Discover the breathtaking countryside and rich cultural history of China's north on this 12-day trip bookended by the bright city lights of the country’s biggest hubs. From the dizzying heights of Huangshan, the Great Wall and waterfront Shanghai to the underground pits that hold thousands of Terracotta Warriors, this trip explores the diversity and significance of China. Go beyond the tourist trail, immersing yourself in the local ways of life, with hand-picked experiences to choose from and curated stays in small village guesthouses along the way. Northern China is a feast for the senses, especially your appetite.
Cultural, religious and historic sites
Tour Type
Small Group TourSmall group tours usually have 8-12 participants and maximum up to 18 travelers
Accommodation
Hotel, Sleeper Train, Guest House, Hostel
Age Range
15-99 yrs
Operated in
english
Destinations
Beijing, Shanghai, Great Wall of
Beijing, Shanghai, Great Wall of China, Xian, Huangshan, Hongcun
This was my second completely independent trip to China with this tour operator. I worked with Kyle Lee to organize the itineraries and book hotels, guides, internal trains, and more. This year, I chose to visit Chengdu and Chongqing, as well as some areas of interest near these two cities. I was originally supposed to travel with my daughter, but at the last moment, due to a knee issue, she decided not to come (especially since the trip included some hiking and physical effort). So, I embarked on this journey alone.
What can I say? Impeccable organization. Kyle is extremely helpful and exceptional at tailoring itineraries and travel experiences. He is attentive and present, with an incredible ability to craft trips that let you see exactly what you wanted – and even more. The guides were extraordinary. Diana, incredibly friendly and super communicative, managed to show me the most important parts of an immense city like Chongqing in just one day, while still giving me the space to explore certain places on my own when I needed it.
Andy, who assisted me with logistical transfers in Chengdu, accompanied me with charm, elegance, empathy, and a great sense of humor. Even though he was with me for a short time, he left a lasting impression. However, the highest praise goes to Rosa, my main guide in Chengdu, Leshan, and Mount Emei. Calling her a guide feels reductive – she was a friend, a travel companion, and like family. Tireless, incredibly knowledgeable, and always available. Seeing that I was traveling alone, she joined me for dinners and accompanied me well beyond her working hours. We went shopping together, talked with locals (thanks to her interpretation skills), and shared so much culturally, relationally, and personally. She welcomed me into her world, and I welcomed her into mine. I don’t think I’ve ever traveled with a guide so prepared, kind, and open, who introduced me not only to her country but also to such meaningful human connections.
If I could give 10 stars to this company, to Kyle, and to the amazing people I met, I absolutely would. Since I can only give 5 stars, I’ll do that instead – but I’m already thinking about traveling with them again next year!
Natural landmarks sightseeing
Tour Type
Small Group TourSmall group tours usually have 8-12 participants and maximum up to 18 travelers
I recently had the pleasure of touring Beijing with an amazing guide Steven and driver, and I couldn’t have asked for a better experience! From the moment we were picked up, everything was well-organized, smooth, and enjoyable. Our tour guide was incredibly knowledgeable, friendly, and attentive. He shared fascinating insights about Beijing’s history and culture, making each site we visited even more meaningful. Their enthusiasm and storytelling brought places like the Great Wall, Forbidden City, and Temple of Heaven to life. They also gave us great recommendations for local food and hidden gems, which made our trip even more special. The driver was equally fantastic—always punctual, professional, and courteous.
Navigating Beijing’s busy streets can be challenging, but our driver made it feel effortless. The vehicle was clean, comfortable, and well-maintained, making our journey stress-free and enjoyable. Overall, this was an unforgettable experience, thanks to our guide and driver. I highly recommend their services to anyone visiting Beijing.
Sightseeing ToursLocal culture
Tour Type
Small Group TourSmall group tours usually have 8-12 participants and maximum up to 18 travelers
Age Range
1-76 yrs
Operated in
english
Destinations
Beijing, Shanghai, Chengdu, Xian
Beijing, Shanghai, Chengdu, Xian, Lhasa, Shigatse, Everest Base Camp Tibet
Our family had a great 15-day customized China tour experience with this tour company! Several months before our trip, I contacted the company and Thalia was our very responsive and helpful travel agent. She helped us plan an interesting itinerary with a variety of different activities that exposed us to the ancient history, vibrant culture, and beautiful outdoor landscapes of China. The English-speaking travel guides in each city we visited had warm, friendly personalities and shared great insights with us about life in China. They guided us on memorable visits to the water towns surrounding Shanghai, and to Xian, Guilin, and the beautiful countryside of Yangshuo. The company took care of all our travel arrangements including wonderful and well-situated hotels, private mini-van with driver, and train/airport transfers. These arrangements were very reassuring as this was our family's first trip to China. For all the activities, care, and excellent customer service we received from the company, we felt the overall cost of our family's customized tour was reasonable and well worth it! We would not hesitate to use this company again!
City sightseeing
Tour Type
Small Group TourSmall group tours usually have 8-12 participants and maximum up to 18 travelers
Age Range
1-79 yrs
Operated in
english
Destinations
Beijing, Guilin, Shanghai, Cheng
Beijing, Guilin, Shanghai, Chengdu, Xian, Yangtze River, Chongqing, Yangshuo
We, a family of three from New Zealand, enjoyed a trip to China in October this year. We have been preparing for this trip for 2 years. Before finding this tour operator, we also inquired with some local travel companies in New Zealand and China. After comparing, we found that the itineraries offered by New Zealand companies were relatively limited, and they required a minimum of 16 people to form a group. Therefore, we ultimately chose the 13-day group tour package with this operator. In our group, there are a total of three families, consisting of 6 people. The other members are from Germany and the United States. It was an amazing trip. Totally worth it.
Natural landmarks sightseeing
Tour Type
Small Group TourSmall group tours usually have 8-12 participants and maximum up to 18 travelers
Age Range
1-76 yrs
Operated in
english
Destinations
Beijing, Guilin, Great Wall of C
Beijing, Guilin, Great Wall of China, Shanghai, Xian, Shennv, Yangshuo, Chongqing, Yangtze River
I arranged a group tour in Xiamen with Asia Odyssey in March, 2025. Zeva was my agent to organise the tour, and she was excellent - we were communicating for several weeks, sorting out every detail, she answered all my questions and was very patient with me, to make sure I would visit everything I wanted to and for the best price for me. Thank you, Zeva!
My guide Zico was also very good, he answered all my questions with a lot of detail and provided a steady stream of interesting information during the eight days (not too much, not too little) and providing recommendations for additional things to see and do in the evening. The driver was also very good, I felt safe the entire time. Definitely worth a second tour with them next year.
River cruise
Tour Type
Small Group TourSmall group tours usually have 8-12 participants and maximum up to 18 travelers
