TCA News

21 October – 3 November 2026

If you have ever dreamed of experiencing the true spirit of China, Tai Chi Australia’s 34th China Tour is for you.

Begin your journey in the tranquil mountains of Mount Qingcheng, where Taoist philosophy was born and Tai Chi comes alive in its natural home. Discover the breathtaking beauty of Jiuzhaigou Valley and Huanglong National Park, where crystal-clear lakes, waterfalls, and forests create a landscape of pure harmony.

From there, explore the vibrant energy of Chongqing, a city where tradition and modern life intertwine, before embarking on a luxury cruise along the legendary Yangtze River. Journey through the magnificent Three Gorges, uncover ancient legends, and witness the extraordinary scale of the Three Gorges Dam.

This is more than a tour—it is a journey of balance, culture, and discovery. Practise Tai Chi in its homeland, connect with nature, and return home refreshed, inspired, and enriched with unforgettable memories.

Itinerary

Day 1 – 3

Melbourne – Chengdu

Our journey begins at Mount Qingcheng, a UNESCO World Heritage site. Nestled among lush, forested hills, this tranquil mountain has long been associated with the origins of Taoist philosophy, dating back to the 2nd century.

Over the centuries, scholars and practitioners were drawn here, leaving behind a legacy of temples, pavilions, and pathways that blend harmoniously with the landscape.

Rising to 1,260 metres at Laojun Pavilion, Mount Qingcheng is traditionally divided into the Front Mountain and Back Mountain, visitors typically exploring the first. As you walk along the shaded trails, surrounded by birdsong, flowing water, and your own footsteps you will experience the rare sense of calm that has attracted poets and seekers of harmony for centuries.

Today, Mount Qingcheng also offers also a modern touch, having featured in Kung Fu Panda 3.

Qingcheng Tai Chi is a distinct, Taoist-rooted martial art developed on Qingcheng Mountain, which emphasises light, graceful movements, beneficial for health, and techniques unique from other forms. Led by 36th-generation Master Liu Suibin, this style combines traditional combat with "surge of Qi" internal training to promote longevity and well-being. You have the honour of experiencing this form during a two-hour workshop with Master Liu.

Our next unforgettable highlight is a visit to Dujiangyan China Panda Park, a leading centre for panda care and conservation. Here you will meet one of the world’s most loveable bears. Set among lush bamboo forests, this peaceful park provides a natural and comfortable home for giant pandas, As you walk through the grounds, you may catch your first glimpse of these gentle creatures—eating bamboo, climbing trees, or simply resting in their relaxed, unhurried way, a joyful and heart-warming experience.

Surrounded by fresh air and greenery, you will re-connect with nature and appreciate your close encounter with these rare creatures; something you will always remember.

Day 4 – 5

Mount Qingcheng to Huanglong – Jiuzaigou by bullet train

Huanglong National Park

Our journey continues to Huanglong National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage site listed in 1992, renowned for its extraordinary natural beauty. Stretching 7 kms, the valley is famous for remarkable travertine terraces—thousands of mineral-rich pools shimmering in shades of turquoise, gold, emerald, and white. These colourful ponds are interwoven with streams, waterfalls, and limestone formations, creating a landscape often described as a “Calcification Museum.” From above, the entire valley resembles a golden dragon winding down from the snow-capped peaks of the Minshan Mountains, giving rise to its name, “Yellow Dragon.”

Huanglong also offers a serene immersive experience - ancient temples, quiet forests, and crisp mountain air create a peaceful atmosphere that invites contemplation As you walk along the wooden pathways, the gentle flow of water and the harmony between stone and forest reflect a natural balance—echoing the calm, flowing principles at the heart of Tai Chi practice.

Jiuzhaigou Valley

Our next UNESCO World Heritage site also listed in 1992,  Jiuzhaigou Valley is truly a world of natural wonder. Nestled within the Minshan mountain range, this stunning valley stretching more than 50 kilometres is celebrated for its crystal-clear lakes, cascading waterfalls, and vibrant forests. Known as the “Valley of Nine Villages,” it is home to traditional Tibetan communities, adding cultural richness to its already breathtaking scenery.

You will never forget the lakes of Jiuzhaigou. Brilliantly coloured in shades of blue, green, and turquoise, they reflect the surrounding mountains like mirrors and are so clear you can see right to the bottom. Legend tells of a goddess who dropped her mirror here, shattering it into countless sparkling lakes scattered across the valley. As you wander through this peaceful landscape – a place of quiet reflection - the sound of flowing water and the purity of the air create a sense of calm and balance which will stay with you always.

Day 6 – 7

Jiuzhaigou – Chongqing

Our journey continues in Chongqing, a vibrant mountain city combining tradition with modern life. This “City of Mountains” – celebrated for its striking multi-level design – offers a unique blend of history, culture, and contemporary energy.

You begin with a leisurely visit to Ciqikou Old Town, wandering through narrow stone lanes lined with traditional houses, local teahouses, and artisan shops, taking in the charm of a once-bustling riverside port. Next you visit the Three Gorges Museum and the People’s Assembly Hall, a landmark of classical architectural beauty.

In the afternoon, you enjoy a unique Chongqing experience most iconic experiences aboard Rail Transit Line 2, arriving at Liziba Metro Station, where the train passes astonishingly through a residential building. Later you take in sweeping views from E’ling Park, where the city’s skyline and winding rivers unfold beneath us.

As evening falls, the enchanting Hongya Cave, with its glowing stilted architecture creates a magical riverside scene. The day concludes with a smooth transfer to Chaotianmen Dock to board your Yangtze River cruise, or continue onward at your leisure.

You will board the luxurious President 7 cruise ship for a 6-day, 5-night journey from Chongqing to Wuhan. This five-star vessel offers a rare and unforgettable experience: it is among the few cruises that pass through both the Gezhouba Dam Ship Lock and the monumental Three Gorges Dam Ship Locks.

Day 8 – 12

Yangtze River Cruise Itinerary & Highlights

Day 1 – Boarding in Chongqing

Day 2 – Fengdu Ghost City

Shore excursion

Fengdu Ghost City is one of the most intriguing cultural sites along the Yangtze River, often referred to as the “City of the Underworld.” Rooted in ancient Chinese beliefs, it blends Taoist, Buddhist, and folk traditions to depict the journey of the soul after death. The complex is filled with temples, shrines, and vividly sculpted figures representing judges, spirits, and mythical creatures. Visitors symbolically pass through trials—such as crossing the “Bridge of Helplessness”—which are said to test one’s morality and virtue. Rather than being frightening, the experience is theatrical and philosophical, offering insight into how traditional Chinese culture understands justice, ethics, and the afterlife. Surrounded by lush hills and overlooking the river, Fengdu is both atmospheric and deeply thought-provoking.

Day 3 – White Emperor City & Three Gorges

Shore excursion

‍White Emperor City sits above the Yangtze River, offering sweeping views and a rich connection to Chinese history and literature. Founded over 2,000 years ago, it is closely linked to the ThreeKingdoms period and the legendary story of Liu Bei entrusting his son to Zhuge Liang here. The site is also celebrated in classical poetry, with renowned poets inspired by its dramatic scenery. Today, visitors can explore ancient temples, inscriptions, and pavilions while enjoying panoramic vistas of the river winding through rugged mountains. The combination of cultural depth and natural beauty makes White Emperor City a highlight of the cruise, where history feels alive and the landscape itself seems to tell stories.

Carving its way through towering mountains for over 190 kilometres, the Three Gorges of the Yangtze River present one of China’s most breathtaking natural landscapes. A journey through Qutang, Wu, and Xiling Gorges reveals a dramatic interplay of sheer cliffs, mist-veiled peaks, and winding waters that have inspired poets, painters, and travellers for centuries. Steeped in legend and history, this iconic stretch of river is not only a showcase of nature’s grandeur but also a living gallery of Chinese culture. As your ship glides through these majestic passages, each bend in the river unveils a new perspective – at times powerful and awe-inspiring, at others peaceful and dreamlike – creating an unforgettable highlight of your Yangtze journey.

Scenic cruising

Qutang Gorge

Qutang Gorge, though the shortest of the Three Gorges, is arguably the most dramatic. Stretching only about 8 kilometres, it impresses with towering cliffs that rise almost vertically from the river, creating a narrow and powerful passage. At its entrance lies the famous Kuimen Gate, often featured on Chinese currency and considered an iconic symbol of the Yangtze. As your ship glides through, the sense of scale is breathtaking, with sheer rock walls enclosing the river in a majestic embrace. Historically, this section was challenging to navigate due to strong currents, adding to its legendary reputation. Today, it offers an unforgettable visual experience and a striking introduction to the grandeur of the Three Gorges.

Wu Gorge

Wu Gorge is celebrated for its elegance and poetic beauty, stretching approximately 45 kilometres along the Yangtze. Known for its mist-shrouded peaks and lush greenery, it is often regarded as the most scenic of the Three Gorges. The famous Twelve Peaks, each with its own legend and evocative name, rise gracefully along the riverbanks. As clouds drift through the mountains and sunlight filters across the water, the landscape takes on a dreamlike quality that has inspired artists and poets for centuries. Unlike the dramatic intensity of Qutang Gorge, Wu Gorge offers a softer, more romantic atmosphere, making it a favourite among travellers seeking both natural splendour and cultural resonance.

Shennong Stream

Shennong Stream is a tranquil tributary of the Yangtze, offering a peaceful and intimate contrast to the main river’s grandeur. Known for its crystal-clear waters and narrow gorges, it is best explored by smaller boats that navigate deep into its scenic valleys. Towering limestone cliffs, dense vegetation, and occasional mist create a serene and almost untouched environment. One of its most fascinating features is the presence of ancient “hanging coffins,” wooden coffins placed high on cliff faces centuries ago. The area is also known for traditional boat tracking, where local trackers once pulled vessels upstream by hand. Shennong Stream provides a glimpse into both the natural beauty and cultural heritage of the region, making it a memorable highlight of the journey.

Three Gorges Dam Ship Locks

The Five-Stage Ship Lock of the Three Gorges Dam is nothing short of extraordinary - a triumph of modern engineering on a monumental scale. Each chamber lifts your vessel by around 22.5 metres, culminating in a breathtaking ascent of 113 metres - the equivalent of a 40-storey skyscraper.

As your ship is steadily raised through the colossal lock system, the three-and-a-half-hour journey unfolds like a grand, cinematic spectacle. Towering concrete walls, surging waters, and the sheer precision of the operation create an unforgettable sense of awe.

This is far more than a river crossing - it is a rare and privileged encounter with one of the greatest engineering achievements of our time, where human ambition and ingenuity reshape the very landscape.

Day 4 – Three Gorges Dam

Shore excursion

Tanziling Scenic Area

Tanziling Scenic Area is the highest official viewing point of the Three Gorges Dam and offers a spectacular panoramic perspective of this engineering wonder. From here, visitors can clearly see the full length of the dam stretching across the Yangtze River, as well as the reservoir it creates. The site’s name comes from its shape, which resembles a traditional clay jar (“tanzi”). Informational displays and exhibits provide insight into the construction, purpose, and impact of the dam, including its roles in flood control, power generation, and navigation. Surrounded by rolling hills, Tanziling combines natural scenery with educational value, making it one of the best places to appreciate both the scale and significance of the project.

185 Platform

The 185 Platform, named for its elevation at 185 metres above sea level, offers a unique, eye-level view of the Three Gorges Dam. Standing here, visitors are aligned with the top of the dam, providing a close-up perspective of its vast structure and the immense forces it controls. This vantage point allows you to better appreciate the scale of the dam and the engineering precision behind it. It is also an excellent spot for photography, with wide views of the river, surrounding mountains, and the dam itself. The experience is both impressive and immersive, giving visitors a deeper understanding of how this monumental project integrates with the natural landscape.

Scenic cruising

Xiling Gorge

Xiling Gorge is the longest of the Three Gorges, stretching over 60 kilometres, and was historically the most dangerous section of the Yangtze River. Known for its turbulent waters, hidden reefs, and strong currents, it once posed a serious challenge to navigation. Today, with the construction of the Three Gorges Dam, the river has become calmer, allowing visitors to safely enjoy its rugged beauty. The scenery varies from narrow passages with steep cliffs to wider stretches dotted with small villages and lush vegetation. Xiling Gorge offers a sense of the Yangtze’s raw power and historical importance as a major transportation route, blending natural beauty with a rich sense of history.

Gezhouba Dam Ship Lock

The Gezhouba Dam Ship Lock, located downstream of the Three Gorges Dam, is an important part of the Yangtze’s modern navigation system. As one of China’s earliest large-scale water control projects on the river, it laid the foundation for later developments. Passing through the lock allows visitors to observe how ships are raised or lowered between different water levels in a controlled and efficient manner. Although smaller than the Three Gorges system, it provides a closer and more immediate view of the process. The experience highlights the balance between engineering innovation and the need to maintain smooth river transport along one of the world’s busiest inland waterways.

Day 5 – Yueyang Tower

Shore excursion

Yueyang Tower is one of China’s most celebrated historic towers, overlooking the vast expanse of Dongting Lake. With a history of more than 1,700 years, it is best known through the famous essay “Notes on Yueyang Tower,” which reflects a deep sense of responsibility for society and the nation. The tower’s elegant structure, with its layered eaves and graceful design, represents the beauty of traditional Chinese architecture. Visitors can climb to the upper levels for sweeping views of the lake and surrounding landscape, especially stunning at sunrise or sunset. Combining cultural significance, literary heritage, and scenic beauty, Yueyang Tower stands as a timeless symbol of reflection, wisdom, and public spirit.

Evening: Captain’s farewell dinner & crew show.

Day 6 – Disembarkation in Wuhan

• Breakfast
• Disembark  
• Free afternoon

Day 13 – 14

Wuhan to Melbourne

Morning – Free time and after lunch we travel to the airport for our flight home afternoon

Our journey ends.  We return home enriched with new experiences, lasting friendships, and memories of one of the world’s most fascinating destinations

Arrive in Melbourne

The above itinerary is subject to final confirmation.

Cost: $3899* per person (based on a minimum of 20 participants, booked before 20 August 2026), which includes:

• Return economy-class airfares; domestic train travel within China; coach transfers; Yangtze River cruise; twin-share accommodation; sightseeing; and most meals in China.

The tour will be fully escorted by TCA chief instructor Master Han Jin Song who speaks fluent Chinese and English and will be of valuable assistance to you in any way he can, including bartering. Since 1991, Master Han has built an enviable reputation of professional and quality service whilst escorting over 700 Australians, many of whom have accompanied him on several occasions for Cultural Tours all over China and Tai Chi Study tours at the Beijing Sport University and Chen Jiagou, the birth place of Tai Chi.  His accumulated in-depth knowledge of what Australians really like to see and do will make this 34th Tai Chi China Tour one of the most memorable holidays that you could possibly have.

The 34th Tai Chi China Tour is open to all Tai Chi students and their relatives or friends who are interested in China’s fascinating culture, traditions and history of China. It includes many famous sightseeing and historical sites.

*Please note that we will endeavour to keep the itinerary and prices as advertised. However, we reserve the right to change aspects of the tour should it become necessary.

The tour is limited to 20 persons, so book early!

Contact Song for further details on 0415 993 399 or email info@taichiaustralia.com.au

If you are interested in the 34th Tai Chi China Tour and would like to get detailed information and a booking form, please download the form from the link below, fill in and email to: info@taichiaustralia.com.au