helloworld Travel Lower Hutt - Recent staff trips

China is a destination unlike any other, where ancient traditions meet modern innovation, and every city tells a story. On my recent Wendy Wu Tours China Famil, I discovered a country filled with incredible history, breath-taking landscapes, delicious cuisine and genuinely welcoming people.

From walking along the Great Wall and exploring imperial landmarks in Beijing to experiencing the energy of Shanghai and the peaceful beauty of Suzhou, this journey showcased the incredible diversity of China and why it remains one of the world’s most fascinating travel destinations.

Experiencing the Great Wall of China

One of the biggest highlights of any trip to China is visiting the Great Wall, and our journey began with an unforgettable experience at Gubei Watertown and the Simatai section of the Wall.

Gubei Watertown is a beautifully designed historic village located at the base of the Simatai Great Wall. During the day, the traditional streets, small shops and restaurants create a charming atmosphere, while at night the town transforms into a magical display of lanterns, lights and music.

Taking the gondola up to the illuminated Simatai section of the Great Wall was a spectacular introduction to this iconic landmark. Looking down over the glowing village below while standing on one of the world’s most famous structures was a truly memorable moment.

The following day, we took on the Gubeikou to Jinshanling Great Wall hike. Walking this unrestored section offered a completely different perspective, allowing us to experience the Wall in a more authentic setting. The path winds across mountain ridges, disappearing into the distance, and it was incredible to imagine the history that has unfolded along this ancient route.

Although the terrain was challenging in places, the reward was the incredible scenery and the feeling of standing among centuries of history. After our hike, we enjoyed a delicious home-cooked lunch with a local family before returning by flatbed truck—a fun and unique experience that captured the spirit of rural China.

Discovering Beijing’s Imperial History

Beijing is a city where history is everywhere, and our time here provided the perfect introduction to China’s rich cultural heritage.

We visited Tiananmen Square, one of the world’s largest public squares, before exploring the magnificent Forbidden City. With more than 900 buildings, the scale and detail of this former imperial palace complex are truly impressive. The ornate architecture provides a fascinating insight into the Ming and Qing dynasties.

Another highlight was visiting Beijing’s traditional Hutongs. These historic neighbourhoods offer a glimpse into a different side of the city, where traditional homes and community life have continued for generations. Sharing lunch in a local family home was a special experience, allowing us to learn more about everyday life in Beijing and enjoy a traditional musical performance from our host.

The beautiful Temple of Heaven and the spectacular Summer Palace completed our Beijing sightseeing. The Summer Palace was a personal favourite, with its peaceful gardens, temples and expansive lake providing a wonderful contrast to the energy of the city.

Shanghai: Where Tradition Meets the Future

Arriving in Shanghai felt like entering a completely different world. This dynamic city perfectly combines old-world charm with futuristic architecture.

A walk along The Bund revealed grand historic buildings that wouldn’t look out of place in Europe, while across the river the futuristic skyline of Pudong showcased Shanghai’s modern side.

The peaceful Yu Gardens offered a beautiful escape from the city’s energy. Our guide described it as “the universe in a teacup”, which perfectly captured the way these traditional gardens combine carefully designed landscapes, pavilions, ponds and natural elements into a miniature world of beauty and peace.

We also visited a silk mill to learn about the traditional silk-making process, from cocoon to finished product, and enjoyed an evening cruise along The Bund to see Shanghai illuminated after dark.

Exploring Suzhou – China’s Garden City

Our final destination was Suzhou, often known as the “Venice of the East” thanks to its historic canals, gardens and waterways.

The Master of the Nets Garden showcased the elegance of traditional Chinese garden design, with peaceful pathways, beautiful plants, ponds and intricate rock formations. Every detail has been carefully considered to create harmony between nature and architecture.

We also explored Suzhou’s historic canal district, where traditional white buildings with dark tiled roofs line the waterways. The cobbled streets, local eateries and relaxed atmosphere provided a wonderful final glimpse into old China.

Why Choose Wendy Wu Tours for China?

Before visiting China, I wasn’t sure what to expect. What surprised me most was how safe, clean and welcoming the country felt. Despite the language barrier, the people we met were friendly and always willing to help.

Travelling with Wendy Wu Tours made the experience even more rewarding. Having an expert National Guide like George brought each destination to life through his stories, knowledge and understanding of Chinese history and culture.

China is a destination where a guided tour allows travellers to truly immerse themselves in the experience without worrying about logistics. From navigating major cities to uncovering hidden cultural experiences, having local expertise makes all the difference.

This journey changed my perspective on China and left me with incredible memories of ancient wonders, vibrant cities, delicious food and unforgettable moments.

If China is on your travel wish list, a Wendy Wu Tours adventure is the perfect way to experience this extraordinary destination.