After checking in and leaving your luggage at the hotel, head toward Tian’anmen Square for an easy orientation stroll of about an hour. Bring your passport: security checks are routine, and access can be restricted around official events. The square is generally open from early morning into the evening, but same-day registration through the official Tian’anmen Square/Beijing government channels may be required. From central hotels, take the subway to Tian’anmen East or Tian’anmen West; allow 30–45 minutes including security and walking. Keep this first stop unhurried—after a travel day, the broad civic scale and surrounding historic gates are the main experience.
Walk or take a short taxi ride north to Jingshan Park—roughly 20–30 minutes on foot from the square, depending on the security-controlled route. The park usually closes around 8 p.m. in summer, with last entry earlier, and admission is inexpensive at about ¥2. Climb to the central pavilion for one of Beijing’s best first-day views: the Forbidden City stretches out in a remarkably tidy red-and-gold grid below you. Aim to arrive 45–60 minutes before sunset; August evenings are humid, so carry water and expect a few steep steps.
From Jingshan Park, continue east toward Wangfujing Snack Street by taxi or subway—allow 15–25 minutes depending on traffic. Treat it more as a lively browse than a guaranteed culinary highlight: some stalls cater heavily to visitors, while the surrounding pedestrian district is pleasant for an evening walk. Try familiar Beijing snacks such as jianbing, tanghulu, or dumplings, but save room for dinner. The pedestrian street is busiest after 6 p.m.; prices vary widely, so check them before ordering and carry small amounts of cash or use a local mobile payment setup.
Finish at Siji Minfu Roast Duck in Wangfujing, a dependable choice for classic Peking duck at approximately ¥150–250 per person. Expect a wait at dinner, especially on Saturday evening—ask the restaurant for a queue number as soon as you arrive, and use the waiting time to explore nearby shops. Order the duck with pancakes, scallions, cucumber, and sweet bean sauce; the skin is best eaten immediately while crisp. From here, return to your hotel by subway or taxi, allowing extra time for Beijing’s traffic and the restaurant queue.
Start early at The Forbidden City—ideally arriving around 8:00–8:30, before the main courtyards become crowded. Tickets are usually around ¥60 in peak season and must be reserved with your passport through the official ticket platform or a reputable booking app; the museum is normally closed on Mondays, but 2026 opening details should be checked before booking. Allow about three hours for the central axis, from the Meridian Gate through the Hall of Supreme Harmony to the imperial gardens. Bring water, sunscreen, and your passport, and expect airport-style security at the entrance. Afterward, walk north for roughly 10 minutes to Jingshan Park. The short climb to the Pavilion of Everlasting Spring gives you one of the finest views over the palace roofs—especially clear in the late morning—and the park costs only a few yuan.
Take a taxi or DiDi from Jingshan Park to the north gate of Temple of Heaven, about 25–35 minutes depending on traffic; the subway is also practical, using Line 5 to Tiantandongmen. Enter around mid-afternoon and spend up to two hours among the Hall of Prayer for Good Harvests, the Imperial Vault of Heaven, and the surrounding cypress-lined park. A combined ticket is generally around ¥30–35, with separate timed access sometimes required for the principal halls. From the east side, continue by subway or taxi toward Qianmen Street for an early-evening stroll. The restored avenue is touristy, but the lanes branching toward Dashilar and the nearby hutongs are more atmospheric; look for old shopfronts, courtyards, and local snack stalls rather than trying to cover every side street.
Finish with dinner at Quanjude Roast Duck in Qianmen, the original and most atmospheric branch. A whole duck is best shared, and the restaurant’s carving service is part of the experience; expect roughly ¥180–300 per person depending on how much you order. Dinner can take 1–1.5 hours, so arrive before the main 6:30–7:30 rush or reserve ahead. The walk back through illuminated Qianmen Street is pleasant afterward, but use DiDi if you are tired—Beijing’s historic center is larger than it appears on the map, and the day involves substantial walking.
Begin at Lama Temple when it opens, ideally around 8:00–8:30, before the incense-filled halls become busy. Allow about 90 minutes for the main courtyards, painted gateways, and enormous sandalwood Buddha; admission is usually around ¥25, and modest clothing is appreciated. From there, walk roughly 10 minutes south to Wudaoying Hutong, where the atmosphere shifts to small design shops, galleries, bakeries, and relaxed cafés. Give yourself an hour or so to browse rather than trying to cover every lane—this is one of the nicest parts of Beijing for an unhurried coffee break.
Continue west on foot or take a short taxi or Didi ride to Nanluoguxiang, about 15–20 minutes depending on traffic. The main lane is lively and touristy, so duck into the side alleys for quieter residential courtyards and small local snack stalls. Have a light lunch here—jianbing, noodles, or dumplings—then spend about 90 minutes exploring. In the mid-afternoon, take a Didi to Beihai Park; allow 15–25 minutes, or use nearby Shichahai-area metro connections if traffic is slow. Entry is generally around ¥10–20, with separate charges for some interior sights. Walk beside the lake toward the White Dagoba, stopping for shaded views across the water; the park is especially pleasant as the heat softens, though August can still be humid, so carry water.
Return toward Yonghegong for dinner at King’s Joy, a polished vegetarian restaurant known for creative plant-based versions of Chinese dishes. Reserve ahead—especially for an evening meal—and expect roughly ¥250–400 per person depending on the menu and drinks. It is close enough to Lama Temple for an easy finish to the day, but allow extra time by taxi during Beijing’s evening traffic. Dress smart-casual, and ask the restaurant to guide you through the tasting-style dishes if the menu feels unfamiliar.
After the morning high-speed train from Beijing West Railway Station, expect to reach Xi’an North Railway Station around early afternoon. The simplest onward option is Metro Line 2 toward the old city—roughly 30–40 minutes to the Bell Tower area—or a taxi if you have luggage. Check in, take a short rest, and aim to reach the South Gate of Xi’an City Wall by about 4:00 p.m. Entry is usually around ¥54; the wall is generally open until about 10:00 p.m., though rental facilities may close earlier. Rent a bicycle at the gate, typically around ¥45–60 for a couple of hours, and ride the broad, remarkably intact fortifications toward the east or west. Late afternoon light is much more comfortable than midday, and the views over the old city are especially good from the watchtowers.
From the wall, take a taxi or walk north toward the Muslim Quarter, allowing roughly 15–25 minutes depending on your exit point. Start around Huimin Street, but wander into quieter lanes such as Dapiyuan and Xiyangshi rather than staying only on the busiest market stretch. Try small portions of roujiamo, biangbiang noodles, grilled skewers, and persimmon cakes; look for busy stalls with high turnover, and carry cash or a mobile payment option. Give yourself about two hours to browse without turning the evening into a full meal, then walk approximately 10–15 minutes toward De Fa Chang Dumpling Restaurant near the Bell Tower for its classic dumpling banquet, usually ¥80–150 per person. It is a comfortable first-night dinner after the train, but arrive before 8:30 p.m. if possible, as later service can be less reliable.
Leave central Xi’an around 7:30–8:00 for Terracotta Warriors and Horses Museum in Lintong. A taxi or ride-hailing car takes roughly 45–60 minutes, depending on traffic; alternatively, take Metro Line 9 to Huaqing Palace and continue by taxi or local shuttle. Arriving near opening time—usually around 8:30—makes a real difference, since the main Pit 1 hall becomes crowded by late morning. Allow about three hours for Pits 1, 2, and 3, plus the bronze chariot exhibition. Tickets are generally around ¥120, and passport details may be required when booking. Bring water and comfortable shoes; the complex involves substantial walking, and summer heat around Lintong can be intense.
From the museum, it is only about 10 minutes by taxi to Huaqing Palace, where landscaped imperial gardens, surviving bathhouse remains, and mountain views provide a slower counterpoint to the archaeological site. Allow roughly 90 minutes, and check the day’s performance schedule if you are interested in the optional historical shows. Admission is commonly around ¥120, though prices and bundled tickets vary. Afterward, return toward the city—expect 45–75 minutes by taxi depending on traffic—and continue to Big Wild Goose Pagoda in Yanta. Visit in the late afternoon when the light softens across the Tang-era pagoda; the surrounding Da Ci’en Temple area and plaza are best enjoyed at an unhurried pace. Entry to the pagoda or temple may be separately ticketed, usually around ¥40–50, while the outdoor plaza is free.
As dusk arrives, walk south through Datang Everbright City, a broad pedestrian avenue lined with illuminated Tang-inspired architecture, fountains, public art, and frequent street performances. It is liveliest after dark and usually remains active until around 22:00; weekend crowds can be heavy, so keep valuables secure and allow extra time between sections. Finish at Xi’an Restaurant in Beilin for regional classics such as biangbiang noodles, roujiamo, lamb paomo, and cold skin noodles. Budget approximately ¥60–120 per person. From Datang Everbright City, a taxi to the restaurant is generally 15–25 minutes, while Metro Line 4 is useful if traffic is slow; reserve or arrive early, as popular dinner hours fill quickly.
After arriving in Chengdu and leaving your bags at the hotel, go straight to Chengdu Research Base of Giant Panda Breeding in northern Chengdu. Aim to arrive by 8:30–9:00; the pandas are most active during the cooler morning feeding period, while the grounds become hotter and busier later. Allow around three hours for the enclosures, nursery area, and shaded paths. Tickets are commonly around ¥55–60, with advance real-name booking recommended; a taxi or ride-hailing car from central Chengdu usually takes 35–50 minutes, depending on traffic. Wear comfortable shoes, carry water, and check the base’s current visitor rules before setting out.
Return toward the center for Wenshu Monastery, a peaceful Buddhist complex with red walls, old trees, incense-filled halls, and small courtyards that feel far removed from the city traffic. Plan about 1½ hours here, then take your time browsing the traditional lanes around the monastery rather than rushing on. Entry is generally free, though donations are welcome; the complex is usually open from morning until late afternoon, with quieter conditions after the lunchtime crowds thin. Settle into Wenshu Monastery Tea House for Chengdu’s unhurried tea-house ritual—order a pot of jasmine, green, or flower tea and watch locals play cards or mahjong. Expect roughly ¥30–80 per person, and allow another 1½ hours; this is deliberately slow, so avoid treating it as a quick coffee stop.
In the evening, take a taxi or Metro Line 4/3 combination toward Chunxi Road, Chengdu’s lively shopping and dining district, roughly 20–30 minutes from Wenshu Monastery depending on traffic. Wander the pedestrian streets and nearby commercial lanes for about two hours, when the neon signs, snack stalls, and crowds make the area especially atmospheric. For dinner, sit down at Long Chao Shou in the Chunxi Road area for Sichuan wontons, red-oil dumplings, noodles, and other comforting local dishes; budget around ¥40–80 per person. The flavors can be spicy, so ask for less chili if needed, and keep the rest of the evening flexible—Chengdu is best experienced without hurrying from one stop to the next.
Begin at People’s Park around 8:30–9:00, when Chengdu’s daily rhythm is already in full swing but the heat is still manageable. Spend about 90 minutes wandering beside the lake and joining the locals’ slower rituals—tea, mahjong, dancing, and animated conversation. The famous Heming Teahouse is the classic place for a cup of jasmine tea; expect roughly ¥20–40, with extra charges for snacks or traditional ear cleaning. From the park, Kuixinglou Street is a pleasant 10–15-minute walk, or a very short taxi ride. Give yourself about 90 minutes here for small portions of dan dan noodles, sweet-water noodles, rabbit, or skewers; budget approximately ¥40–80 per person and order gradually rather than committing to one large meal.
Take a taxi or ride-hailing car from Kuixinglou Street to Chengdu Museum at Tianfu Square, usually 10–20 minutes depending on traffic. The museum is generally open Tuesday–Sunday, approximately 9:00–17:00, with last entry around 16:30; admission is usually free with passport-based registration, though reserve ahead through the official mini-program if possible. Allow two hours for the archaeological galleries, Han-era finds, and exhibits on local folk culture. The museum is indoors and air-conditioned, making this the best part of the day to escape Chengdu’s late-summer humidity. Check whether temporary exhibitions require a separate reservation.
Around 17:00, take a taxi toward Anshun Bridge—allow 20–30 minutes from Tianfu Square—and arrive as the light softens. Walk along the Jinjiang riverbank for photographs rather than lingering only on the bridge itself; the illuminated restaurant-lined structure is especially attractive after sunset. Continue by taxi to Yulin Old Town, roughly 20 minutes away, for a relaxed dinner among neighborhood restaurants and bars. This is a good place to try Sichuan dishes such as mapo tofu, fish-fragrant eggplant, or dry-fried green beans, but ask for “少辣” if you want flavor without the full chilli hit. Finish at Shufeng Yayun in the Qingyang area for a traditional Sichuan Opera performance, usually lasting about 90 minutes and commonly starting around 20:00; tickets are approximately ¥180–320 and should be booked in advance. Arrive 20–30 minutes early, as the venue’s tea-house seating and pre-show atmosphere are part of the experience.
After arriving in Shanghai and dropping your bags at the hotel, head to The Bund for the city’s essential first look. Aim for roughly 4:30–5:00 PM, when the light softens and the Pudong skyline begins to glow. Walk the riverside promenade from Waibaidu Bridge south toward the former customs buildings; allow about 90 minutes, pausing to admire the grand stone façades on the landward side and the constantly changing river traffic. Metro Line 2 or Line 10 to East Nanjing Road is usually the easiest approach, followed by a 10-minute walk. The promenade is free, but expect security checks and heavy crowds around sunset—keep valuables secure and avoid accepting unsolicited “tea house” invitations.
From the southern end of The Bund, walk inland along Nanjing East Road into Nanjing Road Pedestrian Street. The transition is immediate: historic department stores, enormous illuminated signs, street photographers, and plenty of people-watching. Spend about 90 minutes wandering west as far as People’s Square, stopping for a drink or a small snack rather than committing to a full meal yet. The street is lively well into the evening, though some shops close around 9:30–10:00 PM. It is touristy, but this is one of those places where the spectacle is part of the experience; if the main boulevard feels too crowded, slip into the side lanes around Fuzhou Road for a calmer look at old Shanghai.
For dinner, take Metro Line 2 from People’s Square to Lujiazui and eat at Din Tai Fung in Shanghai IFC Mall, typically open until around 9:00–10:00 PM. Budget approximately ¥100–180 per person, and order the classic xiaolongbao alongside seasonal greens and one Jiangnan-style noodle or rice dish; queues are common, so use the restaurant’s digital waitlist if available. After dinner, walk back toward the river for the Huangpu River evening cruise. Boats generally depart from the Shiliupu Wharf area near the Bund, so allow 20–30 minutes by taxi or metro depending on the exact pier and check the final sailing time when booking—usually around 7:00–9:00 PM, with tickets commonly ¥120–200. The cruise lasts about 1.5 hours and is worth doing after dark, when the Bund’s colonial façades and Pudong towers are fully illuminated. Bring a light layer: the river breeze can feel surprisingly cool even in early September.
Start at Yu Garden around 8:30–9:00 AM, before the courtyards fill with tour groups. Allow about 90 minutes for the zigzag bridges, dragon walls, rockeries, and painted halls; admission is typically around ¥40 in the busier season, though timed tickets and passport details may be required. From there, walk into Shanghai Old City, following the lanes around the former walled town rather than lingering only around the souvenir-heavy bazaar. Allow another 90 minutes to notice the remaining shikumen-style homes, neighborhood markets, and small shrines. The two areas are close enough to connect on foot; wear comfortable shoes, and use Metro Line 10 or 14 to reach Yuyuan Garden if your hotel is elsewhere.
For lunch, try 老大昌汤包馆 (Lao Da Chang Tang Bao Guan) near the Old City for soup dumplings and simple local noodles, usually ¥40–80 per person. Then take Metro Line 8 from Laoximen to People’s Square for Shanghai Museum. Reserve a free timed entry in advance through the museum’s official channels, bringing the same passport used for the booking; allow around 2½ hours for its bronzes, ceramics, calligraphy, paintings, and jade. The museum is generally closed on Mondays and can have last-entry restrictions, so check the September schedule before setting out. Afterward, take a taxi or Metro Line 1 toward South Huangpi Road, then walk into Tianzifang for a slower late-afternoon browse through its narrow former-residential lanes, independent studios, tea shops, and cafés. It is touristy, but the side alleys are still pleasant once the main lanes become crowded.
Continue by taxi to Jing’an Temple, roughly 15–25 minutes depending on traffic, and arrive around 5:30–6:00 PM. The gold-roofed temple is especially atmospheric as the surrounding towers begin to light up; allow about an hour, and dress respectfully with shoulders and knees covered. Admission is commonly around ¥50, with final entry usually before evening closing, so verify the day’s hours at the gate. Finish at Jesse Restaurant in the Former French Concession, booking ahead because the small dining room fills quickly. Order a few shared classics such as braised pork, crab-shell yellow pastries, smoked fish, and seasonal greens; expect approximately ¥150–300 per person, depending on dishes and drinks. From Jing’an Temple, a taxi is easiest, while Metro Line 2 or 13 can get you toward the restaurant area before a short walk.