Itinerary for 18 day trip to China

Day 1: Arrival in Beijing

Upon arrival in Beijing, you can start your adventure by visiting the iconic , the largest public square in the world. From there, head to the , a magnificent palace complex that was once the imperial residence of Chinese emperors. In the evening, take a stroll through the vibrant and try some delicious street food.

Day 2:

Today, embark on a journey to one of the most famous landmarks in the world - the . Spend the day exploring different sections of the wall, such as Mutianyu or Badaling, and marvel at the breathtaking views. Don't forget to take plenty of photos!

Day 3: and

Start your day by visiting the , a UNESCO World Heritage site known for its stunning architecture and beautiful gardens. In the afternoon, take a rickshaw ride through the traditional , narrow alleyways that offer a glimpse into Beijing's rich history and culture. You can also visit a local family and experience their way of life.

Day 4: and Peking Duck

Visit the , a vast imperial garden with stunning pavilions, temples, and a serene lake. Take a boat ride on Kunming Lake and enjoy the peaceful surroundings. In the evening, indulge in a delicious , a famous Beijing specialty.

Day 5: and Terracotta Warriors

Take a morning flight to , an ancient capital of China. Upon arrival, visit the , an incredible archaeological site that showcases the army of Emperor Qin Shi Huang. Explore the city's and try some local street food for dinner.

Day 6: City Tour

Explore the ancient city walls of , which offer panoramic views of the city. Visit the , a Buddhist pagoda that dates back to the Tang Dynasty. In the evening, watch the mesmerizing , a performance that brings ancient Chinese culture to life.

Day 7: and Giant Pandas

Fly to , the hometown of the adorable giant pandas. Visit the and spend the day observing these gentle creatures in their natural habitat. You can also learn about conservation efforts and even volunteer to help with panda care.

Day 8:

Take a day trip to Leshan to see the impressive , the largest stone Buddha statue in the world. Enjoy a boat ride along the river to get a closer look at this magnificent sculpture. Return to in the evening and savor some delicious Sichuan cuisine.

Day 9:

Embark on a Yangtze River cruise and enjoy the stunning scenery as you sail through the Three Gorges region. Relax on board, take part in cultural activities, and enjoy the delicious cuisine served on the ship.

Day 10-12:

Continue your cruise along the Yangtze River, stopping at various ports of call to explore the surrounding areas. Visit the , take a shore excursion to the , and immerse yourself in the natural beauty of the region.

Day 13:

Disembark from the cruise and fly to , a vibrant metropolis known for its modern skyline and rich history. Explore the Bund, a waterfront promenade lined with colonial-era buildings, and take a cruise along the Huangpu River to admire the city's stunning architecture.

Day 14: and

Visit the beautiful , a classical Chinese garden with traditional pavilions, rockeries, and ponds. Explore the nearby Old Town and indulge in some local street food. In the afternoon, wander through the charming streets of the , known for its tree-lined avenues, boutiques, and cafes.

Day 15: Day Trip

Take a day trip to , often referred to as the "Venice of the East." Explore the classical gardens, such as the and the . Visit the Museum to learn about the city's rich cultural heritage.

Day 16: and

Travel to , famous for its picturesque . Take a boat ride on the lake and enjoy the serene surroundings. Visit the , one of the largest and most important Buddhist temples in China. Don't miss the chance to try the local specialty, Longjing tea.

Day 17: Beijing Opera and Night Market

Fly back to Beijing and spend your last evening in China enjoying a traditional . Afterward, head to the bustling night markets, such as the Donghuamen Night Market, where you can sample a variety of local snacks and street food.