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4 essential things to do on a first-time visit to China

From walking the Great Wall to visiting Shanghai.
Jade Dragon Snow Mountain

China is a treasure trove of bucket-list worthy destinations, from heritage sites to dramatic natural landscapes and man-made wonders like the world-famous Great Wall.

One of the best ways to explore the East Asia country is on a small group tour with Wendy Wu Tours. The tour specialist’s 16-day China itinerary is all-inclusive, featuring international flights, all meals, comfort standard hotels, visa fees and processing service where needed, and all sightseeing and entrance fees included in the price. So, what can you expect to see on the ‘Wonders of tour? Keep reading for the top five attractions to see in China with Wendy Wu Tours.

The Forbidden City in Beijing
Visit a complex full of imperial riches in the Forbidden City. Photo: Supplied

1. The Forbidden City, Beijing

Start your trip in China’s historical capital and one of the world’s greatest cities. Beijing is home to incredible landmarks such as the Great Wall, Tiananmen Square, the Summer Palace and the Forbidden City.

At the heart of Beijing, the Forbidden City is an imperial palace complex commissioned in 1406 by the Ming dynasty. Enter via the Gate of Supreme Harmony and follow your guide through the warren-like hutongs (alleyways) while learning more about this traditional area.

2. The Great Wall, Beijing

No visit to China is complete without walking a section of the Great Wall. This 21,196 kilometre-long fortification is the most iconic sight in the country, and for good reason. Weaving through mountainous terrain, the Great Wall stretches from the east coast to the western desert and is easily accessible from Beijing.

The spectacular Great Wall was built over two millennia. Photo: Supplied

On a Wendy Wu tour, walk a section of the Great Wall in the morning then follow your guide to a jade factory, where you can buy a handcrafted souvenir. Spend the afternoon strolling through the lush gardens of the Summer Palace.

3. Terracotta Warriors, Xi’an

Get up close and personal with the Terracotta Army of China’s first emperor, Qin Shi Huang. Unearthed by rural workers in the 1970s, this army of life-sized warriors and horses is one of the world’s most enigmatic archaeological discoveries. Beyond the statues, take note of the preserved 14th-century city walls that enclose Xian’s old town.

[Dating back 2200 years, the Terracotta Warriors were built to protect an underground tomb. Photo: Supplied

4. Shanghai

End your China voyage in Shanghai, a bustling cosmopolitan city steeped in history. From the city’s exceptional dining scene to the dazzling skyscrapers and historical architecture, there is so much to do and see. Take a walk around the Yu Garden, visit a silk factory and then spend the evening on a city-view cruise along the Huangpu River.

Endemic to China, pandas are the country’s national heirloom. Visit the Panda House in Chongqing on a Wendy Wu tour. Photo: Supplied

There’s never been a better time to visit China. Right now, Wendy Wu Tours’ all-inclusive 16-day trip to China is currently on sale from $6380* per person. Save up to $1200* on Wendy Wu Tours until 4 September 2024. Book now at Flight Centre.

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