6-Day Adventure and Nature Rail Trip in China

Day 1: Beijing Exploration

Beijing, China

8:00AM

Tiananmen Square & Forbidden City

Start your day with a visit to the iconic Tiananmen Square followed by the vast Forbidden City, steeped in history.
Take the subway to Tiananmen East Station.
CNY 60, 3 hours

11:30AM

Jingshan Park

After exploring the Forbidden City, head to Jingshan Park for panoramic views of Beijing from the hilltop.
A short 15-minute walk northeast from the Forbidden City.
CNY 5, 1 hour

1:00PM

Lunch at Da Dong Roast Duck

Indulge in authentic Peking Duck at this famous restaurant, known for its crispy skin and savory flavor.
Take a taxi or Didi for a 10-minute drive.
CNY 300, 1.5 hours

3:00PM

Summer Palace

Spend the afternoon wandering through the lush gardens and stunning lakes of the Summer Palace.
Take subway line 4 to Beigongmen Station, then walk 10 minutes to the entrance.
CNY 30, 3 hours

6:30PM

Dinner at Bao Yuan Jiaozi

Enjoy a delightful meal of dumplings at this local favorite, offering a variety of innovative fillings.
Take a taxi or Didi for a 20-minute ride.
CNY 120, 1.5 hours

8:30PM

Beijing Night Market

End your day at the vibrant night market, sampling street food and experiencing the local atmosphere.
Take a taxi or Didi to Wangfujing Street.
CNY 50, 2 hours
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Day 2: Historic Xi'an

Xi'an, China

8:00AM

High-Speed Train to Xi'an

Take an early high-speed train to Xi'an and enjoy the stunning countryside views during the 5-hour ride.
Head to Beijing West Railway Station.
CNY 550, 5 hours

1:00PM

Lunch at Xi'an Restaurant

Rejuvenate with traditional Biang Biang noodles, known for their unique flavor and handmade preparation.
A short walk from your train station.
CNY 60, 1 hour

2:30PM

Terracotta Warriors

Discover the world-famous Terracotta Warriors, an extraordinary archaeological wonder that dates back to 210 BC.
Take bus 914 from Xi'an Railway Station to the site.
CNY 150, 3.5 hours

6:00PM

Dinner at Muslim Quarter

Explore the bustling streets of the Muslim Quarter and try delicious lamb skewers and vegetarian dumplings.
Head back to Xi'an city center via bus.
CNY 100, 2 hours

8:30PM

City Wall Night Walk

Take a leisurely bike ride along the ancient city wall, enjoying the views of the city illuminated at night.
Cycle rentals are available at the south gate of the wall.
CNY 45, 1.5 hours
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Day 3: Panda Sanctuary

Chengdu, China

7:00AM

High-Speed Train to Chengdu

Depart early for Chengdu, home to adorable giant pandas, on a 2-hour high-speed train ride.
Train leaves from Xi'an North Railway Station.
CNY 300, 2 hours

9:30AM

Chengdu Research Base of Giant Panda

Spend the morning observing giant pandas in their natural habitat at this renowned sanctuary.
Take bus 87 from Chengdu Railway Station.
CNY 58, 2.5 hours

12:00PM

Lunch at Chen Mapo Tofu

Relish the famous spicy Mapo Tofu, a popular Sichuan dish, in a local restaurant that brings out the best flavors.
A quick walk or taxi around the corner.
CNY 80, 1 hour

1:30PM

Wuhou Shrine & Jinli Ancient Street

Explore the historical Wuhou Shrine, then immerse yourself in the vibrant atmosphere of Jinli Ancient Street nearby.
Take a taxi from lunch location; it's a short ride.
CNY 10, 2.5 hours

5:00PM

Dinner at Chengdu Hot Pot

Experience an authentic hot pot feast, where you can cook your own fresh ingredients in spicy broth.
Find a hot pot place nearby, with many options around Jinli.
CNY 200, 2 hours

7:30PM

Teahouse Experience

Relax at a traditional teahouse, sipping local tea while enjoying a Sichuan opera show with face-changing performances.
Walk to a nearby teahouse that features performances.
CNY 150, 2 hours
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Day 4: Lijiang & Nature

Lijiang, China

8:00AM

Flight to Lijiang

Catch a morning flight to Lijiang and prepare for a day filled with unique natural beauty.
Head to Chengdu Airport.
CNY 600, 1.5 hours

10:00AM

Lijiang Old Town

Stroll through the UNESCO World Heritage-listed Old Town, where ancient architecture blends with breathtaking landscapes.
Take a taxi from the airport to the Old Town.
CNY 80, 2 hours

12:30PM

Lunch at The Old Town Cafe

Savor local Naxi cuisine, such as roasted duck and Tibetan barley, in a cozy café overlooking the canal.
Walk around the Old Town for a good spot.
CNY 80, 1 hour

2:00PM

Black Dragon Pool Park

Visit this picturesque park to enjoy stunning views of the Jade Dragon Snow Mountain reflected in the water.
Take a taxi for a 15-minute ride.
CNY 50, 2 hours

4:30PM

Dinner at N's Kitchen

Treat yourself to a lively dining experience, with traditional dishes and beautiful ambient views.
Return to the Old Town area with a taxi.
CNY 120, 2 hours

7:00PM

Optional Night Walk

Take a beautiful evening walk through Lijiang’s streets, illuminated by soft lights, absorbing the vibrant atmosphere.
Stroll back into the Old Town.
Free, 1 hour
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Day 5: Dali's Serenity

Dali, China

8:00AM

Bus to Dali

Take a scenic bus ride to Dali, known for its rich history and beautiful landscapes, lasting about 2 hours.
Buses leave from Lijiang Central Station.
CNY 50, 2 hours

10:00AM

Three Pagodas

Begin your time in Dali with a visit to the famous Three Pagodas, a symbol of longevity and harmony.
It’s a 15-minute taxi ride from the bus station.
CNY 100, 1.5 hours

12:00PM

Lunch at Bai Ethnic Restaurant

Savor traditional Bai ethnic dishes while enjoying lake vistas at this charming restaurant.
A short walk from the Three Pagodas.
CNY 80, 1 hour

1:30PM

Erhai Lake

Spend an afternoon by the serene Erhai Lake, renting a bike or enjoying a boat ride surrounded by stunning scenery.
Head to the lake by taxi; bikes are available for rent.
CNY 70, 3 hours

5:00PM

Dinner at The Dali Restaurant

Experience a fusion of modern and traditional cuisine at this highly-rated dining destination.
Return to Dali town center via taxi.
CNY 150, 1.5 hours

7:00PM

Walking Street Stroll

Explore Dali’s vibrant walking streets, lined with shops, cafes, and beautiful art displays.
Walk from your dinner location around the area.
Free, 1 hour
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Day 6: Explore Kunming

Kunming, China

8:00AM

Bus to Kunming

Catch an early bus to Kunming, as the capital city of Yunnan Province awaits, with a travel time of approximately 2.5 hours.
Buses depart from Dali South Bus Station.
CNY 70, 2.5 hours

11:00AM

Stone Forest

Visit the UNESCO-listed Stone Forest, a natural monument with stunning limestone formations and scenic trails.
Hire a local taxi for a full-day tour at a reasonable price.
CNY 220, 3 hours

3:00PM

Lunch at Yunnan Rice Noodles

Refuel with Yunnan's famous rice noodles often topped with fresh herbs and spices.
Return to Kunming city center to find a local noodle shop.
CNY 50, 1 hour

4:30PM

Green Lake Park

Relax in beautiful Green Lake Park, ideal for a leisurely stroll or sitting and enjoying the nature encapsulated around you.
Take a taxi from lunch to Green Lake.
CNY 20, 1.5 hours

6:00PM

Dinner at La Vie

Conclude your adventure at La Vie, a restaurant offering fusion cuisine that showcases local flavors.
Walk to the restaurant nearby the park.
CNY 120, 1.5 hours

8:00PM

Visit a Local Bar

Finally, unwind at a local bar, paralleling the scenic ambiance of Kunming while sharing memories of your adventure.
Walk to a recommended nearby bar.
CNY 50, 2 hours
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