10-Day China Adventure: Beijing, Shanghai, Guilin, Chengdu, Xi'an Itinerary

Begin your day with a visit to the Summer Palace (Yiheyuan), a masterpiece of Chinese landscape garden design. Explore the beautiful pavilions, halls, and corridors, and take a boat ride on Kunming Lake.

Enjoy a delightful lunch at King's Joy Vegetarian Restaurant, known for its creative vegetarian dishes. Afterward, visit the Temple of Heaven (Tiantan), an architectural masterpiece and a UNESCO World Heritage site where emperors of the Ming and Qing dynasties performed solemn rituals.

Experience the charm of Beijing's traditional hutongs with a guided tour that includes a visit to the Hutongs of Ancient Beijing+Drum Tower+Local Snacks. Enjoy a dinner of local specialties at Mr. Shi's Dumplings, a popular spot for authentic Chinese dumplings.

Embark on a journey to the Ming Tombs (Ming Shisan Ling), the final resting place of 13 emperors of the Ming Dynasty. Explore the grandeur of the Sacred Way and visit the Changling Tomb.

Enjoy a vegetarian lunch at Green T. House Living, a serene oasis in the heart of Beijing. Afterward, visit the Lama Temple (Yonghegong), one of the largest and most important Tibetan Buddhist monasteries in the world.

Conclude your day with a visit to the Beijing National Stadium, also known as the "Bird's Nest," a marvel of modern architecture. Enjoy a leisurely walk around the stadium and capture some memorable photos.

Immerse yourself in the art of Chinese cuisine with a hands-on cooking class at Black Sesame Kitchen. Learn to prepare traditional dishes and savor the fruits of your labor for lunch.

After lunch, explore the Pearl Market (Hongqiao Market), a paradise for pearl lovers and a great place to shop for souvenirs. Then, enjoy a cup of tea at Lao She Teahouse, a historic teahouse with a rich cultural heritage.

Experience the mesmerizing The Legend of Kung Fu Show, a unique theatrical production that combines kung fu, acrobatics, and dance. After the show, enjoy a dinner at Made in China, known for its contemporary Chinese cuisine.

Begin your day with a visit to the Imperial Garden of the Palace Museum, a tranquil retreat within the Forbidden City. Explore the beautiful landscapes and ancient architecture.

Enjoy a vegetarian lunch at Hatsune Japanese Restaurant & Bar, known for its authentic Japanese cuisine. Afterward, visit the Meridian Gate (Wumen), the southern entrance to the Forbidden City, and the Great Hall of the People, the meeting place of the National People's Congress.

Relax and unwind with a traditional Chinese massage at a local spa. Then, enjoy a leisurely dinner at Capital M Beijing, a contemporary European restaurant with stunning views of Qianmen Street and Tiananmen Square.

Travel to Shanghai and start your day with a stroll along The Bund (Wai Tan), a historic waterfront area with iconic colonial architecture. Enjoy the panoramic views of the city skyline and the Huangpu River.

Afterward, visit Yu Garden (Yuyuan), a classical Chinese garden with beautiful pavilions, rockeries, and ponds. Explore the nearby Nanjing Road (Nanjing Lu), one of the world's busiest shopping streets, and enjoy some retail therapy.

Indulge in a sumptuous dinner at Din Tai Fung, known for its delectable xiaolongbao (soup dumplings). Then, take a relaxing evening cruise on the Huangpu River and admire the illuminated skyline of Shanghai.

Start your day with a visit to the Shanghai Tower, the tallest skyscraper in China and the second-tallest in the world. Enjoy panoramic views of the city from the observation deck.

Afterward, visit the Oriental Pearl TV Tower (Dongfang Mingzhu Guangbo Dianshi Ta), an iconic landmark of Shanghai. Explore the various spheres and enjoy the multimedia exhibitions.

Enjoy a leisurely walk through the French Concession (Xintiandi), a charming district with tree-lined streets, historic buildings, and trendy boutiques. Have dinner at Lost Heaven, a restaurant known for its delicious Yunnan cuisine.

Travel to Guilin and embark on a scenic Li River Cruise to Yangshuo. Sail past the stunning karst peaks, rice paddies, and traditional villages, and enjoy a delicious lunch on board.

After arriving in Yangshuo, explore the bustling West Street (Xi Jie), a vibrant pedestrian street with a wide range of shops, restaurants, and bars. Then, visit the Reed Flute Cave (Ludi Yan), a natural limestone cave with spectacular stalactites and stalagmites.

Return to Guilin and visit the Elephant Trunk Hill (Xiangbishan), a famous landmark resembling an elephant drinking from the Li River. Enjoy a traditional Guilin-style dinner at Siji Minfu Roast Duck Restaurant.

Travel to Chengdu and start your day with a visit to the Chengdu Research Base of Giant Panda Breeding, where you can observe giant pandas in a natural habitat. Learn about panda conservation efforts and enjoy the peaceful surroundings.

Afterward, visit the Wenshu Monastery (Wenshu Yuan), a serene Buddhist temple with beautiful gardens and ancient artifacts. Enjoy a vegetarian lunch at the monastery's tea house.

Explore Jinli Ancient Street (Jinli Jie), a lively pedestrian street with traditional architecture, local snacks, and handicrafts. Have dinner at Haidilao Hot Pot, a popular hot pot restaurant known for its excellent service and quality ingredients.

Travel to Xi'an and start your day with a visit to the Terracotta Army (Bing Ma Yong), one of the most significant archaeological discoveries of the 20th century. Marvel at the thousands of life-sized terracotta warriors and horses.

Afterward, visit the Xi'an City Wall (Chengqiang), one of the best-preserved ancient city walls in China. Rent a bicycle and enjoy a leisurely ride along the ramparts.

Explore the Muslim Quarter (Huimin Jie), a vibrant neighborhood known for its delicious street food and lively atmosphere. Sample local specialties and shop for souvenirs. Have dinner at Baoyuan Jiaozi Wu (Baoyuan Dumpling House), a popular spot for dumplings.