China Uncovered

This escorted tour by G Adventures unfolds comfortably over nine days, beginning with the spiritual scale of the Leshan Giant Buddha and the surrounding monasteries of Mt Emei. Travellers will have time to hike around Emei Shan, a quieter alternative to some of China’s more trodden temples. From there, the tour moves south to Yangshuo, where the Li River’s karst peaks frame a bamboo raft ride that sounds like the sort of placid, natural escape rarely found in the region.

The final stop is Shanghai, with its famously dense cityscape and the Bund’s riverfront views. Here, the itinerary includes an orientation walk, a visit to the Shanghai Museum, and time set aside for sampling local food without a hurried schedule. G Adventures provides a Chief Experience Officer throughout, guiding the group with informal insights rather than formal lectures. The balance of included activities and free time attempts to give space to observe the locations rather than race through them.

Expect a variety of transport modes including train, boat and a local flight, as well as a modest group size averaging twelve people. Internet access will be limited by local restrictions, so a bit of digital disconnection is part of the package too.