Tour Itinerary
A fun, safe and hassle free independent travel network in China. China has a huge train and bus network, however travelling on these is often described as demanding or at worst a nightmare. Train or bus travel also doesn't allow you to enjoy the sites & cities that you pass through. Trying to do and see what you would experience with us could take you at least 4 times longer! Delays, lining up to get tickets, language problems, transfers to and from train and bus stations only then finding yourself walking around in circles trying to find that "most do" Lonely Planet restaurant. (that isn't now there as you have the last edition!) Ohh and we didn't include being ripped off at markets, hotels and taxis followed day trips packed full of shopping stops, but we can't estimate that loss in terms of time!
Day 1: Qingdao
You should arrive early and explore this majestic Seaside City. There are various options of those wishing to arrive Qingdao, all of which we can assist you with. However, by arriving one day early you could join the group for day trip to the enchanting Laoshan Mountain from which its water is exclusively used to make China's most famous beer - Tsingtao (or Qingdao) and is a scared Buddhist site as well you should Join the rest of your worldwide travellers in the afternoon at the nominated hostel. Then we head to the bar and enjoy a welcome drink before deciding where to go for dinner. ! Qingdao is renewed for two things, Beer and Beaches. This former German concession town has some amazing seafood restaurants and better nightlife
Day 2: Qingdao
A day to do as you please, however, if you missed yesterday's tour of the originally German built Qingdao Beer Factory, you could consider this! Qingdao is a great city to explore on foot. The best place to do this starts in "Old Qingdao", part of the former German concession which is rich in history and beautiful period German architecture. Perhaps hit the beach (in summer) with a book or go for a swim (there are indoor pools for winter!), but make sure you're back at the hostel for our grand BBQ, Beer and tunes party! We're sure that your time will fly by as you kick back and enjoy this cosmopolitan seaside city
Day 3: Qingdao to Qufu
After breakfast we make the trip to Qufu we set our sights for the hometown of Confucius, Qufu. However first, we'll leave the sea, cross through the Mountain before arriving at this classical Chinese City. On arrival, hit the hostel and perhaps walk around the town. Explore one of the stunning old gardens or find a great little restaurant. Perhaps take one of the many 3 wheel rickshaws for the journey around town as at less than 1 USD it's worth it! The town has a good supermarket, which if agreed by the group, often result in us heading down there and purchasing the supplies of a BBQ dinner, back at the Hostel A night to kick back, play Wii or read a book (Poker anyway?) as you won't find any bars or cafes in Qufu
Day 4: Qufu
Qufu was the hometown of the famous Confucius, however this place is a great city to experience "real China." There are no gleaming skyscrapers, but plenty of great local restaurants. Exploring the City and the Confucius family mansion, Confucius Temple and then the Forest where you'll find the tomb of Confucius himself can easily take you a good part of the day. This city is easily explored on foot and is perhaps the best way to do so. Tonight you can return to the Confucius Temple and witness a classical show including period dancing & singing.
Day 05: Qufu
Awaking to the sadness of knowing you Dragon Bus experience is over can be tempered by the excitement of where to go next. Beijing to Shanghai Pass holders will continue south to Xuzhou, and your welcome to continue the party with the rest of your worldwide travellers. However to do this you'll need to make the extra bookings. One of the more popular options is to head down to Nanjing, before linking back up with the Nanjing to Shanghai Sector Pass. Remember to pre book your extra nights with us!
Experience, real china with backpackers the world over with Dragon Bus China, no one comes close!
