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Tour · Wendy Wu Tours · 13 nights

China: Winter Wonderland

  • Immerse yourself in the festive atmosphere of Shanghai's Christmas markets
  • Witness the awe-inspiring Harbin Ice and Snow Festival, one of the world's largest
  • Enjoy a once-in-a-lifetime walk on the Great Wall at Jinshanling
From
$9,180 pp twin share
$11,280 pp solo share
13 nights
Departs 24 December 2026 Returns 6 January 2029
Duration13 nights
OperatorWendy Wu Tours
StyleTour
HighlightEmbrace the magic of a winter wonderland in China, from Shanghai's Christmas markets to the Harbin Ice and Snow Festival
Explore the highlights of China in winter, from Shanghai to Harbin. Encounter giant pandas and indulge in Sichuan hot pot in Chengdu. Uncover the secrets of the Terracotta Warriors and Tang Dynasty…

Embrace the magic this Christmas with a once-in-a-lifetime adventure as China transforms into a winter wonderland and unique blend of cultures.

Begin your festive journey in Shanghai, where Christmas markets and the mesmerising lights of the city twinkle, and dining experiences offer a fusion of flavours. Head to Chengdu for a heart-warming encounter with giant pandas and a sizzling Sichuan hot pot. In Xian, uncover the secrets of the Terracotta Warriors, immerse yourself in a Tang Dynasty dancing performance, and indulge in a dumpling banquet.

Wrap up the year in the picturesque Gubei Watertown, nestled against the backdrop of the Great Wall, and welcome the New Year with a glass of champagne atop a secluded section of the wall. Step into the enchanting world of the annual Harbin Ice and Snow Festival, one of the oldest and largest in the world, where intricate sculptures and snowy landscapes come together to create a winter wonderland like no other.

Due to popular demand, we have now launched January departures of our magical Winter Wonderland tour.

When & how much

Departures & Pricing

Departs
24 December 2026
Returns 6 January 2029
Returns
6 January 2029
Duration
13 nights
From pp twin share
$9,180 pp
Was $10,980 pp
From pp solo cabin
$11,280 pp
  • 24 Dec 2026 - 06 Jan 2027
    Land only: from $8,580 pp twin share / $10,580 pp sole use
    Flight inclusive: from $9,780 pp twin share / $11,780 pp sole use *
  • 24 Dec 2027 - 06 Jan 2028
    Land only: from $7,980 pp twin share / $10,080 pp sole use
    Flight inclusive: from $9,180 pp twin share / $11,280 pp sole use *
  • 06 Jan 2028 - 19 Jan 2028
    Land only: from $8,880 pp twin share / $10,980 pp sole use
    Flight inclusive: from $10,080 pp twin share / $12,180 pp sole use *
  • 24 Dec 2028 - 06 Jan 2029
    Land only: from $9,380 pp twin share / $11,580 pp sole use
    Flight inclusive: from $10,580 pp twin share / $12,780 pp sole use *

* Prices and category availability are subject to change without notice. Land only prices exclude international flights.

Upgrades, transfers, accommodation and more can be quoted on enquiry — call 1300 414 198.

Day by day

Itinerary

  1. 1

    Arrive to Shanghai

    Fly to cosmopolitan city of Shanghai, also known as the 'Paris of the East'. Depending on your time of arrival, the rest of the day is yours to start soaking up the local culture.

  2. 2

    Christmas Day in Shanghai

    Today's Christmas Day explorations start with the peaceful Yu Gardens and then the atmospheric alleys of the old town. Admire the magnificent colonial architecture along the Huangpu River with a stroll along the Bund before visiting a silk factory. Enjoy your lunch at the renowned Lost Heaven, one of Shanghai's must-try restaurants inspired by indigenous recipes and cooking techniques from the Yunnan region. Later, wander through one of the city's festive Christmas markets, then cruise on the mighty Huangpu River for stunning views of the Shanghai skyline. This evening, enjoy a German-style feast.

  3. 3

    Shanghai to Chengdu

    This morning, explore Xintiandi with its 1920's style shikumen buildings. Then transfer to the airport for your flight to Chengdu, capital of Sichuan Province and home of the Giant Panda.

  4. 4

    Chengdu

    Start your day with a visit to Chengdu's renowned Panda Conservation Centre, where you can see and learn about China's celebrated bear. Later, spend 1-2 hours sightseeing around People's Park, visiting a teahouse and the famous Matchmaker's Corner where parents look for suitable suitors for their children. Tonight, enjoy a traditional Sichuanese hot pot meal.

  5. 5

    Chengdu to Xian

    Today, board your bullet train to the former ancient capital of Xian. This evening, dine on a delicious Shui Jiao dumpling banquet and watch a performance of Tang Dynasty dancing.

  6. 6

    Xian

    Visit one of the most important archaeological discoveries of the 20th century: the Terracotta Warriors. The figures were created over 2,000 years ago to accompany Emperor Qin Shihuang into the afterlife. Afterwards, visit the Xian Art Ceramics and Lacquer Exhibition Workshop to see smaller models of the warriors being made. Later, stroll on the beautifully preserved 14th century city walls that enclose Xian's old town.

  7. 7

    Xian to Beijing

    Transfer to the train station and take the speedy bullet train to Beijing, China's eminent capital city. In the afternoon, explore the Hutongs and have dinner with a local family.

  8. 8

    New Year's Eve in Guibei Watertown

    In the morning explore the Summer Palace, once a holiday retreat of the Qing emperors, before travelling to the charming Gubei Watertown, a beautifully recreated ancient town nestled against the backdrop of the Simatai section of the Great Wall, and enjoy the afternoon at leisure. You may wish to wander the town's canals, relax at a hot spring resort, or get cozy at a local teahouse. As the sun goes down, soar up to the heights of the Great Wall by cable car and watch a series of illuminations light up this ancient wonder. Stroll along the top before returning to the town to farewell the year with a delicious New Years Eve dinner.

  9. 9

    Gubei to Beijing

    Enjoy a leisurely morning then get ready for a once-in-a-lifetime walk on the Jinshanling section of the Great Wall. Toast the New Year with a glass of champagne atop the wall. Jinshanling is much less frequented by tourists than other parts of the Wall. The stark, yet magnificent surroundings allow you to put yourself in the shoes of those who walked this incredible edifice hundreds of years ago. Return back to Beijing by road and enjoy an evening at leisure.

  10. 10

    Beijing - Harbin

    Head to Beijing's symbolic heart, Tiananmen Square, and stroll into the sprawling magnificence of the Forbidden City. Entering through the Gate of Supreme Harmony, you will find a complex full of imperial riches. Transfer to the train station for your bullet train journey to Harbin, home to the Harbin International Ice Festival.

  11. 11

    Harbin

    Today you will visit the Shong Hua River, where you can observe ice water swimming, ice windsurfing and other amazing winter activities. Head across to Sun Island, located in the middle of the river. This is a popular outdoor retreat for locals to simply relax, picnic and enjoy this 38 square kilometre landscaped parklands. This evening you can mingle with people from all over the world to celebrate the joyous Ice Lantern Festival and admire thousands of spectacular ice carved animals, plants and buildings all brought to life in the beautifully illuminated festival grounds.

  12. 12

    Harbin

    This morning enjoy the festivities visiting Ice and Snow World. Here you will view the many sculptures on display. The inspiration for these sculptures is usually derived from traditional Chinese fairy tales or world famous monuments. There is a variety of optional activities on offer at Ice and Snow World, including the ice maze, ice bars, skating (at your own expense) and if time permits you will have free time to choose how you like to spend your time here. Later you will tour the city centre, filled with grand European-style buildings, including Central Avenue and Sophia Cathedral.

  13. 13

    Harbin to Beijing

    Transfer to the train station for your return bullet train journey to Beijing. This evening, farewell your group and tuck into a delicious local dish, Peking duck.

  14. 14

    Depart Beijing

    Days 14–15

    Transfer to the airport and fly back to Australia arriving home the following day.

What you get for the price

Inclusions & exclusions

What’s included

  • International flights and current taxes (excluded if a land only option is selected).
  • Domestic transportation.
  • Touring with guides and entrance fees.
  • 3-4 star accommodation.
Where you’ll stay

Accommodation

  • Hongqiao Jin Jiang Hotel
  • Xin Liang Hotel
  • Dajing Castle Hotel
  • Mercure Beijing Downtown
  • Gubei Water Town Hotel
  • Harbin Yarrow Hotel
From the operator

Common questions about this voyage

How long is this journey?
This itinerary runs for 15 days and 13 nights.
When can I travel?
Departures are currently scheduled between 24 Dec 2026 and 06 Jan 2029, subject to live availability.
Are there different departure options?
Yes, multiple departures may be available depending on your preferred travel period.
Can I travel solo?
Solo pricing may be available on selected departures, and final options can be confirmed at enquiry.
Are discounts available?
Seasonal or loyalty discounts may be available on selected departures at the time of enquiry.
Ready to lock in?

Book this tour

Send us an enquiry and a consultant will be in touch, or call 1300 414 198 for personal help choosing a departure.

Enquire about this tour
The fine print

Terms & conditions

Read the operator’s full booking conditions
  • Flight Inclusive rates only: These include airline fuel surcharge and taxes. Correct as of 1 June 2025. Please note supplements may apply if lead in economy rates are not available.
  • Customary tipping amount of approximately RMB840 (AU$183) is paid locally in China.
  • 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.
  • Flight Inclusive rates only: Based on departures from Sydney, Melbourne, Brisbane, Adelaide & Perth. Departures from other cities and flight upgrades available on request.
  • Price subject to change.
Travel at 60 Social Getaways

Travel further when you're not travelling alone

Our Social Getaways are small-group holidays designed especially for over-60s Australians who want the freedom of a great trip without the work of planning every detail. A Travel at 60 host travels with the group, the operator handles the logistics, and you get to focus on the bit that matters — the people, the places, and the stories you'll bring home.

Open to solo travellers too. Many of our travellers book on their own and find their feet quickly in a friendly group of like-minded Australians. Reduced single-supplement options are available on most departures — ask one of our consultants and we'll talk you through what's offered on this trip.

  • A friendly Travel at 60 host — an Australian face on the ground, looking out for the group from day one.
  • Curated local guides & boutique suppliers — the same operators we'd book for our own families.
  • Real itineraries, not whirlwind tours — comfortable transfers, breathing room, and the “off the beaten track” stops the big bus tours skip.

Want to talk it through? Call 1300 414 198 7 days a week, Queensland time, and one of our consultants will walk you through it.

— The team at Travel at 60

A Travel at 60 host with travellers on a Social Getaway
From (twin) $9,180 pp
From (solo) $11,280 pp
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