CHINA - 21 DAYS / OCTOBER 2024
SPOTS LIMITED
As China ascends to the status of a global superpower, it retains tangible remnants of its 4,000-year-old ancient history, providing opportunities for captivating exploration and photography. Join us on this journey as we unveil the photogenic essence of China, capturing its vibrant streets, compelling portraits, and breathtaking landscapes. Brace yourself for a truly awe-inspiring experience.
THE MIDDLE KINGDOM
As China ascends to the status of a global superpower, it retains tangible remnants of its 4,000-year-old ancient history, providing opportunities for captivating exploration and photography. Join us on this journey as we unveil the photogenic essence of China, capturing its vibrant streets, compelling portraits, and breathtaking landscapes. Brace yourself for a truly awe-inspiring experience.
WHAT YOU’LL EXPERIENCE
China is home to awe-inspiring mountains and landscapes as much as it is rich with different minorities and subcultures. I have planned the majority of our travels away from the beaten path into villages where the traditions of centuries are still preserved. Some of our photoshoots will be coordinated with professional models/actors while other photographic opportunities will be more spontaneous through various villages and cities. An ample amount of time will guarantee keepers from both types of shooting sessions.
Designated as a UNESCO World Heritage Site in December 1987, the Great Wall of China stands as the longest man-made structure globally, stretching approximately 13,170.7 miles or 21,196.18 kilometers. Constructed over centuries, this remarkable wall is the collaborative effort of six distinct Chinese dynasties and boasts an impressive age of over 2,300 years.
ITINERARY
Embark on our immersive 21-day journey, intricately woven through the diverse tapestry of China's landscapes. Unfolding across six distinct regions, our adventure will traverse the lush subtropic south, meander through the arid mid-east, delve into the enchanting northern desert, and finally, unveil the captivating allure of the colder northern expanse. Get ready to be captivated by the breathtaking contrasts that await in each corner of this remarkable nation.
Guilin Day 1-6
Guilin city tour and farmer model photoshoot
Elephant Trunk Hill and two ancient villages photoshoot
Rice terrace and Chinese minority photoshoot
River cruise through the karst region
Mountain sunrise photoshoot and fisherman photoshoot
Sunrise fisherman photoshoot and two bothers photoshoot
Guiyang Day 6-11
Garrison Village local opera photoshoot
Long Horn Maio village and Gaodang Yeland village photoshoot
Wangba Village of Gejia people and Jidao village photoshoot
Langde Village and Shidong Village of Silver Maio people
Basha hunting tribe photoshoot, Zhangli village of Dong people, and Zhaoxing Village
Xian Day 11-12
Capture the essence of Xi'an's rich history as we embark on a captivating photographic exploration of the Xi'an City Wall and the vibrant Muslim Quarter. Immerse yourself in the artistry of street photography, where every frame tells a story of cultural heritage and the dynamic pulse of this enchanting city.
Zhangye - Day 12-14
Rainbow mountains
Geological park
Zhangjiajie Day 14-17
Tainzishan and Zhangjiajie national forest park
Bailong and Yuangjiajie
Bailong for sunrise
Beijing - Day 17-21
Great Wall of China
Great Wall of China with local village
Beijing departure
MAP ROUTE
Listed in chronological order
Guilin
Guiyang
Xian
Zhangye
Zhangjiajie
Beijing
WHAT’S INCLUDED
Domestic flights and bullet trains throughout China
Hotels listed on itinerary and/or all comparable accommodations
Majority of breakfasts and lunches (Dinner and alcoholic beverages on your own or additional fees)
Photo shoots with professional models as described on itinerary.
Park entrance fees on the itinerary
Professional local guides for each region
Dedicated drivers with designated private vehicle
Sean Lo as your photography guide
INSPIRATION FOR THIS TRIP
Having traversed China in the bygone era of bicycle travel, my enduring affection for immersing myself in a land steeped in diverse landscapes and ancient history remains unshaken. A decade ago, I embarked on a backpacking odyssey through the heart of China, armed with nothing more than two sets of clothes, my trusty camera, and a supply of water, all to ensure an unwavering focus on the path that lay ahead.
My sojourns took me through nights of mountainous hikes along winding trails, leading to secluded monasteries, and through gorges to terraced abodes where farmers shared their stories. Cobblestone-paved ancient towns, scattered sparingly between major cities, became the backdrop for my exploration. Amidst the relentless tide of modern development, resilient cultures endure, and pockets of people proudly uphold their rich heritage, deeply rooted in the annals of the past.
While we marvel at China's modernization and the rapid ascent of its robust economy, it is crucial to be reminded that China's enduring history is a testament to the power of cultural diffusion and infusion. In the carefully selected regions we traverse, witness firsthand how China continues to script its own history.
I present this tour with unwavering confidence, promising an authentic experience like no other. Embark on this journey now to discover and explore China, a nation perpetually weaving the tapestry of its treasured and glorious past alongside its vibrant present.
HOW TO PREPARE
Passport / Visa - Application recommended 5 months prior to our trip
Flight to China - Flights are often most affordable 3-4 months prior to departure
Camera Packing List - Lens list and recommended accessories
Currency Exchange
*Emails will be sent out prior to our trip regarding the necessary steps to prepare for this trip.
TOTAL PRICE - $14,500USD
Deposit by January 1st 2022 of $3800
Excluding
Flight to China
Dinner & beverages
Tips