Welcome to Beijing! 

Meet your Adventure Leader in the hostel lobby for a pre-trip briefing, connect with your fellow travelers, and discover what’s in store over the next 10 days. Drop off your bags and head straight to the station to catch a private bus out to the Great Wall. You'll hike a wild, unrestored section of the wall before pitching camp along a quiet stretch. As dusk falls over this iconic landmark, unwind with stargazing and an introductory Mandarin lesson around the campsite.

Please note: Camping is scheduled for departures between May 1st and September 30th, weather permitting. If conditions are unfavorable, accommodation will shift to a local guesthouse. Outside of these dates, overnight stays are always in a guesthouse due to cooler temperatures.

Great Wall Sunrise & Beijing Exploration 

Catch the morning sun breaking over the Great Wall—a truly remarkable start to the day (weather permitting). After returning to Beijing, the remainder of the day is yours to customize. Explore the contemporary galleries of the 798 Art District, wander through the historic grounds of the Summer Palace, or team up with others in your group to discover more city sights.

Beijing Highlights – Tiananmen, the Forbidden City & Local Cuisine 

Begin the day with an optional walk across Tiananmen Square before entering the expansive Forbidden City, a sprawling complex featuring 980 buildings rich in imperial history. Head up to Jingshan Park for elevated views across the entire palace grounds. In the evening, choose between attending a Chinese acrobatics performance or enjoying a traditional Peking Roast Duck dinner.

Discovering Beijing & Overnight Train to Hangzhou

Enjoy a fully flexible final day in Beijing. Browse the city’s lively bargain markets, walk the grounds of the Temple of Heaven, or explore the bustling Nanluo area with its traditional hutong alleyways, hidden courtyards, cafes, and bars. Later in the evening, grab your luggage and board the sleeper train bound for Hangzhou.

Hangzhou, West Lake & Sunset Views 

Arrive in Hangzhou and grab a late breakfast before setting out to explore. Board a boat cruise across West Lake to visit one of its central islands. Optional afternoon stops include the National Tea Museum, the Silk Museum, or the historic Lingyin Temple. Later, hike up Jiuyao Mountain for panoramic sunset views over the region. Conclude the evening with dinner and a walk along Hefang Street, an historic area known for local food stalls and artisan shops.

Nine Creeks Hike & Onward to Shanghai 

Start the morning with a trek through the Nine Creeks in Misty Woods, a scenic valley nestled among the Longjing tea plantations. After time to refresh and grab lunch, take the high-speed train to Shanghai. Upon arrival, you can choose to join an evening river cruise along the Huangpu River to see the illuminated city skyline.

Shanghai Sights, City Culture & Evening Views 

Kick off your time in Shanghai with an interactive Mandarin lesson led by local language instructors. Following class, visit the serene Yu Gardens before heading toward People’s Square. For shopping, explore West Nanjing Road, or take a walk along the Bund to view the contrast between historical architecture and modern skyscrapers. As night falls, take in the city views from a rooftop venue or join the optional Shanghai Pub Crawl.

Free Day in Shanghai 

Spend the day exploring Shanghai based on your personal interests. Options include visiting Shanghai Disneyland, exploring the collections at the Shanghai Museum, or checking out the contemporary galleries along Moganshan Road (M50). Alternatively, take a day trip to the ancient water town of Zhujiajiao to see its traditional canals and stone bridges, or visit the local markets.

French Concession & Skyline Perspectives 

Spend the morning exploring the leafy streets of the French Concession, visiting a local propaganda art gallery, and navigating the narrow, creative lanes of Tianzifang. Later, head into the Lujiazui financial district to visit the Jinmao Tower observation deck for wide views across the city, with an optional outdoor skywalk experience at 340 meters. In the evening, your Adventure Leader can recommend local spots for dinner and drinks.

Departure Day 

Wrap up your journey today as you bid farewell to your Adventure Leader and group. Swap contact details and photos before continuing on your individual travel plans.