A Week of Family Fun in China

Wednesday, August 16: Beijing

Start your trip in the bustling capital city of Beijing. In the morning, explore the iconic Tiananmen Square, visit the majestic Forbidden City, and marvel at the ancient Temple of Heaven. In the afternoon, take a rickshaw ride through the narrow alleys of the historic Hutong neighborhoods. As the evening approaches, watch a spectacular Kung Fu show at the Red Theatre.

  • Tiananmen Square: Entrance fee is around $0. Estimated time spent: 2 hours.
  • Forbidden City: Entrance fee is around $10. Estimated time spent: 3 hours.
  • Temple of Heaven: Entrance fee is around $6. Estimated time spent: 2 hours.
  • Hutong Rickshaw Ride: Cost is around $20 per person. Estimated time spent: 2 hours.
  • Red Theatre Kung Fu Show: Ticket price starts at $30. Estimated time spent: 2 hours.
Thursday, August 17: Xi'an

On your second day, fly to Xi'an, known for its Terracotta Army. In the morning, visit the world-famous Terracotta Warriors and Horses Museum, a UNESCO World Heritage site. In the afternoon, explore the ancient Xi'an City Wall, where you can rent bicycles and enjoy a leisurely ride. In the evening, savor delicious local street food at the Muslim Quarter.

  • Terracotta Warriors and Horses Museum: Entrance fee is around $25. Estimated time spent: 3 hours.
  • Xian City Wall: Entrance fee is around $10. Estimated time spent: 2 hours.
  • Muslim Quarter: Cost depends on food choices. Estimated time spent: 2 hours.
Friday, August 18: Chengdu

Fly to Chengdu, home to the adorable giant pandas. In the morning, visit the Chengdu Research Base of Giant Panda Breeding to see these cuddly creatures up close. In the afternoon, explore the historic Jinli Ancient Street, filled with traditional architecture, shops, and teahouses. In the evening, enjoy a Sichuan Opera performance.

  • Chengdu Research Base of Giant Panda Breeding: Entrance fee is around $15. Estimated time spent: 3 hours.
  • Jinli Ancient Street: Free to enter. Estimated time spent: 2 hours.
  • Sichuan Opera: Ticket price starts at $20. Estimated time spent: 2 hours.
Saturday, August 19: Guilin

Head to the picturesque city of Guilin. In the morning, take a scenic Li River cruise, surrounded by stunning limestone karsts. In the afternoon, explore the enchanting Reed Flute Cave, known for its colorful stalactite and stalagmite formations. As the evening sets in, stroll along the vibrant Zhengyang Pedestrian Street.

  • Li River Cruise: Cost is around $50 per person. Estimated time spent: 5 hours.
  • Reed Flute Cave: Entrance fee is around $10. Estimated time spent: 2 hours.
  • Zhengyang Pedestrian Street: Free to enter. Estimated time spent: 2 hours.
Sunday, August 20: Shanghai

Fly to the cosmopolitan city of Shanghai. In the morning, visit the iconic Oriental Pearl Tower and enjoy panoramic views of the city. In the afternoon, explore the historic Bund waterfront area and take a leisurely stroll along the Huangpu River. As the evening approaches, immerse yourself in the vibrant atmosphere of Nanjing Road, known for its shopping and entertainment.

  • Oriental Pearl Tower: Entrance fee is around $20. Estimated time spent: 2 hours.
  • The Bund: Free to enter. Estimated time spent: 2 hours.
  • Nanjing Road: Cost depends on shopping preferences. Estimated time spent: 2 hours.
Monday, August 21: Hangzhou

Take a day trip to the beautiful city of Hangzhou. In the morning, visit the renowned West Lake, surrounded by picturesque gardens and temples. Enjoy a boat ride on the lake and admire the scenic views. In the afternoon, explore the historic Hefang Street, known for its traditional shops and delicious local snacks.

  • West Lake: Entrance fee is around $5. Estimated time spent: 4 hours.
  • Hefang Street: Free to enter. Estimated time spent: 2 hours.
Tuesday, August 22: Hong Kong

End your trip in the vibrant city of Hong Kong. In the morning, take a ride on the historic Star Ferry and enjoy stunning views of the city's skyline. In the afternoon, visit the famous Victoria Peak for panoramic vistas. In the evening, explore the bustling streets of Mong Kok and indulge in delicious street food.

  • Star Ferry: Cost is around $0. Estimated time spent: 1 hour.
  • Victoria Peak: Entrance fee is around $10. Estimated time spent: 2 hours.
  • Mong Kok: Cost depends on shopping and food preferences. Estimated time spent: 3 hours.

Hidden Gems and Local Favorites

If you're looking for off the beaten path attractions and places loved by locals, make sure to visit the charming water town of Wuzhen near Shanghai. Experience traditional Chinese architecture, serene canals, and explore the ancient streets. Another hidden gem is the Avatar Hallelujah Mountain in Zhangjiajie, which inspired the fictional floating mountains in the movie Avatar. Take a thrilling cable car ride and marvel at the stunning natural beauty.

0