12 day itinerary
China
Itinerary
A 12-day family-friendly itinerary in China sounds like an exciting adventure! China is rich in history, culture, and natural beauty, making it a fantastic destination for families. Here’s a fun and engaging itinerary that balances sightseeing, cultural experiences, and some downtime for relaxation. Let’s dive in!
Day 1: Arrival in Beijing
- Morning: Arrive in Beijing. Check into your family-friendly hotel (look for ones with amenities for kids).
- Afternoon: Take a leisurely stroll in and visit the . Kids will love the vast courtyards and the stories of emperors!
- Evening: Enjoy a traditional Peking Duck dinner. Many restaurants offer a lively atmosphere that kids will enjoy.
Day 2: Great Wall Adventure
- Morning: Head to the . It’s less crowded and has a cable car for easy access. Kids will love the toboggan ride down!
- Afternoon: Have a picnic lunch at the wall, then explore more of the area. There are some great hiking trails for the adventurous family.
- Evening: Return to Beijing and relax at your hotel or explore a local night market for dinner.
Day 3: Beijing Culture
- Morning: Visit the . The park is a great place for kids to run around, and you can watch locals practicing tai chi.
- Afternoon: Explore the (traditional alleyways). Consider a rickshaw tour for a fun way to see the area.
- Evening: Attend a or a . The kids will be amazed!
Day 4: Travel to
- Morning: Take a high-speed train to (about 5-6 hours). It’s a fun experience for the family!
- Afternoon: Check into your hotel and then visit the for lunch and some shopping. Try local snacks like yangrou paomo (bread and mutton soup).
- Evening: Explore the . Rent bikes for a fun family ride around the wall!
Day 5: Terracotta Warriors
- Morning: Visit the . The sheer scale of the site will leave everyone in awe! There’s a museum and plenty of space for kids to explore.
- Afternoon: Return to and visit the . The surrounding park is perfect for a family picnic.
- Evening: Enjoy a for a cultural experience with music and dance.
Day 6: Travel to Chengdu
- Morning: Take a high-speed train to Chengdu (about 3-4 hours).
- Afternoon: Check into your hotel and visit the . Kids will love seeing the adorable pandas!
- Evening: Try some for dinner. It’s a fun, interactive meal for the family.
Day 7: Chengdu Culture
- Morning: Visit the and . The street is filled with shops and snacks that kids will enjoy.
- Afternoon: Take a cooking class to learn how to make dumplings or other local dishes. It’s a great family bonding experience!
- Evening: Relax at your hotel or explore a local park.
Day 8: Travel to Guilin
- Morning: Fly to Guilin (about 1.5 hours).
- Afternoon: Check into your hotel and take a boat ride on the . The scenery is breathtaking, and kids will love being on the water!
- Evening: Stroll along the area. It’s beautifully lit at night.
Day 9: Adventure
- Morning: Take a day trip to . Rent bikes or take a bamboo raft ride on the Yulong River. The karst landscapes are stunning!
- Afternoon: Explore the countryside and visit a local farm. Kids can learn about farming and even try their hand at some activities.
- Evening: Return to Guilin and enjoy a relaxing dinner.
Day 10: Travel to Shanghai
- Morning: Fly to Shanghai (about 2 hours).
- Afternoon: Check into your hotel and visit the for panoramic views of the city. The glass floor is a hit with kids!
- Evening: Explore for shopping and street food. It’s a vibrant area with lots to see.
Day 11: Shanghai Fun
- Morning: Visit ! Spend the day enjoying rides and attractions. It’s a magical experience for the whole family.
- Evening: Stay for the evening parade and fireworks show. It’s a perfect way to end your day at the park!
Day 12: Departure
- Morning: Depending on your flight time, you can visit the for a peaceful stroll and some last-minute shopping.
- Afternoon: Head to the airport for your departure. Reflect on all the amazing memories you’ve made!
Tips for Traveling with Family:
- Always have snacks and water on hand for the kids.
- Consider using a stroller for younger children, especially in places with a lot of walking.
- Engage the kids with stories about the places you visit to keep them interested.
- Take breaks to avoid burnout, especially in busy cities.
I hope this itinerary helps you plan an unforgettable family trip to China! Enjoy every moment of your adventure! 🌏✈️
