Travel Curriculum

A road map to your China journey

Overview

In the tapestry of human experience, few threads are as rich and vibrant as the story of China. A land where ancient wisdom meets modern dynamism, where bustling metropolises rise alongside serene landscapes, China beckons with a symphony of sights, sounds, and emotions. However, navigating its vastness can be daunting, as the plethora of choices leaves travelers wondering where to begin their exploration.

WildChina’s travel curriculum is a roadmap to your China journey. It offers travelers a panorama of China, not merely a guide on how to tour the country, but rather a catalyst for personal growth and a bridge to fostering meaningful connections with the land and its people. With our program as a compass, we invite you to navigate China’s vastness with confidence, discovering hidden gems, connecting with local communities, and gaining profound insights into this incredible country we call home.

Prepare to be captivated, to be challenged, to be transformed.

Structure

WildChina’s travel curriculum moves beyond conventional tours, it offers a tiered cultural immersion program for all levels of China experience, from first-timers to seasoned visitors, to deepen the engagement with this rich land.
  • 101 journeys serve as an introduction to China. They are ideal for first-time visitors or those seeking to learn the basics of China, from the most iconic historical landmarks to the country’s beloved national treasure, the giant panda.
  • 201 journeys venture beyond the familiar, delving deeper into China’s diverse cultures, histories and landscapes. A specialization module of 201 offers focused journeys into a variety of subjects, from ancient trade routes and wildlife, to tea and cuisine, allowing exploration of personal interests while uncovering unique perspectives of China.
  • 301 is for the aspiring China hands, the traveling Sinophiles, those who seek to uncover a lesser-known China. A specialization module of 301 features expert-led affinity groups, focusing on a specific study of China, from cuisine to archaeology.
While progressing through the curriculum, travelers reach milestones – marks of distinction recognizing your adventurous spirit – which acknowledge growing China travel. These milestones unlock certificates and exclusive rewards.

 

 

101: An Introduction to China, Past and Present

Ideal for discerning first-time visitors or those seeking a curated experience of China’s iconic historical landmarks alongside modern marvels. From the Forbidden City in Beijing to the vibrant cityscape of Hong Kong, each step offers an enriching experience of China’s millennia-old civilization, seamlessly blending history with the vibrancy of modernity.

201: An Exploration of China’s Cultures, Histories and Landscapes

For the intrepid traveler yearning to transcend the familiar. Venture off the beaten path and experience the diverse culture of China firsthand, perhaps trekking through grandiose mountains and rivers or navigating the bustling markets. Direct observation and meaningful human connections reveal the soul of China, fostering a genuine understanding.
 
Subject Exploration (Breakout Specialization Module)
This module offers a diverse range of subjects that invite you to delve deeper into the essence of China. Explore the footsteps of traders along ancient trails, savor the flavors of locally prepared pickles in a bustling courtyard, or wander through Dunhuang’s vibrant streets, where the history and culture of the Silk Road come alive. Each journey reflects your personal interests, from hiking to history, allowing you to uncover the unique stories and experiences that have shaped China’s fascinating identity.

 

301: China Hand Apprenticeship

This is where passions take center stage. Whether captivated by culinary secrets, ancient dynasties, or natural wonders, this tier unveils a personalized China, curated for similar interests. Through intimate encounters with local communities and expert guides, gain powerful insights into the nation’s cultural heritage, its breathtaking landscapes, and the soul of its people. This is where the bespoke China journey truly begins.
 
Expert-Led Affinity Study (Breakout Specialization Module)
Centered on a detailed exploration of China, this specialized module delves into the seldom- discussed experiences under the guidance of seasoned experts. From food lovers to history buffs, traverse diverse landscapes, unearth profound insights, and bond with like-minded fellow travelers who share your interests.

Certificate & Awards

The curriculum is focused and flexible, allowing you to have a basic knowledge of China while having electives to suit your own interests. By completing tours across tiers and reaching travel milestones that signify personal growth and cultural understanding, you’ll achieve exciting accomplishments marked by the awarding of certificates:

 
image-travel

Discoverer

Completion of 101 journeys that cover

image-travel

4 geographical regions

image-travel

4 provinces

image-travel

10 days in China

image-travel

Explorer

Completion of 201 journeys that cover

image-travel

5 geographical regions

image-travel

6 provinces

image-travel

15 days in China

image-travel

1 Subject Specialization

image-travel

Adventurer

Completion of 301 journeys that cover

image-travel

6 geographical regions

image-travel

10 provinces

image-travel

20 days in China

image-travel

1 Expert-Led Affinity Study

image-travel

Bachelor of China Travel Diploma

Completion of Discoverer, Explorer, and Adventurer

These certificates are more than just documents; they validate the knowledge and skills you’ve gained, acknowledging your dedication and mastery of Chinese culture, history, and customs.

Embrace the adventure, embark on the journey, and enjoy the many sides of China few have the chance to see!

baby panda and parent

* Regions and provinces are defined based on China’s administrative divisions.

* Our system accumulates all the places you’ve visited across Discoverer, Explorer, and Adventurer levels, advancing your overall progress towards the diploma. 

 

FAQs

Who is this program for?

This program is for anyone and everyone who wants to learn more about China through seeing it themselves.

How long does it take to complete the program?

There is no time limit for this program, so completion time completely depends on you. As we say though, travel isn’t a race to the finish, it’s about the journey you take to get there!

How much does the program cost?

Beyond the costs of your trip, the program is free!

How do I choose my journeys?

Travel is personal, and we want it to stay that way. You tell us where you want to go or what your interests are, and we’ll propose an itinerary that’s tailored specifically to you!

What are the next steps to enroll in the program?

Reach out to a WildChina travel designer to get started planning your first (or next) WildChina journey! Our team will keep track of your progress through the curriculum and update you as you progress through different levels.

What are the 201 and 301 Specializations?

The 201 and 301 journeys both offer specialized modules that allow for exploration of China, enabling immersion into personal interests and passions. Whether it’s a culinary, cultural or historical journey, these experiences facilitate a more meaningful and enriching understanding of China.

201 Subject Exploration offers immersive journeys related to specific subjects or personal interest, such as art, culture, food, religion, hiking and many more. Example journeys of the 201 specialization module include this culinary discovery in Yunnan, or hiking the ancient trails of Jingxi in Beijing.

301 Expert-Led Affinity Study are journeys that provide opportunities to travel across China with hand-picked experts in fields, from gastronomy to archaeology. Upcoming expert-led journeys can be found here

What are the definitions of provinces and cities in the Travel Curriculum?

In the Travel Curriculum, we define geographical regions and provinces based on China’s administrative divisions. Geographic regions refer to seven distinct areas of China that encompass multiple provinces, each characterized by unique cultural and geographical features. Examples are Northern China, Central China, and Southwest China. Provinces refer to provincial-level administrative units including provinces, autonomous regions, and municipalities (which also function as cities). Examples are Shaanxi, Sichuan, Tibet, Xinjiang, Beijing, Shanghai, and Hong Kong.

Will the regions and provinces I visit be reset after completing each level?

No, they will not be reset at any time. Our system operates cumulatively, meaning all your travel experiences and achievements within the Discoverer, Explorer, and Adventurer levels will contribute to your overall progress towards the diploma.

Can my previous travels to China be counted towards the Travel Curriculum?

Sorry, no. Only travel experiences with WildChina are considered valid tours for the Travel Curriculum.

How will I receive the certificate?

You will receive your certificate electronically via email within 14 days of completing the program.