China & Japan Highlights

• Return international full-service flights (economy class) surcharges may apply
• One-way domestic flight from Beijing to Shanghai or Hangzhou (or high speed train subject to availability)

• 8 nights 4-star hotel accommodation

• 7-night Japan cruise with Royal Caribbean aboard the 'Spectrum of the Seas' ship
• Pre-paid cruise gratuities included while cruising

• Enjoy 30 meals, including a delicious Peking Duck lunch and all meals whilst cruising

• English-speaking tour guides
• Airline taxes and surcharges

• Transportation by private air-conditioned vehicles

• Day 1: Airport to hotel on arrival in Beijing, China
• Day 9: Shanghai hotel to Port of Baoshan

• Cruise Cabin Upgrades: Cabin upgrades are available. (See checkout for details)
• Optional Tours: Optional experiences and tours are available to add to your itinerary. (See itinerary for details, these are booked and paid on tour with the operator).

Please note: Extra charges may apply. See the Important Info section and checkout cart for fees and details.

Today depart Australia on your flight to Beijing, China. Upon arrival, a tour representative will meet you at the airport to transfer you to the hotel.

Please note:
• Some travellers may depart on Day 0.
• Some travellers may have an overnight layover in China with accommodation and transfers provided by the airline.
• Some travellers may have an overnight layover in an Australian city with airport accommodation provided (excluding transfers).

Overnight: Chunhuiyuan Resort or similar, Beijing

Meals included: Breakfast; In-Flight

After breakfast, visit Tiananmen Square, one of the largest public squares in the world, followed by a visit to either the Imperial Palace in the Forbidden City, or The Temple of Heaven (subject to availability).

The Forbidden City
Known officially as the Imperial Palace Museum, was originally constructed by Emperor Yong Le, the third Emperor of the Ming Dynasty. The palace was built between 1406 and 1420, but was burnt down, rebuilt, sacked and renovated countless times, so most of the architecture you can see today dates from the 1700s and onwards.

The Temple of Heaven
Founded in the first half of the 15th century, is a dignified complex of fine cult buildings that are set in gardens and surrounded by historic pine woods. In its overall layout, it symbolises the relationship between earth and heaven which stands at the heart of Chinese cosmogony and also recognises the special role played by the emperors within that relationship.

Optional Tour: The Golden Mask Dynasty - 380 RMB per person
Tonight, take the opportunity to attend an optional large-scale dramatic musical, ‘The Golden Mask Dynasty’ (not included - booked and paid on tour with the operator).

Please note:
• There is a daily visitor limit for the Forbidden City and tickets cannot be held in advance, therefore there is a possibility that entry tickets may not be secured. Should this occur, The Forbidden City will be replaced with The Temple of Heaven.
• While in Beijing, the order of activities and landmarks visited may vary.

Overnight: Chunhuiyuan Resort or similar, Beijing

Meals included: Breakfast

After breakfast, as you travel to the Great Wall this morning, stop at a Jade Museum to learn the history of jade. In Chinese, jade is pronounced as “Yu” and has a history of at least four thousand years in China. Observe skilled artisans at work as they create their intricate designs.

Afterwards, you'll take a scenic drive through the countryside and mountains to reach China’s most renowned monument - the Great Wall of China. Along the way you will enjoy a stop for a delicious Peking Duck lunch, one of Beijing's most famous dishes (vegetarian options will be available also).

On arrival at the Great Wall, you will visit the original Juyong Pass. The Great Wall meanders through China’s northern mountain ranges from the Yellow Sea to the Gobi Desert, a distance of more than 5,650 kilometres.

Optional Tour: Hutong Pedicab Tour & Dinner - 360 RMB per person
In the afternoon, take the opportunity to join an optional tour (booked and paid on tour with the operator) of Beijing’s 700-year-old Hutongs (narrow lanes) by old-fashioned pedicab. You will also visit a local family living in a courtyard-style home to experience the local customs, including a delicious home-cooked dinner. The optional tour also includes a visit to Shichahai, a historic scenic area consisting of three lakes (Qianhai which means Front Sea, Houhai which means Back Sea and Xihai which means West Sea). You'll also get to admire surrounding places of historic interest, scenic beauty and remnants of old-style hutong and courtyard local residences.

Please note:
• While in Beijing, the order of activities and landmarks visited may vary.
• It is possible that the Hutong Pedicab Tour & Dinner may be suspended. Should this occur, a replacement optional tour will be offered.

Overnight: Chunhuiyuan Resort or similar, Beijing

Meals included: Breakfast; Lunch

After breakfast, make a stop at ‘Tongrentang’ to learn more about traditional Chinese medicine. Next, travel to the airport for your onward flight to Shanghai. Upon arrival, a tour representative will meet you and transfer you to Suzhou (approximately 150 kilometre journey) where you will check into your hotel for an evening at leisure.

Please note:
• A high-speed rail journey may be provided in place of a domestic flight. This will be confirmed in your travel documentation which will arrive 4-6 weeks prior to your departure date. In some cases, the information may be provided by your tour guide on arrival in China.
• High-speed train seating location cannot be guaranteed, however we will endeavour to seat you close to your companions. To ensure you are seated near your companions in the same carriage, you must provide your passport details at least 60 days prior to departure. 
• Should incorrect passport details be provided, you may need to purchase new tickets at your own expense upon arrival.
• While in Beijing, the order of activities and landmarks visited may vary.
• The days on which Suzhou, Wuxi, Hangzhou & Shanghai are visited may vary.

Overnight: Snowy Sea Hotel or similar, Suzhou

Meals included: Breakfast

Often called the ‘Venice of the East’, Suzhou has a history dating back to 514BC. Here you'll get the chance to visit the famous Lingering Garden, recognised along with other classical Suzhou gardens as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. You'll then visit a fascinating silk spinning factory to see China's renowned and exquisite silk production.

This afternoon drive to Wuxi (approximately 1 hour drive) and visit Lihu Park, a serene oasis nestled along the picturesque shores of Lake Lihu. You will find lush greenery, scenic walking paths and charming bridges. Admire the peaceful views as you spot locals cycling around the lake, fishing and boating along the water.

Optional Tour: Suzhou Grand Canal Cruise - 220 RMB per person
Take the opportunity to cruise along the Grand Canal (not included - booked and paid on tour with the operator) to view life along China’s ancient waterway.

Please Note:
• The days on which Suzhou, Wuxi, Hangzhou & Shanghai are visited may vary.

Overnight: Mingdu Hotel or similar, Wuxi

Meals included: Breakfast

This morning gain an insight into China’s enormous manufacturing and production capabilities with a visit to a Pearl Factory to learn about freshwater pearls, a key export commodity with great cultural significance since the Han dynasty.

Afterwards, drive to Hangzhou (approximately 190 kilometres). Upon arrival check into your hotel for an evening at leisure.

Please Note:
• The days on which Suzhou, Wuxi, Hangzhou & Shanghai are visited may vary.

Overnight: Fubang International Hotel or similar, Hangzhou

Meals included: Breakfast

Hangzhou is considered the tea capital of China so a visit to a local tea house is a must. Today you'll make a special visit to the Tea House at Meijiawu Tea Village in the hinterland of West Lake Park, considered one of the most important Longjing Tea productions in China. Enjoy the beautiful village scenery while learning about China’s special tea culture and how to appreciate the sophisticated taste and aroma of Longjing Tea. At the Tea House, you'll also learn how to make Longjing Tea including tea leaf picking, frying and tasting. Afterwards, you'll enjoy a small boat ride on the UNESCO-listed West Lake to admire the ethereal beauty of Hangzhou’s willow-draped islands. 

Next, drive to Shanghai (approximately 2 hours) to visit the famous Bund. Shanghai is divided by the Huang Pu River into eastern and western sections. Modern mega-high rises are seen on the eastern side while traditional European style architecture may be seen on the western side. The Bund is a five-block riverfront promenade with many of Shanghai's banks and trading houses. Tonight there is an optional activity to watch a superb and thrilling Chinese Acrobatic Show “ERA: The Intersection of Time”.

Optional Activity: ERA and The Intersection of Time - 390 RMB per person
Tonight there is an optional activity to watch a superb and thrilling Chinese Acrobatic Show “ERA: The Intersection of Time” (or similar), (booked and paid on tour with the operator).

Please Note:
• The days on which Suzhou, Wuxi, Hangzhou & Shanghai are visited may vary.

Overnight: Courtyard by Marriott Jiading or similar, Shanghai

Meals included: Breakfast

This morning, step back in time at the Shanghai History Museum. Shanghai History Museum is a landmark museum that comprehensively reflects the local history of Shanghai.

Enjoy some free time at leisure this afternoon or join an optional half-day tour of Shanghai (not included - booked and paid on tour with the operator).

Optional Activity: Half-Day Shanghai Tour - 240 RMB per person
Join a half-day tour of Shanghai including a visit to Yu (Jade) Garden, believed to have been built more than 400 years ago with exquisite architecture that has made the garden one of the highlights of Shanghai. You'll see other attractions including Xintiandi, Old Town and Nanjing Road (booked and paid on tour with the operator).

Optional Tour: Huangpu River Night Cruise - 280 RMB per person
In the evening, take the opportunity to join an optional night cruise on the Huangpu River.

Please Note:
• Should the Shanghai History Museum be closed, Suzhou Museum will be visited when in Suzhou.
• The days on which Suzhou, Wuxi, Hangzhou & Shanghai are visited may vary.

Overnight: Courtyard by Marriott Jiading or similar, Shanghai

Meals included: Breakfast

Depart 16:30

Today you will transfer to the Port of Baoshan where you will board the Royal Caribbean 'Spectrum of the Seas’ ship for your 7-night cruise to Japan.

Overnight: Royal Caribbean's 'Spectrum of the Seas'

Meals included: Breakfast; Dinner

Today is free at leisure whilst cruising at sea onboard the 'Spectrum of the Seas'.

Overnight: Royal Caribbean's 'Spectrum of the Seas'

Meals included: Breakfast; Lunch; Dinner

Arrive 14.30

Perched on a hill sloping down to the sea, Kobe is a maritime gateway to one of Japan's most metropolitan cities. Mt. Rokko dominates the skyline - from the summit, you can glimpse one of the best views in all Japan. Of course, Kobe's also famous for breeding Wagyu cows that produce some of the highest-quality beef in the world. The stuff is so delicious that almost every restaurant in the area stocks it. Cruise to Japan and make your visit a full foodie mission and stop off at Osaka to indulge in the local tradition of kuidaore - "eat until you drop."

Please note: The days on which Kobe and Kyoto are visited may be reversed, and port times may vary, depending on your sailing.

Overnight: Royal Caribbean's 'Spectrum of the Seas'

Meals included: Breakfast; Lunch; Dinner

Depart Kobe 04:00 - Arrive Osaka 07:00 and Depart Osaka at 15:30

Why not make your journey a full foodie mission in Osaka indulging in the local tradition of kuidaore (eat until you drop) or seek out the 16th-century shogunate Osaka Castle and Osaka’s many ancient temples and shrines.

Nearby Kyoto is easily accessible by rail where you could discover Japan's ancient capital city. Today, it remains the country's unofficial capital of culture, history and cuisine. Explore the centuries-old Kiyomizu-dera Buddhist temple, perched a top a hill surrounded by cherry trees. Center yourself at Fushimi Inari-taisha Shinto shrine, with its long, meditative rows of red torii gates. Cruise to Osaka and stroll through mysterious gardens of raked gravel at Ryoan-ji temple, or roam through a bamboo forest at Arashiyama, called the Philosopher's Path for its peaceful, reflective vibe. Then, see the bustling side of Kyoto at the Higashiyama District, where narrow streets lined with shops and restaurants wind up the side of picturesque Mount Otowa.

Please note: The days on which Kobe and Kyoto are visited may be reversed, and port times may vary, depending on your sailing.

Overnight: Royal Caribbean's 'Spectrum of the Seas'

Meals included: Breakfast; Lunch; Dinner

Arrive 13:30 - Depart 23:00

Yokohama is the central gateway to exploring Tokyo, a once-humble fishing village that is now one of the world’s biggest, most densely populated cities.

You'll find an eclectic mix of traditional shrines and soaring skyscrapers lining these neon-lit streets. Walk the Rainbow Bridge over Tokyo Bay alongside the Yurikamome Rail Line, a futuristic, operator-less train system. Then, see old Tokyo at the Imperial Palace, an Edo Castle surrounded by moats and gardens perfect for strolling. Cruise to Tokyo and head to iconic Sensoji Buddhist Temple and pass below the massive red paper lantern of the Thunder Gate. Then, unwind in Yoyogi Park, a literal forest in the heart of the city, complete with Zen gardens and a gingko tree forest.

Overnight: Royal Caribbean's 'Spectrum of the Seas'

Meals included: Breakfast; Lunch; Dinner

Relax and enjoy a sea day aboard 'Spectrum of the Seas'.

Overnight: Royal Caribbean's 'Spectrum of the Seas'

Meals included: Breakfast; Lunch; Dinner

Relax and enjoy a sea day aboard 'Spectrum of the Seas'.

Overnight: Royal Caribbean's 'Spectrum of the Seas'

Meals included: Breakfast; Lunch; Dinner

Arrive Shanghai 07:00

Arrive back at the Port of Baoshan and make your own way to the airport for your return flight home to Australia/New Zealand.

Please note:
• Some travellers may be required to depart a day later. For passengers departing after 02:00 on the following day, additional accommodation and transfers will be provided free of charge.

Meals included: Breakfast; In-Flight

Please note: Some travellers may arrive +1 day (Day 18).

After purchase, you will receive a receipt and a Purchase Confirmation, directing you to an online Passenger Information Form. You must complete the Passenger Information Form within 72 hours of purchase.
 
Any special requests, preferences and optional extras MUST be clearly stated in your Passenger Information Form. Any change requested after submitting your Passenger Information Form cannot be guaranteed, is strictly subject to availability and will incur surcharges as outlined in the Schedule of Fees below.
 
On purchasing this Travel Offer, you are bound by the General Terms and Conditions and the specific terms and conditions outlined in this Important Information. 
 
Please note: All countries and territories have different entry requirements in relation to vaccinations, quarantine/isolation periods and travel restrictions. Due to the evolving nature, we would ask all of our customers to monitor, meet and adhere to the specific requirements of their intended destination(s) in the lead-up to and immediately before travel, as well as any requirements post-travel upon their return.
 
CANCELLATION POLICY
Tour packages are non-refundable. If your tour package is affected by Covid-19-related travel restrictions and you are unable to travel, you will receive either a free date change (credit that is specific to your original package and purchase value) or an open credit less any non-recoverable supplier fees to the value of your original purchase for use on any other tour or package available via the TripADeal website.
 
Please note: Date change credits are subject to availability and not guaranteed until confirmed by TripADeal, not the tour operator you are due to stay with.
 
We recommend you consider purchasing travel insurance with Covid-19 protection. The standard cancellation policy will apply if you cannot travel because you have tested positive for Covid-19.
 
Please note: All additional charges are payable in AUD (unless otherwise stated). 

This travel offer is valid for travel on selected dates until the 13th of March 2026.
 
This travel offer is priced per person based on a twin share.
 
Single Traveller Supplement
For solo travellers, a mandatory single supplement applies as follows:
• Interior Stateroom: $1,950
• Ocean View Stateroom: $2,150
• Balcony Stateroom: $2,700
Please note: Accommodation for single customers who are travelling on a tour or cruise package may be in a single room, depending on availability.
 
Departure Dates     
2025
May: 31*

2026
March: 13

Surcharges
Please note: 
• Dates/months with a * incur a high season surcharge of $200 per person.

Departure Cities  
Sydney, Melbourne, *Brisbane, *Perth, *Adelaide or *Auckland.
 
Departure City Surcharges 
*Brisbane or Adelaide: $450 per person. 
**Perth or Auckland: $600 per person. 
 
International Full-Service and Domestic Airline(s) Used
• Cabin Class: Economy Class
• Airlines: China Southern Airlines, China Eastern Airlines, Hainan Airlines, Air China, Sichuan Airlines, Xiamen Airlines, Beijing Capital Airlines, Tianjin Airlines plus any codeshare partners (subject to availability).
• International Full-Service Route: Between Australia (or New Zealand) and China.
• Domestic Route: Beijing to Shanghai or Hangzhou (flight or high speed train subject to availability, please note this will not be a full-service transfer).
 
Baggage Allowance
Baggage allowance per person:
• 20kg of checked baggage (one piece)
• 7kg of carry-on baggage
Please note: We cannot accommodate one-way flights. Travellers must take all included flights within the package, and any flights intentionally forfeited will result in later flights being subject to cancellation. 
 
Missed Flights 
If you fail to arrive for your outbound flight, you risk all flight and land arrangements in your destination being automatically cancelled by the airlines and land operator, respectively. Additional fees may apply to reinstate these services. If you will miss your flight for whatever reason, please contact us as soon as possible to make arrangements. 
 
Arrive Early
Not available.
 
Stay Behind
Not available.
 
Stopover Packages 
Not available.
 
Flight Class Upgrades
Business Class: For pricing, please refer to the payment cart at checkout.
Please note:
• Flight upgrades are subject to availability and pricing changes (if we cannot fulfil your request, the upgrade cost will be refunded).
• Flight class upgrades are applicable to international long-haul sectors only and are not available on domestic flights. 

Royal Caribbean International 'Spectrum of the Seas' Ship
Discover a Far East adventure full of new feats and firsts on Spectrum of the Seas, the first of the Quantum Ultra Class ships. There is a diverse range of entertainment, including pools, live shows, diverse dining options, bars, fitness facilities, spa treatments, kids and teens clubs, a casino, shopping, and interactive experiences.

Onboard Currency
$ USD
 
Staterooms
Interior Stateroom: 15m²
• Location (on decks): 3, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10, 11, 12, 13
• Room with bed and vanity
• Two twin beds that convert to a Royal King bed
• One bathroom 

Ocean View Stateroom: 17-20m²
• Location (on decks): 3, 8, 9, 10, 11
• Room with bed, dresser and sitting area with sofa
• Ocean view
• Two twin beds that convert to a Royal King bed
• One bathroom 

Balcony Stateroom: 17-19m² & 5-6m² Balcony
• Location (on decks): 6, 7, 8, 9, 10, 11, 12, 13
• Room with bed, dresser and sitting area with sofa
• Ocean view with balcony
• Two twin beds that convert to a Royal King bed
• One bathroom

Please note: All cabins are subject to availability; some cabins may have restricted views.
 
Cruise Arrival & Departure Times
Please keep in mind that the provided cruise arrival and departure times are an approximate and will be finalised upon receipt of your cruise tickets.
 

Accommodation Used
4-Star Properties (Self-Rated)
• Beijing: Chunhuiyuan Resort or similar
• Suzhou: Snowy Sea Hotel or similar
• Wuxi: Mingdu Hotel or similar 
• Hangzhou: Fubang International Hotel or similar
• Shanghai: Courtyard by Marriott Shanghai Jiading or similar
 
Please note: Accommodation/rooms offered are based on a lead-in room type and are subject to availability based on seasonality. In the instance a property is not available, a similar standard of accommodation will be provided. Properties will be confirmed and included in your travel pack, which you will receive 4-6 weeks before travel.
 
Extra Nights
Not available at check-out. 

Please note: If you are interested in booking additional nights of accommodation pre or post-tour, please wait until you receive your travel documentation approximately 4-6 weeks before departure for the confirmed list of hotels. If booking your own additional accommodation directly with the hotel, please be aware that you may be required to change rooms at the start/end of your tour. 
 
Maximum Room Capacity
2 people.
 
Child Policy
Valid for travellers 18 years old and over.
 
Triple Share
Not available.
 
Bedding Configuration
Twin or Double (subject to availability).
 

Minimum group size 28, maximum group size 44 per vehicle.
 
Optional Tours/Activities
• Day 2: The Golden Mask Dynasty 380 RMB
• Day 3: Hutong Pedicab Tour & Dinner 360 RMB
• Day 5: Suzhou Grand Canal Cruise 220 RMB
• Day 7: ERA and The Intersection of Time 390 RMB
• Day 8: Half-Day Shanghai Tour 240 RMB
• Day 8: Huangpu River Night Cruise 280 RMB
 
Please note:
• Prices above are based per person, are subject to change & availability, time permitting and weather conditions, and are booked and payable directly to the tour operator in the currency specified.
• Some tours or shore excursions require minimum numbers to operate.
• Shore excursions can be booked/reserved directly with the cruise line before travel (subject to availability)
• Shore excursions can also be booked whilst onboard (subject to availability).
• Shore excursion programmes and itineraries may vary depending on local conditions and/or any unforeseen events concerning the timing on the day of the tour. Some excursions are very popular, and therefore availability cannot always be guaranteed, it is advisable to book in advance to avoid disappointment.
 

• Visa fees and requirements
• Domestic transfers and flights not stated in the deal offer
• Meals/beverages not stated in the deal offer
• Highly recommended gratuities/tipping of $12 AUD per person, per day 
• Optional activities/tours
• Personal expenses
• Travel insurance
• Any costs associated with an interruption to your tour as a result of an airline schedule change or cancellation
 

TOUR GUIDE VS. TOUR LEADER
Tour Guide
Often locals with intimate knowledge of an area, its culture, and history. Their role entails providing commentary, routing the tour, and seeing that people have a good time. They are a licensed, qualified expert who supplies specific information on the history, art, architecture and culture of the city/village/attraction where they are guiding the tour. The guide meets the group at the required place and leaves it at the end of the tour; they do not travel with the group. 
 
Tour Leader
An experienced person tasked with ensuring the smooth operation of tours, as well as providing practical support to passengers throughout the whole trip. Their role primarily includes assisting with accommodation, transportation between locations, and communication with tour guides at each stop. A tour leader may provide general guidance around a city or village and offer information on the place visited on the bus. However, they are not required to have specific art, architecture, or historical knowledge. They are not allowed to provide a guided tour or commentary of a city/village/attraction once there and, if caught doing so, can be fined. 
 
Please note: Tour leaders/guides are not a standard inclusion in all travel offers. Tour leaders/guides will only be made available when required to enhance the experience of the destination featured. 
 
CLIMATE & AVERAGE TEMPERATURES
Beijing, China 
Beijing has a temperate and continental monsoon climate, with four distinct seasons and big differences in temperature between day and night. The seasons: Summer in Beijing is hot and humid, while winter is cold and dry. Spring and autumn are short and cool. The coldest month is January at an average of -4 °C, and the hottest month is July at an average of 26 °C.

Shanghai, China
Shanghai's weather is generally mild and moist, with four distinctive seasons - a pleasant warm spring, a hot rainy summer, a comfortable cool autumn, and an overcast cold winter. The weather in Shanghai in July and August is the hottest, with more than 10 days of high temperatures above 35°C. The coldest period is from late January to early February. The springtime from March to May is recommended as the best time to pay a visit, while October to November, with a pleasant autumn climate, is also a wise choice.
 
Japan
Japan has four distinct seasons with a climate ranging from subarctic in the north to subtropical in the south. Conditions are different between the Pacific side and the sea of Japan side. Northern Japan has warm summers and very cold winters with heavy snow on the sea of Japan's side and in mountainous areas. Eastern Japan has hot and humid summers and cold winters with very heavy snow on the Sea of Japan side and in mountainous areas. Western Japan has very hot and humid summers (with temperatures sometimes reaching 35°C or above) and moderately cold winters. Okinawa and Amami have a subtropical oceanic climate. These areas have hot and humid summers (with temperatures rarely reaching 35°C or above) and mild winters.
 
FLIGHTS
Seat Selection & Frequent Flyer Points
We do not arrange seat selection. It is essential to highlight that some airlines do not allow pre-selected seats. We strongly suggest you contact the airline directly with seating allocation requirements and/or arrive at the airport earlier to arrange your seating. While we do not add frequent flyer member details to bookings, you can do this directly with the airline once you have your flight information.
 
Passport Validity
Customers must provide valid passport details either at the time of purchase or no later than 45 days before the departure date. Failure to do so may result in the cancellation of the booking. Customers will be responsible for any costs and fees incurred in this instance.
 
CRUISE
Embarkation/Disembarkation
• Begins approximately 2 hours after docking.
• Due to security reasons, all guests must be on board 2 hours before sailing.
• Itineraries are subject to change at any time without notice.
• Check your specific sailing for exact departure and arrival times. All times are local to the port.

Please note: Strict Covid-19 terms may also apply regarding proof of insurance covering Covid-19 and/or vaccination. Please refer to the cruise lines’ terms and conditions for further information before boarding.
 
Cruise Loyalty Discounts
Please note: Travellers must contact the cruise line directly upon receiving their travel documents in order to request any membership benefits they may be entitled to.

COACH TOUR
Meals
For meals not included, the tour leader (when available) will offer assistance with reservations, suggestions and directions to local restaurants. It is your responsibility to notify us of any dietary requests/requirements.
Please note: We will do our best to meet your requests/requirements; however, we cannot guarantee that we will always be able to.
 
Luggage
You will be responsible for all your personal belongings whilst on tour. You must carry your own luggage from the vehicle to the hotel room and back to the vehicle. The driver will assist with the uploading and unloading of bags from the vehicle.
 
OTHER
Mobility
If you require wheelchair access please contact our friendly sales and service team to inquire on your behalf.
 
Fitness Level Required
Expect a moderate pace of touring with a focus on guided tours that may include full days with guided walks of up to 2 hours at a time. You will require a general level of fitness for unassisted navigation of stairs and inclines, longer distances with possible periods of standing when visiting sites, walking on sloping, uneven ground or elevations. You will be responsible for your own luggage and have the ability to board all modes of transport without assistance. 
 
Please note: It is expected that every traveller be self-reliant and able to undertake all aspects of their own travel. Please speak to your booking agent about your personal circumstances and any assistance requirements to ensure this tour is right for you.
Please note: If you have any concerns, please consult your healthcare provider prior to purchase/travel.
 
Payments & Currency On Tour
Visa/MasterCard/Amex can only be used at some hotels and is not often accepted in local restaurants and supermarkets. Whilst WeChat and Alipay are commonly used payment platforms in China at most businesses, some travellers can experience issues due to internet accessibility and other technical difficulties. Cash is still widely accepted in China and most people still use cash on a daily basis. Therefore we recommend taking cash in either RMB (local currency) or AUD and the tour guides can assist with currency exchange in China if required. Optional tours and tipping can be paid in RMB or AUD on tour, credit card and Alipay/WeChat are not accepted.

Gratuities/Tipping
Land
Tipping is a firm and customary element of the tourism industry and is therefore highly recommended. The expected tipping amount is $12 AUD or 60 RMB per person per day. While tipping is not mandatory, it is a common practice in China and a gesture of appreciation which is shared amongst the local guides, drivers and other staff members who have serviced your tour. The tipping amount can be paid in AUD or RMB to your expert tour guide in each region. As most tour guides in China consider tipping a part of their income, please don’t feel intimidated should the tour guides approach you as they bid you farewell.
 
Cruise
Gratuities (tips) are included in tour price for the services of the cruise staff throughout the cruise component of this tour, however, additional gratuities may apply to onboard purchases.
 
Please note: Though highly recommended, tipping for services provided is always a matter of personal discretion; however, please be aware that many locals consider tipping part of their normal remuneration, and they may approach you for payment; there's no need to be intimidated by the request.  
 
Sightseeing
Please note: If entry to a site is affected by changes in operating hours or public holiday closures, your itinerary, where possible, may be adjusted, or a similar activity will be offered in its place (subject to availability).

Shopping
Shopping overseas can be a daunting and confusing experience, especially when there is a language barrier. Please be very cautious when foreign currencies and prices are involved. If paying by credit card, please pay close attention to the amount you are being charged and keep all your receipts. Do not make any purchases you are not comfortable with or feel pressured into. If you are uncertain or need assistance with the language barrier, please seek assistance from your Tour Guide/Leader. Please refer to our Terms and Conditions regarding shopping for further information.

Japan
A tourist visa is not required for Australian or New Zealand citizens visiting Japan for stays of up to 90 days for tourism, business, visiting friends or relatives, etc. that does not include remunerative activities.
 
China
The Chinese Government has announced that Australian and New Zealand citizens will now qualify for Visa-free travel to China. This will commence from the 1st of July 2024 and apply for stays up to 15 days in China. Eligibility criteria will apply. Please consult Smart Traveller and your nearest Chinese consulate for up-to-date eligibility criteria and information. 

Important:
• Visa rules are subject to change. Please check with the nearest embassy, consulate or immigration department of the destination/s you are visiting once you receive your travel documentation to ensure you have the most up to date information.
• Passengers who are not Australian or New Zealand citizens must also check with the respective consulate or visa agency to determine what their visa requirements are and what personal identification is required.
• Please start arranging your visa three weeks before departure to account for any delays due to consulate operating hours.
• It is also important to note that some areas of employment, such as journalism, government authorities and charity organisations, may have additional restrictions in applying for visas. This may, in turn, affect the type of application required.

Voluntary Changes
This includes booking changes requested by you, including but not limited to those changes requiring an airline ticket or a Purchase Confirmation reissue.
• Changes - $100 AUD per booking and any additional charges applied by the airline/cruise company/accommodation/other travel providers.
 
Name Changes Due To Passenger Error
• If the incorrect name has been provided, charges of $100 AUD per booking and any additional charges applied by the airline/cruise company/accommodation/other travel providers.
 
Supplier Fees
In the event the tour package you have purchased is unable to proceed, and/or a travel Supplier is unable to fulfil the tour due to external circumstances (Limitation of Liability e.g. a Force Majeure event), there may be a fee or amount of money that is withheld by our Suppliers and is unrecoverable. This may be due to non-refundable airline tickets, cancellation penalties with cruise cabins or unrecoverable payments with our land/accommodation partners. If refunds are not available from Suppliers, we will endeavour to obtain a travel credit on the best terms available and communicate these outcomes to you. In the event we are unable to obtain a refund or travel service credit, or part thereof, this cost is passed on to the customer as a Supplier Fee.