Welcome to an unforgettable journey through China, where ancient wonders meet modern marvels. Join us on a captivating tour that will take you to some of the most iconic and enchanting destinations in this fascinating country.
Our adventure begins in Beijing, the vibrant capital city, where we’ll immerse ourselves in the rich history and culture of China. Explore the narrow alleyways of Beijing’s traditional hutongs, where ancient customs and traditions still thrive amidst the bustling city life. Of course, no trip to China is complete without a visit to its greatest icon, the Great Wall. You’ll escape the crowded city and explore the Huanghuacheng section of the Wall, the only part of the Great Wall that is submerged in water. The country roads are littered with colourful orchards and humble rural villages, all with the symbolic Great Wall as a backdrop. Journey to Xi’an, home to the extraordinary Terracotta Warriors. Marvel at the thousands of intricately crafted statues, each with its own unique expression, silently guarding the tomb of Emperor Qin Shi Huang.
Throughout your journey you will have opportunities to savour incredible Chinese cuisine, from dumpling dinners and street food to picnicking on the Great Wall—your tastebuds will thank you! Your adventure concludes in Shanghai, a city where ancient traditions blend seamlessly with modern innovation. Explore the bustling streets, towering skyscrapers, and vibrant markets of this dynamic metropolis, and discover why Shanghai is known as the “Paris of the East.”
Download this tour’s PDF brochure and start your planning offline!
Signature Tour 
Welcome to China! Upon arrival at Beijing Capital International Airport, you will be met and transferred to your hotel. If your rooms are not yet available, drop off your bags before setting off to explore the Hutongs with your guide and uncover the secrets of the city.
Visit Beijing’s hutongs, the labyrinthine alleys that weave through the heart of the city. These ancient passageways hold a wealth of history, providing a window into Beijing’s vibrant cultural heritage. Despite their narrow and maze-like layout, hutongs are home to bustling communities, with families living in tightly packed courtyards. This cherished way of life has been passed down through generations, forming an integral part of Beijing’s identity. Discover the quiet courtyards once favoured by the last empress of the Qing dynasty in her later years. Follow the lively calls of vendors to busy food stalls, where you can taste the wide array of Beijing cuisine. Beyond the delicious food, the hutongs showcase the real life of locals, giving you a glimpse into their daily routines.
Overnight – Hotel Cote Cour Beijing (The Imperial Alley) or hotel similar
Begin your day by embracing the early morning energy of the neighbourhood as locals engage in Tai Chi exercises, setting the tone for your day of exploration in Beijing.
Next, visit Tian’anmen Square, a destination steeped in historical and cultural significance. Here, beneath the watchful gaze of Mao Zedong’s portrait, you’ll absorb the weight of China’s past, as this expansive square has witnessed pivotal moments in the nation’s history. Continue to the Forbidden City (closed on Mondays), an architectural marvel that once housed emperors, concubines, and eunuchs during the Ming and Qing dynasties. With over 800 buildings and 9,000 chambers, this immaculately preserved palace complex offers a window into China’s imperial past, where only the highest echelons of society roamed.
Stop for lunch, before visiting the Temple of Heaven, a sacred site where emperors of old sought divine favour for bountiful harvests. The Hall of Prayer for Good Harvests stands as an emblem of Beijing’s cultural heritage and beckons travellers to immerse themselves in its grandeur. Afterwards, return to your hotel and the rest of the day is yours at leisure. (B,L)
Overnight – Hotel Cote Cour Beijing (The Imperial Alley) or hotel similar
After breakfast, head to the Huanghuacheng section of the Great Wall. The Huanghuacheng section of the Great Wall, often called the “Yellow Flower Great Wall”, is a captivating and lesser-known segment of this historic monument. Its name is derived from the yellow wildflowers that bloom along the wall during specific seasons, enhancing the landscape with vibrant colours. Notably, a portion of this section is submerged underwater, adding a unique dimension to its allure. Embark on a hike along this remarkable stretch of the wall, where you’ll encounter both meticulously restored portions and gracefully weathered ruins. Here, you’ll gain a deeper appreciation for the historical significance of the Great Wall and the passage of time it represents.
In the afternoon, indulge in a picnic lunch paired with a glass of sparkling wine whilst on the wall, as you soak in the breathtaking vistas. Afterwards, return to your hotel for a refreshing rest before preparing for a delicious Peking duck dinner, a culinary highlight of your Beijing experience. (B,L,D)
Overnight – Hotel Cote Cour Beijing (The Imperial Alley) or hotel similar
After breakfast, visit the Summer Palace, once a royal summer retreat during the final dynasty of Chinese history. Spend a leisurely morning immersing yourself in the regal atmosphere, wandering amidst pagodas and strolling through gardens that bloom intermittently around the tranquil Kunming Lake.
The Summer Palace’s beauty revolves mainly around Kunming Lake, a vast artificial body of water crafted by over 10,000 workers. While the scenery may seem natural, the Summer Palace is, in fact, a remarkable testament to human craftsmanship, with its impressive architecture and meticulously landscaped grounds. Enjoy a cup of coffee at the coffee shop (own expense) in the Garden of Harmonious Interests, modelled after the Jichangyuan Garden in Wuxi—a southern Chinese masterpiece that captured the admiration of the emperor’s past.
After lunch, you’ll head to the train station to take a high-speed train bound for Xi’an. On arrival, you will be transferred to your hotel. This evening, indulge in a dumpling dinner and prepare to be amazed by the array of colours, shapes, and sizes on offer. Shaanxi province is renowned for its noodles, dumplings, and an assortment of buns. Taste the local dumplings and see if you can discern any difference from the ones you’re accustomed to at home. After your culinary adventure, return to your hotel. (B,L,D)
Overnight – Hotel Xi’an Eastern House Boutique Hotel or similar
After breakfast, begin your adventure with a visit to the UNESCO-protected site of the Terracotta Warriors These awe-inspiring creations were crafted to protect the monumental mausoleum of Emperor Qin Shihuang. Unearthed in the suburbs of Xi’an, the army of the Terracotta Warriors stands as one of the most remarkable archaeological discoveries of all time. This army consists of 8,000 life-size soldiers, 100 chariots, and 600 horses, with each figure being entirely unique. Crafted to guard the remains of Emperor Qin Shihuang, housed within a vast mausoleum complex, the Terracotta Warriors are a testament to the grandeur and ingenuity of ancient China.
Stop for lunch where you will enjoy biang biang noodles and other local delicacies. Biang biang noodles are a broad, hand-pulled noodle served with chilli, garlic, and Sichuan pepper, creating a flavourful and aromatic dish. Notably, the Chinese character “Biang” is known for its complexity, challenging even many Chinese people to read it.
Later in the afternoon, visit Xingshan Temple. Unlike other temples primarily catering to visitors, this temple is an active Buddhist site where locals come to worship, and you may hear monks’ chanting while you are there. (B,L)
Overnight – Hotel Xi’an Eastern House Boutique Hotel or similar
Following breakfast, explore the heart of Xi’an as you stroll along the Ancient City Wall enclosing the historical centre. Enjoy a leisurely walk or pedal your bike along this impressive structure (bike hire payable locally), which is not only the most complete city wall surviving in China but also one of the largest ancient military defensive systems globally.
Continue to the Great Mosque, the religious focal point of China’s Muslim populace. It’s one of the earliest Islamic mosques built in the world and marks the beginning of Islam in the Far East. The overwhelmingly Chinese architectural influence in the construction of the mosque and the pagoda style of construction makes it unique among other early mosques.
Next, explore the food stalls of the Muslim Quarter, a bustling neighbourhood located in the heart of Xi’an. The air is thick with the aroma of sizzling lamb skewers and fragrant spices that waft from the myriad food stalls lining the alleys, beckoning you from one stall to another. The comforting scent of pita bread soaked in mutton soup may lure you in one direction, while the enticing aroma of other delicacies pulls you elsewhere. Engage with the friendly locals, witness their skilled craftsmanship, and feel the pulse of daily life that has animated these alleys for centuries. The Muslim quarter is not only a destination but also a place where flavours dance on your taste buds and the stories of generations echo in every corner.
Afterwards, transfer to the airport for your flight to Shanghai. Upon arrival, you will be met and greeted by your guide and transferred to your hotel. (B,L)
Overnight – Urbn Hotel or similar
After breakfast, visit the Bund, Shanghai’s iconic waterfront area. Stroll along the Bund and marvel at the dramatic skyline of modern Shanghai. Visit Yu Garden, a beautifully restored Suzhou-style Garden dating back to the Ming Dynasty. Explore the intricate pathways, tranquil ponds, and exquisite pavilions of Yu Garden, often claimed to be the most magnificent rockery of the Ming dynasty. Experience a sense of peace and comfort amidst the bustling energy of Shanghai.
Afterwards, explore the architecture of the former French Concession, with its tree-lined streets and elegant buildings. The harmonious fusion of Chinese and Western influences creates an atmosphere brimming with charm and allure.
From here, continue to the Shanghai Propaganda Poster Art Centre, a hidden gem of a museum that, although small, offers an absorbing insight into China’s recent history. Located in the basement of a residential complex, this museum houses a vast private collection of over 5,000 propaganda posters from the Mao era, showcasing communist revolutionary artworks that chart post-war Chinese history. Many of these posters were rescued from recycling centres and rubbish bins and span the 1940s through the late 1970s.
Continue to the marriage market, which is best visited during weekends. Across numerous Chinese cities, marriage markets have gained significant popularity. In a culture where many are labelled as “996 employees” — working from 9 am to 9 pm, 6 days a week — socialising opportunities are scarce. This predicament has led concerned parents to initiate marriage markets, where they gather in hopes of finding suitable matches for their children. These markets provide insights into the cultural values surrounding marriage and the challenges faced by young adults in modern Chinese society.
If time permits, take a stroll in Lujiazui. The iconic skyline of Lujiazui is a must-see for first-time visitors to Shanghai. It boasts futuristic, avant-garde buildings such as the Shanghai Tower (623 metres), Shanghai World Financial Center (492 metres), Shanghai Oriental Pearl TV Tower (470 metres), and Jinmao Building (421 metres). Lujiazui is home to over 500 domestic and overseas financial and insurance corporations, making it a bustling centre of commerce and finance. (B,L)
Overnight – Hotel Urbn Hotel or similar
After breakfast, visit Xichang Water Town, which features all the hallmarks of a traditional water town: picturesque canals, quaint old houses, and charming bridges. Follow the lead of an elderly gentleman who has called this place home for generations and uncover the untold stories and family legacies hidden behind closed doors.
Later, return to the hotel and enjoy the rest of the day at your leisure. (B,L)
Overnight – Hotel Urbn Hotel or similar
This morning is yours at leisure until it is time to transfer to the airport for your onward flight. (B)
Download this tour’s PDF brochure and start your planning offline!
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Enquire About a Private Option**Please note that this tour can be organised on request for private departures.
* Pricing is subject to change at anytime until full payment has been received.
* A minimum of 4 adults is required to guarantee this departure.
A non-refundable deposit of $1000 AUD per person is required to secure your place. Final payment is due no later than 60 days prior to departure. Travel insurance is mandatory for travelling with Crooked Compass. For full terms and conditions, please click here.
Small group tours providing intimate connections to gain a deeper understanding and emotional connection to the community, tribes, cultures and lands explored.
Exploring the world’s most remote reaches and challenging destinations requires a high level of expertise which can only be learned from first-hand experience. We know because we go.
In an ever-changing global landscape of rules, regulations and restrictions, rest-assured you are being looked after by those in the know. Given the remote regions that we explore, our passengers safety is our top priority.
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This category of tours involves light trekking, walking, cycling, rafting or kayaking for a few hours each day with a small amount of inclines and declines. You will require a reasonable level of fitness and good health to participate. It is important to note that due to the nature of some of our trips, they may take place in remote areas (with basic facilities) and can involve long travelling days on various modes of transport.
Suggested preparation : At least 3 months prior to departure, it is recommended that you undertake aerobic exercise (this may include jogging, cycling or fast walking) for 30 minutes, three times a week. It is also advised to walk on variable terrain and in variable weather conditions. For a cycling adventure, road cycling twice a week is recommended and for adventures which involve paddling and kayaking, it is important to gain confidence and rhythm rather than speed prior to departure.
This category of tours involve trekking, kayaking and cycling for period of 6 to 8 hours a day at a fairly consistent pace. Ideal for people looking to slightly increase the heart rate. For our moderately rated tours, you must have a good level of fitness and also be in good health. It is also important to be prepared for variable weather conditions. Altitude may also come into play. This category of tours may involve visiting remote areas where facilities can be quite basic. Accommodation may also involve camping, homestays or basic accommodation where facilities may not be considered of western standards. To enjoy this style of travel, it is suggested for travellers to have a reasonable level of fitness and health, a positive attitude, as well as a fairly active lifestyle. An open mind is also required.
Suggested preparation: At least 3 months prior to departure, it is recommended that you undertake 45mins – 1 hour of aerobic exercise, three to four times a week. Some potential exercises that could be beneficial include hill walking with a backpack on over variable terrain and weather conditions, as well as running and cycling dependent on the activity you plan on undertaking.
This category of tours involves trekking, kayaking, cycling or other adventure activities in remote areas for up to 8 to 10 hours a day. It is important to note that with the remoteness of some regions comes a variety of other challenges such as variable weather conditions, accommodation as well as facilities. You must have an excellent level of fitness and good health to be able to partake in this category of tour. You must have confidence in your own ability and be in good physical condition. Includes extended periods of endurance.
Suggested preparation: At least 3 to 4 months of strenuous exercise, four times a week. When preparing for treks it would be beneficial to participate in hill walks with a weighted day pack (approximately 5-8 kg) once a week for aerobic fitness and strengthening of leg muscles. It is also important to do this on variable terrain to prepare for challenging adventures. When preparing for cycling adventures, regular bike riding (at least 4 to 5 times a week for 1-4 hours is essential). It is also important to cycle on uneven surfaces or even participate in other aerobic exercises such as running or swimming to build up strength and stamina. Altitude may also be a factor in these tours.
This category of tour often involves extreme trekking, cycling or other extreme adventure activities. It is important to expect remote and poorly defined tracks and to be prepared for variable weather conditions for 10 to 12 hours per day (may sometimes be more depending on weather and altitude). These adventures are suitable for travellers who have prior experience in strenuous travel and activities, are extremely fit and have excellent health. It is also important to note that some of the terrain on these adventures will involve trekking in snow, at high attitude levels and may require technical equipment.
Suggested preparation: It is important to note that physical fitness should be an ongoing activity, commencing around 5-6 months prior to departure, or even before if you have no prior fitness. Exercise should focus on building maximum endurance and stamina. Four to five hard sessions of 40-60 mins per week should be completed and can include exercises such as going to the gym, running, swimming or cycling to focus on building aerobic stamina. It could also be beneficial to prepare by hiking on rough terrain, in extreme weather conditions or partake in altitude training.
Our Signature Tours are the cornerstone of the Crooked Compass journey: meticulously designed small-group itineraries that balance authenticity, comfort, and ease. These are destinations where travel can be complex—from navigating evolving logistics to reaching places far from the usual tourist path—yet our expertise ensures your experience feels smooth, effortless, and deeply rewarding.
From the moment you arrive, every detail is handled with care. You’re welcomed personally on arrival and met for a private transfer to your accommodation, where you’ll join the rest of your group. Your guide will walk you through an orientation, helping you understand the rhythm of the journey ahead and settling you in with clear, practical insights from the very start.
Accommodation is selected for both comfort and character, reflecting the richness of its locality through thoughtful design, creative ingenuity, and a genuine sense of place. Whether it’s a boutique property, a sustainable lodge or a homestay, each choice is made to connect you meaningfully with the destination.
Cultural integration sits at the heart of our approach. Every itinerary is crafted with respect for local communities, aligning sensitively with their values and protecting the authenticity of their culture. Through this, travellers experience a deeper connection —stories shared firsthand, traditions encountered in their true context, and moments that shift perspectives long after returning home.
With a maximum of 12 travellers and our most trusted local partners, you explore with confidence, guided by teams who combine deep regional knowledge with an intuitive understanding of Western traveller expectations. Through the powerful medium of storytelling, our journeys inspire personal reflection and spark genuine emotion, turning travel into something transformative.
For travellers seeking even more flexibility or personalisation, our Tours By Design journeys are crafted with the same care — mindfully designed around your interests for a more tailored experience.
Why travellers love our Signature Tours:
More about our Tour Styles.
Our Founders Tours are rare, one-of-a-kind journeys personally hosted by Crooked Compass founder, Lisa Pagotto. Designed for the traveller who seeks more than just adventure, these exclusive small-group expeditions uncover places few have ever seen – experiences not featured in our regular collection, chosen for their depth, beauty, and story.
Each itinerary is hand-crafted by Lisa to offer meaningful connection and unique access built through years of trust and collaboration with local communities. Travelling alongside her gives you an unparalleled perspective into the world of ethical exploration – from the behind-the-scenes partnerships that shape our journeys, to the human stories that inspire them.
With an intimate group size and seamless support from our expert team, a Founders Tour is less a trip, and more a masterclass in discovery.
Why travellers love Founders Tours:
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Set sail on a rare journey across remote islands, wild coastlines, and untouched ecosystems aboard a small, luxury expedition vessel. Travelling by sea unlocks access to places few travellers ever reach – from isolated villages and pristine reefs to dramatic landscapes that can’t be accessed by land – while each evening, you return to the comfort of your beautifully appointed cabin.
These voyages blend adventure with refinement. Expert-led excursions bring you face-to-face with raw nature and vibrant cultures, while exceptional onboard dining, service, and comfort allow time to unwind and reflect.
To complete your experience, Crooked Compass can seamlessly craft pre- or post-cruise land extensions, ensuring your journey flows effortlessly from sea to shore.
Why travellers love our Expedition Cruises:
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Our Tours by Design experiences are private journeys curated exclusively for you by the Crooked Compass team. Whether you’re drawn to one of our existing itineraries, wish to adapt a small-group tour for private travel, or want to design something entirely new, we’ll craft a journey that reflects your pace, passions, and sense of discovery.
Why pay for inclusions that don’t fit? With Tours by Design, every detail is intentional – from the destinations and experiences to your style of travel and choice of accommodation. Each itinerary is hand-built through our deep local partnerships and expertise, ensuring authenticity, comfort, and connection in every moment.
Why travellers love Tours by Design:
More about our Tour Styles.
Our Partner Tours are carefully chosen group journeys operated by our long-standing, in-country partners — experts who share our values of authenticity, cultural respect, and meaningful connection. These departures, averaging between 17 and 22 travellers, are designed and delivered by our partners, while Crooked Compass manages your booking and provides full support from start to finish.
Enjoy the reassurance of booking through an Australian-based company, delivering our same personalised service and attention to detail you expect from Crooked Compass. We take care of the logistics, so you can focus on what matters most – the journey itself.
Why travellers love our Partner Tours:
More about our Tour Styles.
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