2026 Shipley China Cultural Journey
| Travel Dates: |
March 26, 2026 -
April 5, 2026
"Dates tentative until flights confirmed"
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| Group Organizer(s): |
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| WTT Contact: |
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| Program Tuition: |
$3,490 USD
Airfare not included in program tuition
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| Estimated Airfare: | $1,350 |
Tuition Calculator
There are two options for payment, including an interest-free monthly installment plan. Follow whichever option works best for your family. If we are within 90 days of travel, only the pay in full option is possible.
Program Tuition: $3,490
Pay in Full
$3,490.00
due today
All prices in United States Dollars.
China Cultural Journey
As the 21st century unfolds, it is clear that China will continue to take a leading role in shaping the way our shared world develops. The world’s most populous nation – and dynamic economy – has as its backdrop 5,000 years of history and is home to a wide variety of rich cultural traditions and exotic cuisines. Furthermore, China is the world’s fourth largest country in area, with wide geographic diversity and stunning natural beauty.
Your time in China can include visits to the Great Wall of China, Tiananmen Square, the Forbidden City, and exotic markets. You may choose to study Mandarin, Kung Fu, Chinese cuisine, Tai Chi, or calligraphy. Visit isolated villages and staggering Himalayan peaks on the Tibetan plateau, or learn from business leaders and government officials at thought-provoking seminars. You will bike through rice paddies and traditional farming villages, immersing yourself in the local community and landscape. We are excited to bring you to this wondrous land for an adventure you will never forget.
Program Highlights
Check out some of the featured experiences of your program!
Eat delicious, and we mean delicious Chinese food!
Improve your Mandarin through regular interaction with native speakers
Walk the streets of Song dynasty China
Wander the Hutongs and marvel at the wonders of imperial Beijing
Hike along The Great Wall of China
Admire Shanghai's world famouns skyline
The Itinerary
We do everything possible to abide by itineraries as originally planned, but decades of experience teaches that we must be flexible in our planning. Changes to a trip’s schedule are uncommon, but Walking Tree reserves the right to make adjustments to programming in the best interest of the group.
| Day | Location | Description | Lodging |
|---|---|---|---|
| March 26 | USA - Beijing | Today the group will take an overnight flight from the US to Beijing, China. | Airplane |
| March 27 | Beijing | Welcome to China! Upon arrival in Beijing, the capital and political heart of the country, you will be warmly greeted by your local guide and transferred to your hotel. Beijing is a city of striking contrasts where imperial history and rapid modernization coexist. Today is a chance to rest, acclimate to the time difference, and take in your first impressions of this remarkable city. In the evening, your guide will provide a brief orientation to the days ahead. | Chongwenmen Hotel or similar |
| March 28 | Beijing | Begin your journey through China with a visit to one of the world's most iconic landmarks – the Great Wall of China. We’ll travel to the Mutianyu section, a beautifully restored stretch less crowded than other areas, ideal for exploration. Take a cable car halfway up and spend time walking along this ancient defensive structure, admiring the panoramic views of the surrounding mountains. After lunch, we will visit the Summer Palace, a stunning example of traditional Chinese garden design. Once a royal retreat, the palace features winding paths, pavilions, and scenic lake views. Stroll along the Long Corridor and cross elegant stone bridges while learning about the imperial life of the Qing Dynasty. In the evening, savor a special welcome dinner of Peking Duck, and practice using chopsticks as you immerse yourself in Chinese dining customs. | Chongwenmen Hotel or similar |
| March 29 | Beijing | Today offers a deep dive into China's rich imperial history. We begin in Tiananmen Square, one of the largest public squares in the world, which has witnessed some of the most important moments in modern Chinese history. Just beyond lies the Forbidden City, a vast palace complex once home to emperors and the political center of imperial China for nearly five centuries. You’ll walk through grand halls and tranquil courtyards, marveling at ornate architecture, imperial artifacts, and symbolic decorations. In the afternoon, we visit the Temple of Heaven, a masterpiece of Ming-era religious architecture. Emperors once visited this complex to pray for good harvests. Its circular design and celestial symbolism reflect ancient Chinese cosmology. Reflect on how architecture was used to express spiritual beliefs and political power. | Chongwenmen Hotel or similar |
| March 30 | Beijing - Nanjing | Experience a different side of Beijing as we explore its hutongs – narrow alleyways that form the historic residential neighborhoods of the city. These labyrinthine streets are filled with character and tradition. During your visit, participate in hands-on cultural workshops where you can try Chinese calligraphy, paper cutting, or paint a traditional Peking Opera mask. In the afternoon, we say goodbye to Beijing and take a high-speed train to Nanjing. The train journey offers a glimpse of China's fast-paced infrastructure and beautiful countryside landscapes. | Nanjing Airport Hotel (Confucius Temple) or similar |
| March 31 | Nanjing | Start your day with a visit to Hongshan Zoo, where you’ll meet one of China’s most beloved animals – the giant panda. Learn about efforts in wildlife conservation and the significance of pandas in Chinese culture. Then explore the Ming City Wall, one of the oldest and best-preserved city walls in China, offering insight into the military ingenuity of the early Ming Dynasty. Later, dress in traditional Hanfu garments and visit the Confucius Temple area, a lively district of ancient architecture and Confucian learning. End the day with a peaceful evening cruise along the Qinhuai River. The softly lit banks and stone bridges create an atmosphere of timeless beauty. | Nanjing Airport Hotel (Confucius Temple) or similar |
| April 1 | Nanjing | This morning, we visit the Sun Yat-sen Mausoleum, a grand memorial built for the 'Father of Modern China'. Nestled in the forested hills of Purple Mountain, the site combines majestic staircases and traditional architecture with stunning views. Reflect on China’s journey from dynastic rule to republic. In the afternoon, join an immersive cultural workshop focusing on two of Jiangsu province’s unique art forms: gold foil beating and velvet flower (ronghua) crafting. You’ll have the chance to try these techniques yourself and gain appreciation for the centuries-old craftsmanship that continues today. | Nanjing Airport Hotel (Confucius Temple) or similar |
| April 2 | Nanjing - Shanghai | After breakfast, take a high-speed train to Shanghai, China’s most cosmopolitan city. Begin your exploration with lunch followed by a walk along Nanjing Road, famous for its lively energy, luxury shops, and blend of historical and modern architecture. Later, ascend the Oriental Pearl Tower, one of Shanghai’s most recognizable landmarks, for a panoramic view of the city skyline. As the day closes, enjoy a stroll along The Bund – the picturesque waterfront that highlights the city’s contrast between old-world colonial buildings and futuristic skyscrapers. | Country Inn & Suites Hotel or similar |
| April 3 | Shanghai | Today offers a chance to connect with local youth during a visit to a Shanghai school for a cultural and language exchange. Participate in a Mandarin lessons or classroom activities to better understand Chinese student life. After lunch, explore Yu Garden, an exquisite classical garden featuring pavilions, ponds, and stone bridges dating back to the Ming Dynasty. Adjacent to the garden is the bustling Yuyuan Bazaar, perfect for trying local snacks like xiao long bao or picking up souvenirs. We’ll end the day in Tianzifang, a trendy art district full of narrow alleys, boutiques, galleries, and cafes housed in traditional shikumen buildings. | Country Inn & Suites Hotel or similar |
| April 4 | Shanghai - USA | After breakfast, your guide will accompany you to the airport for your departing flight. As you leave China behind, take with you memories of ancient traditions, warm hospitality, and a deeper understanding of a culture that continues to shape the modern world. | Your own bed, eventually! |
Safety and Support
EASY FUNDING & PAYMENT
24/7 GLOBAL EMERGENCY LINE
HIGHLY VETTED PARTNERS
EXPERT LEADERSHIP
PRIVATE GROUP GUARANTEE
COMPREHENSIVE CURRICULUM SUPPORT
DEDICATION TO CULTURAL ENGAGEMENT
ALL-INCLUSIVE PRICING
Walking Tree gave us everything we needed to make our vision of the perfect educational trip to China a reality.
Andy
Repeat Group Organizer on programs to China
Your Adventure Includes
Estimated Airfare
In order to give our travelers the best possible price, we break out airfare from the Program Tuition. We will still handle all booking and ticketing via our flight partner who has access to special fares not available to the general public. Once confirmed, you will be invoiced for the flight roughly 75 days prior to travel.
Program Tuition Excludes: Travel insurance, baggage fees, passport/visa fees, laundry, souvenirs, and activities not listed on itinerary.
Resource Center
Why should high school students travel abroad? What happens if a participant gets sick? How quickly do we need to enroll? We’re sure you have plenty of questions and we’ve got you covered! Visit our Resource Center to discover the answers to your most pressing questions and contact us anytime with additional questions.