Top 10 Experiences Travel Agents Should Include in China Tour Packages

China is emerging as one of the most exciting long-haul destinations for travel agents looking to expand their portfolio of international tour packages. With its extraordinary combination of ancient heritage, futuristic cities, dramatic landscapes, and vibrant cultural traditions, China offers immense opportunities to design high-value travel itineraries.

For travel agents selling China tour packages, the key to success lies in building itineraries that go beyond basic city visits. Carefully curated experiences help transform a standard itinerary into a memorable journey that truly resonates with travellers.

From the legendary Great Wall to scenic river cruises and world-class cultural landmarks, China offers experiences that appeal to a wide range of traveller segments including leisure travellers, families, cultural explorers, and premium FIT clients.

In this guide, we highlight the top experiences travel agents should include when designing China itineraries, helping you create compelling travel programmes that showcase the very best of the destination.

Top 10 Experiences Travel Agents Should Include in China Itineraries

1. Walk Along the Great Wall of China

No China tour package is complete without visiting the iconic Great Wall of China, one of the most famous landmarks in the world and a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Travel agents typically include accessible sections such as Mutianyu or Badaling, both located near Beijing. These restored sections allow travellers to walk along historic watchtowers while enjoying spectacular mountain views.

The Great Wall is one of the strongest selling points for China travel itineraries, offering both historical significance and breathtaking scenery.

2. Explore the Forbidden City in Beijing

The Forbidden City is one of the most impressive historical sites in China and a must-include attraction for any Beijing itinerary.

Once the residence of Chinese emperors for nearly 500 years, this vast palace complex features:

• Over 900 buildings
• Grand imperial halls and courtyards
• Ancient artifacts from the Ming and Qing dynasties

For travel agents designing cultural tours, the Forbidden City provides travellers with an immersive introduction to China’s imperial history.

3. Experience Shanghai’s Futuristic Skyline

Shanghai represents the modern face of China and offers a striking contrast to Beijing’s historical attractions.

The famous Pudong skyline features some of the tallest and most innovative skyscrapers in the world, including the Shanghai Tower and the Oriental Pearl Tower.

Observation decks provide breathtaking views of the city, making this experience particularly attractive for first-time visitors and premium travellers.

For travel agents, Shanghai adds a modern and cosmopolitan dimension to China tour packages.

4. Discover the Terracotta Army in Xi’an

The Terracotta Army in Xi’an is one of the most fascinating archaeological discoveries in the world.

This incredible site features thousands of life-sized clay soldiers created more than 2,000 years ago to guard the tomb of China’s first emperor.

Each figure is unique, showcasing detailed craftsmanship and historical significance.

Xi’an is often included as a two-night stop in classic China itineraries between Beijing and Shanghai, making it a perfect addition to multi-city tours.

5. Cruise the Li River in Guilin

For travellers seeking scenic landscapes, a Li River cruise between Guilin and Yangshuo offers one of the most picturesque experiences in China.

The journey features dramatic limestone karst mountains, traditional fishing villages, and peaceful countryside scenery.

This experience showcases the natural beauty of China and is particularly popular among nature lovers, photographers, and premium FIT travellers.

6. Visit a Traditional Water Town

China’s historic water towns provide travellers with a glimpse into traditional Chinese life.

One of the most famous is Zhujiajiao Water Town, often called the “Venice of Shanghai”.

Visitors can explore:

• Narrow canals by boat
• Historic stone bridges
• Traditional tea houses and local markets

For travel agents, including a water town excursion adds cultural depth and a relaxing atmosphere to Shanghai itineraries.

7. Experience Chinese Cuisine and Local Food Culture

Chinese cuisine is one of the highlights of travelling through China.

Travel agents can enhance their itineraries by including culinary experiences such as:

• Authentic Peking Duck dining in Beijing
• Traditional dumpling experiences in Xi’an
• Regional Chinese cuisine and local food markets

Food tours and cooking classes allow travellers to connect with Chinese culture through authentic culinary traditions.

8. Walk Through the Temple of Heaven

The Temple of Heaven is one of China’s most important spiritual landmarks and a masterpiece of Ming Dynasty architecture.

Historically used by emperors to pray for good harvests, the temple complex today offers visitors a fascinating glimpse into ancient Chinese traditions.

Travellers can explore:

• The Hall of Prayer for Good Harvests
• Traditional gardens and historic structures
• Local residents practising tai chi and music in the surrounding park

9. Travel on China’s High-Speed Rail Network

China’s high-speed rail network is one of the fastest and most efficient in the world.

Travelling by bullet train between major cities such as Beijing, Shanghai, and Xi’an provides a comfortable and modern travel experience.

For travel agents designing China itineraries, high-speed rail offers several advantages: Program

• Reduced travel time between cities
• Scenic countryside views
• Smooth and comfortable journeys

It also allows travellers to experience China’s impressive modern infrastructure.

10. Experience Traditional Chinese Cultural Performances

Cultural performances provide travellers with deeper insight into China’s artistic heritage.

Popular options include:

• Traditional acrobatic shows in Beijing
• Cultural theatre performances in Shanghai
• Folk dance and music performances across regional cities

These performances showcase centuries-old artistic traditions and add a memorable cultural experience to China tours.

Why Travel Agents Should Partner with Royal Arabian for China

Designing seamless China itineraries requires strong local expertise, reliable ground handling, and trusted destination partners.

With over two decades of experience supporting travel agents worldwide, Royal Arabian Destination Management understands the operational needs of B2B partners.

By partnering with Royal Arabian, travel agents benefit from:

Expertly Curated China Itineraries

Carefully designed travel programs that showcase China’s most iconic attractions and authentic experiences.

Reliable Ground Handling Services

Professional local guides, comfortable transportation, and smooth logistics for hassle-free travel experiences.

Customised China Tour Packages

Tailor-made programs for leisure travellers, luxury clients, families, and group tours.

Dedicated B2B Support

A responsive team that understands the needs of travel agents and provides fast quotations, competitive pricing, and operational assistance.

Multi-Destination Opportunities

China travel programs can be easily combined with Hong Kong and Macau, creating attractive multi-country itineraries.

China offers extraordinary diversity, combining ancient history, modern cities, stunning landscapes, and rich cultural traditions.

For travel agents, incorporating these key experiences into China itineraries allows you to design journeys that truly capture the essence of the destination.

With the right mix of cultural landmarks, scenic experiences, and modern travel infrastructure, China becomes an unforgettable destination for travellers.

For travel agents looking to expand their portfolio with well-designed China tour packages, Royal Arabian Destination Management is your trusted B2B partner for China travel experiences and seamless ground handling support.