Dreams of Natural China

Day 1 - Friday 14 March 2025

Melbourne - Shanghai (In-flight meals)

Welcome to Sisterhood Womens Travel.

Your tour hostess and fellow travellers will meet you at the designated departure point at Melbourne Airport for your flight to Shanghai 

Sit back, relax and enjoy your flight.

Day 2 - Saturday 15 March 2025

Arrival into Shanghai

We'll arrive into the cosmopolitan city of Shanghai, also known as the “Paris of the East” early in the morning.

Shanghai is now one of Asia’s most influential cities.

The rest of the day is ours to start soaking up the local culture. 

Accommodation: Central Hotel, Shanghai (or similar) 

Day 3 - Sunday 16 March 2025

Shanghai (B, L)

Today’s explorations include the peaceful Yu Garden and the atmospheric alleys of the old town, where cobbled streets are lined with traditional shops selling herbal medicine, handicrafts, Chinese tea and a variety of tantalising snacks, while the Yu Garden is seen as one the most perfect examples of Chinese garden style. Yu Garden is also home to exquisite jade rock, koi-filled ponds and stunning, tranquil pavilions.

Walk at Wukang Road is a historic road in the Shanghai district, located in the western part of the former French Concession area of the city. Wukang Road was recognized as one of the National Historic and cultural streets of China.

We'll visit a Silk Factory before enjoying afternoon tea.

In the evening, we enjoy a cocktail at Cloud 9 in Jin Mao Tower with views of the Pudong Skyline.

Accommodation: Central Hotel, Shanghai (or similar) 

Day 4 - Monday 17 March 2025

Shanghai – Guilin (B)

Today we'll transfer from the hotel to the airport and fly to Guilin.

Guilin is one of China’s most stunning and panoramic cities and was founded during the reign of the Qin Dynasty. It is renowned for the unique karst mountain beauty that encloses the city. Guilin developed as a trading town due to the building of the Ling Canal which links the important Pearl and Yangtze River system.

On arrival into Guilin, we'll transfer to the hotel.

Accommodation: Lijiang Waterfall Hotel, Guilin (or similar)

Day 5 - Tuesday 18 March 2025

Guilin (B, packed lunch)

This morning, we travel to the iconic Longji Rice Terraces and head out for a 2-3 hour walk through the traditional rural landscapes. The name “Longji” literally translates as “Dragon’s Backbone” and is called so because the rice terraces resemble the scales on a dragon’s back. There are several viewpoints boasting picture postcard views of the extensive rice terraces.

We will be provided with a packed lunch today.

Later, we drive back to Guilin and spend the remainder of the day at leisure.

Accommodation: Lijiang Waterfall Hotel, Guilin (or similar)

Day 6 - Wednesday 19 March 2025

Guilin – Yangshuo (B, L, D)

Today, we'll take a relaxed gentle cruise along the Li River to the charming village of Yangshuo where we will spend 2 nights.

Around every river end is a view to take your breath away, as jagged peaks loom over rural scenes of lush greenery, grazing buffalos and local fishermen. These are small cruise boats with an enclosed dining area on the lower deck and an open viewing area on the upper deck. As it is so popular, there are generally many boats at the docks – the cruise itself will be scenic and relaxing as the boats cruise past unspoiled countryside.

Disembarking from the cruise, our Local Guide will walk with us to our hotel, approximately a 15-minute walk from the river. There are electric carts offered by private vendors which can be organised at an extra cost.

Take a walk in the idyllic countryside of Yangshuo. Then visit Moon Hill, which is a huge piece of rock with a moon-shaped hole in its center. The 800 marble stairs called “Appreciating Moon Path” can lead us to the top of the hill and get a close view of the Moon cave.

Accommodation: Mehood Hotel, Yangshuo Wubu (or similar)

Day 7 - Thursday 20 March 2025

Yangshuo (B, L)

This morning, we will take part in a traditional Tai Chi class with a Mater somewhere scenic or at the hotel (if it is raining), learning the skills behind this ancient and spiritual exercise.

Learn authentic Yangshuo dishes in a cooking class. The school offers the opportunity to learn how to cook real Chinese food in a traditional setting with skilled and friendly teachers who can impart the secrets of Chinese cuisine in a friendly and fun atmosphere.

Accommodation: Mehood Hotel, Yangshuo Wubu (or similar)

Day 8 - Friday 21 March 2025

Yangshuo – Guilin – Zhangjiajie (B, L, D)

This morning, we return to Guilin by road and spend the afternoon exploring the Reed Flute Caves, admiring the stunning colours of the stalagmites and stalactites.

We will take a short walk through the caves, sometimes along damp paths and stairs. It usually takes about 1 hour to complete the route and it is very cool inside.

Later, we'll visit the Pearl Factory and learn about the South China pearling industry followed by taking the bullet train from Guilin to Zhangjiajie (7.5 hrs)

Accommodation: Expert Village Courtyard Hotel, Zhangjiajie (or similar)

Day 9 - Saturday 22 March 2025

Zhangjiajie (B, L, D)

Today we'll enjoy a full day exploring Zhangjiajie National Park.

A scenic area of over 3,000 sandstone pillars, rising from misty folds of subtropical forest and cloaked in vibrant green vegetation, Zhangjiajie’s striking beauty is unforgettable. Ravines and gorges, streams and waterfalls and a plethora of endangered plants and animal species complete this idyllic scene.

Starting at Yuanjiajie Avatar Mountain (take the Bailong elevator up) and Emperor Mountain (take the cable car down). Also, head to the Ten-Mile Natural Gallery. You will be walking for approximately 4-5 hours in the National Park today.

Return to our hotel late afternoon.

Accommodation: Expert Village Courtyard Hotel, Zhangjiajie (or similar)

Day 10 - Sunday 23 March 2025

Zhangjiajie – Chengdu (B, L)

Today we'll visit Zhangjiajie Glass Grand Canyon, which is famous for being the world’s longest and highest Glass Bridge, which is about 430 meters long and 300 meters high and hangs over the valley. It provides a superb panorama of the entire Grand Canyon, standing on it is like floating in the air.

Then we'll transfer to the airport for the flight to Chengdu. On arrival transfer to hotel. 

Accommodation: HL Rezen Hotel, Chengdu (or similar)

Day 11 - Monday 24 March 2025

Chengdu – Leshan Grand Buddha – Emeishan (B, L, D)

This morning, we'll drive to Leshan to see the 71-metre-high UNESCO-listed world’s largest stone-carved Buddhist monument - the Leshan Grand Buddha. Completed in the year 803, it is said that the Buddha’s presence has calmed the turbulent waters of the river. Take a short boat ride in front of the statue to grasp the size of this structure. We will spend around 1 hour at Leshan and will need to get on and off the boat.

Later, we'll continue for 1 hour to Emeishan and check into our hotel.

Accommodation: Century Sunshine Hotel, Emeishan (or similar) 

Day 12 - Tuesday 25 March 2025

Emeishan (B, L, D)

Mount Emeishan is the cradle of the Buddhist religion in China with the first temple built on its peak in the 1st century. Pilgrims and tourists mix amongst the lush vegetation and inconspicuous old temples, all admiring the striking and diverse natural beauty of the mountain and its setting.

Take a cable car to the summit and admire the striking and diverse natural beauty of the mountain and surrounding landscape. Spend the day soaking up the ambiance and exploring. 

Accommodation: Century Sunshine Hotel, Emeishan (or similar)

Day 13 - Wednesday 26 March 2025

Emeishan – Pingle Ancient Town – Chengdu (B, L)

Today we'll drive 2 hours to Pingle Ancient Town. Dating back to the Han Dynasty, Pingle was a stopping point on the Tea Horse Road. Pingle is a historical and cultural town with a history of more than two thousand years also known as “the first stop of the South Silk Road”. Take time to walk through its maze of teahouse-lined streets.

We'll continue to Chengdu for an overnight stay.

Accommodation: HL Rezen Hotel, Chengdu (or similar)

Day 14 - Thursday 27 March 2025

Chengdu – Nine Villages Valley (B, L, D)

Begin the day with a journey on the bullet train to Nine Villages Valley. Then a 3-hour drive to Huanglong Pools where we will find hundreds of vivid pools in striking colours, formed by thousands of years of mineral deposit, tumbling gently down through the bright green forests of the Huanglong Valley.

There is an option to take a chairlift up both up and down to allow more time for sightseeing at the top (own expense). This area is at an altitude of 3,500m.

Accommodation: Qianhe International Hotel, Nine Villages Valley (or similar)

Day 15 - Friday 28 March 2025

Nine Villages Valley (B, L, D)

Enjoy a full day exploring the diverse scenery of splendid Nine Villages Valley, China’s most awe-inspiring National Park. A national park of ragged peaks, sapphire lakes, abundant forest and rushing waterfalls, the Nine Village Valley, Jiuzhaigou National Park is considered one of China’s most beautiful areas.

Named after the nine Tibetan settlements scattered through the valley, the peak is a World Biosphere Reserve, full of endemic flora and 140 species of birds. We will spend 5 to 6 hours walking including Long Lake, Five Coloured Lake and Nuorilang Falls. Walking today will be approximately 5-6 hours on some uneven and slippery terrain which requires extra care whilst walking. It is strongly advised that you wear sturdy footwear with ankle support if needed.

Dinner at the hotel. Tonight, enjoy traditional Lamb cooked on skewers.

Accommodation: Qianhe International Hotel, Nine Villages Valley (or similar)

Day 16 - Saturday 29 March 2025

Nine Villages Valley (B, L, D)

Today we will visit Shuzheng village, the largest settlement in the park. Spend some time with a local Tibetan family who will give us an insight into daily life in Nine Villages Valley.

Enjoy a Tibetan butter tea before a lovely afternoon walk takes us from Rhinoceros Lake, passing Tiger Lake ending at Reed Lake – an excellent way to appreciate the local scenery. Pass an old watermill and Tibetan prayer flags en route.

Accommodation: Qianhe International Hotel, Nine Villages Valley (or similar)

Day 17 - Sunday 30 March 2025

Nine Villages Valley – Chengdu (B, L)

Today we transfer from the hotel to the train station for the bullet train to Chengdu.

On arrival transfer to the hotel.

The remainder of the day at leisure.

Optional: In the evening watch the Face-changing show or “bian lian” in Chinese (extra cost)

Accommodation: HL Rezen Hotel, Chengdu (or similar)

Day 18 - Monday 31 March 2025

Chengdu (B, L, D)

Today we'll visit Chengdu’s Panda Centre, where an expert will talk to us and about the centre’s work and the pandas themselves as you observe these peaceful bears.

Walk along Kuan Alley (Wide and Narrow Lane), then stroll through the vibrant People’s Park, one of the city’s social hubs. Visit Matchmaker’s Corner to see parents searching through reams of notices looking for worthy suitors for their sons and daughters.

This evening, sit down to the quintessential Sichuanese dining experience - hotpot. 

Accommodation: HL Rezen Hotel, Chengdu (or similar)

Day 19 - Tuesday 1 April 2025

Chengdu – Xian (B, L, D)

Today we'll jump on the bullet train to Xian, the former ancient capital and enjoy a walking tour of the narrow and winding streets of the Muslim Quarter. Sample the delicious, freshly cooked snacks and gain an insight into the city’s fascinating culture and significance as the start of the Silk Road.

Experience wearing Tang costumes experience, which is like travelling back to the ancient times when you are in the Tang Dynasty costume and walk among many Tang Dynasty-styled architecture and sculptures telling Tang stories.

Later, we'll enjoy an authentic dumpling-making cooking class experience and feast on the dumplings we made for dinner.

Tonight, enjoy the splendid Tang Dynasty show with fabulous music and dancing of the Tang Dynasty, China’s golden age.

Accommodation: Dajing Castle Hotel, Xian (or similar)

Day 20 - Wednesday 2 April 2025

Xian (B, L, D)

Today we will visit the incredible Terracotta Warriors that Xian is famous for.

Housed in three immense hangars, the ranks of the Terracotta Army stand sentinel in their Subterranean necropolis, constructed to protect China’s first emperor in the afterlife. We spend the morning gazing over the ranks of warriors and horses, each one unique, whilst our guide introduces us to these life-like soldiers’ fascinating story.

Also, visit the workshop of the craftsmen who recreate the Terracotta Warriors in the style of their ancient counterparts. Time for a lesson in calligraphy with a learned scholar.

Later, we enjoy a gentle cycle ride on the beautiful, preserved 14th-century city walls that enclose Xian’s old town.

Optional: Enjoy the evening watching a fountain and light show (extra cost)

Accommodation: Dajing Castle Hotel, Xian (or similar)

Day 21 - Thursday 3 April 2025

Xian – Beijing – Gubei (B, L, D)

This morning we'll take the bullet train to Beijing, and upon arrival, drive to Gubei Water Town, which surrounds the beautiful Mandarin Duck Lake reservoir and leans against the Simatai Great Wall, the most dangerous and majestic section of the entire Great Wall.

Gubei water town boasts a combination of mountains, water, and ancient villages. Now it is becoming a popular resort for photographers and foodies, covering an area of 9 square kilometers and includes two scenic districts, the Gubei water town and the Simatai Great Wall.

Enjoy a night tour roaming around the streets of the town and ride up to the apex of the Great Wall (Simatai section) by cable car to see the sunset overlooking the panoramic scenery of the whole town.

Return to the hotel and enjoy the hot spring.

Accommodation: Beijing Water Town Hotel (or similar)

Day 22 - Friday 4 April 2025

Gubei – Beijing (B, L)

This morning we'll enjoy a stroll around town and perhaps a boat ride.

We'll drive back to Beijing in the afternoon.

On arrival in Beijing transfer to the hotel, with an option to see an acrobatic show in the evening (extra cost)

Accommodation: Grand Gongda Jianguo Hotel, Beijing (or similar)

Day 23 - Saturday 5 April 2025

Beijing (B, L, D)

We begin today in Beijing’s symbolic heart with a stroll across Tiananmen Square into the sprawling magnificence of the Forbidden City. Entering through the gate of Supreme Harmony, we will find a complex full of imperial treasures which offer unsurpassed insight into China’s colourful past.

Next, we visit Yandaixiejie, where we will have some free time to wander around the Hutongs. These narrow alleys offer an authentic glimpse of the old Beijing before the emergence of high-rise buildings and modern commerce. We have 2 hours of free time for shopping at Silk Market.

This evening, sit down to a traditional dinner of Peking Duck.

Accommodation: Grand Gongda Jiangua Hotel (or similar)

Day 24 - Sunday 6 April 2025

Beijing - Melbourne (B, in-flight meals)

This morning we'll check out of our hotel and be transferred to the airport for our late afternoon flight back to Australia.

Sit back, relax and enjoy the inflight entertainment as we head homeward.

Day 25 - Monday 7 April 2025

Welcome Home

We arrive back into Melbourne mid-morning.

Welcome Home Sisters! 

We thank you for joining us for your latest adventure and look forward to welcoming you on another one!