Step into 5,000 years of stories—where ancient traditions meet dazzling modern life. With Travelling Divas, you’ll journey beyond the tourist path into sizzling markets, serene Taoist retreats, and vibrant cityscapes. Indulge in luxury with soul: culture, cuisine, style and wellness—crafted for women seeking adventure, connection, and the extraordinary.
China is having a moment again.
Not the China of old perceptions or hurried stopovers, but a China alive with style, energy and extraordinary contrast. A place where rooftop bars glow above futuristic skylines, centuries-old teahouses hum beneath lantern light and ancient traditions continue to unfold beside some of the most dynamic cities on earth.
This is a journey through a beautifully layered China — one that moves beyond the expected and into the heart of a country both deeply refined and endlessly surprising.
In Shanghai, fashion, architecture and contemporary culture collide in spectacular fashion. Elegant hotels, hidden cocktail bars and immersive design spaces reveal a city that feels confidently modern and impossibly exciting. In Hong Kong, harbour lights shimmer beside old-world glamour, where rooftop dining, vibrant neighbourhoods and legendary hospitality create an atmosphere unlike anywhere else in Asia.
Then the rhythm softens.
In Chengdu, the scent of tea drifts through hidden courtyards while Sichuan opera performers transform faces in an instant beneath silk costumes and dramatic lantern light. Ancient alleyways, contemporary creativity and unforgettable regional cuisine reveal a side of China many travellers never truly see.
Throughout the journey, beautifully chosen moments invite you deeper into the story of modern China. Encounters with locals, getting up close to the pandas, extraordinary dining experiences, elegant wellness rituals and thoughtfully curated cultural experiences create a sense of connection that goes far beyond sightseeing.
And always, there is balance.
Beautiful boutique hotels. Time to pause and absorb. Spaces to wander, taste, reflect and simply enjoy being exactly where you are.
Designed exclusively for women, China Uncovered is intimate, stylish and rich with contrast — blending glamour, culture, atmosphere and discovery in a way that feels both exhilarating and deeply personal.
This is not about rushing through highlights.
It is about stepping into the mood, flavour and rhythm of a country rewriting itself before the world’s eyes.
A China of elegance and edge; of story and spectacle; of hidden corners and unforgettable cities.
And perhaps most exciting of all — a side of China you never expected to fall in love with.
GETTING THERE:
Multiple airlines are flying from capital cities to Shanghai including China Eastern, Cathay Pacific and Singapore Airlines. Ask your travel professional for the best options.
Tour Price: AUD$19,595 per person twin share. AUD$24,890 single
Fully escorted from Shanghai by your Travelling Divas’ Tour Host, Sharon Anderson
Private English Speaking local guides throughout
VIP arrival service at Shanghai Airport, and private transfer to hotel.
4 nights’ luxury 5-star boutique accommodation at The Upper House, Shanghai – Residence 55
2 nights’ luxury 5-star boutique accommodation at The Upper House, Chengdu – Studio 60
2 nights’ luxury 5-star accommodation at Six Senses Qingcheng Mountain – Deluxe Room
3 nights’ luxury 5-star boutique accommodation at The Upper House, Hong Kong – Studio 80 Island View
Breakfast daily
Selected lunch and dinners as detailed in the itinerary
Private transport throughout
Economy flights between Shanghai -Chengdu & Chengdu – Hong Kong
All guided experiences listed in the itinerary including:
Guided walks: Xintiandi and the Bund, Fuxing Park
Fashion morning at Youtopia
Expert-led Wallis Simpson walk, by author Patrick Cranley
Private yacht cruise along the Huangpu River including Champagne!
Sichuan face-changing opera in VIP style
Panda interaction & observation including lunch with the carers
Spice market tour and hands-on Sichuan cooking class
Kung Fu tea ceremony & performance
Morning Tai Chi with a martial arts master on sacred Qingcheng Mountain
Guided visit to the Shadow Puppet museum
Victoria Peak tram ride at sunset – via the Ruby VIP channel
Liang Yi Museum private tour – Chinese antique furniture and design
Slip into a timeless qipao and enjoy a professional photo shoot
Farewell dinner Aqua Hong Kong
All government taxes and surcharges
All entry fees into monuments and activities
International and domestic flights and relevant taxes (domestic flight costs are listed separately in your quote); Chinese tourist visa, which is required for most foreign passport holders; Medical insurance; Travel insurance; Alcohol and meals not included in the itinerary; Expenses of a personal nature (e.g. mini bar, personal telecommunications, laundry, etc.); Excursions and activities not included in the itinerary; Discretionary gratuities for guides and drivers
Your China adventure begins the moment you land.
Upon touchdown, a VIP Service Ambassador will greet you as you exit your flight gate and guide you through the express immigration and customs service, as well as assist you in claiming your luggage. Your local guide will then meet you in the arrival hall with your private vehicle on standby to take you to your hotel, The Middle House, home for the next four nights. Your Travelling Divas host will be at the hotel to meet you on arrival.
Once a mere backwater fishing village, the destiny and fortunes of Shanghai changed forever when the British opened their first concession here in 1842, followed soon after by the French and Japanese. Shanghai today retains those charms in the tree-lined streets of the former French Concession and iconic banking houses along the Bund; at the same time, the urban bustle and multitudes of skyscrapers are a testament to Shanghai’s aspirations to be a major international metropolis. Now the financial capital of China, Shanghai is a great place to check out the old, the new and the foreign in this worldly economic and cultural centre.
Tonight, simply soak it in—sip a cocktail or stroll along the glistening riverfront, letting Shanghai’s intoxicating mix of history, culture, and cosmopolitan glamour welcome you to the journey ahead.
Stay: The Upper House, Shanghai – Residence 55
Your guide will meet you in the lobby of The Middle House to begin a day of discovery in this dynamic city, and its extraordinarily varied culture.
Rising majestically across the Huangpu River from Shanghai’s electric skyline are the sublime art deco and neoclassical buildings of the Bund—a patchwork so remarkable it has earned the nickname “Museum of International Architecture.” Stroll along the riverside promenade, flanked by neon lights on one side and marble façades on the other. With every turn of the head, witness a vivid tableau where the city’s storied past meets its dazzling, modern future.
Step into Xintiandi, a neighbourhood where Shanghai’s history whispers through restored Shikumen façades, seamlessly blending with upscale restaurants, boutiques, cafés, and bars. Wander through these vibrant streets, discovering the heady glamour of decades gone by alongside the chic comforts of contemporary city life.
Finish your day with an unforgettable experience at the top of China’s tallest building.
China is a land of superlatives and nowhere exemplifies the extremes of this country better than the record-breaking Shanghai skyline. Ride the world’s fastest elevator to the world’s highest observation deck in China’s tallest building and feel yourself blown away by awe-inspiring views of one of the planet’s largest cities, all while learning about the architecture which makes these gravity-defying feats of engineering possible.
Did we mention a welcome dinner in the clouds at the top of Shanghai Tower? Kick off your China journey with an unforgettable evening, enjoy a glass of bubbles at the 120th floor of the tallest building in the country. As the city lights begin to sparkle far below, you’ll enjoy fine cuisine paired with panoramic views that stretch from the twisting Huangpu River to the endless Shanghai skyline. It’s a moment that sets the tone: elevated, elegant, and full of promise. The perfect way to say hello.
Return to the hotel for a nightcap or a good night’s sleep.
Stay: The Upper House, Shanghai – Residence 55
Meals: Breakfast & Dinner
Your guide will meet you in the lobby of The Middle House to begin a day of style, culture, and indulgence in Shanghai.
Step inside YOUTOPIA, the dynamic fashion hub under the LABELHOOD brand, where emerging designers push the boundaries of creativity. Witness the innovative collections of this year’s finalists, including Linxi Liu, a 25-year-old womenswear designer and Royal College of Art postgraduate. Liu’s work draws inspiration from identity and heritage, with intricate explorations of hair as both a tangible design element and a metaphorical symbol. Experience firsthand how her textiles transform rhythm, structure, and storytelling into wearable art, gaining a rare insight into the energy and vision of Shanghai’s next generation of designers.
In the afternoon, glide along the iconic Huangpu River aboard your private yacht, where Shanghai’s past and future unfold in stunning contrast. Marvel at the Bund’s colonial-era architecture on one side and the soaring skyscrapers of Lujiazui on the other, as the golden afternoon sun bathes the skyline. Feel the gentle rhythm of the waves beneath you, the soft breeze on your face, and the tranquillity of this exclusive escape from the city’s pulse. Sip fine champagne, enjoy curated light bites, or simply soak in the ever-changing vistas—this private cruise blends elegance, history, and modern sophistication for an unforgettable Shanghai experience.
Return to the hotel and dinner this evening is at leisure.
Stay: The Upper House, Shanghai – Residence 55
Meals: Breakfast, curated light bites on the yacht
Your guide will meet you in the lobby of The Middle House to begin your final day in this dynamic city.
Step into Fuxing Park, a lush vestige of the French colonial era that was once a private Ming Dynasty garden. Today, it pulses with the rhythms of local life. Stroll the tree-lined pathways and enjoy some of China’s finest people-watching: groups singing in harmonious—or occasionally riotous—choruses, elegant couples ballroom dancing under the shade, or even the occasional saxophone quartet adding a soundtrack to the morning. Observe the blend of tradition and leisure, where Shanghai’s past and present coexist in charming harmony.
Enjoy lunch before immersing yourself in one of Shanghai’s intriguing stories.
Slip into the glamour of 1920s Shanghai with Patrick Cranley, a published author and historian whose work has illuminated the hidden lives of Shanghai’s expatriates and socialites. Patrick brings the city’s past vividly to life, tracing the footsteps of Wallis Simpson, long before she became the Duchess of Windsor. Explore the streets, salons, and secret haunts that shaped her early adventures in a city poised between East and West, tradition and daring modernity. With Patrick’s insights, the story of Wallis and the world she inhabited becomes real!
Your guide will return you to The Middle House at the end of the day (around 5:00 pm), leaving you with memories of people, places, and stories that capture the very essence of Shanghai.
Dinner at leisure this evening.
Stay: The Upper House, Shanghai – Residence 55
Meals: Breakfast & Lunch
Located in the heart of eastern Sichuan, Chengdu is the capital of this vibrant southwestern province. Its geographic and political remoteness has fostered a free-spirited energy that pulses through the city today. Modern Chengdu is both cosmopolitan and relaxed, reflecting a unique blend of tradition, intellect, and progressive thinking. Home to a large community of students and thinkers, it is also the epicentre for Giant Panda conservation and a culinary paradise, making it one of China’s most captivating destinations.
Private transfer to the airport and your guide will assist with check-in.
Upon arrival, your local guide will meet you in the arrivals hall, ready to whisk you to your hotel in comfort and style.
Enjoy dinner this evening before experiencing the legendary Sichuan Opera in a VIP setting. The illusory art of “face-changing” is shrouded in mystery—so much so that a superstar Hong Kong actor once reportedly paid 3 million yuan for a master to reveal its secrets. Be mesmerised by acrobatics, comedy, and vividly drawn characters as the story unfolds before your eyes. To add an extra touch of local tradition, enjoy the optional experience of having your ears cleaned by a master during the performance—a quirky, intimate ritual that makes this encounter truly Sichuanese.
Stay: The Upper House, Chengdu -Studio 60
Meals: Breakfast & Dinner
Your guide will meet you in the lobby of your hotel to begin a day steeped in culture, ritual, and flavour.
Step into Qingyang Taoist Temple, the spiritual heart of Chengdu and birthplace of Lao Zi, the founding father of Taoism. Explore the temple grounds under the open sky, where small idols to Taoist deities are tucked amidst the trees and courtyards. Each discovery offers not only insight into the architecture and artistry of the temple but a window into Taoist philosophy, including the principle of wuwei—“do nothing”—and the graceful balance between action and stillness.
Stroll along the shores of the Jinjiang River to Wangjianglou Park, where groves of bamboo sway over a lively tapestry of local life. Witness morning dance routines, tai chi practice, and small groups enjoying music together. As the day unfolds, locals retreat to teahouses to play Mahjong, sip tea, and linger in conversation. Join in the rhythms of Chengdu daily life, observing and participating in the city’s timeless social rituals.
Experience the dazzling kung fu tea ceremony, a uniquely Chengdu tradition blending the precision of martial arts with the artistry of tea. Watch as the performer executes movements inspired by tai chi and kung fu, culminating in tea landing gracefully in the cup. Then awaken your own inner tea master as you pour your own cup and savour the fruits of your labour. Afterward, wander the park for the ultimate people-watching experience, from dancing couples to a roaring Mahjong game, soaking in the soul of the city.
Famed for its sizzling cuisine, embellish your Sichuanese foodie foray with an authentic cooking experience among the hustle and bustle of Chengdu. In the capable hands of your guide, navigate the sights and smells of the spice market before winding your way through back streets to our hidden gem – a traditional courtyard restaurant. Under the watchful eye of a professional chef, transform your ingredients into a sumptuous meal to be devoured alongside a cup of refreshing Sichuan Gaiwan tea.
Your guide will return you to your hotel at the end of the day, leaving you enriched by the sights, sounds, and flavours of Chengdu.
Stay: The Upper House, Chengdu -Studio 60
Meals: Breakfast & Dinner
This morning check out of The Temple House and journey to Dujiangyan, home of China’s beloved giant pandas.
Your guide will meet you in the lobby of your hotel at 9:00 am to start the day – and today is all about the Pandas.
Located about an hour and a half outside of Chengdu, Dujiangyan Panda Base is one of our favourite choices for getting up close with giant pandas. The first wild pandas were first spotted in this area in 1953 and the bamboo-covered hills of the conservation centre replicate the iconic animal’s natural habitat. The ultimate goal of Dujiangyan panda base is to boost the population and prepare the pandas for life in the wild. Be sure to look out for the keepers, who may well be hanging out with China’s national animal dressed as pandas themselves.
And just as Dujiangyan’s pandas aren’t relegated to sitting in small enclosures, you won’t be confined to a spectate-only experience. Today, you’ll play your part as a panda caretaker at Dujiangyan Panda Base—break bamboo, make panda cakes, and observe panda behaviour. Share lunch (and questions) with the team at the Panda Base – sublime.
After a magical morning with pandas, unwind at your divine spa retreat, where soothing rituals, massage and serene stillness recharge both body and spirit.
Stay: Six Senses Qingcheng Mountain – Deluxe Room
Meals: Breakfast & Lunch
Begin your day with a soul-nourishing Tai Chi class at the sacred Qingcheng Mountain, guided by a martial arts master. Feel the serenity of the misty peaks, as each movement aligns body, mind, and spirit, setting the perfect tone for a day of cultural discovery.
Later, step into the whimsical world of the Shadow Puppet Museum, where centuries-old artistry comes alive in delicate light and movement. Learn how master craftsmen cut and paint translucent leather to create intricate puppets, each telling stories of legendary heroes, epic battles, and timeless folklore. Watch as the puppets dance behind illuminated screens, their shadows weaving tales that have enchanted generations—a living tradition of Chinese storytelling that blends theatre, music, and visual poetry. Your guide will share the rich history, symbolism, and regional variations, giving you a true insider’s appreciation for this magical cultural heritage.
Tonight, celebrate your China mainland journey with a beautiful dinner, raising a glass to friendships, discovery, and unforgettable memories that will linger long after the shadows fade.
Stay: Six Senses Qingcheng Mountain – Deluxe Room
Meals: Breakfast & Dinner
Today you will fly to Hong Kong, where East meets West in glittering style. Your local guide and private chauffeur will escort you to the airport and help you check in to your flight. Upon arriving in Hong Kong, you will have a private vehicle on standby to take you to your hotel.
Stay: The Upper House, Hong Kong – Studio 80 Island View
Meals: Breakfast
Today is yours to curate as you wish—wander through the vibrant streets of Central, discover hidden art galleries and boutique stores, or immerse yourself in Hong Kong’s rich cultural tapestry at the Man Mo Temple or the historic PMQ design hub.
Perhaps indulge in a little retail therapy at landmark destinations like Canton Road or the stylish boutiques of SoHo, or take a slow stroll through the fragrant flower markets and bustling local markets, sampling teas, treats, and treasures along the way. Your guide will be on hand with insider suggestions to ensure every moment feels uniquely yours.
In the evening, time for an iconic sunset tram ride up to Victoria Peak, for panoramic views of the harbour’s sparkling skyline.
Then, savour a glamorous dinner at Aqua, where floor-to-ceiling windows frame the city’s dazzling lights—a perfect entrée to Hong Kong chic.
Stay: The Upper House, Hong Kong – Studio 80 Island View
Meals: Breakfast & Dinner
Begin your day exploring the remarkable Liang Yi Museum, home to exquisite antique furniture, delicate ceramics, and intricately carved objects. Each piece tells the story of China’s dynastic past, offering insight into the artistry, symbolism, and lifestyles of generations gone by. Your guide will highlight the most significant treasures, helping you connect with the history and cultural heritage behind these stunning collections.
Next, step into the elegance of the quintessential Chinese qipao. Enjoy a private styling session and slip into silk or brocade, embracing the grace and charm that has defined this iconic dress for over a century. Capture the moment with a professional photo session in a heritage setting, creating a timeless memento of your journey and a personal keepsake that beautifully reflects the artistry and spirit of China.
Meet this evening for farewell drinks to celebrate new friends and the beautiful journey you have shared.
Stay: The Upper House, Hong Kong – Studio 80 Island View
Meals: Breakfast
Enjoy a final breakfast before your private transfer to the airport. As you depart, carry with you the stories, flavours, friendships, and luxuries of your Wild China Luxe Journey—a once-in-a-lifetime adventure designed for women who seek the extraordinary.
Meals: Breakfast
Shanghai:
The Upper House, Shanghai – Residence 55
The Upper House blends Italian vision with modern aesthetics, topping it all with a uniquely Shanghainese twist. Designed by Italian architect Piero Lissoni to radiate urban sophistication, The Upper House’s decor skillfully combines old and new, texture, color, and line to create a thoroughly modern luxury accommodation experience – an oasis of calm set against the dynamic backdrop of a city 25 million people strong. Indulge in international, Italian, or Chinese favorites at one of the hotel’s signature restaurants, escape from it all at the day spa, and rest easy with The Upper House’s 24/7 bespoke service.
Chengdu:
The Upper House, Chengdu – Studio 60
An enthralling and vibrant hotel in Chengdu, The Upper House celebrates a city with a rich, fabled past and extremely exciting future through an inspiring blend of traditional heritage touches and modern comforts. With an ideal location in the heart of the city, the hotel invites travellers to unwind at the teahouse, fill up on a variety of Chinese and western cuisines, and rejuvenate with a bespoke treatment at the day spa. From your first steps through the historic Qing dynasty courtyard to the elegant rooms, The Upper House is an engaging journey.
Qingcheng Mountain:
Six Senses Qingcheng Mountain – Deluxe Room
Located an hour outside of Chengdu, the Six Senses Qing Cheng Mountain offers travellers a contemporary escape into Sichuan’s stunning Taoist mountainside. The hotel offers traditional Chinese villas and modern suites set against a backdrop of bamboo-laden slopes. With nature at their doorstep, guests can enjoy a peaceful hike nearby or stay in with options on-site like a Sichuan cooking class and taichi lesson.
Hong Kong
The Upper House, Hong Kong – Studio 80 Island View
Elegant and understated, The Upper House offers guests a sophisticated respite from the hustle and bustle of Hong Kong. Within its mere 117 rooms, the minimalist décor calms the mind while the windows look out over the lively city below. Its restaurants serve food that blends the tastes and techniques of Europe, Asia, and America, served in-room, in the dining room, and on The Lawn, a green rooftop getaway tucked between Hong Kong’s skyscrapers.
These tour-specific terms and conditions must be read in conjunction with the Travelling Divas standard terms and conditions.
A minimum of 8 guests is required for this tour to depart. The maximum number of guests is 12. If minimum numbers are not reached, we will discuss this with you well before departure to finalise how to proceed, i.e. re-quote with less participants or cancel the departure. If we cancel the departure the tour deposit will be refunded.
A reasonable level of fitness, due to uneven terrain and access to ancient ruins, is required to participate on this tour.
Once full payment is received the price is guaranteed. Until that time, the price is subject to change. This tour has been converted to Australian Dollars from USD and may be subject to currency fluctuations .
A $4000 non-refundable deposit is required once confirmed. Once minimum numbers are met, deposits are converted into Canadian Dollars and forwarded to the suppliers. A statement confirming the outstanding balance will then be provided. Please note we will make no conversions until minimum numbers are met and the tour is a confirmed departure.
Once the tour is confirmed a second deposit of $4000 will be required and will be invoice upon tour confirmation.
Deposit is by a payment link via the booking form to secure your spot. We accept Visa, and MasterCard. Merchant fees of 1.5% + .30c apply to Australian based credit card payments and will be added at the time of payment. International credit cards will attract a higher merchant fee.
All payments are processed by E-way – a secure payment gateway that is certified to stringent levels of certification.
Interim payments may be required to meet supplier terms and conditions.
Please check with your health provider regarding required vaccinations for China.
Please stay up to date at https://www.smartraveller.gov.au/ for destination information
Please ensure your passport has a minimum of 6 months validity from date of departure from China
Comprehensive travel insurance is a requirement for participation on this tour.
Final payment is required by 01 August 2026.
