Grab a fresh jianbing (savory Chinese crepe) and warm soy milk from a reputable street stall near your hotel — fast, local and available from about 6:30–10:30. Good way to energize before sightseeing.
Iconic central plaza with national monuments; arrive early for fewer crowds and to see the square open widely in the morning (typically open 06:00–22:00). Photos and a quick orientation to Beijing.
Explore imperial halls and courtyards of the Ming–Qing emperors; book timed tickets in advance (typically open 08:30–17:00, historically closed some Mondays — check current schedule).
Try a sit-down meal or sample Beijing snacks in Wangfujing or Qianmen: dumplings, noodles and candied fruit. Many stalls and mid-range restaurants operate 10:00–21:30.
Peaceful imperial sacrificial complex and park where locals practise tai chi; open roughly 08:00–17:00. Good for late-afternoon stroll and photography.
Feast on famous Peking duck at Quanjude or Da Dong (reservations recommended; restaurants typically open 11:00–21:30). A must-try Beijing specialty to end your first day.
Drive/coach 1–1.5h from city to Mutianyu, climb or take cable car to walk restored sections with spectacular views; open typically 07:30–17:30 — plan 3–4 hours including travel.
Return to the city and visit the imperial lake gardens for a late-afternoon stroll; generally open 06:30–18:00. Great for lakeside views and a relaxing contrast to the Wall.
Head to Houhai/Back Lakes for bars and restaurants; try local small-plate outlets or a modern Beijing bistro. Busy in evening, many places open until late.
World-famous terracotta figures of the first emperor; plan 2–3 hours (site open roughly 08:30–17:30). Pre-book entry and transport as it's 40–60 minutes from city center.
Enjoy Xi'an's dumpling banquet at De Fa Chang (classic experience) or wander the Muslim Quarter for varied street eats and atmosphere (restaurants typically open until late).
Rent a bike to pedal the well-preserved city wall for panoramic views of old and new Xi'an (open about 08:00–18:00). A relaxing, scenic 1–2 hour activity.
Visit the Shaanxi History Museum (check weekday closures/hours) for regional artefacts, then stroll the Big Wild Goose Pagoda complex and gardens (open roughly 08:00–17:30).
Take an evening flight (~1.5h) or overnight high-speed train to Chengdu; flights are faster and let you maximize next-day activities. Book 2–3 hours before departure for airport transfer.
Enjoy a relaxed lunch of Sichuan classics at a recommended local restaurant — expect bold, spicy flavours (many restaurants open 11:00–14:00 and 17:00–21:30).
Drive approx 1.5–2 hours to Leshan to see the 71m carved Buddha by the river; site usually open 08:30–17:30. Boat option gives the best frontal view of the statue.
Drive or transfer to Yangshuo (about 1–1.5 hours). Optionally take a Li River cruise from Guilin to Yangshuo (3–4 hours) — cruises often start morning and run through afternoon.
Try local specialty 'beer fish' — a flavorful river fish dish cooked with local seasonings; many popular restaurants around West Street open through evening.
Rent a bicycle to explore karst hills and rice paddies, then take a relaxing bamboo raft on the Yulong River — rafting runs roughly 1–2 hours and bike routes are flexible (morning is best).
Return to Guilin airport (about 1–1.5h transfer) and take an evening flight to Shanghai (flight ~2hrs). Book flight to arrive with enough time for hotel check-in.
Start with famous Shanghai soup dumplings (xiaolongbao) at Jia Jia Tang Bao or Nanxiang — typically open from mid-morning; arrive early to avoid queues.
Visit an observation deck (Shanghai Tower or Oriental Pearl) for sweeping city views; check opening hours (often 09:00–20:00) and book tickets to skip lines.
Choose a riverside restaurant on the Bund for views and upscale Shanghai cuisine or a bustling local dumpling spot for a cozier option. Reservations recommended for Bund venues.
Visit Zhujiajiao or Tongli for canals, stone bridges and traditional lanes — towns typically open 08:30–17:00. Great last morning for photos and relaxed strolling.
Collect luggage and head to the airport or train station for your onward flight; allow 2–3 hours for international departures depending on time and traffic.
If your schedule allows, have a final meal in Shanghai (dim sum, seafood or local specialties) otherwise choose a quality airport restaurant before departure.