9-Day China Itinerary: Zhangjiajie Glass Bridge & National Park → Nanjing Palaces → Chengde Mountain Resort + Palaces and Great Wall Sections Beyond Beijing
Walk the famous glass bridge spanning the Grand Canyon for dramatic views and photos — one of China's most thrilling modern attractions; check seasonal opening times (typically ~08:00–18:00).
Ride the world-famous Bailong Elevator for instant vertical ascent and stroll down Golden Whip Stream for riverine scenery; elevator may have separate fees and queues.
Visit the serene Ming tomb complex and impressive spirit way; site usually open ~08:30–17:00 and offers good historical context for Nanjing's imperial role.
Stroll the Fuzimiao district and enjoy atmospheric architecture; evening river cruises run typically in the early evening for a scenic view of lit buildings.
Visit the massive medieval gate and city-wall complex — one of the best-preserved defensive systems in China; check local opening hours (often daytime to early evening).
Visit the impressive Puning Temple, one of Chengde's famous outer temples; generally open ~08:00–17:00 and offers excellent architecture and large statue views.
Spend the morning exploring the imperial gardens, temples and palace buildings; the resort typically opens ~07:30–17:30 and is a UNESCO-listed imperial retreat.
Visit the Tibetan-style Putuo Zongcheng Temple and other outer temples that reflect Qing imperial patronage of multi-ethnic religions; many are on the same ticket circuit.
Longer transit day: take high-speed trains connecting via major hubs (Tianjin or Taiyuan) toward Pingyao Ancient City; plan for 4–6 hours depending on connections.
Walk (or cycle) the complete ancient city wall for a strong sense of the fortified urban layout; the wall is usually open ~08:30–20:00 and offers excellent views over the tiled roofs.
Visit China's first draft bank (Rishengchang) and, if time permits, the nearby Qiao Family Compound to see merchant-era architecture and lifestyle; many sites open ~08:30–17:30.
Explore the reconstructed imperial Tang palace grounds — a major archaeological and interpretative site open roughly 08:30–17:30 that tells the story of China’s Tang capital.