China:
Emperors, Dynasties & Skyscrapers
April 3 - 9, 2027
Reserve Your Spot with Flexible Payment Plans
Welcome to China, a country where 3,000-year-old imperial dynasties share space with sky-piercing skylines and the pace of daily life stretches from centuries-old alleyways to the world's busiest shopping streets. This seven-day journey through Beijing and Shanghai invites you to walk the Great Wall, stand in the world's largest city square, wander through hidden hutongs, watch the sunset over the Bund, and taste your way through one of the world's most storied cuisines. Designed with intention for Black queer travelers, this experience blends deep cultural immersion, guided history, and just enough free time to let China speak to you on your own terms.
This experience is designed for a small group of up to 12 travelers, allowing for meaningful connection, flexibility, and shared moments throughout the trip.
✨ Make It One, Two, or Three Countries ✨
China is part of a three trip spring series with South Korea and Vietnam, but you choose how you want to experience it. Join us for China only, pair China with South Korea or Vietnam, or make it all three. You do not have to attend consecutive trips. If you choose South Korea and China but skip Vietnam, simply make your own plans between trips and meet back up with us in China when the China experience begins.
Each destination is its own complete Lesbifriends Travel experience and is booked separately, so build the Asian adventure that works for your schedule, interests, and budget.
When booking, please select the "Combined Trip Add-On" to let us know you are combining both trips. This is only for interest tracking so we can help you plan accordingly. Airfare and any extra night’s stay is at cost and not included in trip price.
🤑 November Pay in Full Promotion
Book any of our international 2027 trips between November 1 - 15, 2026 and choose Pay in Full at checkout to receive 5% off your entire trip.
Use code PAYINFULL5 to lock in your savings. This is our final discount of the year for these trips. Do not sit on it.
Photos are examples; actual room may vary slightly based on availability and accommodation alignment.
Photos are examples; actual room may vary slightly based on availability and accommodation alignment.
The Accommodations
Your home throughout this journey features thoughtfully selected boutique stays that place you at the heart of each city. In Beijing, you will stay at a well-located hotel in the central business district, moments from Tiananmen Square, the Forbidden City, and Wangfujing shopping street. The property connects directly to a major shopping center and features easy access to metro lines 2 and 5.
In Shanghai, you will settle into a beautiful property near the city center, featuring an indoor pool, restaurant, and spa. Both stays include daily breakfast and put you within easy reach of the sights, food, and neighborhoods you came to see.
NOTE: ITINERARY IS SUBJECT TO CHANGE
Day One (Sunday, April 3rd)
BEM-VINDO A BEIJING
Your journey begins in Beijing, the political, cultural, and historical heart of China. Upon arrival at Beijing Capital Airport (PEK), head to your hotel to check in and settle in. The afternoon is yours to rest, catch up on jet lag, or take a slow walk through the surrounding neighborhood.
In the evening, we come together for our welcome dinner featuring Peking Duck, one of the most beloved dishes to come out of Beijing since the Imperial era. Thin, crispy skin, delicately sliced tableside, and the perfect introduction to what awaits us.
Dinner included.
Day Two (Monday, April 4th)
THE CROWN JEWELS OF BEIJING
Today, we experience Beijing in its full imperial glory. Begin with a guided tour of the Summer Palace, the largest imperial garden in China, sprawling across nearly three square kilometers of lakes, pavilions, and ornate corridors. From there, we head into the heart of Beijing to Tiananmen Square, the world's largest city square, surrounded by iconic government buildings, the Great Hall of the People, and the National Museum of China.
Next, we enter the Forbidden City through Tiananmen Gate, walking beneath the portrait of Chairman Mao. This UNESCO World Heritage Site was the Chinese imperial palace from 1420 to 1912 and remains one of the most magnificent architectural achievements in the world, spanning 180 acres and 980 buildings.
In the afternoon, we give our legs a rest with a 30-minute pedicab tour through Beijing's historic hutongs, the narrow alleyways that have preserved traditional Chinese neighborhood life for centuries. The evening is yours, and we recommend heading to Wangfujing Street, one of Beijing's most famous commercial promenades, often called the Champs-Élysées of China.
Breakfast and lunch included.
Day Three (Tuesday, April 5th)
THE GREAT WALL AWAITS
No trip to China is complete without walking the Great Wall, and today we do it right. We travel to the Mutianyu section, chosen intentionally to avoid the crowds you find at the more popular Badaling section. Mutianyu offers dense vegetation, dramatic mountain views, and beautifully restored watchtowers stretching across ancient terrain. Depending on your pace, our guided hike lasts anywhere from two to six hours through some of the most iconic scenery in the world.
In the afternoon, we visit Changling Tomb, the largest of the 13 Ming mausoleums and the final resting place of Emperor Zhudi (Yongle) and his Empress Xushi. The Ling'en Hall, made from rare Phoebe nanmu hardwood, is a masterpiece of preservation and one of the most significant historical structures still standing today.
Breakfast and lunch are included.
Day Four (Wednesday, April 6th)
HUTONGS + THE JOURNEY TO SHANGHAI
Start the morning with a self-guided walking tour through Beijing's historic hutongs, uncovering the hidden gems nestled within these ancient alleyways. Step into a traditional siheyuan, a centuries-old style of residence with buildings surrounding an open central courtyard, and see how families still preserve a way of life passed down for generations.
In the afternoon, we take the 5-hour high-speed train from Beijing to Shanghai, a smooth and scenic ride through China's stunning countryside. Upon arrival, your private driver will meet you at the station and escort you to your Shanghai hotel to settle in for the next chapter of your journey.
Breakfast included.
Day Five (Thursday, April 7th)
SHANGHAI, IN ALL ITS GLORY
Today, we experience Shanghai from every angle. Begin at The Bund, Shanghai's most iconic promenade, offering stunning views of colonial architecture on one side and futuristic skyline on the other. From there, we visit Yu Garden, a serene classical Ming Dynasty garden filled with rockeries, ponds, pavilions, and winding paths, plus the buzzing Yuyuan Market where you can taste local delicacies like xiaolongbao (steamed dumplings) and tangyuan (sweet glutinous rice balls).
Continue to the beautiful Former French Concession, a leafy, bohemian neighborhood filled with boutiques, wine bars, and trendy cafés, where your guide will share the fascinating history of this once-French-controlled district. End the day with a ride up Shanghai Tower, China's tallest skyscraper at 632 meters, for a 360-degree view of one of the world's most dazzling cities from the observation deck.
Breakfast included.
Day Six (Friday, April 8th)
A FREE DAY IN SHANGHAI
Today is completely yours. Kick off your morning at Nanjing Road, the heartbeat of Shanghai shopping. Continue to People's Park, a peaceful green oasis where you can watch locals practice tai chi, play chess, or even stumble into the Shanghai Marriage Market, a fascinating cultural experience in itself. In the afternoon, wander through Xintiandi, a charming neighborhood of restored Shikumen houses filled with hidden alleys, cozy cafés, and boutique shops.
And of course, no day in Shanghai is complete without eating. Try xiaolongbao (soup dumplings), shengjianbao (crispy-bottomed buns), hong shao rou (braised pork belly), or street food classics like scallion pancakes and fried dumplings. Follow what calls you.
Breakfast included.
Day Seven (Saturday, April 9th)
TIME TO PART WAYS
Your China journey wraps today. Enjoy a slow breakfast and one final walk through Shanghai before heading to Shanghai Pudong Airport (PVG) for your flight home or on to your next destination. You will leave China carrying imperial history, sky-high views, unforgettable meals, and the kind of memory only a country this vast and layered can give you.
Breakfast included.
Optional Add-On (April 9th - 11th)
XI’AN + TERRACOTTA WARRIORS EXTENSION (SELF-GUIDED)
If China already has you in awe, add three more days and head west to Xi’an, one of the oldest continuously inhabited cities in the world and the ancient capital of the Tang Dynasty. This optional extension picks up on April 9th, the same day our main China trip concludes in Shanghai and ends in Xi’an on April 11th.
Important: This is a self-guided extension. A Lesbifriends Travel trip leader will NOT accompany travelers on this portion. All transportation, accommodations, and included experiences are pre-arranged on your behalf, but this is not a continuation of our hosted group trip. You will travel, dine, and explore independently.
Day-by-Day Itinerary
Friday, April 9, 2027
Travel by high-speed train from Shanghai to Xi’an (approximately 6 hours). Upon arrival in Xi’an, settle into your accommodations. In the evening, enjoy the Tang Dynasty Palace Dinner and Show, featuring traditional Tang-style music, instruments, and silk-sleeved dance performances paired with your choice of a Dumpling Dinner or Imperial Court Dinner.
Saturday, April 10, 2027
A full day visiting the legendary Terracotta Warriors, the underground army of over 8,000 life-size statues built to protect Emperor Qinshihuang in the afterlife. Each soldier is completely unique, down to facial expressions, hairstyles, and ranks. This is one of the most remarkable archaeological discoveries in the world.
Sunday, April 11, 2027
Enjoy free time to explore Moslem Street in Xi’an’s Muslim Quarter, a vibrant local market full of Chinese and Muslim food, goods, and gifts. Afterward, you will be transferred to the airport for your departure.
Departure Arrangements
Travelers can fly home directly from Xi’an Xianyang International Airport (XIY) on April 11th, OR independently arrange transportation back to Shanghai or another city if that better accommodates their return flight. The extension does not include transportation back to Shanghai.
What’s Included
🚄 High-speed train from Shanghai to Xi’an (April 9)
🏨 2 nights accommodations in Xi’an
🎭 Tang Dynasty Palace dinner and show
🏛️ Full-day guided visit to the Terracotta Warriors
🕌 Free time at Moslem Street in the Muslim Quarter
🚐 Airport transfer in Xi’an on departure day
Pricing
$1,260 per person
When booking, please select the “Xi’an + Terracotta Warriors Extension (Self-Guided)” add-on to secure your spot.
What’s Included✨
7 Days, 6 Nights in boutique hotels (3 nights Beijing, 3 nights Shanghai)
Daily Breakfast, 2 Lunches, 1 Dinner
High-Speed Train from Beijing to Shanghai (1st Class Tickets)
Private Transportation to all Activities on the Itinerary
Welcome Peking Duck Dinner in Beijing
Beijing City Tour with Summer Palace, Tiananmen Square, Forbidden City, and Pedicab Hutong Tour
Full-Day Hike Along the Great Wall of China (Mutianyu Section)
Changling Tomb Visit
Highlights of Shanghai Tour with Yu Garden, The Bund, Former French Concession, and Shanghai Tower Observation Deck
Sightseeing
English-Speaking Private Guides
Travel Guide
On-ground team to ensure you have an amazing time.
What’s Not Included
International Flight
Your Flight from your Home country to China and your flight back Home is not included - but we can help you figure both out.
Flight Between Vietnam + China (if combining trips) If you are combining this trip with our Vietnam 2027 trip, the flight between the two destinations is not included. We will help you arrange this at cost.
Travel Insurance
Travel insurance is mandatory and is not included in the trip price. See the Travel Insurance section under Important Information for details.
Any Applicable Vaccines
Meals not Mentioned
You are responsible for most lunches and dinners.
Personal extras
Additional tours and excursions not included in the itinerary.
Tips and gratuities
You are responsible for all tips and gratuities, including those for accommodation staff, meal service (even for included meals), drivers, tour guides, and other service providers. We recommend budgeting $100–$200 for gratuities to ensure you can tip appropriately throughout your trip.
⭐ Lock in Founding Member rate before Dec 31.
Receive $100 Annual Trip Credit (stackable if unused)
Grab your spot in the Passport Club. → Join Now
Pricing
Payment Plans Available - All Listed Prices Are Per Person
Please review the booking terms and conditions and frequently asked questions section before booking a package.
A Quick Note on Booking Together
If you are traveling with a friend or partner and plan to share a room, we recommend booking individually so each traveler can manage their own payments and registration. Please include your intended roommate’s name during registration. We will coordinate your room assignment once both reservations are confirmed.
If you book multiple travelers under one registration, payments will remain associated with the original booking and cannot be separated later. If you are traveling alone and requesting a roommate, please review our Roommate Matching policy beneath the Important Information section before booking.
Combined Trip Add-On
$0 Add-On
Select this option at checkout to let us know you are interested in combining trips.
Options:
• Go to Vietnam + China
• Go to South Korea + China and skip Vietnam
• Go to all three
Double Occupancy
$2,700
Deposit: $200
1 OR 2 BEDS AND 2 PEOPLE IN THE ROOM. (PRICE PER PERSON)
Single Occupancy
$3,400
Deposit: $200
1 BED AND 1 PERSON IN THE ROOM.
Disclaimer
Is This Trip Right for You?
Our China experience is designed for travelers who enjoy cultural exploration, authentic local experiences, great food, and connecting with others.
This trip includes guided sightseeing, walking tours, a full-day hike, and a high-speed train transfer. Some experiences may involve stairs, uneven surfaces, or extended periods of walking or standing.
While we have selected comfortable luxury accommodations, China has its own customs, pace, and travel infrastructure, which may differ from what you are accustomed to at home.
We encourage travelers to arrive with an open mind, respect for local culture, and a willingness to embrace new experiences. There is also time built into the itinerary to relax and explore independently.
If you have mobility concerns, dietary restrictions, or other accommodation needs, please contact us before booking so we can discuss whether this experience is a good fit.
Important Information
Flights
International airfare and airport transfers are not included in the trip price. Please take note of the suggested arrival and departure flight times to ensure you are able to experience the full itinerary.
Please plan to arrive at Beijing Capital International Airport (PEK) in Beijing on Sunday, April 3, 2027, preferably between 11:00 AM - 2:00 PM local time.
For departure, we recommend booking a flight leaving Shanghai Pudong International Airport (PVG) on Saturday, April 9, 2027, after 3:00 PM local time.
Travelers may arrange their own airport transportation or request assistance booking a private transfer at an additional cost.
Please email your confirmed flight itinerary to hello@lesbifriendstravel.com as soon as your flights are booked.
Entry Requirements
Passport: Travelers should have a passport valid for at least six months beyond their planned departure from China, with sufficient blank pages for entry and exit requirements.
Visa: U.S. citizens generally need a visa to enter China. Eligible travelers may apply for an electronic visa through China’s official immigration website. Requirements vary by nationality. We recommend doing this at least 2 months in advance.
Health and Safety: Travelers are responsible for reviewing current vaccination recommendations, health advisories, and entry requirements before departure.
We will share general preparation guidance before the trip, but each traveler is responsible for obtaining the necessary travel documents and meeting all entry requirements.
Prior to Your Departure
Please review your passport expiration date, visa requirements, and any applicable health recommendations well before traveling.
We encourage U.S. travelers to review the State Department/Embassy alerts and enroll in the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP).
Trip Terms & Conditions
Before booking, please review our complete Trip Terms & Conditions.
By completing your reservation, you acknowledge and agree to the terms applicable to your booking, including payment obligations, cancellation policies, travel insurance requirements, and community conduct expectations.
The revised policies apply to new bookings made after their effective date. Travelers who booked previously remain subject to the terms accepted at the time of their original reservation.
Money/Currency
The official currency of China is the Chinese Yuan (CNY), also called the Renminbi (RMB). China is a largely cashless society, with mobile payment apps like Alipay and WeChat Pay dominating everyday transactions. Foreign visitors can now link international credit cards (Visa, Mastercard) to Alipay for use throughout the country. Some hotels, restaurants, and major retailers also accept international credit and debit cards, though smaller shops, local markets, taxis, and family-owned businesses may prefer cash or mobile payment. We recommend downloading Alipay before your trip, carrying some cash for small purchases, and checking with your bank about international transaction fees.
Travel Insurance
Travel insurance that includes trip cancellation and medical coverage is mandatory for all Lesbifriends Travel trips. Travelers may purchase coverage when you book or another insurance provider. Please review your policy carefully to ensure it provides appropriate coverage for your trip, including any exclusions or limitations. Proof of coverage may be requested before departure. Travelers are responsible for purchasing and maintaining their own insurance.
Payments and Payment Plans
Flexible payment plans are available. Payment amounts and due dates are provided during registration and included in your booking confirmation.
Cancellation Policy
• Within 72 hours of booking: Eligible for a refund less applicable processing and administrative fees.
• 180 days or more before departure: Eligible for a refund less applicable processing and administrative fees and nonrecoverable vendor costs.
• 90 to 179 days before departure: Eligible for a trip credit less applicable processing and administrative fees and nonrecoverable vendor costs.
• Fewer than 90 days before departure: No refund or trip credit.
All cancellation requests must be submitted by email to hello@lesbifriendstravel.com. Requests made by telephone, text message, or social media are not accepted.
Trip credits must be applied to a new booking within twelve months of cancellation, although travel may take place after that period. Credits may be transferred to another person with prior written approval from Lesbifriends Travel. Extensions are granted at our discretion.
Late Payments
A three-day grace period is provided for missed payments. Payments received after the grace period are subject to a $75 late fee.
Reservations with two missed payments may be canceled after notice to the traveler and an opportunity to resolve the outstanding balance. Previously paid amounts remain subject to the applicable cancellation policy.
All refunds, credits, and fees are subject to applicable law. Please review our complete Trip Terms & Conditions before booking.
-
Traveling solo but interested in sharing a room? Lesbifriends Travel offers complimentary roommate matching for travelers booking double occupancy without a confirmed travel companion.
We will make reasonable efforts to match you with another traveler based on availability and relevant preferences. However, roommate matching is not guaranteed.
If a roommate cannot be secured, you will be responsible for the applicable single occupancy rate if you wish to maintain your reservation. We will notify you of the available options and additional costs as early as reasonably possible, preferably at least 60 days before departure.
If an assigned roommate cancels and a replacement cannot be found, the remaining traveler may also be responsible for the single occupancy difference.
Travelers who do not wish to pay the single occupancy rate may request cancellation, subject to the cancellation policy applicable to their booking.
We encourage solo travelers to contact us before registering if they have questions about roommate availability or occupancy options.
For that reason, we extend each traveler the option of having us pair you with a suitable roommate for no additional cost. Roommates are paired based on room selection and a potential roommate questionnaire if there are several solo travelers. Before the trip, you will be introduced to your roommate, with plenty of time for you to get to know each other before we reach our destination.