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7-Day Itinerary in China - Shoestring Budget

Exploring China on a Shoestring Budget

Wednesday, August 30: Beijing

Start your trip in China's capital, Beijing. In the morning, visit the iconic Tiananmen Square, the largest public square in the world, and wander through the historic Forbidden City. In the afternoon, explore the architectural wonder of the Temple of Heaven. As the evening approaches, take a stroll along the lively Wangfujing Street, known for its shopping and street food.

  • Tiananmen Square: Estimated cost - Free, Time spent - 2-3 hours
  • Forbidden City: Estimated cost - CNY 60 (approx. $9), Time spent - 2-3 hours
  • Temple of Heaven: Estimated cost - CNY 30 (approx. $4.5), Time spent - 2-3 hours
  • Wangfujing Street: Estimated cost - Free, Time spent - 2-3 hours
Thursday, August 31: Xi'an

In the morning, visit the world-famous Terracotta Army, a collection of thousands of life-sized clay soldiers. Afterward, explore the ancient City Wall of Xi'an, offering panoramic views of the city. In the afternoon, immerse yourself in the vibrant Muslim Quarter, known for its bustling markets and delicious street food. End your day by visiting the historic Great Mosque.

  • Terracotta Army: Estimated cost - CNY 150 (approx. $23), Time spent - 3-4 hours
  • City Wall of Xi'an: Estimated cost - CNY 54 (approx. $8), Time spent - 2-3 hours
  • Muslim Quarter: Estimated cost - Free, Time spent - 2-3 hours
  • Great Mosque: Estimated cost - CNY 25 (approx. $4), Time spent - 1-2 hours
Friday, September 1: Shanghai

Start your day by exploring the waterfront area known as The Bund, offering stunning views of Shanghai's skyline. In the afternoon, visit the peaceful Yu Garden and immerse yourself in its classical Chinese architecture. As the evening sets in, wander through the vibrant Nanjing Road, one of the world's busiest shopping streets.

  • The Bund: Estimated cost - Free, Time spent - 2-3 hours
  • Yu Garden: Estimated cost - CNY 40 (approx. $6), Time spent - 2-3 hours
  • Nanjing Road: Estimated cost - Free, Time spent - 2-3 hours
Saturday, September 2: Guilin

Start your day by taking a scenic Li River cruise, surrounded by karst mountains and breathtaking landscapes. After disembarking, visit the picturesque Reed Flute Cave, known for its stunning rock formations and colorful lights. In the evening, explore the vibrant night market, offering a variety of local delicacies.

  • Li River Cruise: Estimated cost - CNY 300 (approx. $46), Time spent - Full day
  • Reed Flute Cave: Estimated cost - CNY 90 (approx. $14), Time spent - 2-3 hours
  • Guilin Night Market: Estimated cost - Varies, Time spent - 2-3 hours
Sunday, September 3: Chengdu

In the morning, visit the famous Chengdu Research Base of Giant Panda Breeding and get up close with adorable pandas. Afterward, explore the historic Wenshu Monastery, known for its tranquil gardens and intricate architecture. In the evening, immerse yourself in the lively atmosphere of Jinli Street, lined with traditional shops and street food stalls.

  • Chengdu Research Base of Giant Panda Breeding: Estimated cost - CNY 58 (approx. $9), Time spent - 3-4 hours
  • Wenshu Monastery: Estimated cost - Free, Time spent - 1-2 hours
  • Jinli Street: Estimated cost - Free, Time spent - 2-3 hours
Monday, September 4: Yangshuo

Start your day by exploring the stunning countryside of Yangshuo. Rent a bicycle and ride through the rice fields, bamboo groves, and traditional villages. In the afternoon, take a bamboo rafting trip along the Yulong River, enjoying the serene surroundings. As the sun sets, don't miss the mesmerizing Impression Sanjie Liu show performed on the Li River.

  • Yangshuo Countryside: Estimated cost - Bicycle rental (CNY 20-30, approx. $3-5), Time spent - Full day
  • Yulong River Bamboo Rafting: Estimated cost - CNY 200 (approx. $31), Time spent - 2-3 hours
  • Impression Sanjie Liu Show: Estimated cost - CNY 198 (approx. $30), Time spent - Evening
Tuesday, September 5: Hong Kong

In the morning, take a ferry to Hong Kong and explore the bustling Central district. Visit the iconic Victoria Peak for panoramic views of the city skyline. In the afternoon, immerse yourself in the vibrant atmosphere of Mong Kok, known for its markets and street food. As the evening sets in, enjoy the spectacular Symphony of Lights show at the Victoria Harbour.

  • Central District: Estimated cost - Free, Time spent - 2-3 hours
  • Victoria Peak: Estimated cost - CNY 50 (approx. $8), Time spent - 2-3 hours
  • Mong Kok: Estimated cost - Free, Time spent - 2-3 hours
  • Symphony of Lights: Estimated cost - Free, Time spent - Evening

Hidden Gems and Local Favorites

For off the beaten path experiences, consider visiting the ancient water town of Zhouzhuang near Shanghai, exploring the scenic Tiger Leaping Gorge near Lijiang, and discovering the unique architecture of the Tulou buildings in Fujian Province. These attractions offer a glimpse into China's rich cultural heritage and are often less crowded.

Check hotel and flight prices on Kayak.

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