What Is Included in a China Tour Package? No Hidden Costs

Planning • 7 min read

The Most Common Question We Hear

One of the most common questions we receive: "What exactly is included in the price?" It's a fair question — China tour pricing can be confusing, and some operators are less transparent than others.

Here is a complete breakdown of everything included in an ExploreChina Holidays tour, and the things you should ask any operator before booking.

What Every ExploreChina Holidays Tour Includes

Every single tour we offer includes these five core inclusions:

1. Return International Flights

Your return flights from your Australian departure city to China are included in the price. This is significant — many operators quote land-only prices and add flights separately, making the final cost much higher than advertised.

2. Hotel Accommodation

All nights of accommodation throughout the tour are included. We use 4-star and above hotels in central, safe locations. Hotel details for each tour are published on our tour pages.

3. Dedicated English-Speaking Guide

A dedicated English-speaking guide accompanies your group for the entire tour duration — not just at certain attractions. This is your translator, cultural interpreter, logistics manager, and the most important part of your China experience.

4. All Transfers

Airport transfers, inter-city transfers, and transport between attractions throughout the tour are included. You will not need to arrange or pay for any internal transport.

5. Entrance Fees

Entrance fees to all attractions listed in your tour itinerary are included. The Great Wall, Forbidden City, Terracotta Warriors, Panda Base — all covered.

What Is Not Included

Be clear on these before booking any China tour: personal spending money, travel insurance (strongly recommended — essential), optional activities not listed in the itinerary, personal shopping, tips for your guide (optional but appreciated), alcoholic drinks, and any personal medical expenses.

Questions to Ask Any China Tour Operator

Before you book with any company, ask these six questions: Are international flights included in the quoted price? What hotel star rating is included? Is the English-speaking guide with us the whole time, or only at some attractions? Are all entrance fees included? Are there any shopping stops built into the itinerary? What is the cancellation policy?

Our No-Hidden-Costs Promise

The price you see on our website is the price you pay for the core tour. There are no commission shopping stops, no surprise surcharges on arrival, and no compulsory extras. Optional upgrades (business class, private tour, single room supplement) are clearly listed with transparent pricing.

See full inclusions for every tour → Browse All China Tours