Day 1: Arrival in Beijing
Welcome to China! Arriving in Beijing is a great way to start your trip. Upon landing, get settled at your accommodation for some rest after the long flight.
In the afternoon, explore the city at your pace. Walk around Wangfujing Street, a popular shopping area where you can try some local street food. It’s a good introduction to Chinese flavors.
Be sure to call it an early night to prepare for a big day ahead!
Day 2: The Forbidden City and Tiananmen Square
Today is all about history. Start your day by visiting Tiananmen Square. It’s one of the largest public squares in the world and an important historical site.
After that, head to the Forbidden City, a UNESCO World Heritage site. This massive palace complex was home to Chinese emperors for centuries.
You’ll want to spend a few hours exploring it, so take your time. The architecture is stunning and the history is eye-opening.
In the evening, try Peking duck at a local restaurant. It’s a Beijing specialty you don’t want to miss.
Day 3: The Great Wall of China
No trip to China is complete without visiting the Great Wall. Take a day trip from Beijing to visit a less-touristy section like Mutianyu or Jinshanling. Both offer amazing views and fewer crowds compared to Badaling.
Wear comfortable shoes since you’ll be doing a lot of walking and climbing. Take your time and soak in the panoramic scenery.
After returning to Beijing, enjoy some downtime or wander through the hutongs, Beijing’s narrow alleyways full of local life.
Day 4: Temple of Heaven and Bullet Train to Xi’an
Start your morning by visiting the Temple of Heaven, where you can also observe locals doing tai chi and practicing traditional calligraphy. It’s a peaceful way to connect with Beijing’s cultural life.
In the afternoon, take a high-speed bullet train to Xi’an. The ride is smooth, and you’ll get there in just under five hours.
Once you arrive, relax and take a leisurely walk around the Muslim Quarter, vibrant with food stalls and local vendors.
Day 5: Terracotta Warriors
Your main stop today is the Terracotta Army, an archaeological wonder. These life-sized soldiers were built to guard the tomb of China’s first emperor. It’s one of China’s most famous attractions.
There are thousands of warriors and no two are alike. Take your time exploring the site and learning about their history.
In the evening, check out the Giant Wild Goose Pagoda and enjoy walking around the area when the lights come on. It’s a perfect way to wind down a busy day.
Day 6: City Wall and Flight to Chengdu
Spend your morning exploring Xi’an’s City Wall. It’s one of the best-preserved city walls in all of China. You can walk, rent a bike, or just enjoy the views of the city below.
In the afternoon, take a short flight to Chengdu, the capital of Sichuan Province. Chengdu is famous for pandas and spicy food!
After you arrive, take a relaxing stroll along Jinli Street. It’s a busy pedestrian street full of shops, tea houses, and food stalls. A great introduction to Sichuan culture.
Day 7: Chengdu’s Giant Panda Breeding Research Base
Today is all about pandas. Visit the Chengdu Research Base of Giant Panda Breeding. Here, you can see pandas up close in a natural environment. It’s a must-see, especially if you love wildlife.
In the afternoon, visit a local teahouse and try some Sichuan tea culture. Order jasmine tea and enjoy the slow pace of life in Chengdu.
For dinner, try Sichuan hotpot. It’s known for being spicy, so be prepared! But it’s worth every bite.
Day 8: Relax in Chengdu and Bullet Train to Guilin
Take it easy this morning with a visit to the People’s Park. It’s great for people-watching as locals gather to do morning exercises or play cards. Have some tea at a teahouse inside the park.
After lunch, catch a bullet train to Guilin. This is a long train ride, but it’s one of the most scenic, so sit back and enjoy the views.
Once you arrive in Guilin, get settled at your accommodation. If you’re not too tired, take a short walk along the Li River before turning in for the night.
Day 9: Li River Cruise to Yangshuo
Today is one of the highlights of this trip. Take a cruise down the Li River from Guilin to Yangshuo. The limestone karst hills along the river are famous worldwide for their incredible beauty.
Once you arrive in Yangshuo, take some time to relax in this small, laid-back town. You can rent a bike and ride through the rice fields or spend the afternoon exploring the local caves.
In the evening, head to West Street, which is the heart of Yangshuo’s nightlife. Enjoy the lively atmosphere and try more local dishes.
Day 10: Yangshuo Exploration and Return to Guilin
Spend your last morning in Yangshuo doing something fun. You can take a bamboo raft along the Yulong River or sign up for a cooking class to learn how to make southern Chinese dishes.
After lunch, take the bus back to Guilin, where you’ll spend your last night in China. Use your final evening to visit the Reed Flute Cave or just stroll along the lakes in the city center and enjoy the peaceful surroundings.
It’s a perfect way to end your trip before heading back home.
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