Our tour begins with a get-acquainted meeting in our Beijing hotel, followed by a classic Beijing Duck dinner.

Tiananmen; Temple of Heaven; Forbidden City
Today begins with a private coach tour of the city. Stops include The Temple of Heaven, Tiananmen Square, and the Forbidden City. This morning’s theme is gargantuan public spaces. The Temple of Heaven is the signature structure in a collection of temples in an immense public park at the city’s center. Tiananmen Square, the symbolic center of the modern Chinese nation, is the world’s largest public square. The Forbidden City, so called because commoners were not allowed for 500 years, was the capital for two dynasties and is the largest palace complex in the world. In the afternoon a walking tour gives a more intimate glimpse of life in the capital as we explore a Hutong district. Hutongs are the tiny streets or alleyways that make up the ancient, traditional neighborhoods of Beijing. We’ll see more of the bustle of everyday Beijing life here along with ceremonial gates, towers, and mansions, and traditional courtyard houses.

Summer Palace

On our way out of Beijing we will stop for a tour of the magnificent Summer Palace. Then we proceed to Gubeikou village near the Great Wall. We’ll have dinner with our guesthouse hosts.

Great Wall

Our entire morning will be spent learning about, photographing, and hiking the Great Wall of China, one of the Seven Wonders of the World and the only one that can be seen from space. We have chosen to visit the Jinshanling section. It is further afield from Beijing, but less crowded and commercial, less restored, and the view is amazing. In the afternoon we return to Beijing to board our overnight train to Xian in Shaanxi province.

Muslim Quarter tour

Upon arrival today we’ll have a Chinese breakfast before enjoying a walking tour of the Muslim quarter of Xian. The tour will include a visit to the Great Mosque, one of the largest in China. An interesting blend of Chinese and Muslim architecture, the mosque blends a spirit wall and Chinese garden with calligraphy-decorated gates and a minaret. Your afternoon is free to explore Xian on your own.

Xian Terra Cotta Warriors

The incomparable Terra Cotta Warriors are the highlight of today’s activities. This 1974 discovery is one of the great archaeological finds and sights in the world today. Multiple pits (formerly tombs) house an army of thousands of life-sized soldiers, horses, and war machines. Our lunch today is at a local farmer’s restaurant and your afternoon is free for exploration or relaxation in Xian.

Pandas

A morning bullet train delivers us to Chengdu, in Sichuan. Upon arrival we'll settle into our hotel. Then we visit the Giant Panda Breeding Center for a memorable encounter with these lovable bears. Nearly 50 giant and red pandas call this preserve home. It is the best place to see, photograph, and learn about these shy and gentle creatures.

Leshan Buddha; Hot Pot dinner

This morning we’ll visit one of China’s signature sights – the Leshan Giant Buddha. Carved into the riverside cliff, this 1200-year-old stone Buddha is no less than 233 feet tall. Our afternoon is free to relax or explore Chengdu. Tonight, we share chuan-chuan xiang (hotpot) for dinner, the quintessential local specialty.

Today is primarily a travel day. We’ll transfer to the station for our high-speed bullet train to Guilin. Upon arrival, we’ll drive to Yangshuo and check into our hotel. You’ll have the late afternoon and evening free to relax and enjoy this charming town on the Li River.

Li River Cruise; Cooking class

This morning we will be boarding boats for an iconic journey down the karst-lined Li River. The spectacular and surreal karst landscape is world famous and we’re sure to take many photographs on this scenic cruise. For lunch, we have a Chinese cooking class arranged. If time allows we’ll take a bike ride in the countryside as well.

Dragon’s Backbone

The fabled and intensely photogenic Dragon’s Backbone Rice Terraces are our goal this morning as we venture out to a tiny village in the countryside. The drive alone is worth our effort as we wind through the picturesque valleys and more karst formations to our destination of Ping’an. It is sure to be another spectacular photo safari day as we stroll among the picturesque rice terraces.

Today is another travel day as we make our way south to Hong Kong. Our comfortable coach drives us to Guilin where we catch another bullet train. This high-speed wonder rockets us along in comfort as we watch the scenery of Guangxi and Guangdong provinces speed by. We’ll settle into our HK hotel in the early evening.

Victoria Peak

This morning we’ll begin our sightseeing with a walking tour of Hong Kong and concluding with the iconic tram excursion to famous Victoria Peak for panoramic views. The rest of your day is free to explore before we gather for a last night dinner together.

Tour Over

Tour over after breakfast. Imprint will assist with airport transfer arrangements.

China, the “Middle Kingdom,” boasts the world’s oldest continuous civilization. Our tour takes you through the heart of China's rich cultural heritage, iconic landmarks, and breathtaking natural wonders.

From ancient palaces and historic temples, from great cities to small villages and majestic landscapes, every moment is designed to immerse you in the profound history of this remarkable country. Imprint has curated the best of China’s travel offerings into a journey of discovery that will leave you with unforgettable memories.

Experience the very best of China through a carefully crafted itinerary that ensures you see, feel, and taste the essence of this magnificent country. This tour will be a captivating adventure from start to finish.

• Forbidden City & Temple of Heaven: Enter and explore the iconic imperial palace complex, once home to Chinese emperors and a symbol of the country's rich history and culture. Discover the stunning architecture and cultural significance of the historic Temple of Heaven, where emperors prayed for good harvests and divine guidance.
• Great Wall: Hike along one of the most famous and impressive landmarks in the world, offering breathtaking views and a glimpse into China's ancient defensive strategies.
• Terracotta Warriors: Marvel at the thousands of life-sized clay soldiers guarding the tomb of China's first emperor, Qin Shi Huang, each uniquely crafted to represent his army.
• Pandas: Be charmed by the adorable and rare giant pandas at a dedicated conservation center, learning about efforts to protect these beloved creatures.
• Natural Wonders: Sail past the stunning limestone karst formations along the Li River in Guilin, capturing the beauty of this unique and picturesque landscape. Tread through the picturesque rice terraces of the Dragons' Backbone, witnessing the harmonious blend of nature and agriculture.

Visa Requirements: Participants are REQUIRED to obtain a Visitor Visa prior to the trip at their own expense. 

Q: How do I obtain a visa for China?

A: You need a visitor visa before arrival. Apply online via the Chinese Online Visa Application (COVA) and attend an in-person interview at a Chinese Embassy in the US (NYC, Washington DC, Chicago, Houston, San Francisco, Los Angeles).

Note: The responsibility to acquire the correct visitor documentation rests solely with the traveler. Since Imprint does not provide this service, we have no special expertise, connections, or experience on which to draw. Therefore, we are unable to assist with difficulties. Any information offered for a specific tour is provided as a courtesy only. Said information is not to be viewed as complete and total.

Registration and Deposit

Q: What should I expect after registering and paying the deposit for the tour?

A: You will receive a confirmation email welcoming you to the tour. This email will include a link to a Manage Booking page where you can view all your trip details, your deposit receipt, payment schedule, and information for purchasing travel insurance through Travelex. Imprint Tours STRONGLY recommends purchasing trip insurance.

Flight Information

Q: Are flights included?

A: International Flights to/from the tour are NOT included. Internal tour flights, when used, are included.

Q: What airport do I use to join/depart the tour?

A: The tour starts in Bejing (PEK; PKX; NAY) on Sept 16 (late afternoon) and ends in Hong Kong (HKG) on Sept 29 (after breakfast).

Q: Should I arrive early for the tour?

A: When you arrive is entirely up to you. Most Imprint travelers arrive 1 day early.

Q: Can I skip breakfast on the final day and depart early that morning?

A: Yes, you are not obliged to partake of the final breakfast, nor will you miss any tour activities.

Q: Does Imprint provide or arrange airport transfers?

A: No, airport transfers are the traveler's responsibility to arrange. Basic information will be included in the 8-Week Letter.

Q: Does Imprint provide advice about airlines, routing, or booking?

A: No, Imprint does not provide these services.

Q: When should I book my flight?

A: Avoid booking flights before Jan 16, 2025 unless you confirm the tour status.

Q: Do I need to check the tour status after Jan 16?

A: No, if you have not received a cancellation notice from Imprint by Jan 16, you may assume the tour is a go.

Early Pay Discount (EPD) vs. Full Pay

Q: How do I avail the Early Pay Discount (EPD)?

A: To receive the $300 EPD, you must book your trip and pay in full by the designated date. The payment system already reflects this discount. Please refer to our Terms and Conditions regarding EPD as cancellation incurs a penalty.

Q: If I’ve chosen to take advantage of the Early Pay Discount (EPD), and subsequently cancel, what penalties will I incur?

A: If you’ve opted for the EPD and paid in full, but then cancel, your deposit plus $400 of the EPD price is non-refundable. If no deposit has been paid, $1000 of the EPD price is non-refundable.

Q: Why must I choose between EPD and Full price for the extension, when the price remains the same?

A: To synchronize your final payment (so the tour payment and extension payment are due on the same date).

Q: Can I pay with a Credit Card?

A: Yes, you can opt to pay via Credit Card. However, you must pay the Credit Card fees, which are non-refundable in the case of cancellation.

Q: Can I avoid the Credit Card fees?

A: Yes, you can pay via ACH transfer without fees. 

Q: Can I choose to delay final payment until Dec [], 2028?

A: Yes, you must register for a Full Price package, then pay your balance due by Dec []. You will receive a notice of final payment due one week prior.

Q: Is there any penalty for cancellation of a non-EPD registration?

A: No, there is no penalty for cancellation until Dec []. However, your deposit is forfeit if the 30 days has elapsed (see above).

Q: What if I have to cancel after Dec []?

A: After Dec [], 2028 all payments are final and non-refundable for any reason.

Pre-Departure Information

Q: What should I do to prepare for the tour?

A: About 8 weeks before departure, you'll receive a detailed email with a packing list, sightseeing suggestions, and other important information. Meanwhile, ensure your passport is valid for at least 6 months from the tour end date and has two clean pages for visa stamps.

Note - It is the sole responsibility of the traveler to provide up-to-date passport information. If a passport has expired or will expire prior to six months beyond a traveler’s intended departure from their Imprint tour destination, it is the responsibility of the traveler to update the passport data in their registration. Imprint Tours is not responsible for transportation booking delays, mistakes, or omissions if registration passport data is out of date.

Pre- and Post-Tour Hotels

Q: Since Imprint is unable to assist with pre- and post-tour hotel bookings, how do I book non-tour hotel nights? 

A: For pre-tour nights, book at Beijing Sunworld Hotel. For post-tour nights, book at Metropark Hotel Kowloon. Bookings are under Intrepid Travel China and Imprint Tours, standard rooms. Final hotel bookings with roster names will be made about 60 days prior to the tour start.

Tour Hotels

Q: If I need a complete list of tour hotels, where do I find that?

A: Hotels are listed in the itinerary section above.

Q: Will there be hair dryers available in the hotels?
A: Yes, hair dryers are available.

Q: Will there be opportunity to do laundry during the tour?
A: Yes, there are laundry facilities available.

Important Reminders

Q: Are there any critical things I need to keep in mind?

A:

• Print and keep the confirmation letter for reference.

• If your passport will expire between now and 6 months beyond your intended departure from China, it is your sole responsibility to update your registration information in We Travel. You can use the link in your confirmation email to return to your account to make edits. Imprint Tours is not responsible for reminding you to update your information nor for any problems with booking delays, mistakes, or omissions due to incorrect passport data.

• Add reid@imprinttours.com to your email address book.

• Download & activate Whatsapp for essential on-tour communications.

• Check your bank’s policy on international ATM withdrawal or Credit Card fees.

Health and Safety

Q: What health precautions should I take?

A: Visit the CDC website or your local travel medicine clinic for suggested inoculations for China. We cannot advise on inoculations due to liability concerns. This tour involves moderate physical activity, including walking tours and excursions to natural sites with uneven terrain. Participants should be in good health and capable of handling such activities.

Tour Member Expectations

Q: What mindset should I have for the tour?

A: Be flexible, respectful, independent-minded, and personally responsible. Expect challenges and surprises, especially in less-developed areas. Positive, flexible attitudes contribute to a better group experience.

Travel Insurance

Q: Why is travel insurance important?
A: Travel insurance protects your investment against unforeseen events like flight delays, baggage loss, or sudden illness.

Trip cancellation insurance helps protect you and the investment you made in your trip when you travel. It provides pre-departure benefits in case you must cancel your trip before you have the chance to take it, and post-departure benefits such as travel delay, trip interruption, and emergency medical expenses to protect you while you are traveling. We recommend Trawick. For more than 25 years, Trawick International has been a trusted provider of international insurance, administration, and assistance services.  Trawick International provides personalized service and trusted guidance.  With 24/7 customer support and worldwide protection, you’ll have everything you need for everywhere you’ll go. We understand your plans can change quickly and unforeseen events could impact your travel plans. We feel it's important to consider purchasing a travel protection plan to help protect you and your travel investment.

Comprehensive Travel Protection and Travel Medical Insurance Plans may provide coverage for:

·       Trip Cancellation

·       Trip Interruption 

·       Trip Delay 

·       Missed Connection

·       Baggage Benefits

·       Baggage and Personal Effects 

·       Baggage Delay 

·       Emergency Accident and Sickness

·       Medical Expense 

·       Dental Expenses 

·       Emergency Evacuation 

·       Repatriation of Remains  

·       Accidental Death & Dismemberment

*Please make sure to read your specific plan document as coverage may vary depending on state and policy purchased. 

For policy questions please call Trawick International’s 24/7 customer service team at 888-301-9289.

Worldwide Travel Assistance is available 24 hours a/ day, 7 days a week. Trawick International offers immediate online policy confirmation of coverage, personalized ID cards and plan documents. Our Global Response Center (GRC) is staffed by a diverse team of bilingual and multilingual professionals.  Trawick Internationals Assistance Provider OnCall International can arrange access to over 180 written and spoken languages to ensure we can deliver clear, accurate, and culturally sensitive emergency response and assistance to travelers anywhere in the world, at any time.

Please Note: Full coverage terms and details, including exclusions and limitations, are contained in the insurance policy. Product descriptions provided here are only brief summaries and may be changed without notice. Plan sold by Trawick International. Insurance is provided by either Technology Insurance Company or Wesco Insurance Company, an AmTrust Financial Services, Inc. company and non-insurance services by Trawick International. Limitations and exclusions apply. Trip cancelation plans are only valid for residents of the United States.