Chat with us, powered by LiveChat China & the Harbin Ice Festival | Escorted Solo Group Tours

What to expect

Harbin Ice Festival

Harbin Ice Festival

Discover Harbin's breathtaking artistry

Great Wall of China

Great Wall of China

See ancient China's timeless symbol

Chengdu Panda Centre

Chengdu Panda Centre

Encounter the charming Giant Panda

Terracotta Warriors

Terracotta Warriors

Marvel at this amazing discovery

About this trip...

Celebrate the festive season in a completely unforgettable way as you join fellow solo travellers on a fully escorted journey through China. This welcoming, group-focussed adventure is perfect for those travelling independently but wanting connection, confidence, and incredible experiences. Over 14 epic days, we explore China’s most iconic highlights—Shanghai’s skyline, Chengdu’s Giant Pandas, Xi’an’s Terracotta Warriors, and Beijing’s imperial treasures. We welcome the New Year atop the lantern-lit Simatai Great Wall and experience the enchanting Ice & Snow Festival in Harbin.

With expert guides, seamless travel arrangements, and a friendly group of like-minded explorers, you’ll feel supported from start to finish. Enjoy meaningful festive moments, shared laughter, and a festive season unlike any other. Join us this winter and celebrate Christmas and New Year surrounded by culture, companionship, and the timeless beauty of China—perfect for solo travellers who want to see the world together.

Activity Level: Activity Level Rating
What's this?

Whats included?

  • Return flights & transfers
  • Domestic flight in economy class from Shanghai to Chengdu with 1 piece of checked luggage under 20 kilos.
  • Airport taxes & charges
  • Rooms for sole use
  • Breakfast daily, eight lunches & six dinners
  • Welcome drink & information evening
  • Shanghai: Yu Garden, the Bund & Shanghai Tower observation deck
  • Chengdu Panda Breeding Centre
  • Terracotta Warrior Museum
  • Tang Dynasty Show
  • Xi'an City Wall
  • Great Wall of China: Simatai Great Wall at night with cable car & day tour Jinshanling Great Wall
  • Beijing: Summer Palace, Tiananmen Square, Forbidden City, Temple of Heaven
  • Harbin: Snow Sculpture Art Expo, Zhaolin Park Ice Lantern Art, Russian Orthodox Church of St Sophia & Ice and Snow World
  • Accompanying Solos Tour Leader
  • Fully financially protected

What's extra:

Visa cost is £151 per person. Applications are initially made online, however you must also go in person to a Chinese Visa Application Centre in either London, Manchester or Edinburgh

Itinerary

  • Overnight flight from the UK
  • Arrival in Dazzling Shanghai
  • Shanghai’s Gardens, Skyline, and Festive Spirit
  • Skyscraper Heights and a change of pace
  • A Day with Pandas and Local Life
  • High-Speed Journey to Historic Xi’an
  • Meeting the Terracotta Army
  • Imperial Gardens in the Capital
  • Tiananmen, Forbidden City & New Year Magic
  • Wild Beauty of Jinshanling Great Wall
  • Temple of Heaven & Journey to Harbin
  • Snow Sculptures and Ice Lanterns
  • Sophia, Central Street & Ice World
  • Return to Beijing & Farewell Feast
  • Departure from Beijing

What you'll be doing

Day One: Overnight flight from the UK

Day One: Overnight flight from the UK

Depart the UK and head to China on an overnight flight.
Day Two: Arrive in Shanghai

Day Two: Arrive in Shanghai

We arrive in the vibrant city of Shanghai, where our guide warmly welcomes us at Shanghai Hongqiao Airport. We transfer to our hotel and start settling into the rhythm of China’s largest metropolis. A refreshing welcome drink helps us unwind after the journey. The rest of the day is free to explore the surroundings or simply relax. We take in our first views of Shanghai’s modern skyline from the nearby streets. In the evening, we gather for a delightful welcome dinner. Our adventure officially begins, filled with excitement and anticipation.

  • Dinner included
Day Three: Shanghai’s Gardens, Skyline, and Festive Spirit

Day Three: Shanghai’s Gardens, Skyline, and Festive Spirit

We start our day wandering through the serene Yu Garden, admiring its ancient design and peaceful atmosphere. We immerse ourselves in four centuries of history among pavilions, ponds and bridges. For lunch, we enjoy authentic Yunnan flavours at the popular Lost Heaven restaurant. Later, we walk along the Bund, taking in Shanghai’s iconic skyline rising above the Huangpu River. We explore a silk factory and learn about the fine art of silk production. A charming Christmas market fills our afternoon with warmth and festive energy. We end the evening with a hearty German-style Christmas feast.


  • Breakfast, lunch & dinner included

Day Four: Skyscraper Heights

Day Four: Skyscraper Heights

We begin our day with a visit to Shanghai Tower, the tallest building in China and the second-highest in the world. Its transparent, twisting glass façade offers breathtaking panoramic views across Shanghai, giving us a remarkable perspective on the city’s scale and energy.

After taking in the skyline, we enjoy free time for lunch before transferring to the airport for our flight to Chengdu. As we depart, we reflect on the contrast between bustling Shanghai and the more relaxed charm awaiting us in Chengdu. Upon arrival, we check in to our hotel and settle in for a quiet evening, adjusting to the new city at our own pace. The day ends with free time for dinner and exploration.

 

  • Breakfast included
Day Five: A day with Pandas & local life

Day Five: A day with Pandas & local life

We begin our morning at the Chengdu Panda Breeding Centre, where we witness pandas munching bamboo, climbing and playing. We learn about their conservation efforts and feel deeply moved by their gentle nature. After lunch, we head to People’s Park to observe the daily lives of locals. We wander between teahouses, lakefront walkways and vibrant community areas. Mahjong players, dancers and calligraphy artists bring the park to life. We stop by the marriage market to witness this intriguing social tradition. The day concludes with a warming, flavourful hot pot dinner.

  • Breakfast, lunch & dinner included
Day Six: High-speed journey to historic Xi’an

Day Six: High-speed journey to historic Xi’an

We enjoy breakfast before boarding a high-speed train through scenic landscapes from Chengdu to Xi’an. On arrival, our local guide welcomes us and introduces us to Xi’an’s historical charm. We settle into our hotel and rest briefly. In the evening, we attend the spectacular Tang Dynasty Show. Colourful costumes, graceful dancers and powerful music bring ancient culture to life. We enjoy a dumpling banquet, tasting multiple delicate varieties. The night leaves us enchanted by Xi’an’s artistic spirit.

  • Breakfast & dinner included
Day Seven: Meeting the Terracotta Army

Day Seven: Meeting the Terracotta Army

We set off to visit one of the world’s greatest archaeological discoveries: the Terracotta Army. As we stand before thousands of life-sized warriors, we feel the immense legacy of Emperor Qin Shi Huang. We explore the museum complex and observe craftsmen at a Terracotta Warrior Factory. After lunch, we head to the ancient City Wall, still standing strong after centuries. We admire sweeping views of Xi’an from atop its battlements before returning to our hotel to relax. Dinner is at leisure, offering the chance to explore Xi’an’s lively evening food scene.

  • Breakfast & lunch included
Day Eight: Imperial Gardens in the Capital

Day Eight: Imperial Gardens in the Capital

We board the high-speed train to Beijing and are greeted on arrival by our local guide. After checking in, we spend a peaceful afternoon at the Summer Palace. Its grand lakes, temples and pavilions reflect centuries of imperial elegance. We stroll along corridors decorated with vibrant paintings and marvel at the scale of Kunming Lake and the beauty of Longevity Hill. As evening falls, we enjoy time to explore or rest. The day leaves us refreshed for the days ahead in the capital.

  • Breakfast included
Day Nine: Tiananmen, Forbidden City & New Year Magic

Day Nine: Tiananmen, Forbidden City & New Year Magic

We begin at Tiananmen Square, absorbing the immense historical significance of this national landmark. We then step into the Forbidden City, wandering through majestic halls once reserved for emperors. After lunch, we travel to the enchanting Gubei Water Town. Its canals, courtyards and mountain backdrop create a peaceful escape from the city. As darkness falls, we take a cable car up the Simatai Great Wall. Lantern-lit pathways and New Year’s Eve celebrations create a truly unforgettable atmosphere. We end the night with a festive dinner welcoming the new year.

  • Breakfast, lunch & dinner included
Day Ten: Wild beauty of Jinshanling Great Wall

Day Ten: Wild beauty of Jinshanling Great Wall

After breakfast, we drive to the Jinshanling section of the Great Wall, known for its untouched and dramatic scenery. We explore rugged watchtowers and panoramic ridges stretching endlessly across the mountains. The quietness enhances the sense of ancient majesty. We enjoy lunch at a local restaurant before returning to Beijing. Our afternoon is relaxed as we return to the city centre. The evening is free for personal dining choices. The day leaves us inspired by one of humanity’s greatest monuments.

  • Breakfast & lunch included
Day Eleven: Temple of Heaven & Journey to Harbin

Day Eleven: Temple of Heaven & Journey to Harbin

We visit the Temple of Heaven, where emperors once prayed for good harvests. The vast, beautifully designed complex showcases the harmony between man and heaven. After lunch, we take part in a traditional tea ceremony. We then board the high-speed train to Harbin, travelling deeper into China’s winter landscapes. Upon arrival, we check into our hotel and experience the crisp northern air. Dinner is free to explore at leisure. We prepare for the days of winter wonder ahead.

  • Breakfast & lunch included
Day Twelve: Snow Sculptures & Ice Lanterns

Day Twelve: Snow Sculptures & Ice Lanterns

We visit Sun Island to admire the Snow Sculpture Expo, where giant masterpieces are carved entirely from snow. The artistry and scale leave us amazed. For lunch, we taste hearty northeastern cuisine, perfect for the season. In the afternoon, we watch brave winter swimmers dive into icy waters, a unique local tradition. We then explore Zhaolin Park, glowing with colourful ice lanterns. The sparkling sculptures transform the park into a magical world. The evening is free for our own dining and wandering.

  • Breakfast & lunch included
Day Thirteen: Sophia, Central Street & Ice World

Day Thirteen: Sophia, Central Street & Ice World

We begin at St. Sophia Cathedral, admiring its grand green domes and Russian heritage. We stroll along Central Street, tasting the famous popsicle at the Modern Hotel. After lunch, we try crispy Guo Bao Rou, a cherished regional dish. In the afternoon, we enter Ice and Snow World, a glowing kingdom of ice castles, slides, sculptures and artistry. We wander through illuminated structures that feel like something from a fairytale. We enjoy time to explore before returning to our hotel. Dinner is at leisure.

  • Breakfast & lunch included
Day Fourteen: Return to Beijing & Farewell Feast

Day Fourteen: Return to Beijing & Farewell Feast

We take the bullet train back to Beijing, watching the landscapes gradually change from frozen Harbin to the capital. After checking into our hotel, we enjoy the afternoon at leisure. In the evening, we gather for a farewell Peking Duck dinner. We celebrate the journey we’ve shared and the memories we’ve created, reflecting on the highlights that shaped our adventure. The night ends with warm camaraderie and a deep sense of satisfaction.

  • Breakfast & dinner included
Day Fifteen: Departure from Beijing

Day Fifteen: Departure from Beijing

We enjoy breakfast one last time before transferring to the airport. We reflect on the extraordinary experiences of the past two weeks, our hearts full from the history, culture, nature and winter magic we’ve explored. We say our final goodbyes to China’s vibrant capital. Our journey concludes with lasting memories as we prepare for our flight home with gratitude. The tour officially comes to an end.

  • Breakfast included

Accommodation

(as specified or similar)
  • Day 2 - 3 | Radisson Collection Hotel Yangtze Shanghai
  • Day 4 - 5 | Dorsett Chengdu
  • Day 6 - 7 | Dajing Castle Hotel Xi'an
  • Day 8 | Beijing Jianguo hotel
  • Day 9 | Gubei Water Town Hotel
  • Day 10 | Beijing Jianguo hotel
  • Day 11 - 13 | Mercure Harbin Songbei Hotel
  • Day 14 | Beijing Jianguo hotel

Dates & Prices

Departure Return Nights Price from Other Info Regional flights
23 Dec 2026 6 Jan 2027 13
£5795
  Please call for regional flights

Essential Information

Transfer time
Transfer time from the Shanghai Hongqiao International Airport to our hotel in Shanghai is approximately 20 minutes dependent on local traffic.
 
Transfer time from our hotel in Beijing to Beijing Airport is approximately 30 minutes dependent on local traffic.
Dress Code

Travelling across China in December and January means experiencing a variety of winter climates—from cool city days to crisp mountain air and the deep freeze of Harbin. To ensure comfort throughout the journey, we recommend packing the following essentials:

Shanghai, Chengdu, Xi’an & Beijing

Cool Winter Cities: Approx. 0–10°C

These major cities experience mild to cold winter weather, ideal for layered outfits during sightseeing and smart-casual wear for evening dinners.

Recommended Clothing:

  • Warm layers (temperatures can be 0–10°C)
  • Long-sleeve tops, jumpers, and fleece jackets
  • A winter coat for comfort outdoors
  • Comfortable walking shoes for full touring days
  • Gloves and a scarf for chilly wind
  • Smart-casual clothing for evening meals and events

Gubei Water Town & Great Wall

Cold, Crisp & Windy Conditions

This picturesque region near the mountains can feel significantly colder, especially at night and on the Great Wall. Warm, practical layers are essential.

Recommended Clothing:

  • Thick winter jacket (essential)
  • Thermal underlayers
  • Hat, scarf, and touchscreen gloves
  • Comfortable boots with good grip for uneven paths

Harbin

Extreme Winter: –15°C to –25°C

Famous for the Ice & Snow Festival, Harbin’s deep winter climate requires serious cold-weather gear. Staying warm is key to enjoying the stunning sculptures and outdoor activities.

Recommended Clothing:

  • Heavy insulated parka or down jacket
  • Thermal base layers (top + leggings)
  • Wool sweaters or fleece mid-layers
  • Waterproof, insulated winter boots
  • Thermal socks (2 layers recommended)
  • Windproof hat, thermal gloves, scarf/neck warmer
  • Hand warmers for long periods outdoors
  • Sunglasses to reduce glare from snow and ice
Gratuities
There is often confusion on the question of gratuities, since it frequently depends on the type of holiday, location and, of course, your attitude towards tipping, as to what is normally expected. To give you a rough idea, we have given appropriate guidance below. The Tour Leader will be on hand to offer advice or suggestions if required but gratuities are offered entirely at the sole discretion of the individual. We suggest a group collection at the beginning of your holiday to cover drivers, guides, porters and hotel staff, also USD6 per person per day for guide, USD3 per person per day for driver. Your Tour Leader will collect this on your behalf and distribute it accordingly, thus relieving you of the burden of who, when and how much to tip.
Passport, Visa & Entry Requirements
To enter China, your passport must have an ‘expiry date’ at least 6 months after the date you arrive and 2 blank pages for visas and stamping. You must have a visa to visit mainland China, cost is £151. If you’re 14 to 70 years old, you must apply for a visa online and then go in person to a visa for China application centre. Officials will take a scan of your fingerprints as part of your application. There are visa application centres in London, Manchester, Belfast and Edinburgh. If you’re aged 13 or under, or 71 or over, you do not have to attend in person. The Chinese Embassy has further information on visa categories and how to apply.
 
You can also refer to the FCDO website for further advice https://www.gov.uk/foreign-travel-advice/china/entry-requirements 
Health Requirements
To enter China, you must have a certificate to prove you’ve had a yellow fever vaccination if you’re coming from a country listed as a transmission risk. For full details about medical entry requirements and recommended vaccinations, see TravelHealthPro’s China guide.
Currency
Chinese Yuan
Important Information

This festive journey across China is an active sightseeing tour that requires a reasonable level of fitness and mobility. Travellers should be prepared for early mornings, long travel days, and extended walking through historical sites, parks, temples, and large museum complexes. Some locations—such as the Great Wall, Gubei Water Town, and parts of Harbin—include uneven surfaces, steps, and inclines.

Winter conditions vary across regions, and travellers must be comfortable experiencing cold to extremely cold temperatures, particularly in Harbin where temperatures can reach up to –25°C. Warm, layered clothing and proper winter footwear are essential for safety and comfort.

Domestic flight in economy class from Shanghai to Chengdu with 1 piece of check in luggage under 20 kilos.

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Rated as Excellent (4.8/5) by our customers

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First Class

I’d highly recommend Solos to people looking to travel on their own with a group of like minded people.
-David F

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Fabulous experience

Solos are extremely organised and provide fantastic holidays for people on their own. The tour leaders are of a very high standard and are extremely caring with the guests.
-Carole

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Don't Delay any Longer!

This was my first Solos holiday and it hugely exceeded my expectations. Lovely, lovely people made the holiday so special.....it will stay with me for always
-L Heaton

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Well worth going

I’ve recently returned from my first Solos holiday and had a fantastic time. I can honestly say that I enjoyed every minute, and the memories will last a lifetime.
-Patricia B

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