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 Discover dynasties of tradition on our cultural gay tour of China’s most renowned sites. As the world’s third-largest country, China boasts an unending wealth of history and heritage. Experience the grandeur of the Great Wall, the significance of Beijing and Tiananmen Square, the magnificence of Tibet, the archaeological wonders of Xi’an, the futuristic vibes of Shanghai, and so much more! This far-reaching tour is chock full of authentic cuisine, cultural immersion, and indelible insights into the storied past of Asia’s cornerstone nation.
Extend your trip by adding 3 days in Hong Kong, a unique metropolis that fuses Eastern and Western cultures.
• Visit historically significant Tiananmen Square, the Summer Palace, the Forbidden City, and Jinshan Park in Beijing
• Hike one of the most beautiful sections of the famous Great Wall Of China
• Unveil the Terracotta Warriors in Xi’an, an impressive archaeological find
• Tour Potala Palace, an architectural marvel that served as the winter residence of the Dalai Lamas
• Marvel at Xi’an’s Ancient City Wall with the option for a walking or biking tour
• Gaze upon the Jokhang Temple in Lhasa and its Golden Buddha centerpiece
• Visit Chengdu’s most famous landmarks, including People’s Park, Dufu Cottage, and Kuanzhai Alley
• Come face-to-face with adorable panda bears
• See the larger-than-life Leshan Giant Buddha, a colossal statue carved into a cliff face
• Explore the Shanghai History Museum, City God Temple, Yu Garden, People’s Square, and the French Concession area of Xin Tian Di
• Indulge in authentic Chinese cuisine like Beijing Duck, traditional dumplings, and savory hotpot
Day 1
Ni hao and welcome to China! After a private transfer to the hotel, we’ll begin with a Group Meeting at 6:00PM followed by an orientation walk and a Welcome Dinner.
Hotel: SSAW Garden Hotel, Beijing, 5*
Day 2
Zaoshang hao (good morning), Beijing! After an included breakfast, we’re headed to the Summer Palace. Once a retreat for emperors, it now stands as a showcase of classical Chinese garden design with sprawling lakes, graceful pavilions, and verdant scenery. Later, we’ll visit Tiananmen Square, a vast public space known for its significance in China’s modern history. Lunch will be included; afterwards, we’ll walk to the nearby Forbidden City and Jinshan Park. Our day wraps up with a stroll through Beijing’s distinctive hutongs, which are narrow, winding alleys lined with traditional courtyard homes that offer a glimpse into the city’s communal way of life. Tonight, we’ll feast on an included dinner of Beijing Duck!
Hotel: SSAW Garden Hotel, Beijing, 5*
Day 3
Fuel up on an included breakfast, because today is all about hiking the famous Great Wall! After a 2-hour transfer, we’ll arrive in Jinshanling, known for being home to one of the most gorgeous sections of the Wall. First, we’ll visit a local farmer who will welcome us with a dumpling meal. From there, our hike to the top of the Wall begins. Notably, this section sees lighter crowds. We’ll have plenty of opportunities to snap amazing photos as we explore the historic and imposing structure. This afternoon, we’ll transfer back to Beijing for another included dinner with the rest of the evening at our leisure.
Hotel: SSAW Garden Hotel, Beijing, 5*
Day 4
Today starts early with an included breakfast followed by a transfer to Beijing’s west train station to catch the high-speed train to Xi’an. Along the way, we’ll be treated to scenic views of the countryside. Upon arrival, we’ll enjoy an included lunch and check into our hotel. This afternoon, we’ll visit the Xi’an Ancient City Wall and have the option for a walking or biking tour. Later, we’ll visit the Muslim Quarter to sample traditional cuisine, explore the busy market, and perhaps engage in some lively bargaining with the vendors. Tonight, we’re free to relax and shop at our leisure after an included dinner.
Hotel: Hualuxe Xi'an Tanghua Hotel, Xi'an, 5*
Day 5
Rise and shine! After an included breakfast, we’re off to discover one of the most impressive archaeological sites in the world. We’ll transfer to the Terracotta Warriors Museum on the outskirts of the city to delve into the mesmerizing history of the army of life-sized sculptures buried with China’s first Emperor, Qin Shi Huang. Discovered in 1974, the intricately detailed warrior figures, along with chariots and horses, are all arranged in battle formation. Each figure varies in height, expression, and attire, reflecting the diverse military ranks of the Qin dynasty. The site offers visitors a glimpse into ancient China’s military practices and craftsmanship, as well as the emperor’s quest for immortality. Later, we’ll enjoy an included lunch before visiting the Wild Goose Pagoda, a Buddhist monument constructed in 652 AD during the Tang Dynasty. Upon returning to the hotel, we’ll have a free evening to choose our own dinner adventure.
Hotel: Hualuxe Xi'an Tanghua Hotel, Xi'an, 5*
Day 6
After an early breakfast, we’re cranking the altitude up to eleven… thousand, that is! We’ll transfer to the airport for our flight to Tibet, where upon arrival, we’ll have a relaxed day as we acclimate to Lhasa’s elevation. Once we’re checked in, we’ll have free time before gathering for an included dinner in the city’s center. The evening is ours to enjoy, but we recommend resting up as we’ll need our energy for tomorrow.
Hotel: St. Regis Lhasa Resort, Lhasa, 5*
Day 7
This morning, savor a breathtaking Tibetan sunrise over an included breakfast and get ready for a big day ahead! We’ll begin at the Jokhang Temple, Tibet’s most sacred site and a major pilgrimage destination. According to legend, the temple was constructed over a lake after several failed attempts at other locations. Today, it stands with a golden Buddha as its centerpiece! After a delicious and included lunch, we’ll join the pilgrims for a sacred kora, a type of meditative pilgrimage that involves circumambulating Barkhor Street in a clockwise fashion. In the late afternoon, we’ll head to the Sera Monastery, known for its vibrant philosophical debates that offer a glimpse into Tibetan scholarly traditions. Tonight, we’ll gather for an included dinner.
Hotel: St. Regis Lhasa Resort, Lhasa, 5*
Day 8
After an included breakfast, we’re off to visit Potala Palace, an architectural marvel perched 427 ft. (130 m) above Lhasa that served as both the government seat and winter residence of the Dalai Lamas. This astonishing structure is divided into the White Palace, which served secular purposes, and the Red Palace, home to religious chapels, shrines, and the tombs of the Dalai Lamas. Our guided tour of this impressive cynosure will be one of the most deeply enriching experiences of the trip. After a break for an included lunch, we’ll have the privilege of meeting a Tibetan family to gain insight into their way of life before a free afternoon and evening. Tonight’s dinner is at our leisure.
Hotel: St. Regis Lhasa Resort, Lhasa, 5*
Day 9
This morning, we bid farewell to Tibet. We’ll enjoy an included breakfast before transferring to the airport for our flight to Chengdu, the capital of Sichuan Province and one of China’s most liberal cities. Upon arrival, we’ll begin at People’s Park, a green oasis where locals gather to socialize and practice tai chi. We’ll also visit Dufu Cottage, a historical site dedicated to the famous Tang dynasty poet, Du Fu. Later, we’ll make our way to Kuanzhai Alley, one of Chengdu’s most famous landmarks. This charming area, known for its well-preserved traditional architecture, provides a glimpse back in time to old Chengdu. As we stroll through its narrow lanes, lined with quaint teahouses, boutique shops, and boutique eateries, we’ll get a true sense of the city’s leisurely pace and the everyday life of its residents. Tonight, we’ll gather for an included dinner.
Hotel: Chengdu Tibetan Hotel, Chengdu, 5*
Day 10
Today begins early with an included breakfast before we visit adorable panda bears! Mornings are the best time to observe these gentle giants as they enjoy their breakfast while engaging in playful behavior. After our panda encounter and an included lunch, we’ll embark on a scenic drive to Leshan to see the larger-than-life Leshan Giant Buddha. This colossal statue, carved into a cliff face and standing at over 233 ft. (71 m) tall, is a UNESCO World Heritage site and one of the oldest stone Buddha statues in the world. Following our visit to Leshan, we’ll return to Chengdu for a free evening. Tonight we’ll have the option to experience Chengdu’s famous hotpot for dinner. This beloved Sichuan dish features a communal pot of spicy, flavorful broth in which you cook thinly sliced meats, fresh vegetables, and noodles. It’s a culinary adventure and a favorite among locals and visitors alike.
Hotel: Chengdu Tibetan Hotel, Chengdu, 5*
Day 11
This morning, we’ll enjoy an included breakfast before transferring to the airport for our flight to Shanghai, China’s financial hub known for its fusion of colonial-era architecture and cutting-edge skyscrapers! Upon freshening up at our hotel, we’ll head to the Bund, a waterfront promenade that offers unobstructed views of the Huangpu River and the contrasting architectural styles on either side. Here, we’ll get a feel for this futuristic city’s vibe over cocktails at one of the Bund’s hottest rooftop bars. Tonight, we’ll indulge in an included dinner.
Hotel: Golden Tulip Bund New Asia Hotel, Shanghai, 4*
Day 12
Good morning, Shanghai! After an included breakfast, we’ll head to the City God Temple, a culturally rich site nestled in the heart of the city. As we meander through this captivating area, we’ll cross picturesque small bridges that add a touch of classic Chinese charm. Next, we’ll visit the renowned Yu Garden, an exquisite classical garden dating back to the Ming Dynasty. Once we’ve refueled on an included lunch, we’ll discover People’s Square, a central hub of Shanghai’s civic life, before visiting the Shanghai History Museum, which boasts an impressive collection of art, ancient ceramics, jade artifacts, and calligraphy. Finally, we’ll wander through the French Concession area of Xin Tian Di, a cosmopolitan neighborhood with a wide array of boutique shops and eateries. Tonight, we’ll gather for a wonderful Farewell Dinner.
Hotel: Golden Tulip Bund New Asia Hotel, Shanghai, 4*
Day 13
After an included breakfast, we’ll enjoy a complimentary transfer to the airport. Safe travels home to those who aren’t joining our Hong Kong extension!
Day 13
For those continuing on to Hong Kong with us, we’ll be on a morning flight that arrives in time for an included Dim Sum lunch. With bellies full, we’ll set out to discover some of the top spots in this gargantuan megalopolis, starting with one of its best views at Victoria Peak! Once we’ve crossed the harbour to Hong Kong Island, we’ll ride a train up the steep hill to a scenic vantage point overlooking the unending sprawl of the city below. Afterwards, we’ll head to the Central District and its famous Central-Mid-Levels Escalator, the longest outdoor covered escalator system in the world. Aside from being an attraction on its own, the system is lined with cafés, bars, and shops. Tonight, we’ll enjoy an included dinner before finding the perfect spot along the waterfront to take in A Symphony Of Lights, the world’s largest permanent light and sound show that transforms the harbour into a dazzling spectacle on a nightly basis.
Hotel: Harbour Grand Kowloon Hotel, Hong Kong, 5*
Day 14
Today begins with an included breakfast before we head to Lantau Island, the largest island in Hong Kong. Our first stop will be the Tian Tan Buddha statue (a.k.a. The Big Buddha), perched atop the island’s rolling hills. Completed in 1993, the bronze giant is an extension of the nearby Po Lin Monastery, which we’ll also visit. After an included lunch, we’ll return to downtown Hong Kong to explore the colorful Wong Tai Sin Temple dedicated to the Taoist deity known as the “Great Immortal Wong.” Later, we’ll head to the Mong Kok area to dabble in its bustling markets. Tonight, we’ll gather for our final included dinner.
Hotel: Harbour Grand Kowloon Hotel, Hong Kong, 5*
Day 15
After an included breakfast, we’ll enjoy a complimentary transfer to the airport. Safe travels home!
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• All domestic flights within the itinerary
• Arrival & departure transfers to/from joining/finishing point hotel
• A gay group host and a local guide throughout
• Daily breakfast, 8 lunches, 9 dinners
• All gratuities for drivers, included meals, and porters
• All activities mentioned in the itinerary
• All land transportation in comfortable, air-conditioned vehicles
• High-speed rail ticket
• Tibet permit
• Entrance fees
• A $50 USD Rainbow Railroad donation to help resettle LGBTQ+ refugees.
• International airfare
• Hong Kong extension
• Domestic flight at the end of the tour
• Optional activities, meals and drinks not mentioned in the itinerary
• All items of a personal nature (laundry, souvenirs, etc.)
• Gratuities for your local group leader (budget approximately $85 – $120 USD)
• Travel insurance is mandatory for all travellers.
• Chinese visa
China Visa
Tourists visiting China are required to obtain a visa in advance of their arrival. Your passport must be valid for a minimum of 6 months after the date you enter China, and at least 2 completely blank pages in your passport are required for entry into China. Please do not book flights or apply for a visa before receiving our Trip Confirmation email which will contain more details.
Culture Shock
Chinese culture places great importance on respect and etiquette in interactions. Greetings often involve a polite nod or a slight bow, and using titles and surnames is common to show respect. Western visitors may find that Chinese people are generally warm and curious, with a strong interest in learning about different cultures.
Local LGBT Scene
In major cities like Beijing and Shanghai, there is a growing acceptance of LGBTQ+ individuals, and Chengdu, in particular, stands out as a bright spot and is known for its relatively open attitude and lively scene that features numerous bars and clubs.
Weather
China is a large country and the weather and temperatures will vary based on the region. In April, you can generally expect clear skies and plenty of sunshine with daytime temperatures ranging from 50°F to 68°F (10°C to 20°C) in the northern regions and 59°F to 77°F (15°C to 25°C) in the southern regions. Tibet, being at a much higher elevation, typically experiences sunny days and crisp nights with temperatures ranging from 28°F to 59°F (-2°C to 15°C) as the region transitions from winter to spring.
Required Vaccinations
We recommend routine vaccines as well as being up to date on vaccines against diphtheria-tetanus-pertussis, measles-mumps-rubella, and varicella. To determine if you should take further measures, talk to your doctor or a travel medical clinic. We cannot provide vaccination recommendations.
Electricity
You will need an international travel plug/adapter for Type A, C, and I sockets.
Connectivity
All of our hotels will have Wi-Fi access. If you require connectivity, we recommend purchasing an international data plan or local SIM card (with an unlocked device). Even with a SIM card or roaming plan, coverage may be weak.
Travel Insurance
For everybody’s peace of mind, medical travel insurance is required on this tour. At a minimum, your travel insurance must provide cover against personal accident, death, medical expenses, emergency repatriation and personal liability, with a minimum medical coverage of US $200,000.
Physical Preparedness
This tour is rated 2.5/5 and is not suitable for guests with mobility issues due to the amount of walking on uneven ground, and up/down stairs. All guests must have a good level of health, and all tours involve uneven steps or stairs, and you will be required to carry your own luggage from time to time. Unfortunately, we are not able to accommodate individuals with limited mobility unless they are willing to absorb the cost of a private guide/assistant which varies by country and is only possible on a case by case basis. It is also your responsibility to advise Out Adventures of any pre-existing medical conditions that may increase the risk of you requiring medical attention, or that may affect the normal conduct of the tour and the enjoyment of the tour by other participants.
A Special Note on Altitude Sickness
Altitude sickness and oxygen deprivation may be felt while travelling to high altitudes in Tibet. Symptoms include shortness of breath, headaches, general lethargy and a reduced appetite. It is important that you drink plenty of water, and don’t attempt too much in a day. Please consult a physician before the trip to determine if you should consider medication to prevent/treat symptoms, especially if you have a chronic medical condition.
Meals
Daily breakfast, 8 lunches, and 9 dinners are included.
Money
The local currency is the Chinese Yuan (CN¥). Credit cards are widely accepted.
NOTE: We recommend carrying approximately $400 USD to be used in case of an emergency, or if your credit/ATM cards are placed on hold. This should be in addition to any spending money.
Tipping
If you are happy with the services throughout your trip, a tip is recommended. Tipping details will be provided in your final trip documentation, however we recommend budgeting approximately $85 – $120 USD.
What to bring
Our adventure entail carrying your own luggage on occasion. Our packing list is a guideline, not gospel. Our specialists are happy to answer any specific questions about how much or little to bring.
Flying Solo
If you’ve never travelled on your own, it’s an amazing way to get to know yourself while making new friends along the way. We can arrange for you to share a room with people in your age range at no charge, or you can pay a supplement for your own room. If there’s an odd number of solos, we’ll rotate a single room on a random basis.
How We Travel
Out Adventures is all about good times with like-minded folks. Whether we’re sitting around a campfire or indulging in five-star decadence, our goal is to make the experience magical. We also support the communities we visit by hiring local guides, staying at locally-owned accommodations whenever possible, and seeking out authentic local cuisine. It all adds up to a great way to immerse yourself in the culture.
Your Guide
All Out Adventures are led by a gay (or gay-welcoming) guide. Whenever possible, we hire destination locals. And we can also connect you with the right people if you’d like to delve deeper into the local culture.
Fellow Adventurers
Our tours are a great way to meet people from around the world and all walks of life. Bear in mind that everybody’s there for a good time, so mutual respect will go a long way. Please be on time for any meetups, empathetic to the needs of others, and ready to roll with whatever the adventure brings.
Although we can’t tell you who your fellow travellers will be for privacy reasons, we can tell you many great friendships began with our tour. And just because we’re a gay travel company doesn’t mean we’re exclusive: friends and family are always welcome to join the fun.
Groups Within Groups
We love when groups of friends join us on an OUT Adventure, whether you’re celebrating a major milestone, or you just love to travel together. However, since we have travellers that will be flying solo, or as a couple, we would love your help ensuring everybody feels welcome and has an epic time.
Itinerary Disclaimer
The itinerary is correct at time of publishing. If anything, it will only improve with feedback from prior travellers and our own research. It’s best to reference your final trip documents, rather than our website, in case there have been any changes that affect your departure.
Starting Point Hotel
SSAW Garden Hotel, Beijing
Featuring fitness and spa facilities, Traveler Inn Hua Qiao offers simply furnished rooms in central Beijing’s Dongzhimen area. It has a restaurant, tea house and free in-room internet access.
Situated within the Second Ring Road, Traveler Inn Hua Qiao Beijing is 4 km from Beijing Railway Station. It offers free parking and is 25 km from Capital International Airport.
Fitted with a cable TV, air-conditioned rooms offer conveniences such as a fridge, electric kettle and work desk. Private bathrooms have a hairdryer and bathtub.
Guests can enjoy the use of sauna facilities after an active workout at the gym. Staff can provide concierge and business services. Featuring an outdoor dining area, Chinese specialities can be sampled at the restaurant. The tea house is ideal for a relaxing drink.
Hualuxe Xi'an Tanghua Hotel, Xi'an
Nestled in the heart of Qujiang New District, HUALUXE Xi’an Tanghua features traditional Tang style architecture. It is just 5 minutes walk away from Giant Wild Goose Pagoda, Tang Paradise and Grand Tang Mall.
The hotel has 169 guestrooms with elegant Chinese design. The layout of all guestrooms resembles the traditional garden, featuring views of attractions including Giant Wild Goose Pagoda, Daci'en Temple, Shanchi Yard and traditional corridors.
Guests can stroll in the garden or rest by the lake. The signature social spaces LUXE Tea presents the authentic Chinese tea culture, while LUXE Gathering and F&B Manager aim to deliver Chinese social culture – eat and meet.
For dining experience, the property offers 2 restaurants serving Chinese and Western delicacies. Xianyan All Day Dining offers international flavors buffet and Cai Feng Lou features Chinese cuisine.
St. Regis Lhasa Resort, Lhasa, Tibet
The St. Regis Resort Lhasa features local contemporary design and includes an indoor pool and the Iridum Spa. It boasts views over landscaped gardens to the historic Potala Palace, 3 km away.
Equipped with a flat-screen TV and minibar, the rooms are decorated with wooden paneling and design furniture. The modern bathrooms have a separate bath and come with free toiletries. Free Wi-Fi is available throughout.
Guests can join yoga instructions and evening rituals when scheduled and cooking classes can be arranged upon request. A travel desk can assist in organising trips, booking tickets or car hire.
There are 3 restaurants at the St. Regis Hotel offering a variety of cuisines in buffet and a la carte choices. An assortment of exotic teas can be tasted in the Drawing Room or guests can enjoy a cocktail at Decanter by Haut-Brisson.
Chengdu Tibetan Hotel, Chengdu
Standing on the shore of the Jinjiang River, Chengdu Xizang Hotel features a Tibetan theme with a hint of modern art decor. The luxurious property offers 4 dining options, a fitness centre and a spa. Free parking on site and rooms with free wired internet are provided. The hotel is a 3-minute walk from Metro Line 1 and Line 6.
There are live displays of PM2.5 in rooms and hallways. Shuxiangcheng Chinese Restaurant and Yake Café serves Chinese cuisine and buffet meals. Guests can enjoy a selection of drinks at the lobby bar.
Tibet Hotel Chengdu is a 5-minute walk from Wanda Plaza and a 15-minute walk from Wenshu Yuan Monastery. It is a 15-minute drive from Chunxi Road, Kuan Zhai Alley or Jinli Ancient Street. Chengdu Research Base of Giant Panda Breeding is a 25-minute drive away.
Guest rooms are fitted with a personal safe, tea/coffee making facilities and a flat-screen TV with cable channels. Enhanced noise-reduction, ventilation and purification dual-filters are provided for your comfort. The en suite bathroom comes with free toiletries and a bathtub.
Finishing Point Hotel
Golden Tulip Bund New Asia Hotel, Shanghai
Golden Tulip Bund New Asia is located in Shanghai, only a 15-minute walk from the Bund and Pedestrian Street. Guests can enjoy the on-site restaurant. Free WiFi is available in all areas.
The hotel is a 5-minute walk from Tiantong Road Subway Station. It is a 45-minute drive from Hongqiao International Airport and a 50-minute drive from Pudong International Airport.
Rooms are fitted with air conditioning, a flat-screen satellite TV and capsule coffee machine.The private bathroom has a shower and electric toilet.
There is a 24-hour front desk at the property. Guests can also use well-equipped meeting rooms and banquet rooms for various events.
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