Itinerary

A 25-day adventure in China sounds like a dream! With its rich history, stunning landscapes, and vibrant culture, there’s so much to explore. Here’s a fun and engaging itinerary that will take you through some of the most iconic and off-the-beaten-path destinations in China. Let’s dive in!

## Day 1-3: Beijing

## Day 1: Arrival in Beijing

• Arrive at Beijing Capital International Airport.
• Check into your hotel and freshen up.
• Spend the evening at Wangfujing Street, sampling street food and shopping.

## Day 2: The Great Wall & Ming Tombs

• Early morning trip to the Great Wall at Mutianyu. Hike and take in the breathtaking views.
• Afternoon visit to the Ming Tombs.
• Dinner at a local restaurant, trying Peking Duck!

## Day 3: Forbidden City & Tiananmen Square

• Explore Tiananmen Square and the Forbidden City.
• Afternoon stroll through Jingshan Park for panoramic views of the city.
• Evening at the Summer Palace, enjoying the sunset by Kunming Lake.

## Day 4-5: Xi'an

## Day 4: Travel to Xi'an

• Take a high-speed train to Xi'an (about 5 hours).
• Check into your hotel and relax.
• Evening visit to the Muslim Quarter for dinner and shopping.

## Day 5: Terracotta Army

• Full-day tour to the Terracotta Army.
• Visit the Huaqing Hot Springs in the afternoon.
• Return to Xi'an and enjoy a Tang Dynasty Show in the evening.

## Day 6-7: Chengdu

## Day 6: Travel to Chengdu

• Morning train to Chengdu (about 3 hours).
• Visit the Wuhou Shrine and Jinli Ancient Street.
• Try some spicy Sichuan hotpot for dinner!

## Day 7: Giant Pandas

• Spend the morning at the Chengdu Research Base of Giant Panda Breeding.
• Afternoon tea at a traditional teahouse in People’s Park.
• Explore the local markets in the evening.

## Day 8-10: Guilin & Yangshuo

## Day 8: Travel to Guilin

• Fly or take a train to Guilin.
• Visit Elephant Trunk Hill and the Reed Flute Cave.
• Evening stroll along the Two Rivers and Four Lakes.

## Day 9: Li River Cruise

• Take a scenic Li River cruise to Yangshuo.
• Explore Yangshuo’s West Street and enjoy the local vibe.
• Optional: Rent a bike and explore the countryside.

## Day 10: Yangshuo Adventures

• Go rock climbing or take a bamboo raft ride on the Yulong River.
• Evening cooking class to learn how to make local dishes.

## Day 11-13: Zhangjiajie

## Day 11: Travel to Zhangjiajie

• Travel to Zhangjiajie (may require a flight or train).
• Check into your hotel and relax.
• Evening walk in the town.

## Day 12: Zhangjiajie National Forest Park

• Full day exploring Zhangjiajie National Forest Park.
• Take the cable car up to Tianmen Mountain and walk the glass skywalk.
• Return to your hotel for a well-deserved rest.

## Day 13: Avatar Mountains

• Visit the Avatar Hallelujah Mountain and explore more of the park.
• Evening at leisure, perhaps enjoy a local meal.

## Day 14-16: Shanghai

## Day 14: Travel to Shanghai

• Fly or take a train to Shanghai.
• Visit the Bund for stunning views of the skyline.
• Dinner at a rooftop restaurant.

## Day 15: Shanghai Highlights

• Morning visit to the Yu Garden and City God Temple.
• Afternoon at the Shanghai Museum.
• Evening stroll through Nanjing Road for shopping.

## Day 16: Day Trip to Suzhou

• Take a day trip to Suzhou to see the classical gardens and silk factories.
• Return to Shanghai for dinner.

## Day 17-19: Hangzhou

## Day 17: Travel to Hangzhou

• Take a train to Hangzhou (about 1 hour).
• Visit West Lake and take a boat ride.
• Evening tea at a local tea house.

## Day 18: Tea Plantations & Temples

• Visit the Longjing Tea Plantations.
• Explore Lingyin Temple and the surrounding area.
• Evening at leisure.

## Day 19: Cultural Exploration

• Visit the National Silk Museum.
• Explore the local markets and try Hangzhou’s famous dishes.

## Day 20-22: Lijiang

## Day 20: Travel to Lijiang

• Fly to Lijiang.
• Explore the Old Town of Lijiang, a UNESCO World Heritage site.
• Dinner at a local Naxi restaurant.

## Day 21: Jade Dragon Snow Mountain

• Day trip to Jade Dragon Snow Mountain.

• Visit the Blue Moon Valley and take a cable car ride.
• Return to Lijiang for the evening.

## Day 22: Shuhe Ancient Town

• Visit Shuhe Ancient Town and explore its charming streets.
• Afternoon at leisure, perhaps enjoy a local cooking class.

## Day 23-25: Kunming

## Day 23: Travel to Kunming

• Fly to Kunming.
• Visit the Stone Forest, a UNESCO World Heritage site.
• Evening at leisure.

## Day 24: Kunming Exploration

• Visit the Green Lake Park and Yuantong Temple.
• Explore the local markets for souvenirs.
• Enjoy a farewell dinner at a local restaurant.

## Day 25: Departure

• Depending on your flight time, enjoy a leisurely breakfast.
• Last-minute shopping or sightseeing before heading to the airport.

Tips for Your Trip:

• Transportation: High-speed trains are a great way to travel between cities. Book tickets in advance!
• Language: Learning a few basic Mandarin phrases can be very helpful.
• Cash & Apps: While credit cards are accepted in many places, having cash is handy. Consider downloading WeChat or Alipay for easier transactions.

This itinerary offers a mix of cultural experiences, natural wonders, and culinary delights. Enjoy your journey through the enchanting landscapes and vibrant cities of China! Safe travels! 🌏✈️