals, it is one of South Korea’s most dramatic natural treasures. Take the cable to the mountaintop and then hike to Gwongeumseong Fortress. After lunch, take a hike along the beautiful valley floor as well as an optional visit to the temple.
- Breakfast
- Lunch
- Dinner
Day 11 Return to Seoul
Transfer to Gangneung and board the train bound for Seoul. On arrival, after lunch, there will be free time for those who wish to shop or further explore Seoul on your own.
- Breakfast
- Lunch
- Dinner
Day 12 Visit the DMZ
Created as a buffer zone between North Korea and South Korea at the end of the Korean War, the DMZ is part of the most heavily militarised border in the world. An early start is needed today as tickets the DMZ are limited. See the DMZ Theatre & Exhibition Hall and walk along the 3rd Infiltration Tunnel. (Should tickets not be available, take a ride on the DMZ gondola and visit the Odusan Unification Observatory). Return to Seoul explore the huge Gwangjang Market. A farewell dinner tonight is the perfect time to reflect on your adventures! Special conditions apply to this day, please refer to your tour dossier for more information.
- Breakfast
- Lunch
- Dinner
Day 13 Fly Seoul to the UK
Fly to the UK, arriving home the same or following day.
- Breakfast
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Fully Inclusive
Touring with Guides and entrance fees
-
Included Meals
Breakfasts: 11 , Lunches: 10 , Dinners: 11
-
Flights
International flights and current taxes
-
Accommodation
11 nights in 3+/4 star accommodation
-
Group Tour
Max Group Size: 28
-
Physical Rating 2
Walking, some steps and extended time on your feet.
Days 1 - 2 Fly overnight to Beijing
Fly overnight 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.
- Dinner
Day 3 - 4 The Great Wall
Visit Tiananmen Square and discover the sprawling magnificence of the Forbidden City before exploring Beijing's old hutongs where you can meet a local family and visit their home. This evening, eat traditional Peking duck. The next day, spend the morning taking a walk on the Great Wall and in the afternoon, enjoy a stroll through the idyllic gardens of the Summer Palace.
- Breakfast
- Lunch
- Dinner
Day 5 Temple of Heaven
In the morning, soak up the harmonious ambience of the Temple of Heaven, an orderly oasis in a bustling urban landscape and wander through the park, where you can mingle with the locals and watch or participate in Tai Chi or play cards. Later, take a bullet train to Xian.
- Breakfast
- Lunch
- Dinner
Days 6 - 7 Terracotta Warriors
Visit the Little Wild Goose Pagoda before wandering around the narrow alleys of the Muslim Quarter. Tonight, feast on traditional Shui Jiao dumplings before a performance of Tang Dynasty dancing. The next day, view the enigmatic ranks of warriors that make up the Terracotta Army of Emperor Qin Shi Huang. Later, stroll on Xian's beautifully preserved 14th-century city walls.
- Breakfast
- Lunch
- Dinner
Day 8 Board your cruise
Fly to Yichang where you will board your Yangtze River cruise vessel.
- Breakfast
- Lunch
- Dinner
Days 9 -11 Yangtze River Cruise
The Three Gorges Dam may be an impressive feat of engineering but as you cruise upstream nature takes over, revealing some of the world's most dramatic scenery including the Three Gorges themselves. Over the next three days prepare for one breathtaking panorama after another. Take a side trip to the attractive Goddess or Shennong Stream and enjoy various shore excursions.
- Breakfast
- Lunch
- Dinner
Disembark in Chongqing then explore old Ciqikou, whose narrow streets are perfect for a stroll to admire the traditional architecture. Transfer to Chengdu where tonight you will be served a traditional Sichuanese dinner with the option to watch a Sichuan Opera performance.
- Breakfast
- Lunch
- Dinner
Day 13 Giant Pandas
Visit Chengdu's famous Panda Conservation Centre to see and learn about these celebrated bears up close in surroundings that mirror their natural habitat. Later, fly to the charming city of Dali.
- Breakfast
- Lunch
- Dinner
Days 14 - 15 Enchanting Dali
Dali offers a peek of the China of times-gone-by. Over the next two days, travel to Xizhou village to browse around the local market, see the Yan Family House, cruise on Erhai Lake, explore Dali's ancient quarter and visit the Three Pagodas. Transfer to Kunming.
- Breakfast
- Lunch
- Dinner
Day 16 Stone Forest
Explore the fascinating limestone formations of the picturesque Stone Forest and tuck in to local delicacy, Across the Bridge Noodles, for dinner tonight.
- Breakfast
- Lunch
- Dinner
Day 17 Fly to Guilin
Fly to the beautiful city of Guilin.
- Breakfast
- Lunch
- Dinner
Day 18 Li River
Take a relaxed cruise along the Li River to charming Yangshuo. Around every river bend is a view to take your breath away as jagged karst peaks loom over rural scenes of lush greenery and grazing buffalo.
- Breakfast
- Lunch
- Dinner
Day 19 Yangshuo Countryside
Begin with a relaxing and invigorating session of Tai Chi, taking a class with a master to learn this ancient martial art. Explore the countryside and stop on the banks of the Li River for a photo opportunity with a cormorant fisherman. Enjoy time at leisure or choose one of the many optional activities available.
- Breakfast
- Lunch
- Dinner
Days 20 Guilin
Return to Guilin and visit a pearl factory and Reed Flute Cave. Also stroll around Ronghu Lake and admire the Sun and Moon pagodas – two towering examples of traditional Chinese-Buddhist architecture.
- Breakfast
- Lunch
- Dinner
Days 21 - 22 Discover Hangzhou
Fly to Hangzhou and visit the Temple of Inspired Seclusion and the tea plantations of Meijiawu. The next day, enjoy a cruise on West Lake and visit Xihu Tiandi before continuing to Suzhou.
- Breakfast
- Lunch
- Dinner
Day 23 Suzhou
Suzhou's centre has managed to retain a sense of quaint charm. Renowned for its elegant gardens, visit one of the finest, the Humble Administrator's Garden – typical of the Chinese appreciation of balance and harmony. Also cruise on the Grand Canal.
- Breakfast
- Lunch
- Dinner
Day 24 Shanghai
Travel to the exuberant and cosmopolitan city of Shanghai, also known as the 'Paris of the East'. Visit Matchmaker's Corner, where parents search for worthy suitors for their children, the Shanghai Museum and People's Square. Later, enjoy a view of the glittering city from the Huangpu River on a panoramic cruise. This evening, dine on a delicious meal of Shanghainese cuisine.
- Breakfast
- Lunch
- Dinner
Day 25 Explore Shanghai
Shanghai is China's great metropolis, where east and west collide on streets lined with futuristic skyscrapers and 10th-century temples. Visit Yu Garden, the old town, a silk factory and stroll along the Bund. End the evening with the ERA acrobatic show.
- Breakfast
- Lunch
- Dinner
Day 26 Fly Shanghai to UK
Fly to the UK, arriving home the same or following day.
- Breakfast
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Fully Inclusive
Touring with Guides and entrance fees
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Included Meals
Breakfasts: 24 , Lunches: 23 , Dinners: 24
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Flights
International flights and current taxes
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Accommodation
24 nights in 4 star accommodation
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Cruise
Yangtze River Cruise, Li River Cruise, Huangpu River Cruise
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Group Tour
Max Group Size: 28
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Physical Rating 1
Walking, some steps and time on your feet
The offer is available on bookings confirmed between 26 December 2023 and 19 February 2024 and cannot be applied retrospectively to bookings already confirmed. The offer is available on a wide selection of group tour departures in 2024 and 2025. The offer does not include Tailormade or Private tours. The offer includes free return economy class flights for one person when two passengers are travelling together on the same booking. The ‘Partner Flies Free’ offer is displayed as a per person discount (eg. an £800 free flight is presented as a £400 per person discount). Solo travellers are also eligible for the per person discount as displayed. The offer cannot be combined with any other offers or discounts. Please note that flights on holidays booked more than 11 months in advance may be subject to supplements when airline fares are published. The offer is subject to availability and Wendy Wu Tours reserve the right to change or withdraw the offer.
All prices are per person based on 2 sharing and apply to selected departure dates. Offers are subject to availability and can be changed or withdrawn without notice. Terms & conditions apply.
Althams Travel act as agents for Licensed tour operators who provide ATOL protection.This means air holidays and flights shown are ATOL protected by the Civil Aviation Authority. Althams Travel Services Ltd Registered Head Offices.Netherwood Road, Burnley.BB10 2AN. Registered No. 42478 England.