Founded in 2019, Explore Beyond China is based in Shanghai, People's Republic of China, and operates in accordance with applicable Chinese laws and regulations.
Our core destinations include Shanghai, selected parts of Anhui and Jiangxi, Fujian, Yangshuo and Yunnan. Our Signature Series extends our offering to Ningxia through a curated collection of exceptional journeys. We may also consider other destinations as part of a wider itinerary, provided they meet our standards for local expertise, quality and the overall travel experience.
We offer four ways to experience China, each designed around a different style of travel.
Day Trips · Shanghai
Guided explorations of Shanghai and its surroundings, from historic neighbourhoods and cultural landmarks to countryside excursions and distinctive local experiences.
Self-Guided Escapes · Yangshuo & Fujian
Independent exploration of selected destinations, supported by a personalised handbook, necessary transfers, selected accommodation and meals, and a WeChat Concierge throughout your stay.
Journeys · Shanghai, Huizhou, Fujian, Yangshuo & Yunnan
Tailor-made private itineraries shaped around your interests and preferred pace, with a dedicated Personal Explorer, private transport and a selection of accommodation options.
Signature Series · Shanghai, Yunnan & Ningxia
Our curated collection of exceptional private journeys, combining outstanding accommodation, memorable dining and distinctive experiences chosen for their quality, character and privileged access.
Certainly. We craft multi-destination journeys that connect our regions into a seamless itinerary, thoughtfully balanced to offer a richer perspective on China.
The best time to visit depends on the region and what you hope to experience. In general, spring (late March to late May) and autumn (mid September to mid November) offer favourable conditions for exploring much of China, with comfortable temperatures and varied landscapes. Each destination, however, has its own seasonal highlights.
We recommend avoiding major Chinese public holidays, particularly Chinese New Year, Labour Day and National Day Golden Week, when most destinations become considerably busier and transport and accommodation are in high demand. If your travel dates are flexible, we can help you choose the season best suited to your interests and itinerary.
Yes. All our experiences are designed exclusively for you and your travelling companions, with no scheduled group tours or strangers joining your itinerary. Our Journeys include a dedicated Personal Explorer, while our Self-Guided Escapes offer a personalised handbook and WeChat Concierge.
All our journeys are private, designed exclusively for you and your travelling companions, whether you are travelling as a couple, with family or among friends. We recommend groups of 2 to 6 people for the greatest flexibility, but we are happy to accommodate larger groups too.
Depending on the group size, we may suggest adjustments to accommodation, transport or certain experiences to ensure the journey remains comfortable and enjoyable for everyone. We will discuss the options with you during the planning process and tailor the arrangements to suit your group.
Absolutely. Every journey is designed around your interests, preferred travel style, available time and budget. Whether you are interested in cultural encounters, culinary discoveries, outdoor adventures or exceptional accommodation, we shape the itinerary around what matters most to you.
A Personal Explorer is more than a conventional guide or driver. They are your trusted local companion, bringing regional knowledge, personal connections and a genuine understanding of everyday life in China to your journey. From sharing the stories behind places to introducing you to local people and experiences you might otherwise miss, they bring each destination to life.
Attentive to your interests and flexible as your journey unfolds, they help create meaningful encounters and take care of the details along the way. With a Personal Explorer, you experience China through the eyes of someone who knows it well.
Yes. Please let us know about any dietary requirements, mobility considerations, celebrations or other preferences when planning your journey. We will do our best to accommodate them, taking into account what is available at each destination.
The cost depends on your destinations, travel dates, accommodation preferences, group size and chosen experiences. As a general guide, our private journeys typically range from RMB 1,400 to 2,500+ per person per day, including accommodation, private transport, a Personal Explorer and most planned activities.
This is an indicative range rather than a fixed rate. Costs per person generally decrease as group size increases, as certain expenses are shared. We provide a tailored quotation based on your preferences and budget.
Depending on your itinerary, the price generally includes accommodation, private transport, the services of your Personal Explorer and most planned activities. Selected meals, specialist experiences, entrance fees and other services may be included or charged separately. Your proposal will clearly outline the inclusions, exclusions and any optional extras before you confirm your journey.
We recommend contacting us as early as possible, particularly if you plan to travel during public holidays, peak seasons or periods when accommodation availability is limited. Advance planning gives us more flexibility to secure your preferred hotels and arrange distinctive experiences.
We can also help with shorter-notice requests, subject to availability.
Simply complete our journey-planning questionnaire with your preferred destinations, travel dates, interests, party size and approximate daily budget. This gives us a useful starting point for understanding your expectations. We will then discuss your requirements, suggest suitable options and prepare a personalised proposal. You can also contact us directly through WhatsApp if you prefer to begin with a conversation.
Once you approve your proposal, we will confirm the agreed arrangements and provide the relevant booking details, payment schedule and terms and conditions. Before departure, you will receive the practical information needed for your journey, including your itinerary and relevant local arrangements.
Our aim is to make the planning process as considered and straightforward as the journey itself.
Entry requirements depend on your nationality, passport, itinerary and length of stay. Please check the latest requirements with the relevant Chinese embassy or consulate before travelling. For an overview, see https://english.www.gov.cn/services/visitChina
Explore Beyond China does not provide visa application services or advice on individual visa applications. However, we can supply supporting booking documents where required and connect you with visa-service partners.