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Exploring China with the Family

Monday September 4: Beijing

Start your trip in the capital city of Beijing. In the morning, visit the iconic Tiananmen Square and explore the history and culture of China at the nearby National Museum of China. Afterward, head to the majestic Forbidden City, a UNESCO World Heritage site, and marvel at its grand architecture and beautiful gardens. In the afternoon, take a scenic rickshaw ride through the narrow alleyways of the historic Hutongs and get a glimpse of traditional Beijing life. End the day by watching the mesmerizing Kung Fu show at the Red Theatre.

  • Tiananmen Square: Estimated Cost: $0, Time Spent: 2 hours
  • National Museum of China: Estimated Cost: $0, Time Spent: 2 hours
  • Forbidden City: Estimated Cost: $10, Time Spent: 3 hours
  • Hutong Rickshaw Ride: Estimated Cost: $15, Time Spent: 1 hour
  • Kung Fu Show at Red Theatre: Estimated Cost: $30, Time Spent: 2 hours
Tuesday September 5: Xi'an

Travel to Xi'an, the ancient capital of China. Start your morning by visiting the famous Terracotta Army, a collection of thousands of life-size clay soldiers. Explore the history and significance of this archaeological wonder. In the afternoon, take a bike ride along the ancient city walls of Xi'an, offering panoramic views of the city. Finish the day by enjoying a dumpling banquet and experiencing a traditional Tang Dynasty music and dance performance.

  • Terracotta Army: Estimated Cost: $25, Time Spent: 3 hours
  • City Wall Bike Ride: Estimated Cost: $10, Time Spent: 2 hours
  • Dumpling Banquet: Estimated Cost: $20, Time Spent: 1 hour
  • Tang Dynasty Show: Estimated Cost: $35, Time Spent: 2 hours
Wednesday September 6: Shanghai

Arrive in the modern metropolis of Shanghai. Start your morning with a visit to the famous Shanghai Museum, known for its vast collection of ancient Chinese art. Explore the beautiful Yu Garden and its classical Chinese architecture. In the afternoon, take a stroll along the bustling pedestrian street of Nanjing Road and indulge in shopping and street food. End the day with a breathtaking view of the city skyline from the observation deck of the Shanghai World Financial Center.

  • Shanghai Museum: Estimated Cost: $5, Time Spent: 2 hours
  • Yu Garden: Estimated Cost: $10, Time Spent: 2 hours
  • Nanjing Road: Estimated Cost: $0 (shopping expenses extra), Time Spent: 3 hours
  • Shanghai World Financial Center: Estimated Cost: $20, Time Spent: 1 hour
Thursday September 7: Guilin

Travel to the picturesque city of Guilin. Start your day with a scenic cruise along the Li River, surrounded by stunning limestone karsts and lush greenery. Explore the enchanting Reed Flute Cave, known for its unique rock formations and illuminating lights. In the afternoon, take a bamboo rafting trip along the Yulong River and enjoy the serene beauty of the countryside. End the day by visiting the colorful and vibrant night market in Guilin.

  • Li River Cruise: Estimated Cost: $50, Time Spent: 4 hours
  • Reed Flute Cave: Estimated Cost: $10, Time Spent: 2 hours
  • Bamboo Rafting on Yulong River: Estimated Cost: $30, Time Spent: 3 hours
  • Night Market: Estimated Cost: $0 (shopping and food expenses extra), Time Spent: 2 hours
Friday September 8: Chengdu

Head to Chengdu, the hometown of pandas. In the morning, visit the Chengdu Research Base of Giant Panda Breeding and get up close with these adorable creatures. Explore the Wenshu Monastery, a tranquil Buddhist temple complex with beautiful gardens. In the afternoon, immerse yourself in the vibrant atmosphere of Jinli Ancient Street, known for its traditional architecture, local snacks, and handicrafts. End the day by enjoying a Sichuan Opera performance.

  • Chengdu Research Base of Giant Panda Breeding: Estimated Cost: $20, Time Spent: 3 hours
  • Wenshu Monastery: Estimated Cost: $0, Time Spent: 2 hours
  • Jinli Ancient Street: Estimated Cost: $5, Time Spent: 3 hours
  • Sichuan Opera: Estimated Cost: $25, Time Spent: 2 hours
Saturday September 9: Zhangjiajie

Visit the stunning national park of Zhangjiajie, known for its towering sandstone pillars that inspired the floating mountains in the movie "Avatar." Take a thrilling cable car ride up to Tianmen Mountain and walk along the incredible glass Skywalk. In the afternoon, explore the breathtaking scenery of Zhangjiajie National Forest Park and take a scenic hike through the Avatar Hallelujah Mountains. End the day by enjoying a traditional Chinese tea ceremony.

  • Tianmen Mountain: Estimated Cost: $40, Time Spent: 4 hours
  • Zhangjiajie National Forest Park: Estimated Cost: $30, Time Spent: 5 hours
  • Avatar Hallelujah Mountains: Estimated Cost: $0, Time Spent: 3 hours
  • Chinese Tea Ceremony: Estimated Cost: $10, Time Spent: 1 hour
Sunday September 10: Hong Kong

Conclude your trip in the vibrant city of Hong Kong. Start your morning by taking a ride on the iconic Star Ferry and enjoy the panoramic views of Victoria Harbour. Explore the bustling markets of Mong Kok and indulge in street food delights. In the afternoon, visit the famous Hong Kong Disneyland and immerse yourself in the magical world of Disney. End the day by watching the Symphony of Lights, a stunning light and sound show.

  • Star Ferry: Estimated Cost: $3, Time Spent: 1 hour
  • Mong Kok Markets: Estimated Cost: $0 (shopping and food expenses extra), Time Spent: 3 hours
  • Hong Kong Disneyland: Estimated Cost: $80, Time Spent: 6 hours
  • Symphony of Lights: Estimated Cost: $0, Time Spent: 30 minutes

Hidden Gems and Local Favorites

For a family-friendly experience off the beaten path, consider visiting the ancient water town of Zhujiajiao near Shanghai. Explore its narrow canals, stone bridges, and traditional buildings. In Xi'an, don't miss the Tang Paradise, a theme park showcasing the culture and history of the Tang Dynasty. Another hidden gem is the Chengdu Giant Panda Ecological Park, where you can see pandas in a more natural habitat setting. These attractions offer unique experiences and insights into Chinese culture and heritage.

Check hotel and flight prices here.

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