6 Ways to See China Like Never Before

China is a vast country filled with magical landscapes, heritage sites, unique artifacts and relics of an ancient culture. It presents visitors with a blend of the fiercely modern, intensely surreal and totally ancient.

That is why the United States Tour Operators Association is highlighting some of its members’ wide-ranging opportunities as an inspiration to travelers.  

Family Explorations

Blend the magic of Disney and the wonders of China on a family-friendly journey. The 12-day China Destination tour takes families to some of the country’s most iconic attractions. Visit the Great Wall, the Museum of Qin Terra-cotta Warriors and Horses in Xian, Beijing’s Temple of Heaven, the Forbidden City and the awe-inspiring Imperial Palace.

Discover the Southwest

Venture to the Yunnan Province in southwestern China, known for its varied landscape, snow-capped mountains, rice terraces and deep gorges. The Yunnan: A Journey to Shangri-La with Cox and Kings is a private excursion that explores the Old Town of Dali, the Erhai Lake and follows along the path of the Yangtze River for views of the Black Dragon Pool before ascending the Tibetan Plateau. 

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Adventure in China’s North

With Intrepid, travelers can discover the northern part of the country. The 12-day North China Getaway tour travels to Huangshan, or Yellow Mountain, as well as to the idyllic Huizhou countryside. Visitors explore by foot or by bike. The tour also includes a visit to the Great Wall, where travelers stay in a family-run guesthouse. 

Trek to Tiger Leaping Gorge

The Hiking in China itinerary offered by Audley Travel takes travelers on a guided trek through the Tiger Leaping Gorge. Guests will also visit Zhongdian (Shangri-La), see the sunrise over Huanshan, visit the high Tibetan Plateau and check out the Great Wall.

READ MORE: Top 10 Autumn and Holiday Travel Destinations

Marvel at the Wildlife

Avanti’s new Great Panda Adventure takes guests on a 12-day adventure through China with a private tour of the Panda Center and UNESCO World Heritage Sites such as the Great Wall.

A true highlight is a chance for guests to add the Panda Private Volunteer Experience at the China Conservation and Research Centre for the Giant Panda, where visitors spend five hours feeding, cleaning cages and learning about the 20 to 40 giant and red pandas living there.  

Set Sail

Collette’s Wonders of China and the Yangtze River combines the country natural beauty, culinary traditions and historic landmarks with an upstream cruise. Guests also travel by bullet train at 260 miles per hour, participate in a traditional tea ceremony and share lunch with a local family in their Hutong home during the 16-day journey.