IESGlobal

About China

There is something to see in China for everyone on all kinds of budgets. Each province and even each city has it's own unique characteristics, history, and culture.

You can experience all kind of landscapes and environments in China. Whether it be the buzzing urban jungles of Shanghai, the idyllic lakes in a small rural city, the culture of Beijing , the mountains of Huashan, you can find it in this amazing country.

See a map of China

Getting Around

In order to get the most out of your travels in China, the best way is to plan ahead especially given the size of China and the many sites worth visiting.

Having important information such as addresses in both English and Chinese will make things easier for you especially when traveling to areas that aren’t frequented by foreigners.

Places to Go

Given the language and cultural differences in China, it can often be a challenging place to navigate through for foreigners visiting for the first time. We have partnered up with a foreign-run tour company to avoid the pitfalls of some local tours such as language barriers and different ideas on places to visit.

Check out the tour options for available travel packages.

Culture

Most foreigners aren’t familiar with China’s rich history and culture. The best way to discover more about this country is to simply immerse in the many cultural activities.

Check out our available cultural activities which can be added onto any tours or as a standalone option.

Beijing to Xi’an

Begin your trip in the Capital City of China and relish in all it has to offer. Beijing is a fantastic city, which allows you to experience both traditional and modernized elements.

Take in the picturesque scenery whilst exploring the various sections of the renowned Great Wall of China. You are given the opportunity to experience both the renovated sections and the untouched sections, which will give you an insight into the rapid changes the wall has faced over the years.

If you are feeling adventurous-choose the option to trek across the 14 different Watch Towers situated along the wall before heading to soak up the stunning sights of the Summer Palace, located in the mountain village of Chengde.

The next stop is Qingdao - a famous seaside City, which holds similar characteristics of a European Town, most noticeable in the architecture of the buildings. Qingdao is notorious for its brewery, mouth-watering seafood and the nearby Laoshan Mountain, which maintains an astonishing landscape.

Absorb the incredible history with a stop off at Qufu, the hometown of Confucius before heading via Zhengzhou on route to the Shaolin Village where you can stroll through the numerous temples or watch a traditional Kungfu show.

Luoyang; where you will see world heritage sites visiting Grottos and hand carved stone Buddhas is the final stop before reaching the city of Xi’an. Rich in culture and heritage, Xi’an is most famous for the astounding Terracotta Warriors and a trip to Xi’an would not be complete without visiting the exact spot where they were uncovered. Experiencing the Terracotta Army up close in all its glory is the perfect end to the perfect trip!

Itinerary

• Day 1 - Beijing
• Day 2 - Beijing to the Great Wall
• Day 3 - Beijing to Great wall (Simatai section) and on to Chengde
• Day 4 - Chengde
• Day 5 - Chengde to Beijing
• Day 6 - Beijing to Qingdao
• Days 7 & 8- Exploring Qingdao
• Day 9 - Qingdao to Qufu
• Day 10 - Exploring Qufu
• Days 11 & 12- Zhengzhou
• Day 13 - Shaolin Village
• Day 14 - Xi’an (Via Luoyang Grottos)
• Days 15 & 16 - Exploring Xi’an and Terracotta Warriors.
   

Inclusions

• Intercity transport on private buses, coach and/or train for the duration.
• All accommodation (basics with upgrades available)
• Western trip leader throughout
• Full information on a local sites and attractions
• Entry to selected sites
   

Shanghai to Xi’an

China has it all! It’s rapidly becoming modern and cosmopolitan yet still holds on tightly to its rich culture and traditions and the contrast between the two is what makes China a unique place to visit.

If it is this kind of diversity you want to witness first hand, then starting in contemporary Shanghai and travelling almost backwards in time to the ancient city of Xi’an to compare the two extremes that China has to offer, is the trip for you!

After departing from Shanghai, you will stop of in Suzhou and Yangzhou, both are stunning canal towns, which boast elements of Venice’s traditional waterfront. The next destination is Nanjing, where you can take in the remarkable mountain backdrops and sample some of the mouth-watering food Nanjing is renowned for.

Its then on to Western China to visit Zhengzhou and Shaolin Monk region, where you have the chance to experience a traditional Shaolin village in all its grandeur. Why not get the full experience and opt to take part in a Kungfu course, where you will learn some of the finest moves in China.

If it’s an adventure you seek then climb the beautiful Shaoshan Mountain and take in the amazing views.

Then it’s on to the charming village of Luoyang, famous for its carved stone Buddha’s and extraordinary Grottos.

Next is your final destination- step into ancient Xi’an and experience all that the historic City has to offer, including a trip to the infamous Terracotta Warriors. You could also walk the city walls or hire a bicycle and build up an appetite before trying some unique tasting foods in the Muslim Quarter.

At the end of your trip its then up to you whether you want to take an overnight sleeper train Back to Beijing or Shanghai or carry on your travels further.

Itinerary

• Day 1 - Arrive in Shanghai
• Day 2 - Shanghai to Suzhou
• Day 3 - Suzhou to Yangzhou
• Days 4, 5 & 6 - Nanjing
• Day 7 - Xuzhou
• Days 8 & 9 - Zhengzhou
• Day 10 - Shaolin Village
• Day 11 - Luoyang
• Day 12 - Xi’an
• Day 13 - Terracotta Warriors
• Day 14 - Exploring Xi’an
   

Inclusions

• Intercity transport on private buses, coach and/or train for the duration.
• All accommodation (basics with upgrades available)
• Western trip leader throughout
• Full information on a local sites and attractions
• Entry to selected sites
   

Shanghai to Beijing

Shanghai is the one of the world’s fastest growing and cosmopolitan cities and the first stop of your trip. The modern city is rapidly developing and the international metropolis attracts a constant flow of visitors from around the world.

After soaking up the sights of shanghai you will head to the charming canal town of Suzhou; the waterfront which boasts impressive Venice-like canals before travelling on to the ancient town of Yangzhou.

Take in the stunning gardens and architecture before continuing on to Nanjing, renowned for its ‘purple mountains’ and delicious food.

Next, step back into time and explore China’s historical and culturally rich town-Qufu, hometown of the great philosopher Confucius.

Relax on the beach in the famous seaside city of Qingdao and try some of the freshest seafood in China before travelling to the next stop of Beijing, China’s Capital City.

Visit the impressive Great Wall of China and take in the amazing scenery around before heading back into the city centre. A trip to Beijing wouldn’t be complete without trying the famous Peking duck which can be found in many restaurants.

If you want to take in more of Beijing’s many attractions, then why not stay a few extra days at the end of your tour? Visit the famous Forbidden City, Tiananmen Square, Lama Temple and much more!

Itinerary

• Day 1 - Shanghai
• Day 2 - Shanghai to Suzhou
• Day 3 - Suzhou to Yangzhou
• Day 4-6 Nanjing (3 days)
• Day 7 - Nanjing to Qufu
• Day 8 - Qufu
• Day 9 - Qufu to Qingdao
• Leaving at noon and arriving in Qingdao early evening.
• Days 10 & 11 – Exploring Qingdao
• Day 12 - Qingdao to Beijing
• Days 13 & 14 - Beijing
• Day 15 - Beijing & the Great Wall of China
   

Inclusions

• Intercity transport on private buses, coach and/or train for the duration.
• All accommodation (basics with upgrades available)
• Western trip leader throughout
• Full information on a local sites and attractions
• Entry to selected sites

Xi’an to Shanghai

Begin your trip by delving into the past in historical Xi’an- home to the notorious Terracotta Warriors. Take time to explore the city and all it has to offer, this is best done on foot or by bicycle, as there is so much to discover and take in. Stroll around the city walls and pay a visit to the Drum and Bell Towers and then head to the Old Quarter to sample some of the best street food around.

After Xi’an it’s on to UNESCO sites in Luoyang, to see some original hand carved Buddhas and its amazing Grottos.

A trip to the home of the Shaolin Monks is the next trip on the agenda and here you will get the chance witness the ancient centre of Chinese Kung-fu first hand. Sit back and watch a traditional Chinese Kung-fu exhibition or if you are feeling energetic you can even try it out for yourself!

If you are not too tired from all the Kungfu, then it’s on to Zhengzhou, a city which preserves an abundant cultural heritage, reflected in its glorious history and evident when visiting the Zhengzhou Confucius Temple, which is one of the oldest of its types in China.

The next stop is Nanjing- the former Imperial capital, which is notorious for its incredible ‘purple mountains’ and picturesque botanical gardens, not forgetting the many museums and historical sites, which are scattered around the city. And with 3 days to explore Nanjing you will definitely have the opportunity to fully appreciate all it has to offer.

Your next few days will be taken up exploring the stunning canal cities of Suzhou and Yangzhou. Stroll around carefree and take in the stunning scenery or hire a boat and take a relaxing ride down the canal and restore your energy levels, as the final stop is cosmopolitan Shanghai.

From historical Chinese Cities to the neon lit streets of Shanghai you will immediately notice a definite clash between ‘old’ and ‘modern’ China. Your last few days will be spent exploring Shanghai and its many attractions and it wouldn’t be the same without a visit to the World Expo!

Itinerary

• Day 1 - Xi’an
• Day 2 - Terracotta Warriors of Xian
• Day 3 - Xian & overnight in Luoyang
• Day 4 - Luoyang & Shaolin
• Day 5 & 6 - Zhengzhou
• Day 7 - Zhengzhou to Nanjing
• Days 8, 9 & 10 - Nanjing
• Day 11- Yangzhou
• Day 12 - Suzhou
• Day 13 & 14 - Shanghai
   

Inclusions

• Intercity transport on private buses, coach and/or train for the duration.
• All accommodation (basics with upgrades available)
• Western trip leader throughout
• Full information on a local sites and attractions
• Entry to selected sites

Tibet Optional Trip

This optional trip to Tibet is held at the completion of your semester. It would be the perfect end to your China journey by exploring one of the world’s most fascinating places with your friends! Of course if you’re intending to stay in China it’s still a definite must see place!

Tibet is one destination that is a lifetime dream to visit for many people and you’ll get the chance to do that! With its unique high attitude, exotic culture, unique highland landscapes and friendly people it is a tantalizing destination.

You will get the chance to experience Tibetan culture and its’ amazing highland scenery. We’ll visit spend 4 days in Lhasa, the holy capital of Tibet exploring the ancient ruins, monasteries, temples and local Tibetan's daily life under the guidance of our experienced Tibetan Guide.

Day 1  Beijing – Lhasa

We’ll travel by train from Beijing to Lhasa. The journey will take approximately 48 hours but the scenery is spectacular and it will provide a good opportunity to catch up with friends as well as slowly acclimatize to the altitude.

Once we arrive in Lhasa we will proceed to the hotel for check in and a well earned rest.

Day 2  Potala Palace, Jokhang Monastery, Barkhor Street

After breakfast, we’ll head off to Potala Palace. The awe-inspiring Potala Palace is perched high above much of Lhasa and is considered a model of Tibetan architecture. The palace is a complex of political and religious function, which consists of the Red Palace, the White Palace and some attached buildings.

The Red Palace contains various chapels and mausoleums for previous Dalai Lamas. The White Palace contains the living quarters of successive Dalai Lamas and their tutors. The offices of the old Tibetan government and their assembly halls are also located here.

Enjoy a local Tibetan lunch before visiting the Jokhang Templein the afternoon. Tibetan Pilgrims consider Jokhang Temple the most important temple in Lhasa as it brought Buddhism into Tibet.

In the afternoon we’ll explore Barkhor Street. When Jokhang Temple was built, it quickly attracted pilgrims and a trodden path encircling it was formed, which is the origin of Barkhor Street. You may still see pilgrims walking clockwise as they hold prayer wheels! The street is full of many exotic articles where you can buy anything from sacks of incense, to blocks of yak butter or even monk outfits!

Day 3  Shigatse, Mount Gangbala, Yamdrok Lake

We will proceed to Shigatse, the previous capital of Tsang. Meaning “the fertile land”, Shigatse is the second largest city in Tibet and is considered the cultural, economic and political hub of Tibet. Around twelve minority ethnic groups including Tibetan, Han, Hui, Monggol, Tu, Manchu, Miao, Zhuang and Man live in Shigatse.

We’ll climb over Mount Gangbala which is at an elevation of 4600m, prior to reaching the highest fresh lake in the world - Yamdrok Yumtso Lake. Meaning “swan pool” in Tibetan, Yamdrok Lake is one of the three famous sacred lakes in Tibet. Surrounded by snow capped mountains, it makes for one spectacular view. The water in the lake is very clean and you can even drink it! After we see the Karola Glacier and Gyangtse, we come to Shigatse to where we will spend the night.

Day 4  Tashilhunpo Monastery, Shigatse Open Market, Zhodo Tidro Hermitage

We’ll make a visit to Tashilhunpo Monastery, one of the Six Big Monasteries of Gelugpa (aka Yellow Hat Sect) in Tibet. It is also called the “Heap of Glory” and was founded in 1447 by the 1st Dalai Lama who is enshrined in Tashilhunpo.
The Monastery is one of the few in Tibet that weathered the Cultural Revolution relatively unscathed.

Afterwards, we will walk around the Shigatse open market where you can also see the Zhodo Tidro Hermitage in the distance.
In the afternoon, we will say goodbye to Shigatse and drive back to Lhasa. On our way back enjoy the view of the Yarlung Zangbo River landscape; the first river in the plateau.

Day 5  Namtso Lake, Nyenchen Tanglha Mountain

Today we head to Namtso Lake, which means “Heavenly Lake”. Along the way, you can view the Lhasa River, Northern steppes, Qinghai-Tibet Highway and the location of where the Olympics torch was carried.

Upon arrival, we’ll climb part of the Nyenchen Tanglha Mountain. During winter, the mountains are snow capped. We will then visit the Namsto Lake, which is one of the three sacred lakes in Tibet and is the highest salt lake in the world.

Legend has it that Nyenchen Tanglha Mountain and Namsto Lake are lovers: the crystal clear blue water reflects the high mountain, whilst the snow on the mountain melts to supply water for the lake!

Day 6  Lhasa – Beijing

After breakfast in the hotel, we will head off to Lhasa Railway Station where we shall return by train to Beijing.

Day 7  In Transit

Day 8  Arrive in Beijing

Includes:

• Standard room in 3-star hotel
• Air-conditioned Bus, English Tour Gide
• Return train tickets and service fee
• Breakfasts and 9 meals
• Life Accident Insurance and Travel agents liability insurance
• Two shopping arrangements in Lhasa
• Water and oxygen during the trip