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 |
Important Reminders
Passport check
Insurance Reminder
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What to Expect
Please read through all of the information below. More details will be added as your departure draws closer.
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! |
Accommodations
In order to provide a safe and memorable experience, we follow strict guidelines when choosing group accommodations. Walking Tree partners with hotels and guest houses which are centrally located, locally operated, clean and safe. We inspect each partner hotel to ensure they meet these standards.
Group Flight
Once your flight schedule has been confirmed, the itinerary will appear here.
Walking Tree will secure a seat on the group flight for each participant unless otherwise instructed.
Travelers are responsible for checked baggage fees. Please visit the airline’s baggage webpage to learn if you should expect to pay anything.
We will provide a group manifest – complete with reservation codes and ticket numbers – to the Group Organizer/s before departure, and travelers will need to check in at the airport in order to receive their boarding pass and have documents verified. We recommend arriving no later than three hours prior to the scheduled departure, but contact your Group Organizer for specific details on exactly where and when to meet on the day of departure.
FLIGHT INTERRUPTION, DELAY OR CANCELLATION
Air travel can be unpredictable. Regardless of proper planning, there may still be instances when a flight is delayed or cancelled due to staffing shortages, weather, mechanical problems, etc. Please note that in such an event, Walking Tree Travel (WTT) is not financially responsible for unanticipated costs incurred by travelers en route. Our programs officially begin and end in the destination country, and because our staff doesn’t fly with the group, Group Organizers (the traveling faculty member/s) become the front-line advocate for the group in the event of a delay. In most cases of cancellations or delays, the airline will be the one who re-books travel or possibly arranges a hotel and food the night. Our primary role will be to keep families updated and provide support to the Group Organizer to reach a quick and effective resolution.
Host Community and Project Details
Packing List
What follows is a sample packing list that is provided as a guideline. Feel free to augment as you feel necessary. We recommend you bring a larger piece of luggage like a roller, duffel bag, or backpack, as well as a smaller backpack that you can bring on hikes, weekend excursions and shorter activities.
“Less is more” is a packing tip we encourage for all our travelers. The list below should cover everything you would need, but know yourself and what you are comfortable traveling with. We suggest bringing only as much as you would be able to carry on your own.
Finally, we recommend consulting a weather forecast for your destination.
The region of the country you will be visiting is in a lush tropical rainforest and next to the ocean and therefore humidity is omnipresent and it can take a while for clothes to dry. Keep this in mind when selecting your clothing fabric.
Most importantly, be sure to remember your PASSPORT and STUDENT ID.
CLOTHES (quantities depend on your trip length) :
- Underwear
- Socks (a mixture of good hiking socks and casual socks)
- T-shirts (some quick dry)
- Long sleeve shirt
- Long sleeve quick dry shirt (for activities under the sun such as rafting or surfing)
- Rain jacket or poncho
- Travel/athletic shorts that are breathable and light
- Comfortable/hiking/everyday pants (NOT all jeans)
- 1 nice shirt/top to be worn to more formal dinners (girls might want a skirt or something a little nicer for such occasions, boys may want to opt for a polo shirt or button up shirt with jeans)
- Durable athletic/hiking shoes with good grip
- Sandals (Chaco/Teva/Keen/Merrel sandals are great to have for water activities)
- Thick long socks (for the sand fleas)
- Bandana for work site (optional)
- A hat that can protect your neck
- Swimming suit, for surf classes a rash guard is recommended for sensitive skins
TOILETRIES: BRING THE BASIC TOILETRIES YOU NEED PLUS:
- Sunscreen (You will use a lot. Natural products/lotions are preferred over aerosol, especially for the beach)
- Mosquito repellent (non-deet/lotions are preferred to reduce environmental impact)
- Band Aids and Neosporin
- Anti-itch cream
- Hand Sanitizer
- Medication in properly marked original container. It’s important that medication travel in its original container, as customs officials have the right to confiscate it otherwise.
MISCELLANEOUS:
- Sunglasses
- Journal and pen
- Book
- Camera (digital, disposable, waterproof)
- Alarm Clock and watch
- Debit card/US Dollars (we recommend about $50-$150, depending on number of desired snacks, souvenirs, extra items etc.)
- Durable water bottle
- 1 quick-dry towel
- Flashlight/headlamp
- Batteries
- Deck of cards or other portable games
- Chinese/English dictionary
- Electrical converter and adapter
**China runs 220V, 50Hz AC electricity. A converter is only necessary if your device does not have 120-220V range.
RECOMMENDED ADDITIONAL ITEMS:
- Small luggage lock
- Portable charger (for long train ride)
- Wet wipes
- Ziplock bags
- Travel pillow
- Ear plugs
Support Team
At a minimum, one experienced Program Leader will travel on every trip. In addition to this full time leadership presence, Walking Tree has additional staff in all destinations and 24/7 support from our headquarters in Denver, Colorado. Below you’ll find the the team members involved in the preparation, planning and execution of your program.
Alena Shish
China Country Director, Program Leader
Middlebury College – B.A. in Chinese Language in Literature; Minor in French & Francophone Studies
Born in Ukraine and growing up in the United States, Alena is no stranger to thriving in different cultural environments and studying foreign languages (so far, she speaks four: English, Chinese, French, & Russian). While at Middlebury College, she had the opportunity to study in both Hangzhou, China, and Paris, France. Her time abroad inspired her to see the potential in study abroad and intercultural exchange for personal growth and cross-cultural understanding. Having fallen in love with the Chinese language, food, and culture while abroad, after graduation, she moved to Shenzhen, China to help Chinese high schools students through the US university application process. Since then, she’s also traveled around Russia, Israel, East Asia and all over China. So far, she’s been to 19 provinces, 4 municipalities, and 2 administrative regions in mainland China. When she’s not hiking or spending time reading, she’s obsessively baidu-ing (the Chinese Google) new Chinese slang, new Chinese dishes to try, or new places to explore in China. She’s excited to see to share her love of China, Chinese language, and travel with all her trip participants.
Gabriel Duncan
Co-Founder of Walking Tree Travel and Business Lead - Denver, CO
Colby College – B.A. International Relations and Government
While at Colby, Gabriel spent a semester in Spain at the University of Salamanca studying contemporary Spanish politics and Spanish language. He also lettered for four-years on Colby’s lacrosse team and earned All-American honors. After graduating, Gabriel hit the road. He fished commercially in Alaska, taught in Chile and China, led programs for students in Spain and Costa Rica, and traveled to over 50 countries and all 50 states in the USA. Regardless of where Gabriel is located, he is constantly haunted by his naive faith and unconditional love for Denver sports teams.
Group Roster
Below is a list of the travelers enrolled on the program.
Blog and Communication
During travel we work hard to keep families updated as frequently as possible with blog posts and photos, giving you peace of mind that your traveler is safe and thriving on their program. Students regularly contribute to these posts, providing families back home a great way to vicariously track the progress of the trip. You will be notified when the first update is posted, after which we recommend checking in regularly via the black “Program Blog” button at the top of this webpage.
Assuming your school allows the use of cell phones, most destinations are wired enough to allow participants access WiFi at different moments in the program, allowing them to communicate directly with home. Ask your Walking Tree representative about the degree of connectivity on your program.
GLC Curriculum
Walking Tree has developed a curriculum of activities meant to help travelers get the most out of their trip before departure, during travel and after they return home. These simple and engaging activities are meant to spark discussion, frame experiences, and prepare participants to travel ethically and effectively both on this trip and on future adventures.For more information about student learning objectives and the format of the curriculum, click on the ‘learn more’ button below.
To view and complete the Pre-Program Activities, visit our online portal at the button below.
Standards of Behavior
In order to run a safe and successful program, it is vital that travelers are prepared to be on their best behavior and bring enthusiasm and interest to each and every day. A communal atmosphere of trust and mutual respect is the foundational. As such, all individuals participating on a Walking Tree program are required to take responsibility for their actions and adhere to a high standard of personal conduct.
IMMEDIATE DISMISSAL
- Possessing, consuming or distributing alcohol or illegal drugs.
- Associating with participants while they are in possession of alcohol or illegal drugs.
- Behaving in a way that consistently damages the group dynamic or jeopardizes personal or group safety. This includes consistently displaying a negative attitude, intimidating or excluding other participants, sneaking out, disobeying group leaders, and any other behavior that is not conducive to an atmosphere of trust and mutual respect.
GROUNDS FOR DISMISSAL OR IN-COUNTRY CONSEQUENCE
- Getting a piercing or tattoo.
- Stealing, or deliberately damaging or defacing any personal property, buildings or materials.
- Threatening physical or emotional harm, or brandishing a weapon.
- Possessing, consuming, or distributing tobacco or nicotine, including vape pens.
- Riding mopeds, motorcycles, or any other type of unauthorized vehicle.
- Being out of designated area or accommodations after curfew.
- Breaking group rules.
These standards of behavior are essential for the successful completion of your program. Please take the time to review these as a family and make sure everyone understands and agrees to them.
Health and Safety
We strongly recommend visiting the CDC China website to get the most updated information on health and vaccination considerations in your destination country. In addition, we encourage you to consult your personal family physician so you can be as informed as possible when making important decisions about vaccinations and other necessary health-related preparations before traveling.
Our in-country staff meticulously prepare for all programs. Walking Tree receives regular updates from the U.S. Department of State’s Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP) to proactively stay ahead of any potential security concerns. Our in-country staff also verify the safety records of our partner organizations, vendors, and transportation providers, thoroughly vet homestay families through in-depth interviews and visits, and stay informed about important current events in the region.
Program Leaders are seasoned travelers who are CPR and First Aid certified, undergo thorough training in crisis management, and participate in comprehensive leadership training. We do our best to prepare for any eventuality and have detailed emergency protocols for our leaders, in-country staff, and U.S.-based staff.
We collect medical disclosures from all participants to ensure we can meet every student’s needs during the program. Please inform us immediately of any additional health issues not listed during your initial registration process. Leaders and in-country staff are prepared to respond promptly to any mental, physical, or emotional health concerns and follow comprehensive emergency protocols.
Insurance
While we work hard to ensure the safest experience possible for our travelers on program, experience teaches that travel can be unpredictable. For this reason, we recommend that all travelers consider a travel insurance policy with a Cancel for Any Reason (CFAR) provision. Detailed explanations of plan options can be found via the link below.
To provide travelers and families with a quality option, Walking Tree has partnered with Travel Insured International, one of the most respected providers in the industry. Begin by getting a quote here.
IMPORTANT NOTE: in order to secure coverage that includes CFAR, you must purchase the plan within 14-21 days of your first payment to Walking Tree. Be careful when you read the tenets of the policy to ensure you understand the required timeframe for purchase. You must also insure 100% of your trip cost, so program tuition + flight. Please reach out to us with questions.