We started our trip in Beijing, the country's capital, visiting the giant pandas at Beijing Zoo shortly after landing. Pushing through the crowds, we saw China’s national animal. We later visited Tiananmen Square, surrounded by both historical and political buildings. We learnt about the Monument to the People’s Heroes, which honours those who fought for China's independence, and the Mausoleum of Mao Zedong, where visitors can see the preserved body of China's former leader. Walking across the square, which can hold up to a million people, we passed the portrait of Mao Zedong, standing 6 meters tall and 4.6 meters wide, and entered the gates into the Forbidden City. The Forbidden City consists of 180 acres and nearly 1,000 buildings and is one of the most well-preserved wooden structures in the world. One of the highlights and a long-awaited attraction was the Great Wall of China. Despite its steepness and mountainous terrain, we all attempted to climb the Wall, reaching checkpoints along the way. The majority of us climbed to the top and were rewarded with breathtaking views from above. We travelled to many other places, including the Huiyan Juice Company (where we saw the growth and timeline of Huiyan Juice), the Silk Market (where haggling was developed as a skill), and Hutong (where we walked through parts of old China).

Our next stop was Xi'an, the old capital of China, where we took a bullet train, travelling 1,134 km in just under five hours. After arriving in Xi'an, we visited Huaqing Hot Spring Park, where the Emperor and his beloved concubine Yang used to stay. This area had hot water fountains that were said to make the skin smooth, so, of course, we had to try it ourselves… and it was true! Another terrific sight was the Terracotta Warriors in the Army Museum. Thousands of them have been pieced back together and are still being uncovered to this day. Vastly housed in three pits, they were all destroyed in a rebellion against the emperor and came in many different forms, differentiated by their hair, armour, and shoes. These warriors were also accompanied by horses, and some even had colours such as purple, red, and green. Shortly after, we experienced the Tang Dynasty dumpling banquet, where we enjoyed a wide variety of dumplings with different shapes, colours, and fillings, some resembling animals and flowers. We watched a show performed in lavish silk costumes inspired by ancient court attire, accompanied by a live orchestral performance. Our time in Xi'an ended with a walk on the city wall, which is the only remaining intact city wall in China, and a visit to the Muslim Quarter to explore the food stalls and bustling markets.

We then took a flight and landed in Shanghai to see a variety of other landmarks. First was the Volkswagen factory, which demonstrated the lean production process of making cars. This Just-In-Time production system allowed us to see how the newest cars were pieced together before moving on to be test-driven. Shanghai’s most recognisable landmark and a symbol of its rapid modernisation and influence, the Oriental Pearl Tower, gave us an amazing opportunity to see a breathtaking 360-degree view of Shanghai’s skyline. Standing 259 meters above the city, we walked across the transparent walkway and saw the bustling city below our feet. However, despite being in a large, innovative city, we visited many gardens that preserved China's historical culture and architecture. The Yu Garden, located in the heart of Shanghai’s Old City, provided a glimpse into classical Chinese garden design, with ornate pavilions, ponds, and rock formations. Our time in Shanghai ended with a scenic day trip to the nearby city of Suzhou, known as the "Venice of the East." We sailed across the narrow waterways and under stone bridges, taking in the picturesque views and 2,500 years of history.

Emma Murati and Evie Nguyen, Year 13

We all had a fantastic time and our students were a delight to take on this adventure. Students have reported that this trip was “life-changing” and “the best thing I’ve ever done” and I’m incredibly grateful that we have been able to offer this experience to so many young people.

Mrs Harris, Head of Business and Economics

China itinerary ~ 2025

Beijing
Olympic Park
Water Cube
Beijing Zoo
Tiananmen Square
Lama Temple
Tea Ceremony
Acrobatic Show
Great Wall
Huiyan Juice Company
Silk Market
Bowling
Temple of Heaven
Hutong walking tour

Xi An
Bullet Train
Huaqing Hot Spring Park 
Teracotta Army Museum
Muslim quarter
Dumpling banquet and Tang Dynasty Show
Ancient City Wall
Big Wild Goose Pagoda

Shanghai
VW Factory
Yu Garden
Oriental Pearl Tower
Nanjing Road
Suzhou - Silk Museum, Lion Grove, Tiger Hill, Canal Cruise
Cruise