15 day itinerary for China

Itinerary

A 15-day adventure in China sounds like an incredible experience, especially for a trio of friends in their 25s. Let’s blend leisure with cultural discovery, ensuring you get a taste of the vibrant cities, stunning landscapes, and rich history. Here’s a fun and engaging itinerary for your trip:

## Day 1: Arrival in Beijing

• Morning: Arrive in Beijing. Check into your hotel and freshen up.
• Afternoon: Stroll through the historic Hutongs (narrow alleys) and grab lunch at a local eatery. Try some Peking Duck!
• Evening: Visit Wangfujing Street for shopping and street food. Don’t miss the fried scorpions if you’re feeling adventurous!

## Day 2: Explore Beijing

• Morning: Head to the Forbidden City. Spend a few hours exploring the vast palace complex.
• Afternoon: Visit Tiananmen Square and then take a leisurely walk in Jingshan Park for a panoramic view of the city.
• Evening: Enjoy a traditional Chinese tea ceremony and dinner at a local restaurant.

## Day 3: The Great Wall

• All ## Day: Take a day trip to the Great Wall of China. Opt for the Mutianyu section for fewer crowds and stunning views. Bring a picnic lunch to enjoy on the wall!
• Evening: Return to Beijing and relax at your hotel or explore a local bar for some nightlife.

## Day 4: Beijing to Xi’an

• Morning: Visit the Temple of Heaven and enjoy the park where locals practice tai chi.
• Afternoon: Take a high-speed train to Xi’an (about 5 hours). Check into your hotel.
• Evening: Explore the Muslim Quarter for dinner and try some local snacks like biangbiang noodles.

## Day 5: Terracotta Warriors

• Morning: Visit the Terracotta Army. Spend a few hours marveling at this UNESCO World Heritage site.
• Afternoon: Return to Xi’an and visit the Ancient City Wall. Rent bikes and ride along the top for great views.
• Evening: Enjoy a Tang Dynasty Show with dinner for a cultural experience.

## Day 6: Xi’an to Chengdu

• Morning: Visit the Big Wild Goose Pagoda and explore the surrounding gardens.
• Afternoon: Take a high-speed train to Chengdu (about 3 hours). Check into your hotel.
• Evening: Head to Jinli Ancient Street for dinner and shopping. Try some spicy Sichuan hot pot!

## Day 7: Panda Sanctuary

• Morning: Visit the Chengdu Research Base of Giant Panda Breeding. Spend the morning watching these adorable creatures.
• Afternoon: Explore the Wuhou Shrine and Jinsha Site Museum for a taste of local history.
• Evening: Relax at a local teahouse and enjoy some traditional Sichuan opera.

## Day 8: Chengdu to Guilin

• Morning: Take a flight to Guilin. Check into your hotel.
• Afternoon: Visit Reed Flute Cave and enjoy the stunning limestone formations.
• Evening: Stroll along the Two Rivers and Four Lakes area and enjoy a riverside dinner.

## Day 9: Li River Cruise

• All ## Day: Take a Li River cruise to Yangshuo. Enjoy the breathtaking karst landscapes. Have lunch on the boat.
• Evening: Explore Yangshuo’s West Street, filled with shops and restaurants. Try some local beer fish!

## Day 10: Yangshuo Adventures

• Morning: Rent bikes or take a bamboo raft ride on the Yulong River. Enjoy the serene countryside.
• Afternoon: Take a cooking class to learn how to make traditional Chinese dishes.
• Evening: Relax at a bar with live music or enjoy a quiet night by the river.

## Day 11: Yangshuo to Shanghai

• Morning: Head back to Guilin and take a flight to Shanghai. Check into your hotel.
• Afternoon: Visit the Shanghai Museum and explore People’s Square.
• Evening: Take a stroll along the Bund and enjoy the stunning skyline views. Dinner at a rooftop restaurant.

## Day 12: Explore Shanghai

• Morning: Visit Yu Garden and the nearby Yuyuan Bazaar for some shopping.
• Afternoon: Explore the French Concession area, known for its charming streets and cafes.
• Evening: Experience the Shanghai Acrobatic Show for a thrilling night out.

## Day 13: Day Trip to Suzhou

• All ## Day: Take a day trip to Suzhou (about 30 minutes by train). Visit the Humble Administrator's Garden and the Silk Museum.
• Evening: Return to Shanghai and enjoy a relaxing dinner.

## Day 14: Shanghai to Hangzhou

• Morning: Take a train to Hangzhou (about 1 hour). Check into your hotel.
• Afternoon: Visit West Lake. Rent a bike or take a boat ride to explore the scenic area.
• Evening: Enjoy a traditional Longjing tea ceremony and dinner at a lakeside restaurant.

## Day 15: Departure

• Morning: Visit the Lingyin Temple and explore the surrounding area.
• Afternoon: Head back to Shanghai for your departure flight. If time allows, do some last-minute shopping or sightseeing.

Tips:

• Make sure to download a translation app; it can be super helpful!
• Try to learn a few basic Mandarin phrases; locals appreciate the effort.
• Keep your camera ready; there will be countless photo opportunities!

This itinerary balances cultural exploration with leisure, ensuring you and your friends have a memorable adventure in China. Enjoy your trip! 🌏✈️