Known by innumerable evocative aliases including the Land of the Sleeping Dragon, China has been a dominant cultural force in the world for many thousands of years. From its ancient history as the centre of all cultures to its contemporary form as an economic powerhouse in the midst of Asia, China has firmly stamped its mark on the world in every era. Iconic cities such as Shanghai, Beijing and Xian stand as crystallised representations of the nation’s identity with ancient monuments and relics resting alongside some of the world’s most vibrant metropolises.

Experience the wonders of the Middle Kingdom with today’s Groupon for: China Travel Service

The Experience

From the sacred palaces of Beijing to the classical gardens of Shanghai, China offers visitors a kaleidoscopic glance back through millennia of modern and ancient history. Groupies meet their cordial English-speaking guide as soon as they disembark from the plane in Shanghai.



Guests are transported to their hotel, the lovely Crowne Plaza Hotel and Resort, which is situated in the heart of Shanghai’s elegant French Concession neighbourhood. Folks arriving from Melbourne spend an extra day acquainting themselves with Shanghai’s numerous and fascinating attractions.

The first day of the tour kicks off with a hearty breakfast in the hotel before peeps head out to Suzhou, otherwise known as “Oriental Venice”, a small town renowned for its collection of classical gardens. A boat cruise takes travellers down an ancient canal constructed 1,300 years ago during the Sui Dynasty.



Day three sees Groupies visit the Bund, a lovely promenade that runs alongside the Huangpu River and a regular spot to see locals practicing the ancient art of Tai Chi. A visit to the Old Town lets folks wander the winding alleyways and visit a selection of teahouses, shops and restaurants. The day ends with a trip to Xintiandi, a location intrinsic to any true understanding of Shanghai, boasting the city’s unique “Shikumen” houses.

Day four sees sightseers transferred to the airport for their trip to Xian. Upon arrival, visitors take the time to see the Big Wild Goose Pagoda, a towering Buddhist structure erected in during the Tang Dynasty, before being transferred to their room in the Grand Noble Hotel for an evening of well-deserved rest. The following morning, peeps head out to see the Terracotta Warriors, one of China’s most iconic attractions and the greatest archaeological discovery of the 20th Century.



If time is in their favour, tourists will spend the afternoon wandering through the city’s bustling Muslim Quarter, visiting the Great Mosque and the collection of vibrant markets. The day concludes with an night of culture, with the tour taking in the Tang Dynasty Dance Show. Peeps say their teary goodbyes to Xian in the morning and are transferred to the airport for their flight to Beijing, China’s sprawling capital. With Shanghai and Xian behind them, peeps are ready to explore Beijing, the most complex, vibrant and historically significant city that China has to offer. Peeps arrive at the capital in time for lunch, then take a tour of the 500-year-old Temple of Heaven, a sacred site housing alters to the gods in a setting dotted with gorgeous gardens and sculptures. Following dinner, Groupies witness the high-minded thrills of the Beijing Acrobatic Show.

Day seven allows folks to rest their eyes on the country’s most famous wonder, the Great Wall. A structure of epic scale, the Great Wall of China stretches from the Pacific Ocean the sands of Central Asia. After lunch, the tour continues to the Summer Palace and a boat ride on Lake Kunming if the weather is agreeable.

On their final day, peeps head to Tiananmen Square, the biggest public square in the world and the site of the infamous 1989 protests. The day concludes with a visit to the National Centre for the Performing Arts and the famous complex of palaces that make up the Forbidden City, before being transferred to the airport for the homeward voyage.

 

Reviews

Crown Plaza Shanghai

I love this place. Sure there are newer places in Shanghai but the staff here are great, the food is superb in all the restaurants and bars and I always leave happy. Everyone is always very happy to help and there is everything you need.
– Marraminga, Trip Advisor, February 2013

Chang An Grand Hotel Beijing

The restaurant is good with Western and Chinese food. The staff are helpful with a good command of English. The foyer is palatial and provides a grand entrance to this high standard hotel.
– Skyfox49, Trip Advisor, April 2012

Getting There

Flights on China Airlines depart from Sydney and Melbourne. China Airlines is one of China’s leading air services and operates flights to more than 100 destinations around the world.