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19 Days

Essential China

Beijing, Xi’an, Lhasa, Shigatse, Chengdu, Guilin, Yangshuo, Shanghai

 

Country

China

Travel Period

10th May 2025 – 28th May 2025

Starts

Beijing, China

Ends

Shanghai, China

Price From

$10,499.00

Overview

Embark on a captivating 19-day journey designed specifically for women who seek adventure, culture, and camaraderie. This exclusive tour spans the breadth of China, from the imperial splendors of Beijing and the ancient warriors of Xi’an, to the spiritual heights of Tibet and the serene landscapes of Guilin. Revel in the urban sophistication of Shanghai and immerse yourself in the vibrant local life at each destination. Engage with welcoming local families, experience traditional crafts, and explore historical treasures with a group of like-minded women.

Our tour offers a perfect blend of relaxation, exploration, and meaningful connections, ensuring that each traveler returns home with not just memories, but also new friendships and a deeper understanding of this magnificent country. Join us for an unforgettable exploration of China’s most iconic sights, tailored to provide safety, comfort, and a spirit of empowerment.

Start date
Tour Starts Beijing, China: 10th May 2025
End Date
Tour ends – Shanghai, China: 28th May 2025
International Flight quotes / booking
Assistance, quotes and booking of international flights from anywhere worldwide
Visa
Assistance with Visa arrangements
Luxury Accomodation
18 Nights luxury 5 star accommodation through- out tour
Full Tour Support
An Experienced LWT hostess will be with the group for the full duration of the tour to support guests.
Locations
Beijing, Xi’an, Lhasa, Shigatse, Chengdu, Guilin, Yangshuo, Shanghai
All Tour Transport Included
Airport meet & greet Luxury Transport Through-out internal flights, trains, transfers, boat cruise
Internal flights included
Internal Flights, Xi’an-Lhasa, Lhasa – Chengdu, Guilin – Shanghai
Max Guests
14 Guests max
Meals
Daily Breakfast 12 x lunch 2 x Dinner
Activities and inclusions
All tours, activities and activities as per itinerary
Fitness level
Medium – high- Some walking required. Must be of reasonable fitness and able to walk for at least 5 km unassisted.

Pricing and Payments:


Highlights

  • Fully Hosted Tour: A LWT tour manager will be with the group the entire duration of the tour to assist guests.
  • Explore the Forbidden City, the historic imperial palace complex that served as the home to emperors for over 500 years in Beijing.
  • Stroll through Tiananmen Square, one of the world’s largest public squares and a symbol of China’s political center.
  • Ride a rickshaw through Beijing’s ancient Hutongs, getting a closer look at the traditional lifestyles in these historic neighborhoods.
  • Visit the Temple of Heaven in Beijing, where emperors once performed rites to ensure bountiful harvests.
  • Hike the less crowded Mutianyu section of the Great Wall, experiencing one of the world’s true wonders with stunning panoramic views.
  • Marvel at the Terracotta Warriors in Xi’an, an archaeological treasure featuring thousands of life-sized figures guarding the tomb of China’s first emperor.
  • Walk atop Xi’an’s ancient City Wall, offering spectacular views and a historical perspective of this ancient capital.
  • Tour the iconic Potala Palace in Lhasa, exploring the vast array of rooms filled with artifacts and the rich history of the Dalai Lamas.
  • Visit Jokhang Temple, the most sacred and important temple in Tibet, revered as the spiritual heart of Lhasa.
  • Wander through Barkhor Street in Lhasa, soaking in the lively atmosphere and traditional Tibetan market.
  • Visit the Chengdu Research Base of Giant Panda Breeding, a facility dedicated to the preservation of these beloved animals.
  • Spend time in Wenshu Temple in Chengdu, enjoying the tranquility of its teahouse and absorbing the spiritual and cultural ambiance.
  • Stroll through Jinli Old Street in Chengdu, experiencing a blend of ancient and modern with traditional Sichuan architecture and vibrant street life.
  • Cruise down the Li River from Guilin to Yangshuo, a journey framed by stunning limestone karst mountains, providing some of China’s most iconic scenery.
  • Explore Reed Flute Cave in Guilin, renowned for its spectacular formations lit by multicolored lights.
  • Admire the blend of old and new along the Bund in Shanghai, where historic colonial architecture meets modern skyscrapers.
  • Discover the tranquility of Yu Garden in Shanghai, a masterpiece of traditional Chinese garden design.
  • Experience the urban culture on a walking tour from Fuxing Park to Bugaoli in Shanghai, exploring the dynamic and colorful local life.
  • Visit a silk workshop to see the transformation of silkworms into luxurious fabric.

Whats Included:

Inclusions


  • Assistance with quotes and booking of international flights from any location worldwide.
  • Internal Flights, Xi’an-Lhasa, Lhasa – Chengdu, Guilin – Shanghai (economy class) 20KG/person checked-in luggage and 5KG/person carry-on.
  • 1st Class Train: Beijing – Xi’an; Lhasa – Shigatse; Chengdu – Guilin
  • Airport meet-and-greet with private transfer to accommodation.
  • Luxury Li River cruise
  • Experienced English-speaking local tour guides and drivers throughout.
  • Fully escorted and managed by an LWT hostess.
  • Daily breakfasts.
  • 12 al a carte and set menu lunches
  • 2 x al a carte dinners
  • 18 nights of luxury 5 star accommodation throughout.
  • Tibet Permit
  • Tips for drivers and guides.
  • All tours, activities, and entrance fees as per the itinerary.
  • Visa assistance

Exclusion


  • Travel and medical insurance (required)
  • Alcohol (unless listed)
  • Additional snacks and meals
  • Souvenirs
  • International airfare cost to India

Itinerary

Itinerary Inclusions Accommodation Booking Conditions
Day 1 – Saturday, 10 May 2025: Arrival in Beijing (D)

Meals Included: Dinner

Welcome to Beijing! Upon your arrival, a tour guide will greet you just outside the arrival hall and assist you with transportation to The Regent Hotel, where you’ll be staying. Once checked in, the guide will inform you of tomorrow’s departure time. Tonight, your welcome dinner will be at the renowned Hua Jia Yi Yuan, famous for its Peking Duck. Enjoy the culinary delights before making your way back to the hotel to rest up for the adventures ahead.

Overnight stay at The Regent Beijing

Day 2 – Sunday, 11 May 2025: Exploring Beijing (B, L)

Meals Included: Breakfast, A la carte Chinese Lunch

After breakfast at The Regent, meet your guide to begin a full day city tour starting at Tiananmen Square, the symbolic heart of Chinese politics and history. Next, you’ll visit the majestic Forbidden City, the ancient seat of Chinese imperial power. For lunch, experience authentic local cuisine with a visit to a family home in a traditional Hutong. This is a unique opportunity to learn about everyday life in Beijing and enjoy a home-cooked meal. The afternoon includes a rickshaw tour through the Hutongs’ winding alleys, followed by a visit to the Temple of Heaven, where emperors once prayed for good harvests. This culturally rich day offers deep insights into the heritage and traditions of China’s capital.

Overnight stay at The Regent Beijing.

Day 3 – Monday, 12 May 2025: The Great Wall and Ming Tombs (B, L)

Meals Included: Breakfast, A la carte Chinese Lunch

Today’s journey begins with a drive to the less crowded Mutianyu section of the Great Wall, where you will take a cable car up to start a moderate hike along this iconic structure, enjoying breathtaking views. After descending by cable car, enjoy lunch at a nearby restaurant. The afternoon is dedicated to exploring Chang Tomb, the largest of the Thirteen Tombs of the Ming Dynasty, known for its historical significance and architectural grandeur. Reflect on the day’s historical explorations during the drive back to your hotel, The Regent, in Beijing.

Overnight stay at The Regent Beijing.

Day 4 – Tuesday, 13 May 2025: Beijing to Xi’an (B)

Meals Included: Breakfast

Enjoy a leisurely morning exploring Beijing at your own pace. Later, you will be picked up from the hotel lobby and transferred to the train station for your first-class journey on the high-speed G train to Xi’an. This vibrant city is steeped in history and culture. Upon arrival at Xi’an Train Station, a local guide will meet you and facilitate your transfer to the Wyndham Grand Xian South, where you will check into your room.

Overnight stay at the Wyndham Grand Xian South.

Day 5 – Wednesday, 14 May 2025: Terracotta Warriors and Muslim Quarter (B, L)

Meals Included: Breakfast, A la carte Chinese Lunch

Today, you’ll visit the awe-inspiring Terracotta Warriors, a UNESCO World Heritage Site that includes thousands of life-size clay soldiers, horses, and chariots that have been guarding the tomb of China’s First Emperor for over 2,200 years.

After exploring this archaeological wonder, return to Xi’an and visit the bustling Muslim Quarter. This vibrant area is known for its narrow alleyways lined with shops selling a variety of local delicacies, snacks, and souvenirs, and for its small restaurants offering traditional Muslim food.

Overnight stay at the Wyndham Grand Xian South.

Day 6 – Thursday, 15 May 2025: Xi’an to Lhasa (B, L)

Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch

Start your day with a visit to the ancient City Wall of Xi’an, one of the largest and best-preserved ancient fortresses in China. Enjoy panoramic views of the old city from the wall.

Following this, visit a local family to immerse yourself in typical Xi’an lifestyle. Engage with your hosts, learn to cook traditional Chinese dumplings and hand-pulled noodles, and, if time allows, accompany them to a nearby market to purchase fresh ingredients.

After lunch, you will be escorted to the airport for your flight to Lhasa. Upon arrival, transfer to the Shangri-La Hotel, Lhasa, and take the evening to acclimatize to the high altitude.

Overnight stay Shangri-La Hotel, Lhasa

Day 7 – Friday, 16 May 2025: Discovering Lhasa (B, L)

Meals Included: Breakfast, Set Menu Lunch

Your exploration of Lhasa begins with a visit to the iconic Potala Palace, situated on Red Mountain and serving as the winter residence of the Dalai Lamas. This majestic palace is a symbol of Tibetan Buddhism and its central role in the traditional administration of Tibet. Next, visit the sacred Jokhang Temple, the most revered religious structure in Tibet. Stroll through Barkhor Street, surrounding Jokhang Temple, where you can observe Tibetan pilgrims and explore local shops.

Overnight stay at the Shangri-La Hotel, Lhasa.

Day 8 – Saturday, 17 May 2025: Exploring Lhasa’s Monasteries (B, L)

Meals Included: Breakfast, Set Menu Lunch

Spend the day touring Lhasa’s significant religious sites, beginning with Norbulingka Park. This exquisite Tibetan garden was once the summer palace for the Dalai Lamas. Explore its extensive grounds, beautifully maintained gardens, and historical structures. Next, visit Drepung Monastery, the largest Gelug Sect monastery in Tibet, where you can view its valuable collections of cultural relics. Conclude the day at Sera Monastery, renowned for its vibrant daily debates on Tibetan Buddhism. Observe the monks engage in their traditional debate practice, a fascinating insight into their educational rituals.

Overnight stay at the Shangri-La Hotel, Lhasa.

Day 9 – Sunday, 18 May 2025: Lhasa to Shigatse by Train (B, L)

Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch

After breakfast, embark on a train journey to Shigatse, Tibet’s second-largest city. The ride offers stunning views of the Tibetan Plateau. Upon arrival, visit the iconic Tashilhunpo Monastery, home to the massive statue of the Maitreya Buddha and a historically significant site of Tibetan Buddhism. Also, explore the local market where you can experience the vibrant daily life of the Shigatse community.

Overnight stay at the Qo Mo Lang Zong Tibet Theme Hotel

Day 10 – Monday, 19 May 2025: Shigatse to Gyantse to Lhasa (B)

Meals Included: Breakfast

Travel by private vehicle from Shigatse to Gyantse. Visit the Palcho Monastery, known for its architectural uniqueness where three different Buddhist sects coexist harmoniously. Explore the “100,000-Buddha Pagoda,” famed for housing an extensive array of Buddha statues. Then, enjoy the breathtaking scenery at Yamdrok Lake, one of the largest water bird habitats in southern Tibet. In the afternoon, return to Lhasa.

Overnight stay at the Shangri-La Hotel, Lhasa.

Day 11 – Tuesday, 20 May 2025: Lhasa to Chengdu (B)

Meals Included: Breakfast

Enjoy your morning in Lhasa before being escorted to the airport for your flight to Chengdu. Upon arrival, your guide will meet you and transfer you to the Tibet Hotel Chengdu.

Overnight stay at the Grand Hyatt Chengdu

Day 12 – Wednesday, 21 May 2025: Discovering Chengdu (B, L)

Meals Included: Breakfast, A la carte Chinese Lunch

Begin the day at the Chengdu Research Base of Giant Panda Breeding to see the adorable pandas and learn about conservation efforts. Then visit Wenshu Temple, where you can enjoy a traditional tea in its ancient tea house, capturing the essence of Chengdu’s cultural atmosphere. Later, stroll through Jinli Old Street to experience the blend of ancient and modern Chinese culture, and enjoy the local crafts, food, and performances.

Overnight stay at the Grand Hyatt Chengdu

Day 13 – Thursday, 22 May 2025: Leisure Day in Chengdu (B)

Meals Included: Breakfast

Enjoy a free day in Chengdu. Take this opportunity to explore more of the city at your own pace, visit additional sites, or simply relax and soak in the unique atmosphere of this vibrant city.

Overnight stay at the Grand Hyatt Chengdu

Day 14 – Friday, 23 May 2025: Chengdu to Guilin (B, L)

Meals Included: Breakfast, A la carte Chinese Lunch

Start your day early with breakfast, then your guide and driver will escort you to the train station for your high-speed rail journey to Guilin. Enjoy the scenic ride, arriving in Guilin around midday. Upon arrival, your local guide will meet you and arrange a visit to Reed Flute Cave, renowned for its stunning stalactites and stalagmites illuminated by colorful lights. After exploring the cave, check into the Guilin Bravo Hotel.

Later, take a relaxing walk along Banyan Lake and Cedar Lake, enjoying views of the Sun and Moon Pagodas and the serene waters.

Overnight stay at Sheraton Guilin Hotel

 

 

Day 15 – Saturday, 24 May 2025: Guilin to Yangshuo (B, Boat Lunch)

Meals Included: Breakfast, Boat Lunch

Embark on a 4-hour Li River cruise from Zhujiang Pier to Yangshuo, a highlight of any visit to Guilin. Marvel at the breathtaking landscapes along the river, featuring limestone karsts, tranquil waters, and rural scenes. After the cruise, check into the Green Lotus Hotel for some rest. Later in the day, visit a local hand-painted fan workshop in Yangshuo, where you can observe and participate in the fan-making process.

Overnight stay at Green Lotus Hotel, Yangshuo.

 

Day 16 – Sunday, 25 May 2025: Exploring Yangshuo (B, L)

Meals Included: Breakfast, A la carte Lunch

Today, explore the idyllic Yangshuo countryside. If you’re keen, cycle through picturesque landscapes of rice paddies and karst peaks. Alternatively, a private vehicle tour can be arranged to show you around. Enjoy lunch in the countryside before returning to your hotel. Spend the remainder of the day at your leisure, perhaps wandering through Yangshuo Western Street to experience its vibrant atmosphere.

Overnight stay at Green Lotus Hotel, Yangshuo.

Day 17 – Monday, 26 May 2025: Yangshuo to Guilin to Shanghai (B)

Meals Included: Breakfast

Enjoy a free morning in Yangshuo. Later, you will be transferred back to Guilin by private vehicle in time for your flight to Shanghai. Upon arrival in Shanghai, meet your guide and transfer to the Grand Central Hotel Shanghai, located in the heart of the city.

Overnight at Grand Central Hotel Shanghai

Day 18 – Tuesday, 27 May 2025: Discovering Shanghai (B, L, D)

Meals Included: Breakfast, A la carte Chinese Lunch, A la carte Chinese Dinner

After breakfast, explore the Bund to admire its iconic skyline and historic buildings. Visit Yu Garden to enjoy traditional Chinese architectural styles and craftsmanship. Stop at a silk workshop to learn about silk production. Then, embark on a walking tour through Fuxing Park and the bustling Bugaoli area to capture the dynamic urban culture of Shanghai. Finish your day at the Shanghai Propaganda Poster Art Center. In the evening, savor a farewell dinner at Haidilao Hotpot on the Bund, a perfect end to your Shanghai experience.

Overnight stay at Grand Central Hotel Shanghai.

Day 19 – Wednesday, 28 May 2025: Departure from Shanghai (B)

Meals Included: Breakfast

Enjoy your last morning in Shanghai at your leisure. When ready, your guide and driver will transfer you to the airport for your departure flight, concluding your journey through China.

End of service.

Luxury Inclusions
  • Assistance with quotes and booking of international flights from any location worldwide.
  • Internal Flights, Xi’an-Lhasa, Lhasa – Chengdu, Guilin – Shanghai (economy class) 20KG/person checked-in luggage and 5KG/person carry-on.
  • 1st Class Train: Beijing – Xi’an; Lhasa – Shigatse; Chengdu – Guilin
  • Airport meet-and-greet with private transfer to accommodation.
  • Luxury Li River cruise
  • Experienced English-speaking local tour guides and drivers throughout.
  • Fully escorted and managed by an LWT hostess.
  • Daily breakfasts.
  • 12 al a carte and set menu lunches
  • 2 x al a carte dinners
  • 18 nights of luxury 5 star accommodation throughout.
  • Tibet Permit
  • Tips for drivers and guides.
  • All tours, activities, and entrance fees as per the itinerary.
  • Visa assistance
Exclusions.
  • Exclusion


    • Travel and medical insurance (required)
    • Alcohol (unless listed)
    • Additional snacks and meals
    • Souvenirs
    • International airfare cost
18 Nights Luxury  Accommodation
      • The Regent Beijing, Classic Room (3 nights)
      • Wyndham Grand Xian South, Deluxe Room (2 nights)
      • Shangri-La Hotel, Lhasa, Deluxe Room (4 nights)
      • Qo Mo Lang Zong Tibet Theme Hotel, Standard Room (1 night)
      • Grand Hyatt Chengdu, 1 King Bed/2 Twin Beds Room (2 nights)
      • Sheraton Guilin Hotel, Classic Room (1 night)
      • Green Lotus Hotel, Deluxe River View Room (2 nights)
      • Grand Central Hotel Shanghai, Deluxe Room (3 nights)
Terms and Conditions of booking

Please take the time to read and understand the booking terms and conditions prior to booking a trip with us.

Deposits and Payment Schedule

To join any of our captivating Luxury Women’s Tours (LWT) itineraries, a per-person deposit, tailored to your selected trip, is required to confirm and secure your reservation.

The final balance payment must be settled 90 days before your journey begins. If you book within this 90-day window, the full amount becomes due at the time of booking.

In case of cancellation more than 90 days prior to the trip’s start, a full refund is granted, with deductions for non-refundable supplier deposits and non-refundable flight expenses.

For cancellations made between 90 and 60 days before the trip starts, your land component deposits become non-refundable, while all other payments are refunded, with non-refundable supplier or flight charges deducted.

Cancellations occurring 59 days or fewer before the trip starts result in all land tour component payments, including the deposit, being non-refundable.

All flights are subject to airline terms and conditions.

Pricing

Published trip prices include all applicable taxes and are based on shared occupancy. Solo travelers are thoughtfully matched with roommates to avoid additional single supplement fees. Single supplements are available with a surcharge, subject to availability.

Please note that LWT is not responsible for fees related to currency exchange or charges imposed by your credit card company or bank for foreign currency transactions.

All Flight Booking Conditions

Be aware that terms, conditions, and cancellation fees imposed by flight carriers are applicable in accordance with the airline’s policies.

Cancellation by the Client

In case a Client needs to cancel their reservation, we request written notification sent to jamie@luxurywomenstours.com.au.

Upon receiving written confirmation of cancellation from LWT, your reserved spot on the trip will be released, and rebooking availability is not guaranteed.

Refund terms for client-initiated cancellations are as follows:

  • Over 90 days before the trip’s start: Full refund, with deductions for non-refundable supplier deposits and non-refundable flight expenses.
  • Cancellation between 90 and 60 days before the trip’s start: Land component deposits become non-refundable, with all other payments refunded, minus non-refundable supplier or flight charges.
  • Cancellations occurring 59 days or fewer before the trip starts result in all land tour component payments, including the deposit, being non-refundable.
  • All flights are subject to airline terms and conditions.

Credits

Credits are valid for use within the original year of the trip or the following calendar year, with a total validity period of 24 months from the date of issuance.

These credits can be transferred to another woman, who assumes responsibility for any outstanding balance payments and directly reimburses you for the deposit. However, the replacement participant must meet trip registration requirements and receive approval from LWT.

You can also apply your credits toward the final balance of another trip, provided the request is made at least 90 days before the trip’s start date. Additionally, you have the flexibility to transfer your credits to any other trip or cancel and reapply your credits as many times as needed before the 90-day mark before the trip date, all within the original credit expiry date. Please note that all credits are issued in Australian Dollars (AUD).

Cancellation of a Tour by Luxury Women’s Tours

Our trips are confirmed to depart with a minimum group size booked. LWT reserves the right to cancel any trip for any reason, though cancellations less than 60 days before departure are rare, except for Force Majeure or unforeseen circumstances beyond LWT’s control.

If LWT cancels a tour before the agreed departure date for reasons other than Force Majeure or the fault of the Client, you have the following options:

  • Choose a substitute tour of equivalent or higher price, paying the difference.
  • Opt for a substitute tour of lower price, receiving the difference in price as a refund.
  • Receive a full refund of all monies paid under the contract.

LWT is not responsible for incidental expenses or consequential losses incurred by the Client, such as visa fees, vaccinations, non-refundable flights or rail tickets, non-refundable parking, loss of earnings, or loss of enjoyment.

For questions, contact us at Jamie@luxurywomenstours.com.au or call 0401293235.

Accommodation

Beijing

The Regent Beijing

3 nights

Xi’an

Wyndham Grand Xian South

2 nights

Lhasa

Shangri-La Hotel, Lhasa

4 Nights

Shigatse

Qo Mo Lang Zong Tibet Theme Hotel

1 Nights

Chengdu

Grand Hyatt Chengdu

2 nights

Guilin

Sheraton Guilin Hotel

1 Nights

Yangshou

Green Lotus Hotel

2 Nights

Shanghai

Grand Central Hotel Shanghai

3 Nights

What to expect on your travels