Hong Kong to Shanghai on a Shoestring Adventure Tour

China is a great example of a country with equally modern and historic relevance, and with this 19-day tour you'll learn why. By crossing the country via train you'll not only be able to visit a bunch of different cities (and Hong Kong!) in just under three weeks, but you'll also get to see the diverse landscapes that make up the world's most populous country. Stand face-to-face with the Terracotta Warriors, cycle the ancient city walls, practice Tai Chi with locals, go shopping in Shanghai, or sing your heart out in a karaoke session. If you're feeling adventurous, do it all.

Joining Instructions  

There are a few ways to get to Hong Kong from the Airport. If you are taking a taxi, we always recommend printing out the address of the hotel (in the native language as well as English if available), to show to your taxi driver.

Follow signs to the taxi station. It's by the left-hand ramp outside the Arrivals Hall. Cost is around HK$250 to the hotel.

If you are using public transit:

1. Directions to PENTAHOTEL:

Address: 19?, 15 Luk Hop St, San Po Kong, Hong Kong

By Train (Airport Express): Follow the signs to the Airport Express Station, take the train to Tsing Yi Station ???, then follow signs to transfer to Lai King ?? (MTR Tung Chung Line, Direction to Hong Kong), then transfer to Prince Edward ??? (MTR Tsuen Wan Line ???, Direction to Central), then transfer to Diamond Hill ???? (MTR Kwun Tong Line, Direction to Tiu Keng Leng). Get off at Diamond Hill ????. Come out via EXIT A2, walk towards southeast and turn left to Lung Cheung Road for 25 meters, then turn left for around 200 meters, turn right onto Choi Hung Road, turn left to Tai Yau Street, turn left onto Luk Hop Street; Penta Hotel Kowloon would be on your left. The Cost is around HKD90.

By Public Airport Bus: The bus station is situated outside the Arrivals Hall on the right side. You need to leave the Arrivals Hall and turn right, following the direction signs to Ground Transportation Centre. Take Line A26 or A29P to Diamond Hill Station; Tai Hom Road ???? (6th stop including Hong Kong International Airport). Once you get off the bus, walk forward (same direction as bus goes) and turn right to cross Lung Cheung Road, then turn left toward Choi Hung Road, turn right onto Choi Hung Rd, turn left toward Sze Mei Street, continue onto Sze Meiyou slightly right; at the roundabout, take the 1st exit onto Luk Hop St., at the cross turn right to stay on right side Luk Hop St., then you'll see Penta Hotel Kowloon. The Cost is around HKD33.

2. Directions to HARBOUR PLAZA NORTH POINT:

Address: 665 King's Rd, North Point, Hong Kong

By Train (Airport Express): Follow the signs to the Airport Express Station, take the train to Hong Kong Station ???, then follow signs to transfer to Central Station (MTR Island Line ???). Get off at Quarry Bay Station ????. Come out via EXIT B, head north on King's Road for 200 metres, turn right toward King's Road then turn left toward King's Road and slight left onto King's Road. The hotel will be on the right. The cost for the train is about HK115.

By Public Airport Bus & Metro: The bus station is situated outside the Arrivals Hall on the right side. You need to leave the Arrivals Hall and turn right, following the direction signs to Ground Transportation Centre. Take Line A22 to Chi Wo Street; Jordan Road (4th stop including Hong Kong International Airport). Once you get off the bus, head southwest on Jordan Rd toward Nathan Rd, take entrance Jordan Station Exit B2. Take Tsewn Wan Line ??? from Jordan Station ??? to Admiralty Station ???. Follow the signs to transfer take Island Line ??? from Admiralty Station to Quarry Bay Station ????. Come out via EXIT B, head north on King's Road for 200 metres, turn right toward King's Road then turn left toward King's Road and slight left onto King's Road. The hotel will be on the right. Cost is about HK21.

***Taxi/train is recommended as they are the easiest ways to get to the hotel. Bus is the cheapest option.

If you have paid in advance for an arrival transfer:

Please approach Vigor Tours airport counter upon arrival and advise your G Adventures confirmation number to Vigor Tours airport staff. Vigor Tours airport service counter location:
Counter B18, Arrival Hall B of Terminal 1.

Please note that Day 1 is an arrival day and no activities have been planned for that day other then your welcome meeting in the evening, so you can arrive at any time.

A G Adventures Representative will organize a short meeting soon after arrival, during which you will meet other tour participants and receive information about general and specific aspects of the trip. A welcome note will be left for you in the hotel so you have all the necessary information regarding the meeting time. If you arrive late, s/he will leave you a message detailing what time and where you should meet the next morning.

What's Included  

Your First Night Out Moment: Connect With New Friends
Your Welcome Moment: Welcome Moment - Meet Your CEO and Group
Your Discover Moment: Yangshuo
Your Discover Moment: Beijing
Your Big Night Out Moment: Private Karaoke Session, Suzhou. Great Wall Mutianyu Visit. Shanghai and Xi'an orientation walks. Private Karaoke Session (Suzhou). Song Shan hike. Shaolin Temple Visit. All transport between destinations and to/from included activities.

Itinerary Disclaimer  

While it is our intention to adhere to the route described below, there is a certain amount of flexibility built into the itinerary and on occasion it may be necessary, or desirable to make alterations. The itinerary is brief, as we never know exactly where our journey will take us. Due to our style of travel and the regions we visit, travel can be unpredictable. The Trip Details document is a general guide to the tour and region and any mention of specific destinations or wildlife is by no means a guarantee that they will be visited or encountered. Aboard expedition trips visits to research stations depend on final permission.

Additionally, any travel times listed are approximations only and subject to vary due to local circumstances.

What to Take  

What you need to bring depends on the trip you have chosen and the countries or regions you are planning to visit. We suggest that you pack as lightly as possible as your are expected to carry your own luggage. As a rule we try not to have to walk more than 15-20 minutes with your bags which is why we recommend keeping the weight of your bags between 10-15kg/22-30lb. Suitcases are not recommended for G Adventures trips! Most travellers carry a backpack or rolling bag of small to medium size (no XXL ones please!) as they need to fit under the beds when travelling on sleeper trains. You will also need a day pack/bag to carry water, cameras and other electronics like ipods and mobile phones.

Do not bring any knives or swords into China (gifts or otherwise). If they do make it into the country, they will not be permitted on trains. If you purchase a knife or sword while travelling elsewhere before arriving in China your best option is to post/mail it home before entering the country as no post/mail companies in China will accept it as a parcel.

Laundry  

Laundry facilities are offered by some of our hotels for a charge. There will be times when you may want to or have to do your own laundry so we suggest you bring non-polluting/biodegradable soap.

Local Dress  

In Asia the dress standard is more conservative than it is back home. When packing try to pick loose, lightweight, long clothing that will keep you cool in the usually hot and humid climate of Asian summers. In predominately Buddhist, Hindu and Muslim countries we ask that you dress respectfully and avoid very short shorts/skirts and singlets/tanktops when visiting small rural communities or visiting temples or mosques or other holy sites as this may restrict your entry.

Arrival Complications  

We don't expect any problems, and nor should you, but if for any reason you are unable to commence your trip as scheduled, please refer to the emergency contact details provided in this dossier and contact us as soon as possible. If you have a pre-booked transfer, and you have not made contact with our representative within 30 minutes of clearing customs and immigration, we recommend that you make your own way to the Starting Point hotel, following the Joining Instructions. Please apply to your travel agent on your return for a refund of the transfer cost if this occurs.

Spending Money  

Every traveller is different and therefore spending money requirements will vary. Some travellers may drink more than others while other travellers like to purchase more souvenirs than most. Please consider your own spending habits when it comes to allowing for drinks, shopping and tipping. Please also remember the following specific recommendations when planning your trip.

Emergency Fund  

Please also make sure you have access to at least an additional USD $200 (or equivalent) as an 'emergency' fund, to be used when circumstances outside our control (ex. a natural disaster) require a change to our planned route. This is a rare occurrence!

Travel Insurance  

Travel insurance is compulsory in order to participate on any of our trips. When travelling on a group trip, you will not be permitted to join the group until evidence of travel insurance has been sighted by your leader, who will take note of your insurance details. When selecting a travel insurance policy we require that at a minimum you are covered for medical expenses including emergency evacuation and repatriation. A minimum coverage of USD200,000 is required. G Adventures can provide you with the appropriate coverage. We strongly recommend that the policy also covers personal liability, cancellation, curtailment and loss of luggage and personal effects. Some tours include adventure activities that require extra coverage (e.g. crampon use); please review your itinerary and make sure that you are covered for all included activities. If you have credit card insurance we require proof of purchase of the trip (a receipt of credit card statement) with a credit card in your name. Contact your bank for details of their participating insurer, the level of coverage and emergency contact telephone number.

Joining Hotel  

For details of your joining hotel please refer to your tour voucher, G Account, the G Adventures App or contact your travel agent.

Important Notes  

1. LUGGAGE
As we use (sometimes crowded) local transport please note backpacks are much more suitable than suitcases for this style of trip. Train travel means that bags have to be stowed either overhead or under beds, so travelling as light as possible is recommended.

2. COMBO TRIP
Please note that this trip is a combination of multiple G Adventures tours. As such, the staff and/or particular vehicles operating your tour may change between tour segments. You may also expect some group members to join or leave the tour, between tour segments.

Packing List  

Cold Weather:
• Long-sleeved shirts or sweater
• Scarf
• Warm gloves
• Warm hat
• Warm layers
• Warm waterproof jacket

Documents:
• Flight info (required) (Printouts of e-tickets may be required at the border)
• Insurance info (required) (With photocopies)
• Passport (required) (With photocopies)
• Vouchers and pre-departure information (required)
• Visas or vaccination certificates (With photocopies)

Essentials:
• Toiletries (required) (Shampoo, bodywash, soap, etc.)
• Binoculars (optional)
• Camera (With extra memory cards and batteries)
• Cash, credit and debit cards
• Day pack (Used for daily excursions or short overnights)
• Ear plugs
• First-aid kit (should contain lip balm with sunscreen, sunscreen, whistle, Aspirin, Ibuprofen, bandaids/plasters, tape, anti-histamines, antibacterial gel/wipes, antiseptic cream, Imodium or similar tablets for mild cases of diarrhea, rehydration powder, water purification tablets or drops, insect repellent, sewing kit, extra prescription drugs you may be taking)
• Flashlight/torch (Headlamps are ideal)
• Fleece top/sweater
• Footwear
• Hat
• Locks for bags
• Long pants/jeans
• Moneybelt
• Outlet adapter
• Personal entertainment (Reading and writing materials, cards, music player, etc.)
• Reusable water bottle
• Shirts/t-shirts
• Sleepwear
• Small travel towel
• Sunglasses
• Swimwear
• Watch and alarm clock
• Waterproof backpack cover
• Windproof rain jacket

Health & Safety:
• Hand sanitizer (required)
• Face masks (Clients will be only be required to wear a face mask where it is mandated by local regulations.)
• Pen (Please bring your own pen for filling out documents.)

Light Hiking:
• Hiking boots/sturdy walking shoes
• Hiking pants (Convertible/Zip-off and quick dry recommended)

Smart Dress:
• Smart outfit (For evenings out)

Train Travel (Optional):
• Slip-on shoes
• Small container with lid
• Travel cutlery
• Travel or camp cup

Warm Weather:
• Sandals/flip-flops
• Shorts/skirts (Longer shorts/skirts are recommended)
• Sturdy water shoes/sandals
• Sun hat/bandana
• Swimwear

Note: from Apr-Aug is rainy season for most of Southern China, so please ensure you have some waterproof clothing. From Nov-Apr weather can be cold, so please pack warm clothing.

Highlights  

Meet some furry friends at the Giant Panda Breeding Centre, Visit the Shaolin Temple, Explore the Great Wall, Belt out your favourite tunes during a private karaoke session, Go shopping in Shanghai, Take in the scenery in Yangshuo, Spend the night in a local guesthouse in Song Shan

Meals Included  

No meals included

Accommodation  

Hotels (12 nts), hostels (standard twin/single) (2 nts), guesthouse (standard twin/single) (2 nts), sleeper trains (2 nts).

Dossier Disclaimer  

The information in this trip details document has been compiled with care and is provided in good faith. However it is subject to change, and does not form part of the contract between the client and the operator. The itinerary featured is correct at time of printing. It may differ slightly to the one in the brochure. Occasionally our itineraries change as we make improvements that stem from past travellers, comments and our own research. Sometimes it can be a small change like adding an extra meal along the itinerary. Sometimes the change may result in us altering the tour for the coming year. Ultimately, our goal is to provide you with the most rewarding experience. Please note that our brochure is usually released in November each year. If you have booked from the previous brochure you may find there have been some changes to the itinerary.

VERY IMPORTANT: Please ensure that you print a final copy of your Trip Details to review a couple of days prior to travel, in case there have been changes that affect your plans.

Group Leader Description  

All of our G Adventures group trips are accompanied by a G Adventures Chief Experience Officer (CEO) in China. The aim of the group leader is to take the hassle out of your travels and to help you have the best trip possible. They will provide information on the places you are travelling through, offer suggestions for things to do and see, recommend great local eating venues and introduce you to our local friends. While not being guides in the traditional sense you can expect them to have a broad general knowledge of the countries visited on the trip, including historical, cultural, religious and social aspects. We also use local guides where we think more specific knowledge will add to the enjoyment of the places we are visiting - we think it's the best of both worlds.

Group Size Notes  

Max 18, avg 12.

Optional Activities  

Yangshuo
- Central Chinese Cooking Class - Yangshuo
- Yangshuo Tai Chi Lesson (80-150CNY per person)
- Chinese Language Lesson (80-150CNY per person)
- Kung Fu Lesson (80-150CNY per person)
- Moon Hill Entrance and Hike (15CNY per person)
- Impression Liu Sanjie Culture Show (298CNY per person)
- Yangshuo Guided Cycle Tour (200CNY per person)
- Jia Community Restaurant

Chengdu
- Evening Foodie tour by Tuk-Tuk
- Wenshu Monastery (5CNY per person)
- Giant Panda Breeding Center (58CNY per person)
- Chengdu City Culture Tour

Longmen
- Longmen Grottoes Visit (120CNY per person)

Mutianyu
- Toboggan at Great Wall (100-140CNY per person)
- Cable Car at Great Wall (100-140CNY per person)

Beijing
- Tiananmen Square
- Hutong Cycling Tour (50-100CNY per person)
- Beijing Acrobatics Performance
- Beijing Kung Fu Show
- Beijing Opera (120-180CNY per person)
- Forbidden City Visit (60CNY per person)
- Temple of Heaven (40CNY per person)
- Summer Palace (60CNY per person)

Xi'an
- Defachang Dumpling Banquet (105CNY per person)
- Terracotta Warriors Guided Tour
- Bell and Drum Towers - Xi'an (50CNY per person)
- Big Goose Pagoda Visit (50CNY per person)
- Cycling Xi'an City Walls (45-45CNY per person)
- The Great Mosque (25CNY per person)
- Terracotta Warriors Visit (200-400CNY per person)

Suzhou
- Master of the Nets Garden Tour (40CNY per person)

Shanghai
- Yuyuan Garden (40CNY per person)
- Shanghai Acrobatic Performance
- Oriental Pearl Tower (220CNY per person)
- Shanghai Museum (Free)

A Couple of Rules  

Illegal drugs will not be tolerated on any trips. Possessing or using drugs not only contravenes the laws of the land but also puts the rest of the group at risk. Smoking marijuana and opium is a part of local culture in some parts of the world but is not acceptable for our travellers. Our philosophy of travel is one of respect towards everyone we encounter and in particular the local people who make the world the special place it is. The exploitation of people in the sex trade is completely contrary to this philosophy. Our CEOs have the right to expel any member of the group if drugs are found in their possession or if they utilize the services of paid sex workers, in any capacity.

Meals  

Eating is a big part of travelling. Travelling with G Adventures you experience the vast array of wonderful food that is available out in the world. Generally, meals are not included in the trip price when there is a choice of eating options, to give you the maximum flexibility in deciding where, what and with whom to eat. It also gives you more budgeting flexibility, though generally food is cheap. Our groups tend to eat together to enable you to taste a larger variety of dishes and enjoy each other's company. There is no obligation to do this though. Your CEO will be able to suggest favourite restaurants during your trip. Vegetarians will be able to find a range of different foods, although in some areas the choice may be limited. Should breakfast not be included, your CEO can suggest some local options For all trips please refer to the meals included and budget information for included meals and meal budgets.

Solo Travellers  

We believe solo travellers should not have to pay more to travel so our group trips are designed for shared accommodation and do not involve a single supplement. Single travellers joining group trips are paired in twin or multi-share accommodation with someone of the same sex for the duration of the trip. Some of our Independent trips are designed differently and solo travellers on these itineraries must pay the single trip price.

Feedback  

After your travels, we want to hear from you! Your feedback information is so important to us that we'll give you 5% off the price of your next G Adventures trip if your feedback is completed on-line within 30 days of finishing your trip. Your tour evaluation will be e-mailed to you 24 hours after the conclusion of your trip. If you do not receive the tour evaluation link in the days after your tour has finished, please drop us a line at customersolutions@gadventures.com and we will send it on to you.

Group Leader  

English-speaking Chinese CEO (Chief Experience Officer) throughout.

International Flights  

Check-in times and baggage allowances/restrictions vary by airline and can change at any time. For the most up-to-date information for your flight, please contact your airline. We recommend checking in online in advance to avoid potential delays at the airport.

Transport  

Local bus, train, private vehicle.

About Accommodation  

A variety of styles of hostels/guest houses are used on this trip. In many instances they might not be like what you are used to back home as service and efficiency can vary. In some areas we stay in local guest houses in stunning locations - rooms are small and simple and there may only be shared toilet facilities and showers.

Multi-share Accommodation: Multi-share same-sex accommodation is used on this tour, as such, if you are travelling with someone of a different gender you will not be in the same room. For private accommodation please see tours in our Classic Travel Style.