School Trips to China
Ancient traditions. Modern cities. Endless discoveries.
China is a destination that challenges perceptions and sparks curiosity. From the Great Wall and Forbidden City to the futuristic skylines of Shanghai, students experience a country where ancient traditions sit alongside rapid modern change.
For many students, this will be a trip of firsts. Their first long-haul flight with school. Their first experience of a culture so different from their own. Their first opportunity to see the places, people and ideas that continue to shape one of the world's most influential countries.
What to expect on a school trip to China with NST
China is a country of remarkable contrasts. Home to one of the world's oldest civilisations, its history stretches back thousands of years, yet it's also one of the most influential and fast-changing countries in the modern world.
Students can walk through history at landmarks such as the Great Wall, Forbidden City and Temple of Heaven, while also exploring the cities, ideas and developments that have shaped modern China. From the rise of the People's Republic of China to its emergence as a global economic power, there are countless opportunities to connect classroom learning to real places and experiences.
There are plenty of cultural experiences along the way too. Students might try calligraphy, take part in cookery sessions, visit local schools or experience traditional performances and historic temples.
Beyond the cities, China reveals another side of itself. From the Yangtze River and the Three Gorges Dam to smaller towns and rural communities, students gain a fascinating insight into the country's diverse landscapes and the contrasts between urban and rural life.
What are the highlights of a school trip to China?
China offers some of the most iconic educational experiences anywhere in the world.
- Historic landmarks – Great Wall of China, Forbidden City, Temple of Heaven and Ming Tombs
- Modern China – Shanghai's skyline, the Oriental Pearl TV Tower and examples of rapid urban growth
- Culture & traditions – calligraphy, cookery sessions, local communities and cultural performances
- Geography & development – the Yangtze River, Three Gorges Dam and contrasts between urban and rural life
- And more... Chinese acrobatics, Buddhist temples and opportunities to experience everyday life in a completely different culture.
Why book your school trip to China with NST?
China is one of the world's most fascinating destinations. It's also one where local knowledge and expert support make a real difference.
From your first enquiry, our Educational Travel Experts will help shape an itinerary around your learning goals, interests and budget. While you're away, English-speaking Tour Escorts and local guides provide support throughout your trip, helping students gain deeper insight into the places they visit.
Browse our most popular China school trips
Why choose NST?
Here's why thousands of teachers choose NST each year...
- Unrivalled school trip knowledge
Your dedicated Tour Co-ordinator will use their trip planning knowledge and expertise to create a tailor-made, curriculum-linked itinerary to meet your group’s exact needs.
- Making it easier for you
Your own trip organiser, travel app, free classroom packs and trip promo resources.
- Free group leader inspection visits
Visit your chosen destination free of charge and plan with confidence.
- Value for money, always
We work hard to make every penny count.
- Over 55 years’ experience
With NST you can rest assured that your group is in safe hands.
- Aligned to your learning outcomes
Every trip can be built around your specific goals — from the latest GCSE and A level curriculum requirements to particular themes, interests or visits you want to focus on.
- Risk assessment guidance
Clear, practical support to help you manage group safety including our free guide.
- Offsetting carbon emissions
Through our partnership with Carbon Footprint, we're committed to offset one tonne of CO2 emissions, and plant a tree on school grounds in the UK, for every trip booked.
China trip highlights - our groups love...
Temple of Heaven
Perhaps one of the most iconic sights in all of China, the Temple of Heaven is a collection religious buildings used by the Emperors of the Ming and Qing dynasties for prayers and sacrifices.
Great Wall of China
A UNESCO World Heritage site, the Great Wall is a truly awe-inspiring wonder of the world.
Ming Tombs
The great Ming Dynasty ruled China for 276 years, from 1368 to 1644. In this time, most of the emperors of the dynasty were buried in a series of mausoleums near Beijing, collectively named the Ming Dynasty.
Olympic Stadium
The Beijing National Stadium, known colloquially as the Bird’s Nest, was the spectacular setting for the 2008 Olympic and Paralympic Games. Students can tour this large steel structure while your guide shares their own memories of the games and the legacy the games have left behind.
Tiananmen Square
Tiananmen Square is a centre of cultural and historical importance in Beijing, with the world-famous image of a man stood in front of a column of tanks taken in here during the 1989 civilian protests.
Forbidden City
Constructed when Emperor Yongle of the Ming Dynasty relocated the capital to Beijing in 1406, this palace served as the home from which 24 subsequent emperors of the Ming and Qing dynasties ruled China.
Oriental Pearl TV Tower
In a city of landmarks, the Oriental Pearl TV Tower still stands out as one of Shanghai's most famous and unique sights.
The Bund
In a city of modern skyscrapers, the architecture of the Bund, a waterfront area in central Shanghai, is a hark back to China's colonial past.
Jade Buddha Temple
A symbol of peace and tranquility, the Jade Buddha Temple is a beautiful landmark for students to visit.
Chinese Acrobatic Tour
Chinese acrobatics covers anything from gymnastics and animal tricks to juggling and magic. The performances are spectacular and students will be talking about them for years to come.
On the ground support
Your group will be accompanied by an English-speaking Tour Escort throughout your tour, with additional local guides in each location. You will be provided with useful information at each site and assisted with entry into attractions.
With their local and cultural knowledge our escorts and guides can help enrich learning by adding a layer of insight that only comes from being close to the local sites on a regular basis.
