Beijing to Shanghai Express tour
Beijing to Shanghai Express tour
Beijing to Shanghai Express tour
10 Days Starting in 39.904211,116.407395 and ending in 31.230416,121.473701
Visiting: China
Tour operator:
Tour code:
237
Recommended For:
Guide Type:
Fully Guided
Group size:
1 - 20
Age range:
18-60
Special diets catered:
Request dietary needs
Tour operated in:
EnglishTrip Styles:
Tour Overview
This 10-day budget China tour takes you from the capital Beijing to Shanghai, the most populated city in the world. Experience the best of China's urban sprawl and beautiful rural landscapes on an adventure through this magical country.
Starting in the sprawling capital of Beijing this short tour of China gives you plenty of time to explore on of the most historic and culturally rich cities in the world. We also head out to marvel at one of the true wonders of the world, the Great Wall of China, and camp on a deserted section of the wall to watch the sunset.
Leaving the city crowds behind we next head out into rural China to the Hangzhou region and an option to trek to Moganshan Peak and to Chairman Mao's old summer residence. We'll also visit a stunning lagoon to swim in the crystal clear waters.
Our final destination is Shanghai, the biggest city in the world, and time to sample the vibrant nightlife on offer. There is plenty of opportunity to explore the sights, sounds and mouth-watering cuisine of this amazing city, and no doubt enjoy a little shopping spree as well.
Highlights
Itinerary
Our tour starts at the Beijing Spring Time Hostel at 10 am, where you'll meet your tour leader and the rest of the group.
Late Morning we visit one of the wonder of the world, the Great Wall of China. To obtain permission to access the locals only sections of the unrestored Great Wall, we enjoy a mandatory meal at a local farm. We'll then hike on totally unrestored sections of the Wall where we set up camp on a deserted section of the wall. In the evening we take in suneset in this ancient and dramatic setting (Please note, due to cold weather before the end of April and after September, we stay in a guest house near the Wall instead of camping, but still return to the Wall to watch sunrise in the morning. Between April and September monsoon rain may also mean we are unable to camp on the wall.).
OVERNIGHT:
Great Wall camping
MEALS:
None
EXTRAS:
None
DAY 2: Beijing, free day (optional excursions available)
After sunrise on the Wall we return back to Beijing. Back in Beijing the rest of the day is free for you to explore at your own leisure or try one of the many optional tour available (see the Options tab for all available local options). Perhaps you could visit the Olympic Bird's Nest Stadium, or enjoy the incredible Beijing Acrobatics Show. For dinner tonight there is a chance to taste Beijing's signature dish Peking Roast Duck, enjoyed exclusively by royalty in ancient times.
OVERNIGHT:
Beijing hostel
MEALS:
None
EXTRAS:
None
DAY 3: Beijing, free day (optional excursions available)
Today is a full free day to see more of Beijing like Tiananmen Square, the Forbidden City, and the Temple of Heaven. In the evening you could explore the WangFuJing night market where you can push your taste buds to the limit and sample many foods you'll have never tried before, like scorpion, bugs and more.
OVERNIGHT:
Beijing hostel
MEALS:
None
EXTRAS:
None
DAY 4: Beijing, free day (optional excursions available), then overnight train to Hangzhou
Our last day in Beijing is free to do some more sightseeing or perhaps test your bargaining skills with a visit to the Fake Goods Market or visit the Summer Palace. Finally we board the overnight train to Hangzhou.
OVERNIGHT:
On board overnight train
MEALS:
None
EXTRAS:
None
DAY 5: Arrive Hangzhou, West Lake visit & Sunset Hike
After arriving in Hangzhou this morning, transfer to your hostel for a late breakfast. We hope you slept on the train! Next, we’re off to the famous West Lake, ready to take a stunning boat tour to one of the Lake’s beautiful islands.
Once you’ve checked in this afternoon,you'll have some free time. If you’re keen to stay vertical, why not check out China’s National Tea Museum, or the Lingyin Temple?
This evening, it’s an unmissable hike up Jiuyao Mountain to see the stunning sunset from there. Before you head back down to street level for dinner and a free evening to explore. Make sure you check out Hefang Road – the most famous ancient street in town!
OVERNIGHT:
Hangzhou hostel
MEALS:
None
EXTRAS:
None
DAY 6: Nine Creeks Hike, transfer to Shanghai
This morning you have time to take a hike through misty woods to the Nine Creeks. Returning to the hostel for lunch we then catch the bullet train to Shanghai where we transfer via metro to your hostel.
OVERNIGHT:
Shanghai hostel
MEALS:
None
EXTRAS:
None
DAY 7: Shanghai, Mandarin Lesson (optional excursions available)
After a lazy morining, you'll have a Mandarin Lesson. This extra special class will be held by professional teachers, all the way from the Mandarin Garden Chinese Language School.
Later in the day, there is an option to join a visit to the Yu Gardens , a busy historical site, formerly the site of a lavish family home. You could also visit People's Square before heading to the worlds busiest shopping street 'Nanjing Road'
In the evenings, you can enjoy Shanghai's lively bar scene, and perhaps try out the largest bar crawl in China "the Drunken Dragon Pub Crawl". If you're looking for something a little more sophisticated try sipping champagne in a hot tub on the rooftop of a skyscraper, taking in Shanghai's spectacular skyline.
OVERNIGHT:
Shanghai hostel
MEALS:
None
EXTRAS:
None
DAY 8: Shanghai, free day (optional excursions available)
Today is another free day in Shanghai. There's lots to do to keep yourself busy, with plenty of sightseeing and shopping on offer. Alternatively you can let us do it for you and choose to take one of the many optional sightseeing tour available (see the Options tab for all available local options).
OVERNIGHT:
Shanghai hostel
MEALS:
None
EXTRAS:
None
DAY 9: Shanghai, free day. Evening Huangpu River Cruise.
This morning you have the option of joining a stroll through the former French Concession to learn about Shanghai's international history. You can visit the Propoganda Museum and take in the famous city scapes of the ultra modern Financial District. You could also make a visit to TianZiFang, a local artists lane blending chic and traditional styles.
For any daredevils in the group, you could head to the top of Jinmao Tower and brave the sky walk!
In the evening, you’ll take in the bright city lights from the water with a night cruise down the Huangpu River
OVERNIGHT:
Shanghai hostel
MEALS:
None
EXTRAS:
None
DAY 10: Tour ends
Today your tour ends and it's time to say goodbye to the group and new friends made.
OVERNIGHT:
N/A
MEALS:
None
EXTRAS:
None
What's Included
What's Not Included
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- International flights (available on request)
- Visa fees
- Travel insurance (compulsory, available on request)
- Single room supplements (chargeable if a same-sex room share is not available)
- Airport arrival & departure transfer service (optional on request)
- Meals not indicated in the itinerary
- Optional activies
- Drinks, snacks and other personal expenses (e.g. laundry)
- Tour guide tips
- Any other items
More Info
This 9-day budget China tour takes you from the capital Beijing to Shanghai, the most populated city in the world. Experience the best of China's urban sprawl and beautiful rural landscapes on an adventure through this magical country. Starting in the sprawling capital of Beijing this short tour of China gives you plenty of time to explore on of the most historic and culturally rich cities in the world. We also head out to marvel at one of the true wonders of the world, the Great Wall of China, and camp on a deserted section of the wall to watch the sunset. Leaving the city crowds behind we next head out into rural China to the Hangzhou region and an option to trek to Moganshan Peak and to Chairman Mao's old summer residence. We'll also visit a stunning lagoon to swim in the crystal clear waters. Our final destination is Shanghai, the biggest city in the world, and time to sample the vibrant nightlife on offer. There is plenty of opportunity to explore the sights, sounds and mouth-watering cuisine of this amazing city, and no doubt enjoy a little shopping spree as well.
Mode of Transport
Trains
Buses
Public transport
Accommodation
Hostels
Camping
Overnight train
Check out our Q&As
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Are vaccinations required for this tour?
You should ensure you are fully insured for medical emergencies including emergency evacuation and repatriation.
Recommended vaccinations and other health protection measures vary according to the country you are visiting and where you are travelling from. We recommend you contact your GP/medical practitioner or a travel clinic for current information on vaccinations needed for your destination. You should ensure that you are up to date with vaccines and boosters recommended for your normal life at home, including for example, vaccines required for occupational risk of exposure, lifestyle risks and underlying medical conditions.
In addition, additional courses or boosters normally recommended for the countries in this region are:
China: Hepatitis A. Malaria map. Malaria risk is low throughout the year throughout the country apart from areas that border Myanmar and Vietnam which have high risk. It is not generally present in Hong Kong unless contracted abroad. Yellow Fever vaccination certificates are required for travellers over 1 year of age arriving from countries with a risk of yellow fever transmission and for all travellers having transited through the airport of a country with risk of yellow fever transmission
Hong Kong: Hepatitis A. Malaria is not generally present in Hong Kong unless contracted abroad.
Malaria: Vaccinations are not available against Malaria, which is a disease transmitted by mosquitoes that can be very serious and sometimes fatal. You should avoid mosquito bites by covering up bare skin with clothing such as long sleeves and long trousers and applying insect repellents to exposed skin. When necessary, sleep under a mosquito net. Mosquitoes are most active during and after sunset. You should consult with your GP/medical practitioner/travel clinic about the most appropriate malaria prophylactic medication to take for the regions you are visiting. In general the lowland regions Bhutan are considered malarial zones, while higher altitudes including central Bhutan including Paro, Thimphu, Punakha and Bumthang are not. Nepal is considered mainly low risk with prophylactics not normally required.
Yellow Fever: This disease is spread by infected mosquitoes that bite during the day. A Yellow Fever Certificate of vacinnation may be required as a condition of entry depending on which country you are arriving from, or that you have travelled or transitted through recently (including connecting flights with stopovers of over 12 hours). You can view this US CDC information about where the virus is present and follow the links to further information detailing which countries need you to have a Yellow Fever vaccination as part of their entry requirements. Please ensure you have this certificate with you and to hand if necessary. Please inform us of any pre-existing conditions such as diabetes or asthma and any prescription medicine you may be taking. We also need to know about any food allergies or physical disabilities that you may have. -
What is the tipping policy?
Tipping in China is not customary and is not necessary. Of course, voluntary tipping is completely up to you, but in places like restaurants, bars or taxis it is extremely rare.
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What currencies are required for this tour?
The Chinese currency is Renminbi, shortened to ‘RMB’ (‘the people’s coins’). RMB is also referred to as ‘yuan’ or ‘kuai’. You can generally withdraw money in RMB from ATM machines all over China using your home debit/credit cards – just make sure you’ve told your bank that you’ll be travelling there in advance and be prepared to pay a percentage conversion / commission fee. Alternatively, you can carry cash round with you and convert into RMB in banks in in Honk Kong or mainland China. Travellers cheques also remain widely accepted.
Food in China is very cheap. We advise you to budget approximately 80 RMB per day for food in great local restaurants your tour leader will suggest which they know are safe and tasty. If you want to eat cheaper than this you can by eating more simple dishes like fried rice
oodles which come in at less that 10 RMB per meal. As an example of prices of everyday items:
Small bottle water- 2 RMB
Basic Chinese meal- 35 RMB
Drink in a night club- 70 RMB
Beer in a restaurant/hostel 10-20 RMB
Coke/soft drink - 6 RMB
Taxi- 10 minutes- 20 RMB (taxi prices vary depending on the city, but are very cheap compared to Europe/North America) -
What is the maximum group size?
The group size on our budget China tours is min 5, max 20.
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Do you require a visa for this holiday?
Visa arrangements are the responsibility of the traveller, and requirements are subject to change by the local authorities.
In general, all nationalities (except Singapore, Brunei & Japan) need to apply for and obtain a China tourist visa before entering Mainland China. Most nationalities are not required to have a visa for travel solely to Hong Kong. If your flight into Hong Kong connects in mainland China (for example, in Beijing or Shanghai), you will need to tell the Immigration officer in the airport NOT to cross out a single-entry visa, as you are only transferring. If the Immigration officer crosses out a single entry visa, you will encounter difficulties when you start your trip with us and need to cross the border from Hong Kong back into mainland China.
In order to apply for your China tourist visa to travel on this tour, you will need the following:
2 passport photos
an invitation letter (which we will provide)
an itinerary (you can download and provide these tour notes for this)
photocopy of your passport
a completed visa application form
a confirmed flight/train ticket with entry and exit dates shown clearly
Please send us a scanned / photographed copy of your passport identity pages as soon after booking as possible so that we can start to arrange your invitation letter. We also need a copy of your passport in order to book your accommodation and train tickets in China, so please ensure we get it as quickly as possible. We'll send your visa invitation letter to you together with a detailed itinerary as soon as its ready. You should then apply for your visa within three months of your travel start date.
Visa application form assistance:
You can download a copy of the official China visa application form here.
Please note the following when completing the form:
You must print the form off as double-sided. This is an embassy requirement.
Please fill the form out using black capital letters.
In Chinese culture dates are written in the order of year / month / day, so please follow this on your form.
1.9 - Leave this blank, it is not referring to your passport number.
2.1 - Tick the Tourism box.
2.2 - Unless you plan to enter Mainland China again before or after your tour with us, you will require a single entry, 3-month visa.
2.4 - Please write the number of days of how long your tour in Mainland China will be. For example: China on a Shoestring - 25 days, please input 24 days here (Day 25 is in Macau and Hong Kong, both of which are not in Mainland China). Highlights of China should be 15 days, and Beijing to Shanghai Expres should be 9 days.
2.5 Please enter the following addresses and phone numbers in the ‘Detailed Address’ column according to your itinerary.
1. Yangshuo 11 international Hostel NO. 11 Lian Feng Xiang West, Street YangShuo GuiLin GuangXi, Yangshuo
2. Mr Panda Guesthouse 75 2nd Ring Road North Chengdu Tel: +86 028 8662 8336
3. Shuyuan Youth Hostel No. 2 West Shuncheng Road Xian Tel: +86 029 8728 7720
In the fourth row, just write the following note: “please see detailed itinerary for further accommodation details”
2.8 Please enter the following:
Name of Inviter: Shanghai Zhonglei Travel Service Co. Ltd.
Address of Inviter: 822 Zhennan Road, Shanghai, China
Contact Telephone Number of Inviter: +86 21 6150 3200
Relationship with applicant: Tour Operator
For further information on your visa requirements, please either contact us or your local Chinese embassy/consulate.
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Is travel insurance compulsory?
Yes! Travel insurance is compulsory on all of our tours and needs to cover personal accident & liability, medical expenses and repatriation, travel delay & abandonment. We also strongly recommend that you take out cover against cancellation and lost/stolen baggage. Personal medical insurance does not normally provide sufficient cover and is generally not suitable for travel on our tours. You will not be able to join your tour if you have not provided us with details of your insurance or if you arrive without cover in place (no refunds will be due in this event).
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What happens if I need to change my holiday date once I’ve booked?
You are always able to change your travel date. However, some charges may apply depending on how long before your departure you make the change. Our flexible booking conditions and reduced charges will apply if you are changing date because of a Covid-19 reason or because your government is advising against travel to your destination. Please check our detailed booking conditions for full details.
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When is my balance payment due?
60 days prior to departure
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Do you operate a “single share” option and how does it work?
On most of our group tours, solo travellers may choose to form a temporary 'tour bubble' and share a room with another traveller of the same sex in the group. If a room share is not available then a single room supplement may be payable, with the costs for these kept as low as possible. We have also removed compulsory single supplements from many of our tours, and are reducing the cost by 50% on s
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Can I transfer my booking to someone else?
Customers may transfer their booking or any Credit on File to another person who satisfies all the relevant conditions to the tour, provided that we are notified not less than 7 days before departure, and the transferee agrees to these booking conditions and all other terms of the contract between us. The Client and new booker are jointly and severally responsible for any outstanding payments and a transfer administration fee of GBP50 / USD75 / CAD100 / AUD100 / NZD100 / EUR75 / ZAR1000 / INR5000 or GBP100 / USD150 / CAD200 / AUD200 / NZD200 / EUR150 / ZAR2000 / INR10,000 if the transfer is made less than 60 days before departure. Important Note: Certain arrangements may not be amended or transferred after they have been confirmed (for example flight tickets, Gorilla Permits) and any alteration could incur a cancellation and rebooking charge of up to 100% of that part of the arrangements.
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Transfer as credit to Future Tours
Encounters Travel allows you to transfer existing payments to a future tour to avoid cancellation fees if you can't travel and inform encounters travel, 60 days before departure.
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Low Deposit
Encounters Travel requires a minimum deposit of 150 GBP per person or the full booking value, whichever is less, with the final balance not due until 60 days before departure.
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Cancellation Policy
We don't charge a cancellation fee, here is a summary of encounters travel charges.
Up to 61 days before tour starts: Forfeit 100% of deposit.
At 60 days before tour starts: Forfeit 35% of booking price.
At 41 days before tour starts: Forfeit 70% of booking price.
At 27 days before tour starts: Forfeit 90% of booking price.
At 14 days before tour starts: Forfeit 100% of booking price.
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