Majestic Yangtze

TravelExperienceAsiaChina
Written By Karen Mcmahon

Imagine watching mist drift through dramatic mountain gorges from the deck of a riverboat, before stepping into vibrant city streets and coming face-to-face with giant pandas. For travellers dreaming of a journey that blends iconic landmarks with tranquil nature, this is China at its most captivating.

On the Majestic Yangtze tour by Wendy Wu Tours, every detail is seamlessly taken care of so you can simply relax and soak in the experience. Led by an expert National Escort, you will journey from the modern skyline of Shanghai to the ancient treasures of Xi'an and Beijing, enjoying a relaxing four-night river cruise and a visit to Chengdu's famous panda sanctuary along the way.

Embark on a tour that showcases the Majestic Yangtze, and the rest of iconic China, a timeless land of wonder and majesty waiting to be discovered.

15 Days Fully Inclusive Classic Group Tour from Shanghai to Beijing

Yangtze River

What Your Journey Looks Like

  • Yangtze River Cruise Unwind on a four-night voyage down China’s most famous waterway, gliding past dramatic sheer cliffs and mist-shrouded peaks through the magnificent Three Gorges.

  • Visit ‘Matchmakers Corner’ Explore the quirks of local culture in Chengdu at the fascinating ‘Matchmaker’s Corner’, a place where parents search for potential suitors for their children

  • Cruise Along the Bund Cruise on the waters of the Huangpu, the river that bisects Shanghai, the perfect way to appreciate the contrast of the west bank, where you’ll find the colonial architecture of the Bund, and the east bank, home to the ultramodern skyscrapers of Pudong

  • Discover Xian’s Beer Scene Swap tea for hops with a visit to one of Xian’s local breweries. Take a look at how the beers are brewed, then sample a glass or two fresh from the source

 

Your Tour Itinerary

  • Arrive in China’s dynamic financial hub, where historic colonial charm meets futuristic skyline views. After transferring to your hotel, spend time relaxing or exploring the surrounding neighbourhood at your own pace before gathering for an enjoyable welcome meal with your fellow travellers.

    • Airport Reception and Hotel Transfer

    • Orientation and Group Welcome Dinner

    Meals Included Dinner on Day 2

    Early check-in is not included. Additional nights before and after your tour can be arranged. Please contact our Reservations team to book.

    An informal Welcome Dinner will be held on Day 2. Late arrivals will receive a box dinner.

  • Spend a full day discovering Shanghai’s captivating blend of ancient heritage and soaring modern landmarks. Wander through tranquil Ming-dynasty gardens and historic market streets, observe classic silk weaving traditions, and take in panoramic city views from high above before embarking on a memorable evening cruise along the river.

    • Stroll Through Yu Garden and Historic Old Town Alleys

    • Demonstration Visit to a Traditional Silk Factory

    • High-Altitude Skyline Views from Jin Mao Tower Observation Deck

    • Promenade Walk Along the Iconic Colonial Bund

    • Panoramic Evening Cruise on the Huangpu River

    Included Meals Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

  • Board a high-speed bullet train across China’s scenic countryside to Yichang. Upon arrival, transfer to the river docks near the massive Three Gorges Dam to board your comfortable cruise ship and settle into your cabin for a four-night journey upstream.

    • High-Speed Bullet Train Journey from Shanghai to Yichang

    • Transfer to Docklands Near the Three Gorges Dam Area

    • Embarkation for a 4-Night River Cruise

    Included Meals Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

    Note Your cruise includes one daily shore excursion plus onboard entertainment, with optional extra excursions available to purchase onboard. If you choose to go ashore independently outside scheduled tours, port fees apply and disembarkation is subject to local conditions and security. Please note that stepping on and off the vessel can involve several stairs, especially at low tide.

    Contact your Wanderlust Travel Expert if you need any mobility assistance or further advice.

  • Discover the monumental scale of the world’s largest hydroelectric dam from dedicated viewing platforms and a local museum. Afterwards, return to the vessel as you begin sailing through Xiling Gorge, the longest and deepest of the dramatic Three Gorges.

    • Shore Excursion to the Three Gorges Dam and Viewing Platform

    • Tour of the Hydroelectric Project Museum

    • Scenic Cruising Through the Dramatic Passages of Xiling Gorge

    • Additional shore excursions to the Three Gorges Dam Lift, the Tribe of the Three Gorges or the Hometown of Qu Yuan may be available

    Included Meals Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

  • Transfer to smaller boats for an intimate journey along pristine tributary waters bounded by sheer cliffs and lush greenery. Return to the main ship to navigate through Wu Gorge, renowned for its quiet beauty, and Qutang Gorge, famous for its towering rock faces.

    • Boat Excursion Along the Scenic Shennong Stream or Goddess Stream

    • Peaceful Navigation Through the Forested Peaks of Wu Gorge

    • Passage Through the Dramatic, Narrow Cliffs of Qutang Gorge

    • Additional shore excursions to the White Emperor City and a “Return to the Three Gorges” show may be available

    Included Meals Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

  • Immerse yourself in regional heritage during a shore disembarkation to explore preserved historic sites and ancient structures. Relax on board for the remainder of the day, enjoying scenic views along the riverbanks as life unfolds along the water.

    • Shore Excursion to Local Cultural Landmarks, like Xiaoguanshan Folk Culture Park, and Mt. Shuanggui

    • Guided Exploration of Rescued Historic Ancestral Homes

    • Leisurely Onboard Cruising and River Scenery Viewing

    Included Meals Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

    Depending on local river conditions and the cruise program, you may visit Mt. Shuanggui or Fengdu Ghost City instead.

  • Disembark in Chongqing to stroll through a historic porcelain town filled with cobbled alleys and traditional architecture. Travel overland to Sichuan’s vibrant capital of Chengdu, capping off the day with authentic local cuisine and an optional traditional performance.

    • Morning Disembarkation in Chongqing

    • Walking Tour of Historic Ciqikou's Cobbled Lanes

    • Overland Journey Across Sichuan to Chengdu

    • Traditional Sichuanese Dinner with Optional After Hours Experience of Face-Changing Opera Performance at an additional cost (time permitting, payable locally)

    Included Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

  • Meet China’s most iconic residents at a world-class conservation facility designed to mirror their natural habitat. Board a bullet train to the former imperial capital of Xian, concluding the evening with a delicious dumpling feast and a colourful cultural dance show.

    • Morning Visit to the Chengdu Giant Panda Conservation Centre

    • High-Speed Bullet Train Journey to Historic Xian

    • Traditional Shui Jiao Dumpling Feast and Tang Dynasty Dancing Show

    Included Meals Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

    Please note you will need to carry your own luggage on and off the train.

  • Stand face-to-face with the legendary Terracotta Army before visiting a local workshop to see how these replica figures are crafted. Walk along Xian’s ancient fortifications, sample local craft brew, and wander through the vibrant market streets of the historic quarter.

    • Guided Exploration of the Terracotta Warriors and Horses Museum

    • Hands-On Artisan Workshop Visit Demonstrating Terracotta Craftsmanship

    • Stroll Along Xian’s Beautifully Preserved 14th-Century City Walls

    • Local Craft Brewery Stop and Beer Tasting Session

    • Atmospheric Walk Through the Bustling Alleys of the Muslim Quarter

    • Optional After-Hours Experience to visit Tang Ever Bright City at an additional cost (time permitting, payable locally)

    Included Meals Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

  • Board a high-speed bullet train across the heartland into Beijing, a fast-paced capital where modern life seamlessly meets thousands of years of rich history. Arrive in the afternoon with time to settle into your hotel and relax.

    • High-Speed Bullet Train Travel from Xian to Beijing

    • Transfer to Hotel and Leisure Time to Settle In

    Included Meals Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

  • Explore the heart of ancient imperial power with a walk across vast Tiananmen Square into the magnificent Forbidden City complex. Visit the tranquil grounds where emperors once prayed for good harvests, concluding your evening with a thrilling display of acrobatics.

    • Guided Walk Across Tiananmen Square into the Forbidden City

    • Peaceful Exploration of the Temple of Heaven Grounds

    • Evening Attendance at a Dazzling Chinese Acrobatic Show

    Included Meals Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

    Please note The Forbidden City is closed on Mondays. If this day of touring falls on a Monday, your touring in Beijing will be switched round so that the Forbidden City is visited on an alternative day. In an effort to preserve the Forbidden City, the number of entry tickets has been significantly reduced. Whilst every effort will be made to get the tickets, should this not be possible, then you will instead visit the Forbidden City from the outside and visit the nearby Prince Kung’s Palace Museum.

  • Experience China's most iconic spectacle with an early visit to walk along a majestic section of the Great Wall. Continue to a local jade carving workshop and the peaceful gardens of the Summer Palace before enjoying a classic Peking Duck farewell feast.

    • Walk along the Majestic Great Wall at Juyongguan Pass

    • Demonstration Visit to a Traditional Jade Carving Workshop

    • Stroll Through the Palatial Gardens and Lakes of the Summer Palace

    • Dine a traditional Peking Duck Dinner

    Included Meals Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

  • Enjoy your final hours at leisure for last-minute sightseeing or shopping before transferring to Beijing Airport for your international return flight.

    • Personal Leisure Time in Beijing

    • Airport Transfer for Return International Flight

    Included Meals: Breakfast

Tour Inclusions

  • Fully Inclusive Touring with Guides and entrance fees

  • Included Meals Breakfasts 12, Lunches 11, Dinners 12

  • International flights and current taxes

  • Accommodation 12 nights in 4-star accommodation

  • Cruise Yangtze River Cruise, Huangpu River Cruise

  • Max Group Size 28

  • Physical Rating 1 Walking, some steps and extended time on your feet.

Make Hong Kong Part of Your Adventure

Book by 15 November 2026 and discover Asia's World City with a complimentary 2-night Hong Kong Glimpses stopover on select eligible Wendy Wu Tours holidays. Take in spectacular harbour views, vibrant neighbourhoods, incredible food and the unmistakable energy of Hong Kong before continuing your journey.

Your stopover package includes two nights' accommodation with daily breakfast, allowing plenty of time to experience some of Hong Kong's most iconic sights. Discover the fascinating heritage of Tai Kwun, take in spectacular views from Victoria Peak and Lion's Point View, and enjoy the convenience of seat-in-coach transfers, guided touring, entrance fees and the services of a local English-speaking guide throughout your sightseeing experience.

From $8,280* per person share twin

*From price is based on departure dates 08 & 15 Mar 2028. Offer applies to new bookings only and is not transferable.

Terms & Conditions *From pricing is based on travel departures on 07 & 16 March 2027. Prices include airline fuel surcharge and taxes and are subject to change. Based on departures from Auckland. Departures from other cities and flight upgrades available upon request. Depending on airline schedules, you may depart and/or arrive on Day 2. Extra nights' accommodation (pre or post tour) or stopovers may be required at an additional cost. Customary tipping amount of approximately RMB700pp (2025 & 2026), RMB735pp (2027) is paid locally in China. *This complimentary Hong Kong stopover offer is valid on all new group tour bookings of 14 days or more, excluding stopovers, made by 15 November 2026. Travel must commence between 01 January and 31 December 2027, subject to availability. Eligible bookings will receive a complimentary 2-night Hong Kong stopover on our Hong Kong Glimpses short stay. Journeys must include Hong Kong in at least one direction, and Wendy Wu Tours must ticket the international flights as part of a fully inclusive itinerary. The offer also applies to solo passengers booked on a tour of 14 days or longer who are paying the single supplement or travelling on a dedicated solo departure. Availability is limited, and blackout dates may apply during special events or peak travel periods in Hong Kong. Airfare surcharges and other applicable airline charges may also apply.

A non-refundable deposit of $400 per person is required within three days of booking confirmation, payable to your travel expert. In some cases, a higher deposit may be required to issue flight tickets and secure the applicable airfare. The complimentary Hong Kong Glimpses stopover is subject to availability and cannot be exchanged for cash, transferred, or combined with another stopover offer unless otherwise stated. Prices and services are subject to availability of tour, airline, and specific economy airfare. Prices may differ once a preferred booking class is sold out. The price includes international flights, accommodation, transportation, and other inclusions as per the published itinerary.

Travel agent service & credit card fees are additional. All tours subject to availability at time of booking. For full terms & conditions, contact Wanderlust Travel Experts.

 

Interested in this experience? Mention this Deal Code: 1233 when speaking with your travel agent. Don't have an agent? Click here to connect with one of our experts.

Karen Mcmahon
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