FAQ

Frequently Asked Questions

Booking Information

Q: How do I book a tour?

A: To book a tour, we require a copy of your passport (and some special forms if you are traveling to Tibet – which we will send to you) for confirmation. A 50% deposit of the tour cost and the full amount of any local air or train ticket fees (if needed) are collected as a deposit.  balance is payable one week before your trip begins. 

Q: How can I pay for a tour?

A: Payments can be made via bank transfer, credit card, or online payment gateways like WeChat, Alipay, and PayPal.

Q: What's the cancellation policy?

A: We understand that plans can change. For information on our cancellation policy, including any potential refunds, please contact us directly. We aim to be as flexible as possible to accommodate your needs.

In general we follow these rules:

  • More than 30 days prior to the scheduled departure date: No charge.
  • 15 to 30 days prior to the scheduled departure date: 50% of the deposit will be charged.
  • 14 to 0 days prior to the scheduled departure date: 100% of the full payment will be charged.

Q: Do you book the air or train tickets for me?

A: Yes, we assist with booking air or train tickets for a service fee. Please note that some train tickets (for example to Lhasa) can only be booked one month before departure. So please contact us to know for sure what time we need your information.

Tour Information

Q: What types of tours do you offer?

We specialize in group tours ranging from 1 to 20 days, primarily in China, but also in India, Cambodia, Vietnam, Bhutan, and Nepal. Our tours are guided by English-speaking staff, ensuring a fun and informative experience. We include comfortable accommodations (3 to 4-star hotels), some meals as specified in the tour itineraries, and all transportation, including airport pickup and transfer. 

Q: Who can join your tours?

We welcome all kinds of travelers, from families and solo travelers to expats and first-time tourists. Our tours are inclusive, welcoming individuals of any nationality, religious background, and sexual preference. Everyone is welcome! 

Q: What is the group size on the tour?

A: Our tours are small group experiences, typically ranging from 2 to 13 people, with an average of 3-6 participants per group. Like this, the guide can keep an eye on everyone and there is a big enough group for making some new friends!

Q: Can I customize my tour or add special requests?

A: While our tours are pre-planned, we’re happy to accommodate special requests where possible. Whether it’s dietary needs, accommodation preferences, or specific sites you wish to visit, let us know, and we’ll do our best to tailor the tour to your interests. 

Safety and Accommodations

Q: What are common concerns of travelers, and how do you address them?

A: We address concerns regarding safety, food, accommodations, logistics, hike difficulty, and language or cultural barriers with thorough planning, comfortable accommodations, and English-speaking guides. 

Q: Do hotels offer western toilets?

A: Yes, our selected local 4-star hotels feature private western toilets. In some remote areas with tents and guesthouses, public squat toilets may be available.

Q: Does the hotel offer western food/breakfast?

A: Most hotels we arrange for our customers provide a simple western-style breakfast along with other meal options to cater to a variety of tastes. But of course we always advise people to try the amazing Chinese options 🙂

Q: Which type of plugs are used in the hotels?

A: The voltage in China is 220V. Most hotels use five-hole sockets accommodating both two flat parallel pins (type A) and three flat pins (type I). So if you are coming from Europe or the US, please bring a transformer. 

Q: What vehicle do we use for the trip?

A: It depends on the group size. We always consider your seating for comfort and safety, as well as to leave enough place for your luggage.

Health and Insurance

Q: Are your tours suitable for children or seniors?

A: Yes, our tours cater to all age groups. We design our activities to be enjoyable for children and comfortable for seniors. If you have specific needs or concerns, please let us know in advance so we can ensure the best experience for every traveler. 

Q: Is travel insurance included?

A: Yes, travel incident insurance covering incidents and death during the trip is included. It’s compulsory for all our tours. However, we also recommend you obtain your personal travelers’ insurance for comprehensive coverage.

Pre-Trip Preparation

Q: What should I pack for my trip?

Pack according to the climate and season of your destination. We advise against carrying too much luggage for comfort during the trip. Essentials include appropriate clothing, personal medicines, and preparation for altitude sickness or extreme heat, depending on your tour. Familiarizing yourself with the local culture and language is also recommended. 

Q: Do I need a visa to travel to China?

Short answer: It depends on your nationality, trip purpose, and length of stay. As of September 2025, China has broadened visa‑free entry for selected countries (often up to 30 days), while many nationalities still need a visa.

  • Visa‑free examples (up to 30 days, subject to conditions):
    • Malaysia: mutual visa‑exemption for ordinary and official passports (agreement signed April 16, 2025).
    • Gulf countries: citizens of Saudi Arabia, Oman, Kuwait, and Bahrain can visit China visa‑free for up to 30 days from June 9, 2025 to June 8, 2026.
    • Latin America: citizens of Brazil, Argentina, Chile, Peru, and Uruguay eligible for 30‑day visa‑free entry from June 1, 2025 to May 31, 2026.
    • China has also extended its unilateral visa‑free policy in 2025 for designated countries and optimized stay time and visit purposes; check if your passport is on the current list.
    • Multiple entries: eligible visa‑free travelers may enter multiple times during the policy period; carry proof such as invitations, onward/return tickets, and hotel bookings.
  • Many travelers still need a visa:
    • U.S. citizens must obtain a visa prior to arrival.
    • Industry guidance indicates Canadians also require a visa; applications are submitted via China’s Online Visa Application (COVA) and Visa Application Service Centers.
  • Typical passport/entry requirements:
    • Passport validity of at least 6 months and two blank visa pages are commonly required.
  • Transit without visa:
    • China runs visa‑free transit schemes; coverage for the 240‑hour transit program was expanded in 2025 (e.g., nationals of Indonesia became eligible on June 12, 2025). Transit rules require confirmed onward travel to a third country/region and using eligible entry points.
  • 30‑day visa‑free policy notes:
    • Several travel/industry updates summarize China’s launch/expansion of 30‑day visa‑free stays in 2025; always verify your specific eligibility and conditions before booking.

Q: Are there vaccinations needed for traveling to China?

No specific vaccinations are required for China, but we recommend preparing for climate variations and potential altitude sickness in high mountain areas. 

Why Travel With Us

We specialize in unforgettable tours across China, Japan, Vietnam and the rest of Asia. Our local expert guides, tailor-made itineraries, and outstanding support ensure you have the best travel experience across Asia.

Yellowbirdtour our clients

Our tours are led by knowledgeable local guides who provide authentic insights, personalized recommendations, and seamless support throughout your journey in each destination.

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We specialize in creating flexible, custom travel experiences with the perfect balance of must-see sights and hidden gems. Enjoy a more personal adventure with our small group tours.

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Join the many satisfied travelers who have chosen our Asia tours and travel agency across China, Japan, Vietnam and beyond. We are proud of our excellent reviews and our commitment to outstanding service.

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