Welcome to China! Your Shanghai Loop backpacking adventure kicks off today! After a free morning to explore the vibrant city, you’ll meet your Adventure Leader at your hostel for a pre-trip briefing. During this session, you’ll get an exciting preview of all the incredible experiences that await you over the next few weeks.

Once the briefing wraps up, it’s time to head to the station and board an overnight train to Guilin, where the journey continues with a transfer to Yangshuo in the morning.

Accommodation: Overnight Train to Yangshuo

Arrive in Guilin this morning and make your way to Yangshuo, where you’ll meet your new Adventure Leader and the rest of your travel group. Today is a free day, so you can dive straight into the beauty of this region. Why not try kayaking along the stunning Li River, surrounded by dramatic mountain landscapes? Or treat yourself to a rejuvenating traditional Chinese therapy, such as hot cupping, to unwind and relax.

Accommodation: 11 International Hostel – Multi-Share | Yangshuo

Start your day with a scenic bike ride through the picturesque Yangshuo countryside, followed by a tranquil bamboo raft cruise down the Yulong River. Don’t forget your waterproof camera to capture the breathtaking views! Later, opt for an adventure at the Moon Hill Complex, where you can indulge in mud baths and hot springs. In the evening, join your fellow travellers for a fun night out in the local area.

Accommodation: 11 International Hostel – Multi-Share | Yangshuo

Begin your morning with an optional rock climbing adventure on Yangshuo’s famous limestone peaks. Later in the day, gain a deeper understanding of rural life in China with a visit to a local village, where you’ll experience the daily life of farmers in the Yangshuo region.

Accommodation: 11 International Hostel – Multi-Share | Yangshuo

Bid farewell to your Adventure Leader in Yangshuo as you embark on the next leg of your journey to Chengdu. Enjoy a scenic train ride across the country before being greeted by your new Adventure Leader upon arrival. Settle into your hostel and relax after a day of travel.

Accommodation: Flipflip Hostel Poshpacker – Multi-Share | Chengdu

Get ready for an unforgettable experience as you visit the Giant Panda Breeding and Research Centre. Learn about their efforts to breed and reintroduce pandas to the wild, and get up close to these amazing creatures. Later, brush up on your Mandarin skills with a language lesson from your Adventure Leader, covering essential phrases for your time in China. For those interested in local culture, a traditional Sichuan Opera performance awaits in the evening.

Accommodation: Flipflip Hostel Poshpacker – Multi-Share | Chengdu

Take advantage of a free day in Chengdu to explore at your leisure or join the team for an optional excursion to Leshan, home to the world’s largest stone Buddha. This 1,300-year-old statue, carved into Mount Lingyun, is a sacred site for Buddhist pilgrims and a marvel of ancient engineering. In the evening, challenge your taste buds with the famous Sichuan hot pot and enjoy a night out in Chengdu.

Accommodation: Flipflip Hostel Poshpacker – Multi-Share | Chengdu

Spend the morning as you please – whether that means relaxing or exploring more of Chengdu. If you’re up for something meaningful, visit a local rehabilitation centre that works with children with autism. In the early afternoon, take a last stroll through Chengdu, visiting Jinli & Chengdu People’s Park, where you can sip tea by the lake or explore scenic spots like the Gold Water Stream. In the evening, board a train to Xi’an, where your next adventure awaits. Upon arrival, meet your new Adventure Leader and get some rest at your hostel.

Accommodation: Desti Youth Park International Hostel – Multi-Share | Xi’an

Start your day with free time to explore Xi’an at your own pace – whether that means visiting local museums, temples, or enjoying some retail therapy. In the afternoon, hop on a bike and cycle along the ancient Ming Dynasty city walls for a unique view of the city. Later, delve into the history of the Silk Road with a visit to the Bell and Drum Towers and the Muslim Quarter, where you can sample local street food.

Accommodation: Desti Youth Park International Hostel – Multi-Share | Xi’an

Prepare for one of the highlights of your trip: a visit to the famous Terracotta Warriors! These life-size sculptures were created to guard the tomb of China’s first emperor, Qin Shi Huang, and are a must-see for any visitor to Xi’an. In the evening, unwind with a music and light fountain show at the North Square of the Big Wild Goose Pagoda.

Accommodation: Desti Youth Park International Hostel – Multi-Share | Xi’an

Today, head to your next destination – Dengfeng, just outside Shaolin! Here, immerse yourself in the ancient martial art with a kung fu lesson and demonstration, learning from masters in the very birthplace of Kung Fu. After dinner, continue your Mandarin lessons with your Adventure Leader – let’s see how much you’ve learned so far!

Accommodation: Shaolin Holiday Guesthouse – Multi-Share | Dengfeng

For adventure seekers, today offers an exciting excursion to the legendary Shaolin Temple. Hike up to the Dharma Cave, a spiritual haven for Buddhist pilgrims, and enjoy stunning views of local temples and the surrounding area. Alternatively, explore the Longmen Grottoes, a UNESCO World Heritage Site housing over 100,000 Buddha carvings. Afterward, return to the guesthouse for a late lunch, and enjoy a free evening to rest up for tomorrow’s adventures.

Accommodation: Shaolin Holiday Guesthouse – Multi-Share | Dengfeng

Nice and early this morning you’ll catch the high-speed train to your final destination – Beijing! Arrive in the late morning and get ready for an extraordinary experience – a night on the Great Wall of China. Before setting off, enjoy lunch at a local farm to fuel up for your hike along secluded, unrestored sections of the Wall. In the mid-afternoon you’ll begin the trek, reaching untouched areas where you’ll set up camp and witness a breathtaking sunset over this Wonder of the World.

Note: During colder months (before late April or after September), you will stay at a cosy guesthouse near the Wall instead of camping.

Accommodation: Camping Tent | Great Wall of China

Start your day early with a spectacular sunrise over the Great Wall of China. After soaking in this awe-inspiring moment, pack up and return to Beijing ready to explore the city’s iconic sites. Enjoy a guided walk through Tiananmen Square, discover the grandeur of the Forbidden City, and unwind in the peaceful surroundings of Jingshan Park. In the evening, experience the thrill of an acrobatics show, featuring incredible talent from across China, and don’t miss the chance to indulge in Beijing’s signature dish, Peking duck!

Accommodation: Peking Youth Hostel – Multi-Share | Beijing

Today is a free day to explore Beijing at your own pace! Whether you choose to revisit Tiananmen Square, delve into the Forbidden City – home to 980 buildings and two Chinese emperors – or head to Jingshan Park for panoramic views of the Forbidden City, Temple of Heaven, and more, the day is yours. In the afternoon, explore Beijing’s historic Nanluo district, famous for its hutongs, siheyuan courtyards, and vibrant bar and café scene.

Accommodation: Peking Youth Hostel – Multi-Share | Beijing

Spend your final day in Beijing soaking in the city’s treasures. Whether you explore the avant-garde 798 Art District, meander through the opulent Summer Palace, or visit other must-see spots, your Adventure Leader can provide tips to make the most of your time. In the late afternoon or early evening, head to Beijing station and board an overnight train bound for the picturesque city of Hangzhou.

Accommodation: Bokai Westlake Hotel – Multi-Share | Hangzhou

Arriving in Hangzhou in the morning, head to your hostel for a leisurely breakfast and a chance to refresh after the train ride. Next, embark on a serene boat tour of the famous West Lake, gliding past enchanting islands and lush surroundings. In the afternoon, choose from optional activities, such as visiting China’s National Tea Museum or the tranquil Lingyin Temple. As evening falls, take a scenic hike up Jiuyao Mountain to witness a stunning sunset. After descending, enjoy dinner and explore Hefang Road, Hangzhou’s most renowned ancient street.

Accommodation: Bokai Westlake Hotel – Multi-Share | Hangzhou

Start the day with a beautiful hike to the Nine Creeks. On the way you will meander through the Misty Woods – a truly magical place. Then it’s time to journey back to Shanghai, China’s dynamic metropolis. Once in Shanghai, the afternoon is yours to explore at your own pace. Whether you choose to delve into the city’s rich history or discover its modern marvels, Shanghai offers endless possibilities.

Accommodation: Dayin International Youth Hostel – Multi-Share | Shanghai

Today’s adventure begins with a fun and interactive Mandarin lesson at the Mandarin Garden Chinese Language School. Afterward, explore the historic Yu Gardens, the former residence of a dignitary, followed by a visit to People’s Square and a stroll down the bustling Nanjing Road, the world’s busiest shopping street. Later, enjoy a leisurely walk along the iconic Bund, admiring the blend of global architecture. In the evening, ascend to a rooftop bar and take in the breathtaking views of Shanghai’s dazzling skyline.

Accommodation: Dayin International Youth Hostel – Multi-Share | Shanghai

Enjoy a free day in Shanghai to explore at your own pace. Your Adventure Leader can recommend activities, from visiting Disneyland Shanghai to exploring the cultural gems of the Shanghai Museum, Moganshan Art Street, or Zhujiajiao Watertown. In the evening, gather with your fellow travellers to experience Shanghai’s vibrant nightlife.

Accommodation: Dayin International Youth Hostel – Multi-Share | Shanghai

Spend your final full day in Shanghai exploring its unique blend of history and modernity. Stroll through the former French Concession, visit the Propaganda History Museum, or marvel at the futuristic architecture in the financial district. For thrill-seekers, a Skywalk on the Jin Mao Tower offers heart-pounding excitement, while a relaxing river cruise on the Huangpu River provides a perfect ending to your Shanghai adventure, with stunning views of the illuminated skyline.

Accommodation: Dayin International Youth Hostel – Multi-Share | Shanghai

Your incredible 22 day journey through China concludes today. Whether you’re heading home or continuing your travels, we hope this unforgettable adventure has left you with lifelong memories! Check out our other destination pages for some exciting ideas on where to travel next like Nepal, India, or Laos.

Refund & Cancellation Policy:
When you Cancel Your Tour – all payments are non-refundable. If you cancel before the final payment has been paid, your deposit will not be refunded but can be transferred to another available departure date or tour. If you cancel once final payment has been made, no refund will be issued and you will have to claim through your travel insurance. You may exchange your place with someone else but this will incur a fee from the company and will not be possible within 60 days of travel. Before this date, it can be done for a fee of £100 (or another amount depending on costs). If you fail to make full payment when requested by Transforma Travel Group, we will treat the booking as cancelled and retain the deposit paid on booking as a cancellation fee.

You may terminate the contract without paying any further termination fee before the start of the tour in the event of exceptional circumstances, for instance if there are serious security problems at the destination which are likely to affect the package.

If We Change or Cancel Your Tour – we may make changes to your tour and we reserve the right to do so at any time. We will strive to keep changes minor and we will advise you or your travel agent of them at the earliest possible date. We also reserve the right in any circumstance to cancel your travel arrangements thirty (30) days or more in advance from the scheduled trip departure date. For example, Transforma Travel Group may cancel your booking if the minimum number of passengers required for a particular  tour has not been reached.

We will not cancel your travel arrangements less than thirty (30) days before your departure date, except for reasons of force majeure or failure by you to pay the final balance. With the exception of reasons of force majeure, if we are unable to provide the booked travel arrangements, you can either have a refund of all monies paid or accept an offer of alternative travel arrangements of comparable standard from us, if available. We will refund any price difference if the alternative is of a lower value.

If we make a major change to your tour, we will inform you or your travel agent as soon as reasonably possible if there is time before your departure. You may terminate the contract without paying any termination fee and, with the exception of reasons of force majeure, get a full refund of any payments if any of the essential elements of the package, other than the price, are changed significantly.

In the case of the death or major injury of you or one of the members of your group, Transforma Travel Group reserves the right to make a decision regarding the continuation or termination of your trip. Should your trip be terminated due to such an event, Transforma Travel Group will provide a refund for the portion of the trip that is missed.

All of the hostels are clean, air conditioned or have fans, are safe, have good showers, internet, washing machines and most importantly, have real Chinese character. If you would like to stay in a private room though, that is absolutely possible – just reach out to ask for an upgrade.rnrnPlease note that while gender-specific dorm rooms are available in some destinations, there is a chance that your hostel accommodation will be mixed dorms.

In China, international phones generally work, but it’s wise to check roaming rates or consider buying a local SIM card. Many Western websites and apps, including Google and Facebook, are blocked due to the “Great Firewall.” To access these services, travellers often use Virtual Private Networks (VPNs), however these are heavily restricted, so please set it up before entering Mainland China. Your Adventure Leader will be able to help you on tour when it comes to communicating with your friends and family in other countries.

Chinese electrical outlets are 220 volt and use the US standard plug shape. This means if your country uses 110 volt outlets (i.e. the US) you need a converter for your devices. With that being said, most computer and phone chargers are equipped to use either 220 volt or 110 volt outlets, but please check your specific device to be sure.

All bedding – including sleeping bags and mats during Great Wall camping – is provided. However, if you need a pillow while camping make sure to bring your own!

The bags will be stored at the hostels where they are tagged and recorded. We have never had a case of anyone losing their luggage or having their luggage stolen so you can focus on having fun.

One of the best parts of travelling in China is definitely the food! With its diverse mix of different cuisines, food throughout the country can be vastly different, but fear not – with literally thousands of options, China has something for everyone, even the pickiest or most adventurous of eaters.

Your Adventure Leader will always offer to take you for a group meal, where you go to a local restaurant, which we know is hygienic and has cheap and delicious food. These meals usually work out at 30 RMB ($5.83AUD) per person, but if you do want to eat cheaper, you can always grab a bowl of noodles or fried rice for around 10 RMB ($1.94AUD). If you are craving Western food, the hostels all offer affordable Western dishes like pizza and pasta for about 30-40 RMB.

Yes! With so many food choices, China can meet the needs of individuals with special dietary needs or requests. Just tell your Adventure Leader and they can help you find something suitable. You will probably discover a new dish that you love!

We endorse the recommendation of the Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade that all travelers take out travel insurance. If you already have Travel Insurance please understand that it is your responsibility to ensure that your Travel Insurance covers you for all of the adventure style travel you have booked with us.

World Nomads travel insurance policies offer coverage for more than 150 activities. Get a quote, make a claim, or buy or extend your policy while on the road.