Travel to China | Tours, Tips, and Must-Sees

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Great Wall of China

From the East China Sea deep into the deserts of western China, the Great Wall winds its way over mountains and through valleys. At the end of nearly 6,000 kilometers, the Great Wall reaches the Gobi Desert, where the Jiayuguan Fortress stands guard.

Although the process of building the wall began in the 7th century BC, the last section of the wall was not finished until 1878, a whopping 2,500 years later. It is therefore not surprising that the Great Wall is regarded as one of the largest constructions projects of all time.

Great Buddha of Leshan

Nestled along the banks of the Min River in Sichuan, China, the Great Buddha of Leshan stands as a monumental testament to human ingenuity, spiritual devotion, and historical significance. Carved directly into the red sandstone cliffs of Lingyun Mountain, this colossal statue has captivated the hearts and minds of travelers and pilgrims for over a thousand years.

The Great Buddha of Leshan, often simply referred to as the Leshan Buddha, is a masterpiece of ancient engineering and artistry. Its construction began during the Tang Dynasty, a period marked by profound cultural and artistic achievements. The statue, which was completed over the course of several decades, serves as a remarkable representation of both Buddhism and the technical prowess of its creators.

Majestic Dimensions: One of the most striking features of the Great Buddha of Leshan is its sheer size. This statue is the largest stone Buddha in the world, towering at a staggering height of 71 meters (233 feet). To put this into perspective, it is as tall as a 23-story building. This monumental scale makes the Leshan Buddha an awe-inspiring sight that commands attention from visitors approaching by land or water.

Intricate Stone Carvings: Beyond its colossal stature, the Leshan Buddha captivates with its intricate details. Every aspect of the statue, from the coiled hair to the finely carved robes, reveals the extraordinary craftsmanship of its creators. The ears alone are large enough to comfortably accommodate several people. The careful artistry on display here is a testament to the dedication and skill of the Tang Dynasty sculptors.

Spiritual Significance: The construction of the Great Buddha was not merely an artistic endeavor but a deeply spiritual one. Its creation was undertaken to calm the turbulent waters of the Min River. Legend has it that the river's confluence, where the statue is located, was notorious for dangerous currents and whirlpools. The presence of the Buddha was believed to pacify these treacherous waters, making the area safer for both navigation and habitation. The statue itself represents the embodiment of serenity, a timeless symbol of Buddhist teachings.

Historical Preservation: Remarkably, the Great Buddha of Leshan has withstood the test of time, surviving countless centuries and natural forces. It has weathered earthquakes, storms, and other challenges while retaining its imposing presence. Its enduring existence showcases the remarkable preservation efforts that have allowed this ancient treasure to continue standing as a symbol of Chinese heritage and the enduring legacy of ancient craftsmanship.

Visiting the Great Buddha of Leshan is not only a cultural experience but also a profound encounter with serenity and grandeur. This colossal masterpiece remains an iconic representation of China's rich history and the remarkable achievements of its ancestors. Exploring this majestic figure, with its impressive size and intricate carvings, is an opportunity to immerse oneself in the enduring traditions of Chinese heritage and spirituality. The Great Buddha of Leshan continues to inspire awe and wonder in all who are fortunate enough to witness its grandeur.

Shaolin Monastery

Near the ancient imperial city of Luoyang, at the food of the sacred Song Mountain, lies the world-famous Shaolin Monastery. While known for its martial arts, including kung fu, tai chi, and qigong, this is the site where an Indian monk is said to have laid the foundations of Zen Buddhism some 1,500 years ago.

The Shaolin Monastery No Chinese monastery is more famous than the Shaolin Monastery. Kung fu is a lucrative industry here, with students coming to the monastery from numerous schools all over the world. Martial arts shows here earn the school money. The site’s beginnings are shrouded in legend. The Indian monk Bodhidharma is said to have meditated here for nine years in the 6th century, sitting in a grotto and laying the foundations for Zen Buddhism, which seeks enlightenment in personal experience rather than scriptural study. The monastery’s foundation dates back to 495, though it was restored to its current appearance in the 1980s. Two halls in the monastery are of particular historical value, one with a Ming-period mural depicting "500 Luohan worshiping the Vairocana Buddha," and another illustrating monks in service to Tang Dynasty founder Li Shimin. Also significant is the pagoda forest, and the cemetery of the Shaolin monks, with 220 tomb pagodas more than 1,000 years old.

Song Mountain The holy central mountain! Like the other four sacred mountains, sacrifices were made to Song Mountain. What matters here is not the view from the 1,492-meter peak, but the sites at its southern foot, including, of course, the Shaolin Monastery in particular.

Terracotta Army

In 1974 farmers first came across shards while drilling wells. Today, four pits are known where the grave guard army was placed. One of them was empty. The total number of figures, in addition to soldiers of various ranks, horses, is estimated at least 7,000.

The most impressive thing about the army of clay warriors isn't only the amount of them, but the fact that they have been created with different faces and clothes. The warriors reside in a burial site build for the first emperor of China, Qin Shihuangdi. Although he died 210 BC, the site was buried underground and found just 2,000 years later

The Bund

The Bund, a landmark of Shanghai, offers a dreamlike view of the city, both on the historic Puxi side and the new Pudong side. The Chinese name of the famous river promenade is Wàitān (外灘).

There is much to marvel at here. Countless historic buildings dot the promenade, and in the evening are illuminated to offer a unique panorama. This iconic waterfront area boasts a unique architectural blend of European and Chinese styles, harkening back to the era when Shanghai was divided into foreign concessions. Its colonial legacy is on full display through the well-preserved buildings that line the promenade.

For visitors, the Bund is not just a trip through history but also an opportunity to witness modern Shanghai's dazzling skyline. The panoramic view across the Huangpu River showcases an array of stunning skyscrapers, including the iconic Oriental Pearl Tower and the Shanghai Tower, all illuminated in the evening's glow.

Tips: Take a harbor tour from the pier at Yan'an Donglu. Strolling along the Bund once is not enough. Twice is the minimum: for early morning exercise, when the city awakens, and at dusk, when the lights shine in Pudong.

Traveling in China means immersing yourself in a millennia-old civilization, where imperial traditions, spectacular landscapes, and futuristic cities meet. But to fully enjoy this fascinating destination, it is best to be well accompanied.

At China Tours, we do much more than simply take you on a trip: we design a tailor-made adventure, adapted to your desires, your pace, and your interests. Whether you dream of walking on the Great Wall at sunrise, tasting Sichuan cuisine in Chengdu, or exploring the ancient villages of Yunnan, our team of local experts does everything possible to make your stay a unique experience.

Our trips to China

Itinerary Map image for China tour including Yunnan

+3

China tour including Yunnan

The grand tour from Yangtze to Yunnan and South China to Shanghai

Comfort

20 Days

Family visit in hutongs in Beijing

Tea ceremony in Shaxi Old Town

Bicycle tour through the karst landscapes

From:

GBP 2,499

What our travellers are saying

Based on 35 total reviews on China Tours & Trustpilot

Isolde Karla S

Discover China differently

Explorer

December 2025

Verified

It is difficult to put our trip to China into words. Every day we were flooded with new impressions: history, culture, beautiful nature, many people, modernity, and simplicity. Our tour guide Peter was always open to our many questions. He was a very attentive and pleasant companion throughout the vast country of China. Our tour was also a culinary journey through China. Every day we were treated to delicacies and had the opportunity to participate in preparing dishes, such as the traditional bamboo rice dish. The visit to the Yao minority in the rice terraces will remain in our memories for a long time. The sunrise over the rice terraces was, for me personally, the most memorable experience. As a special inspiration from our tour, I took away the design of the paths and the many details of the historic buildings.

From

Gabriele Susanne W

Discover China differently

Explorer

November 2025

Verified

It was a pilot trip packed with many different places, sights, and modes of transportation—high-speed train (super punctual and comfortable), airplane, buses, raft, bicycle, cable car, and also many kilometers on foot—leading through China with its various climate zones. Our tour guide Peter Chai was very experienced, extremely friendly, had enormous knowledge, and speaks excellent German. 5 stars plus for him. It is highly recommended. In addition, Jing (Chinatours) was extremely friendly and Tony (operator in China) was very friendly and professional; he not only had a suitcase sent to me within a day, but also fulfilled many other organizational special requests. All in all, it was a fantastic trip, challenging as it led from northern to western and southern China all the way to Shanghai. The countless experiences are still swirling in my mind, and it is definitely worth taking this trip. From me, 5 stars plus and a clear recommendation—I now see China in a new light of experience!

From

Mireille R de Cannes La Bocca

The Splendors of China in 3 Weeks

Explorer

November 2025

Verified

Magnificent landscapes that deeply moved me: the rice fields, the Yellow Mountains, and the Zhangjiajie site. The smiles of the people I met

From

Louise Eliane C de Marseille

The Splendors of China in 3 Weeks

Explorer

November 2025

Verified

This trip allowed us to discover another culture, the result of a rich and fascinating history. Magnificent landscapes and cities. The ability to build gigantic infrastructures. The art of showcasing natural and urban heritage. Cordial Chinese people, curious about the world. An exceptional guide. Perfect group cohesion, wonderful people. A perfect trip.

From

Jürgen Wolfgang B aus Grimma

China tour with Yunnan

Comfort

November 2025

Verified

Great experiences of impressive modern China, as well as unique encounters with nature and history.

From

Marie-Catherine O

The Splendors of China in 3 Weeks

Explorer

November 2025

Verified

China: a truly wonderful discovery far from "preconceived European ideas," with magnificent landscapes, giant cities and infrastructures, varied cuisine, spectacular shows, and a pleasant, hardworking, and seemingly happy population. An excellent, highly professional guide: able to meet all our expectations and quickly find solutions to any unforeseen issues. A country that is well worth visiting.

From

Fabien Raullo

The Splendors of China in 3 Weeks

Explorer

November 2025

Verified

This discovery trip was an immense pleasure thanks to our guide and the small group of friendly people. This stay, alternating between fun activities, site visits, walks, and hikes, fully met my expectations. This country, with its landscapes, modern infrastructure, national parks, traditions, and history, inspires my enthusiasm to promote it in the future. I think we were very lucky with the weather.

From

Sandra B

China tour with Yunnan

Comfort

November 2025

Verified

I was in China for the first time. I booked this trip because it included the most important sights such as the Great Wall of China, the Forbidden City, and the Terracotta Warriors. But I was incredibly amazed by all the other beautiful places I was able to visit during the trip. This was definitely not my last trip to China! Our tour guide Jin was incredibly entertaining and very accommodating. I asked him if there was a way to see pandas; at first, he said it would be difficult. The next day, he told the group that we would leave a bit earlier so we could visit the zoo. I was so incredibly happy. Thanks to him, I also learned a lot about China's history and culture. I had a fantastic time. The value for money of this tour is excellent!

From

Claude, Denis JABOT

The Splendors of China in 3 Weeks

Explorer

May 2025

Verified

A surprising, astonishing, and exhilarating discovery of China, a mythical country, with Ventura. I enjoyed everything! I would have liked even more! The sites visited are well chosen and very picturesque, the activities captivating, the explanations, organization, entertainment, guides, group, and accommodation were all excellent, and the food was outstanding! Furthermore, French tourists are highly appreciated and we completed this 22-day tour in total safety, security, and peace of mind. We had a great time laughing.

From

Gilles I de LE PLESSIS TREVISE

The Splendors of China in 3 Weeks

Explorer

May 2025

Verified

Do not form a judgment about the country in advance. This country deserves to be discovered, and this trip is highly recommended. Magnificent landscapes, excellent gastronomy, cleanliness, and culture. Domestic flights, high-speed trains, the subway, and buses: all provided great experiences. Although we may regret the crowds at certain sites, it allows for interaction. It is important to reach out to people despite the language barrier. The Chinese are kind and very curious. Getting away from the big cities was an added bonus for this trip: the Yellow Mountain, the rice fields, cycling through the countryside, and winding paths leading to the heights. Technology: the glass bridge, the endless cable cars. We had a wonderful adventure with great companions.

From

What You Can Experience in China

Der Ursprung des Buddhismus: Die Geschichte von Shakyamuni

China is best understood through moments that connect you directly with its culture and landscapes. Our journeys include experiences that bring these elements to life in a natural and engaging way.

Walking along quieter sections of the Great Wall, away from the busiest viewpoints
Exploring Beijing’s hutongs to gain insight into traditional urban life
Standing before the Terracotta Army and understanding its historical significance
Travelling through the karst landscapes of Guilin and along the Li River
Visiting panda conservation centres near Chengdu
Experiencing regional cuisine, from Sichuan specialities to northern dishes

Each experience is designed to add depth to your understanding of China, rather than simply adding more to your itinerary.

Highlights of China

Strolling through Wuzhen

Tauchen Sie ein in die zauberhafte Atmosphäre von Wuzhen, einer der schönsten Wasserstädte Chinas. Bei einem entspannten Spaziergang durch enge Gassen und über malerische Brücken erleben Sie das authentische Flair vergangener Zeiten. Die traditionellen Häuser, die sich entlang der Kanäle reihen, erzählen Geschichten aus Chinas reicher Vergangenheit. Lassen Sie sich von der einzigartigen Stimmung Wuzhens verzaubern und genießen Sie einen unvergesslichen Moment auf Ihrer China Reise.

Shaolin Monastery

Near the ancient imperial city of Luoyang, at the food of the sacred Song Mountain, lies the world-famous Shaolin Monastery. While known for its martial arts, including kung fu, tai chi, and qigong, this is the site where an Indian monk is said to have laid the foundations of Zen Buddhism some 1,500 years ago.

The Shaolin Monastery No Chinese monastery is more famous than the Shaolin Monastery. Kung fu is a lucrative industry here, with students coming to the monastery from numerous schools all over the world. Martial arts shows here earn the school money. The site’s beginnings are shrouded in legend. The Indian monk Bodhidharma is said to have meditated here for nine years in the 6th century, sitting in a grotto and laying the foundations for Zen Buddhism, which seeks enlightenment in personal experience rather than scriptural study. The monastery’s foundation dates back to 495, though it was restored to its current appearance in the 1980s. Two halls in the monastery are of particular historical value, one with a Ming-period mural depicting "500 Luohan worshiping the Vairocana Buddha," and another illustrating monks in service to Tang Dynasty founder Li Shimin. Also significant is the pagoda forest, and the cemetery of the Shaolin monks, with 220 tomb pagodas more than 1,000 years old.

Song Mountain The holy central mountain! Like the other four sacred mountains, sacrifices were made to Song Mountain. What matters here is not the view from the 1,492-meter peak, but the sites at its southern foot, including, of course, the Shaolin Monastery in particular.

Forbidden City Beijing

Like a fortress enclosed by a 10-meter-high wall and a wide moat, the 960-meter-long rectangular complex of the Forbidden City is located in the center of Beijing. There are a total of 890 palaces with 8,886 rooms on the site. According to a legend, there are actually 9,999½ rooms. The half room is symbolic in nature. According to it, only heaven was allowed to have a palace with 10,000 rooms. Built from 1406 to 1420, the Imperial Palace forms the largest ensemble of classical Chinese buildings. It is called the "Forbidden City" because no one but the emperor was allowed to enter on his own authority. With principal and concubines, children and eunuchs, up to 3,000 people lived here.

Structure and symbolism The ceremonial and functional buildings in the south of the Forbidden City occupy the larger part of the area; they were off-limits to women. Apart from eunuchs, high officials also worked there or envoys appeared for audience. In the north, the residential courtyards of the emperor and his harem are crowded. In both parts, the main buildings line up along Beijing's great north-south axis. Almost all are covered with yellow glazed tiles, the emperor's symbolic color, representing the empire founded on the yellow loess soil of northern China to the heavens. The cloud dragon is omnipresent in the Forbidden City's building decoration as the emperor's symbolic animal bringing blessings; in the rear halls it is joined by the phoenix, symbolic animal of the empress.

People's Square

The People’s Square is the bustling civic and cultural heart of Chongqing. Located in the city’s Yuzhong District, it’s surrounded by impressive landmarks such as the Great Hall of the People and the Chongqing People’s Auditorium, both symbols of the city’s rich political and architectural heritage. The spacious square is beautifully landscaped with fountains, flower beds, and shaded walkways, making it a popular place for locals to relax, dance, and socialize. Visitors can enjoy panoramic views of Chongqing’s skyline, observe daily life, and explore nearby attractions, museums, and shopping streets. Especially in the evening, the square comes alive with colorful lights and a lively atmosphere.

The Peak Hong Kong

Der Victoria Peak ist einer der berühmtesten Aussichtspunkte Hongkongs und ein absolutes Muss für deinen Besuch. Oben angekommen erwartet dich eine frische Brise und ein atemberaubendes Panorama über den Victoria Harbour, die Wolkenkratzer und die grünen Hügel rund um die Stadt. Besonders magisch ist der Moment bei Sonnenuntergang, wenn sich der Himmel färbt und Hongkong nach und nach im Lichtermeer erstrahlt. Neben den Aussichtsterrassen findest du auf dem Peak auch gemütliche Spazierwege, Cafés und kleine Geschäfte.

Hutong Tour

Une visite des Hutongs de Pékin est une expérience incontournable pour découvrir le cœur historique de la capitale chinoise. Ces ruelles étroites bordées de maisons traditionnelles (siheyuan) reflètent l’âme authentique de la ville, loin des gratte-ciel modernes et des grandes avenues.

Autrefois au centre de la vie sociale et culturelle de Pékin, les Hutongs abritaient familles, artisans et commerçants. Aujourd’hui, certains ont été restaurés et sont devenus des lieux de promenade vivants, où l’on trouve des cafés, échoppes, galeries d’art et marchés locaux, tout en conservant leur charme d’antan.

Lors d’une visite guidée, il est possible de parcourir ces ruelles à pied ou en rickshaw traditionnel, d’entrer dans une maison siheyuan typique et d’échanger avec les habitants pour mieux comprendre leur mode de vie. Les Hutongs permettent de voyager dans le temps et d’explorer la culture pékinoise authentique.

Pour les passionnés d’histoire, de photographie et de culture locale, la visite des Hutongs de Pékin est une plongée fascinante dans l’âme vivante de la capitale chinoise.

5 faits intéressants sur les Hutongs de Pékin :

Cocktail in Shanghai

Siroter un cocktail à Shanghai avec vue sur le Bund est une expérience qui mêle élégance et émerveillement. Dès que le soleil commence à se coucher, les gratte‑ciel de Lujiazui s’illuminent, reflétant leurs lumières colorées sur les eaux calmes du fleuve Huangpu. Installé sur une terrasse ou dans un bar panoramique, chaque gorgée devient un moment suspendu entre modernité et histoire : d’un côté, les bâtiments coloniaux emblématiques du Bund racontent le passé de Shanghai, de l’autre, les tours futuristes de Pudong projettent la ville dans le XXIᵉ siècle. Les cocktails, souvent créatifs et inspirés des saveurs locales comme le litchi ou le thé vert, accompagnent parfaitement cette vue spectaculaire. La brise légère du fleuve ajoute une touche de fraîcheur, tandis que les lumières scintillantes et le clapotis de l’eau créent une atmosphère magique, presque cinématographique. C’est un moment où le temps semble ralentir, invitant à la détente et à l’admiration de l’une des lignes d’horizon les plus iconiques au monde.

Jokhang Temple

Der Jokhang-Tempel im Zentrum von Lhasa ist das bedeutendste Heiligtum des tibetischen Buddhismus. Täglich pilgern Gläubige aus ganz Tibet hierher, um zu beten und Opfergaben darzubringen. Die einzigartige Architektur, die heiligen Statuen und die lebendige Atmosphäre machen den Jokhang-Tempel zu einem unvergesslichen Erlebnis für alle, die in die spirituelle Welt Tibets eintauchen möchten.

Explore Chongqing City

Chongqing, one of China’s largest and most dynamic megacities, is known for its striking mountain scenery, maze-like streets, and stunning river panoramas. Built atop steep hills at the confluence of the Yangtze and Jialing Rivers, the city blends modern skyscrapers with traditional neighbourhoods, creating a unique vertical landscape where roads, bridges, and buildings seem stacked upon one another.

Exploring Chongqing’s city centre reveals a world of contrasts: the bustling Jiefangbei CBD, the cliffside markets and neon-lit facades of Hongyadong, and the peaceful temples and old streets scattered throughout the hills. The city’s vibrant nightlife, dramatic viewpoints, and signature spicy cuisine make it a paradise for travellers seeking both excitement and authenticity.

Whether wandering through lively food streets, riding the famous Yangtze River Cableway, or relaxing in a traditional teahouse, Chongqing offers an immersive urban experience unlike any other city in China.

Terracotta Army

In 1974 farmers first came across shards while drilling wells. Today, four pits are known where the grave guard army was placed. One of them was empty. The total number of figures, in addition to soldiers of various ranks, horses, is estimated at least 7,000.

The most impressive thing about the army of clay warriors isn't only the amount of them, but the fact that they have been created with different faces and clothes. The warriors reside in a burial site build for the first emperor of China, Qin Shihuangdi. Although he died 210 BC, the site was buried underground and found just 2,000 years later

Potala Palace

The Potala Palace, an architectural masterpiece nestled in the heart of Lhasa, Tibet, stands as an enduring symbol of Tibetan culture, history, and spirituality. This awe-inspiring structure, with its imposing white walls and gilded roofs, is a testament to the rich heritage of this region.

Perched on Marpo Ri (Red Hill), the Potala Palace is an architectural marvel that fuses Tibetan and Han Chinese influences. Rising 13 stories high, it dominates the city's skyline. Its distinctive design consists of two main parts: the Red Palace and the White Palace. The Red Palace, adorned with intricate murals and precious relics, serves as a sacred space for religious ceremonies and meditation. Meanwhile, the White Palace, known for its administrative functions, is a labyrinth of chambers and halls, showcasing the grandeur of Tibetan architecture.

Visitors to the Potala Palace are greeted with a breathtaking view of the Himalayan mountains as they ascend its steep staircases and explore its intricate interior. The ambiance is steeped in spirituality, and every step reveals the profound spiritual history of Tibet. It's a unique experience to wander through the dimly lit chambers, admiring ancient thangka paintings and exquisite statues.

Transrapid

The Transrapid in Shanghai, China, is a remarkable marvel of modern engineering and a shining example of cutting-edge technology in the realm of public transportation. Operating as the world's first commercial high-speed maglev (magnetic levitation) train, the Transrapid seamlessly connects passengers from Pudong International Airport to the bustling metropolis of Shanghai. This efficient mode of transportation has earned international acclaim for its incredible speed, safety, and eco-friendly characteristics.

Powered by Magnetic Levitation: At the heart of the Transrapid's innovation is magnetic levitation, which allows the train to hover just above the tracks, eliminating the need for traditional wheels. This technology reduces friction and offers a smoother, quieter, and more energy-efficient ride.

Incredible Speed: The Transrapid accelerates to mind-boggling speeds of up to 431 kilometers per hour (267.8 miles per hour). Passengers can traverse the 30-kilometer (18.6-mile) journey from the airport to the city center in just eight minutes, making it one of the fastest modes of urban transportation globally.

Environmental Friendliness: This maglev system leaves an impressively small carbon footprint. By reducing friction and utilizing clean electricity, it's a green alternative to conventional rail transport, contributing to Shanghai's efforts to combat air pollution and reduce carbon emissions.

Reliability and Safety: The Transrapid's impeccable safety record is due to its advanced control systems and built-in redundancy mechanisms. Travelers can enjoy peace of mind as the maglev operates with a fault tolerance that ensures passenger safety is a top priority.

Yu Garden

Mitten im lebhaften Shanghai erwartet Sie ein Ort der Ruhe und Schönheit: der berühmte Yu Garten. Diese traditionelle Anlage begeistert mit kunstvoll angelegten Teichen, Pavillons und Brücken und bietet einen einzigartigen Einblick in die chinesische Gartenkunst. Während Ihrer China Gruppenreise entdecken Sie hier nicht nur die Harmonie von Natur und Architektur, sondern spüren auch die Geschichte und Kultur, die diesen besonderen Ort prägen. Der Yu Garten ist ein Highlight, das Sie in die faszinierende Welt des alten China entführt – ein unvergessliches Erlebnis im Herzen der Metropole.

Why choose China Tours?

Travel in good company, not a crowd

With no more than 14 travellers, our journeys feel personal and friendly - the perfect balance of companionship and space

Your trip goes ahead, whatever happens

Once you’ve booked, your departure is guaranteed - no cancellations due to numbers, no uncertainty, just peace of mind

Every detail checked, every experience authentic

Our expert team personally visits and reviews every aspect of each trip, ensuring quality, comfort, and genuine local insight

Book with complete confidence

Your holiday is fully protected under UK Package Travel Regulations, giving you security from the moment you reserve your place

No surprises, no hidden costs

What you see is exactly what you pay - no unexpected extras, just honest value and clear pricing from start to finish

Travel with heart

Every journey supports local communities and meaningful projects, so your travel leaves a positive mark - not just memories

China at a Glance

China’s diversity is one of its defining strengths. Travelling through the country means moving between entirely different worlds, each with its own character and rhythm.

Beijing

Xi'An

Chengdu

Shanghai

Guilin

Each region adds a different dimension to the journey, creating a layered understanding of the country as a whole.

A Journey That Feels Structured, Not Complicated

China can seem complex from the outside, but with the right approach, it becomes a highly rewarding and surprisingly comfortable destination.

Our tours are designed to remove the uncertainty often associated with travelling in China. Transport, accommodation and logistics are all carefully arranged, allowing you to focus on the experience itself.

You are guided throughout by experienced local experts, supported by a team that ensures each part of the journey runs smoothly.

When to go?

China’s size means that weather conditions vary significantly across regions, but each season offers its own advantages.

Spring (April–May) — Mild temperatures and blossoming landscapes
Summer (June–August) — Warm and vibrant, with lush scenery
Autumn (September–October) — Clear skies and comfortable temperatures, often considered the best time to visit
Winter (November–March) — Crisp air, fewer crowds and a different perspective on major sites

Your ideal travel time will depend on the regions you wish to explore and the type of experience you are looking for. Click here for a more detailed look into when to travel.

Is China Right for You?

Our journeys to China are particularly well suited to travellers who:

Value cultural depth and historical context
Prefer a structured yet relaxed itinerary
Enjoy travelling in small groups
Appreciate comfort, without losing authenticity
Want to explore a destination that feels both different and accessible

China rewards curiosity and openness. With the right guidance and pacing, it becomes a destination that feels far less daunting and far more welcoming than many expect.

Start Planning Your Journey

China offers a travel experience unlike any other, combining scale, history and everyday life in ways that are both fascinating and memorable.

With China Tours’ considered approach, you can explore the country with confidence, comfort and a deeper understanding of what makes it so unique.

Speak with our China specialists to find the journey and departure that suits you best.

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Upcoming Departures to China

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Specialist China Tours is the first European tour operator to win the prestigious "Top 10 China Silk Road Award".

Travel to China: Discover the Middle Kingdom

Millennia-old culture, breathtaking landscapes, and unforgettable experiences await you Title: Travel to China | Tours, Tips, and Must-Sees

New in 2026: No UK visa required for trips to China of less than 30 days!

Just grab your passport, and you're good to go – no applications or bureaucracy required! Now's the time to plan your trip to China.

Our trips to China

What You Can Experience in China

Highlights of China

Why choose China Tours?

China at a Glance

Beijing

Xi'An

Chengdu

Shanghai

Guilin

A Journey That Feels Structured, Not Complicated

When to go?

Is China Right for You?

Start Planning Your Journey

Upcoming Departures to China

Proven Quality. Trusted by 100,000+ Travelers

New in 2026: No UK visa required for trips to China of less than 30 days!

Just grab your passport, and you're good to go – no applications or bureaucracy required! Now's the time to plan your trip to China.

Great Wall of China

Great Buddha of Leshan

Shaolin Monastery

Terracotta Army

The Bund

Our trips to China

What our travellers are saying

What You Can Experience in China

Highlights of China

Strolling through Wuzhen

Shaolin Monastery

Forbidden City Beijing

People's Square

The Peak Hong Kong

Hutong Tour

Cocktail in Shanghai

Jokhang Temple

Explore Chongqing City

Terracotta Army

Potala Palace

Transrapid

Yu Garden

Why choose China Tours?

China at a Glance

Beijing

Xi'An

Chengdu

Shanghai

Guilin

A Journey That Feels Structured, Not Complicated

When to go?

Is China Right for You?

Start Planning Your Journey

Ask us Anything!

Upcoming Departures to China

Proven Quality. Trusted by 100,000+ Travelers

What our travellers are saying

Ask us Anything!

Great Wall of China

Great Buddha of Leshan

Shaolin Monastery

Terracotta Army

The Bund

Strolling through Wuzhen

Shaolin Monastery

Forbidden City Beijing

People's Square

The Peak Hong Kong

Hutong Tour

Cocktail in Shanghai

Jokhang Temple

Explore Chongqing City

Terracotta Army

Potala Palace

Transrapid

Yu Garden