Embark on a 3-week journey across China, exploring its ancient history, breathtaking landscapes, vibrant cities, and rich cultural heritage. This detailed itinerary takes you from the Great Wall in Beijing to the stunning karst peaks in Guilin, the futuristic skyline of Shanghai, and the tranquil beauty of Lijiang. Whether you’re a history buff, nature lover, or urban explorer, this trip offers a perfect balance of adventure, culture, and relaxation.
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China is a country that blends ancient traditions with modern marvels, offering travelers an unrivaled experience filled with breathtaking landscapes, cultural treasures, and urban wonders. If you’ve got three weeks to spare, this itinerary is designed to help you explore the country’s best sights at a relaxed pace, while ensuring you don’t miss any of the must-visit spots. From the imperial grandeur of Beijing to the serene waters of the Yangshuo, this journey is one that will leave you with unforgettable memories.
Days 1–4: Beijing – A Glimpse of Imperial Grandeur
Your adventure begins in Beijing, the heart of China. As the political and cultural center of the country, Beijing offers a fascinating blend of history and modernity. After settling into your hotel, start your first day with a gentle introduction to the city by wandering through the historic Hutongs, the ancient alleyways that have been part of Beijing’s fabric for centuries. Here, you’ll get a sense of traditional life, with local shops, family-run eateries, and courtyards that whisper stories of the past.
Day 2 will be a deep dive into Beijing’s imperial past, starting with a visit to the iconic Forbidden City. Once the palace of emperors, this sprawling complex houses nearly 1,000 buildings and reveals the opulence of China’s Ming and Qing Dynasties. Make sure to also visit the nearby Tiananmen Square, the world’s largest public square, steeped in modern political history.
On Day 3, venture outside the city to explore one of the world’s most famous landmarks: The Great Wall of China. Opt for a hike along the Mutianyu section—less crowded and offering breathtaking views of the surrounding countryside. The climb can be demanding, but the reward of standing on this ancient wonder is unparalleled. End the day by sampling Beijing’s most famous dish—Peking duck—at a traditional restaurant.
Spend Day 4 delving into Beijing’s cultural highlights by visiting the Temple of Heaven, an architectural masterpiece where emperors once prayed for good harvests. Follow this with a leisurely afternoon at the Summer Palace, a serene park that offers a glimpse into imperial leisure life, with its lake, pavilions, and ancient temples.
Days 5–8: Xi’an – Unveiling the Secrets of China’s Ancient Capital
A short bullet train ride will take you to Xi’an, one of the most historically significant cities in China. Known as the starting point of the Silk Road, Xi’an is most famous for the Terracotta Warriors, an archaeological wonder that continues to captivate visitors worldwide. These life-sized clay soldiers, horses, and chariots were buried with China’s first emperor, Qin Shi Huang, to protect him in the afterlife. The sheer scale and craftsmanship of the site will leave you in awe.
On Day 6, spend time exploring the ancient City Wall of Xi’an, which is one of the oldest and best-preserved city walls in China. For a unique experience, rent a bicycle and ride along the top of the wall, enjoying views of the old city below. In the evening, take a stroll through the Muslim Quarter, a vibrant neighborhood known for its street food. Savor local specialties such as roujiamo (Chinese-style hamburgers) and yangrou paomo (a lamb stew served with crumbled flatbread).
Day 7 can be spent visiting the Big Wild Goose Pagoda, an ancient Buddhist temple that has stood for over 1,300 years. Take a walk around the tranquil gardens, and learn about the fascinating journey of Buddhism in China. For a change of pace, make your way to the Tang Paradise, a theme park that recreates life during the Tang Dynasty, with cultural performances, parades, and stunning light shows.
On Day 8, take a day trip to the Hua Shan (Mount Hua), one of China’s five sacred mountains. Famous for its narrow paths and stunning cliffside views, hiking Hua Shan is both a thrilling and spiritual experience. If you’re adventurous, try the Plank Walk in the Sky—a heart-pounding, cliff-hugging walk that offers panoramic views of the surrounding landscape.
Days 9–12: Chengdu – Meet the Pandas and Relax in Tea Houses
From Xi’an, hop on another fast train to Chengdu, the laid-back capital of Sichuan province, famous for its spicy cuisine and pandas. Chengdu’s relaxed pace is a welcome change from the bustling cities you’ve visited so far.
Start your Day 9 by visiting the Chengdu Research Base of Giant Panda Breeding, where you’ll get to see these adorable creatures in their natural habitat. Mornings are the best time to visit, as the pandas are most active then. Afterwards, take a leisurely stroll through People’s Park, where locals gather to practice Tai Chi, play chess, and drink tea at the many open-air tea houses.
On Day 10, delve into Chengdu’s culinary scene by joining a Sichuan cooking class. You’ll learn how to make famous dishes like kung pao chicken and mapo tofu, using the signature Sichuan peppercorns that give the cuisine its distinctive fiery kick. In the afternoon, visit Jinli Ancient Street, a picturesque pedestrian street that captures the charm of traditional Sichuan architecture.
For a more tranquil experience, dedicate Day 11 to visiting the nearby Leshan Giant Buddha, the largest stone Buddha statue in the world, standing 71 meters tall. Carved into a cliffside, the Buddha overlooks the confluence of three rivers and is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. You can either hike up to the statue or take a boat ride for a different perspective.
Spend Day 12 exploring the cultural side of Chengdu by visiting Wuhou Shrine and Du Fu Thatched Cottage, both of which are dedicated to famous historical figures. End the day by relaxing in a tea house, where you can sip on fragrant jasmine tea while observing the laid-back lifestyle of Chengdu’s residents.
Days 13–16: Guilin & Yangshuo – A Journey into China’s Scenic Heart
Next, you’ll head to Guilin, a city renowned for its stunning limestone karst landscapes and tranquil rivers. Day 13 is the perfect day to settle into this new environment and explore Ronghu Lake and Shanhu Lake—two connected lakes that offer scenic boat rides and peaceful strolls along their tree-lined shores.
On Day 14, embark on one of the most picturesque river cruises in the world—the Li River cruise to Yangshuo. As you glide along the jade-green waters, you’ll be surrounded by breathtaking karst peaks, lush greenery, and misty landscapes that seem to belong in an ancient Chinese painting. Upon arrival in Yangshuo, explore the town’s bustling markets and quaint streets. As the sun sets, don’t miss the spectacular Impression Sanjie Liu light show, which takes place against the backdrop of the karst mountains and river.
Day 15 is perfect for cycling through the countryside of Yangshuo. Rent a bike and ride through charming villages, verdant rice paddies, and along the Yulong River, where bamboo rafts slowly drift along the water. For a more immersive experience, stop by a local farm to learn about traditional agriculture and rural life in China. If you’re up for a challenge, consider hiking up Moon Hill, which rewards you with panoramic views of the surrounding landscape.
On Day 16, head back to Guilin and take a trip to the Longji Rice Terraces (Dragon’s Backbone), one of the most impressive examples of agricultural engineering in China. The rice terraces, carved into the mountainside, create stunning patterns that change with the seasons—from lush green in the summer to golden hues in the autumn. Spend the night in a traditional guesthouse and soak in the peaceful ambiance of rural China.
Days 17–19: Lijiang – Ancient Towns and Snow-Capped Peaks
From Guilin, fly to Lijiang, a UNESCO World Heritage site located in the Yunnan province. Lijiang is known for its well-preserved Old Town, with its cobblestone streets, canals, and traditional wooden architecture. On Day 17, spend your time wandering the maze-like alleyways, browsing through artisanal shops, and enjoying local Naxi cuisine in the charming town square.
Day 18 will take you out into the countryside to visit the majestic Jade Dragon Snow Mountain, which dominates the horizon with its snow-capped peaks. Take a cable car ride to one of the mountain’s highest viewing platforms for spectacular panoramic views. Afterwards, visit Baisha Village, known for its ancient murals and traditional Naxi culture.
On Day 19, continue your exploration of Yunnan’s beautiful landscapes by visiting Tiger Leaping Gorge, one of the deepest gorges in the world. The hiking trails here offer incredible views of the rushing Jinsha River and towering cliffs. End the day back in Lijiang’s Old Town, where you can enjoy a traditional Naxi music performance, a cultural experience unique to the region.
Days 20–21: Shanghai – The Grand Finale
Your final stop is Shanghai, the modern metropolis that contrasts sharply with the ancient cities you’ve visited. Arrive on Day 20 and get ready to experience the energy of this bustling city. Start with a stroll along The Bund, Shanghai’s iconic waterfront promenade lined with colonial-era buildings on one side and futuristic skyscrapers on the other. In the evening, take a cruise along the Huangpu River for stunning night views of the illuminated skyline.
On Day 21, immerse yourself in the more traditional side of Shanghai by visiting the Yu Garden, a classic Chinese garden filled with pavilions, ponds, and rock formations. Afterwards, explore the bustling streets of Nanjing Road, a shopper’s paradise that offers everything from luxury boutiques to local crafts. End your journey with a farewell dinner at one of Shanghai’s fine-dining restaurants, offering a fusion of Eastern and Western cuisine.
Conclusion:
This 3-week itinerary through China offers an incredible journey through time, culture, and nature. From the ancient wonders of Beijing and Xi’an to the serene landscapes of Guilin and the modern marvels of Shanghai, each destination offers something unique and unforgettable. Whether you’re hiking the Great Wall, marveling at the Terracotta Warriors, or cruising down the Li River, this adventure will leave you longing for more of China’s endless wonders.