14-Day Ultimate Train Journey Through China: Shanghai to Beijing

Day 1: Arrival in Shanghai

Shanghai, China

10:00AM

Arrive in Shanghai

Step into the vibrant atmosphere of China's largest city, brimming with modernity and iconic sites.
From the airport, take the Maglev train to Longyang Road and transfer to Line 2 for the city center.
CNY80, 1 hour

11:30AM

Lunch at Din Tai Fung

Delight in the famous soup dumplings at one of Shanghai's top restaurants.
Walk 15 minutes from your hotel.
CNY150, 1.5 hours

1:00PM

Explore The Bund

Stroll along this iconic waterfront, appreciating the contrast of colonial architecture against the modern skyline.
A short walk from Din Tai Fung.
Free, 1.5 hours

3:00PM

Visit Shanghai Tower

Experience breathtaking views of the city from China's tallest building's observation deck.
Take a short taxi ride to the tower.
CNY180, 2 hours

5:30PM

Dinner at Lost Heaven

Savor exquisite Yunnan cuisine in a beautifully designed restaurant.
Take a taxi from the tower.
CNY250, 1.5 hours
View Hotel Availability

Day 2: Shanghai Discovery

Shanghai, China

8:00AM

Breakfast at Hotel

Kickstart your day with a nutritious breakfast at your hotel.
At your hotel.
Included, 1 hour

9:30AM

Visit Yu Garden

Wander through this classical Chinese garden filled with beautiful pavilions and rock formations.
Take the subway to Yuyuan Garden Station.
CNY40, 2 hours

11:30AM

Lunch at Jia Jia Tang Bao

Indulge in local favorites like steamed soup dumplings during this leisurely lunch.
Walk from Yu Garden.
CNY80, 1.5 hours

1:00PM

Explore the Shanghai Museum

Delve into the rich history and art of China at this renowned museum.
Take the subway to People's Square.
Free, 2.5 hours

4:00PM

Visit Jade Buddha Temple

A tranquil oasis amidst the city's hustle, featuring stunning jade Buddha statues.
Taxi from the museum.
CNY30, 2 hours

6:30PM

Dinner at M on the Bund

Enjoy modern cuisine with stunning views of the Huangpu River.
Taxi to the restaurant.
CNY300, 2 hours
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Day 3: Travel to Hangzhou

Hangzhou, China

8:00AM

Breakfast at Hotel

Start your day with a satisfying breakfast at your hotel.
At your hotel.
Included, 1 hour

9:30AM

Train to Hangzhou

Board a train for a scenic journey to Hangzhou, known for its picturesque West Lake.
Take a taxi to Shanghai Railway Station; travel lasts about 1 hour.
CNY100, 1 hour

11:00AM

Visit West Lake

Enjoy a leisurely walk or boat ride on this iconic lake, a UNESCO World Heritage site.
Take a taxi from the station.
CNY45, 2.5 hours

1:30PM

Lunch at Lou Wai Lou

Dine with scenic views at this famous restaurant, offering Hangzhou cuisine.
Walk to the restaurant nearby.
CNY150, 1.5 hours

3:00PM

Explore Lingyin Temple

Discover one of China's largest and oldest Buddhist temples surrounded by serene landscapes.
Take a taxi from the restaurant.
CNY45, 2 hours

6:00PM

Dinner at Zhi Wei Guan

Enjoy traditional Hangzhou dishes in this historical restaurant.
Taxi back to the city.
CNY200, 1.5 hours
View Hotel Availability

Day 4: Hangzhou Leisure Day

Hangzhou, China

8:00AM

Breakfast at Hotel

Start your day with a delectable breakfast spread in your hotel.
At your hotel.
Included, 1 hour

9:30AM

Exploring Tea Plantations

Visit the famous Longjing tea fields and partake in a guided tea tasting experience.
Join a local tour or take a taxi.
CNY100, 3 hours

1:00PM

Lunch at Tianshan Tea City

Savor local dishes right in the heart of the tea city.
Drive/take taxi from the tea fields.
CNY80, 1.5 hours

2:30PM

Visit Six Harmonies Pagoda

Climb to the top of this ancient pagoda for panoramic views of the Qiantang River.
Take a taxi from the restaurant.
CNY30, 2 hours

5:00PM

Dinner at Grandma's House

Enjoy traditional home-cooked Hangzhou dishes in a cozy ambiance.
Taxi back to the city center.
CNY120, 1.5 hours
View Hotel Availability

Day 5: Travel to Suzhou

Suzhou, China

8:00AM

Breakfast at Hotel

Begin your day with a fulfilling breakfast before transfer.
At your hotel.
Included, 1 hour

9:30AM

Train to Suzhou

Catch a short train to Suzhou, famous for its classical gardens.
Taxi to the train station; travel time is around 30 minutes.
CNY50, 30 minutes

10:30AM

Visit the Humble Administrator's Garden

Explore one of China's largest classical gardens, a UNESCO World Heritage site.
Take a taxi from the train station.
CNY70, 2 hours

1:00PM

Lunch at Songhe Lou

Taste local specialties like Sweet and Sour Mandarin Fish in this popular eatery.
Walk from the gardens.
CNY120, 1.5 hours

2:30PM

Visit Lingering Garden

Discover another stunning garden renowned for its exquisite layout and design.
Taxi from the restaurant.
CNY50, 1.5 hours

5:00PM

Dinner at Tangwenliu Restaurant

Indulge in local flavors and culinary art at this esteemed Suzhou venue.
Taxi back to the city center.
CNY150, 1.5 hours
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Day 6: Travel to Xi'an

Xi'an, China

7:00AM

Breakfast at Hotel

Enjoy a quick breakfast to gear up for the journey ahead.
At your hotel.
Included, 1 hour

8:00AM

High-speed Train to Xi'an

Travel by high-speed train to Xi'an, known for its ancient history and rich culture.
Taxi to Suzhou Railway Station; the train journey lasts approximately 6 hours.
CNY700, 6 hours

2:00PM

Lunch at Gourd Restaurant

Savor Xi'an's unique dumplings in one of the city's best dumpling restaurants.
Taxi from the station.
CNY100, 1.5 hours

3:30PM

Visit the Ancient City Wall

Bike or walk atop this well-preserved ancient wall that encircles the city, offering beautiful views.
Take a taxi to the wall.
CNY54, 2.5 hours

6:00PM

Dinner at De Fa Chang

Enjoy a renowned dumpling banquet, a delight for your taste buds in Xi'an.
Taxi back to the city center.
CNY180, 2 hours
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Day 7: Explore Xi'an

Xi'an, China

8:00AM

Breakfast at Hotel

Start your day with a delicious breakfast spread.
At your hotel.
Included, 1 hour

9:30AM

Visit the Terracotta Army

Be captivated by the site of the Terracotta Warriors, a UNESCO World Heritage site.
Take a bus or join a tour from the city.
CNY150, 4 hours

2:00PM

Lunch at The Tang Dynasty

Relish a feast inspired by the Tang Dynasty in a traditional setting.
Bus back to Xi'an city center.
CNY200, 1.5 hours

3:30PM

Explore Muslim Quarter

Wander through this eclectic neighborhood where you can taste local street foods and buy souvenirs.
Walk from your lunch spot.
Free, 2.5 hours

6:30PM

Dinner at First Noodle Under the Sun

Sample some of Xi'an's best hand-pulled noodles in a simple but delicious establishment.
Walk from the Muslim Quarter.
CNY60, 1.5 hours
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Day 8: Travel to Chengdu

Chengdu, China

8:00AM

Breakfast at Hotel

Enjoy a hearty breakfast at your hotel to gear up for the journey ahead.
At your hotel.
Included, 1 hour

9:00AM

High-speed Train to Chengdu

Board a high-speed train to Chengdu, a journey that promises comfortable and swift travel.
Take a taxi to Xi'an Railway Station; the trip will last around 3 hours.
CNY600, 3 hours

1:00PM

Lunch at Chen Mapo Tofu

Savor the signature Mapo Tofu dish in its birthplace, bursting with flavors.
Take a taxi from Chengdu Railway Station.
CNY80, 1.5 hours

3:00PM

Visit Chengdu Research Base of Giant Panda Breeding

Meet some adorable giant pandas and learn about their conservation efforts.
Take a taxi for the 30-minute ride.
CNY58, 2.5 hours

6:30PM

Dinner at The Diner

Enjoy a classic Western-style dinner in this trendy diner.
Take a taxi back to the city.
CNY120, 1.5 hours
View Hotel Availability

Day 9: Chengdu Culture Day

Chengdu, China

8:00AM

Breakfast at Yushe

Start your day with a delightful mix of Western and local breakfast items.
Walk 10 minutes to the café.
CNY45, 1 hour

9:30AM

Visit Jinli Ancient Street

Wander through this ancient street filled with traditional architecture and handicrafts.
Take a short walk to the street.
Free, 2 hours

12:00PM

Lunch at Huang Cheng Lao Ma

Taste authentic Chengdu hot pot, packed with flavor and ingredients.
Walk from Jinli Street.
CNY200, 1.5 hours

2:00PM

Attend a Sichuan Opera Performance

Experience the unique culture of Sichuan through its vibrant opera performances.
Taxi to the opera house.
CNY120, 2 hours

5:00PM

Explore the Wide and Narrow Alleys

Delight in the charm of traditional alleyways lined with shops and local eateries.
Walk from the opera house.
Free, 2 hours

7:00PM

Dinner at Chengdu Taste

Enjoy authentic Chengdu cuisine showcasing bold flavors and spices typical of Sichuan cooking.
Homeward taxi ride.
CNY150, 1.5 hours
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Day 10: Travel to Guilin

Guilin, China

7:30AM

Early Breakfast at Hotel

Enjoy a quick breakfast to kick-start your trip today.
At your hotel.
Included, 1 hour

8:30AM

High-speed Train to Guilin

Board the train for a scenic journey through picturesque landscapes to Guilin.
Take a taxi to Chengdu Railway Station; the journey will last around 9 hours.
CNY700, 9 hours

5:30PM

Check-in at Hotel

Arrive in Guilin, check into your hotel, and relax a bit.
Taxi from the railway station.
CNY50, 30 minutes

6:00PM

Visit Elephant Trunk Hill

Marvel at this iconic natural landmark shaped like an elephant drinking from the river.
Take a local taxi.
CNY80, 1.5 hours

8:00PM

Dinner at Guilin Rice Noodle

Dive into Guilin's signature rice noodles prepared in various delicious styles.
Walk back to the city.
CNY40, 1.5 hours
View Hotel Availability

Day 11: Cruise & Explore Yangshuo

Yangshuo, China

7:30AM

Breakfast at Hotel

Dig into a hearty breakfast before a day of stunning views.
At your hotel.
Included, 1 hour

9:00AM

Li River Cruise to Yangshuo

Enjoy a breathtaking cruise down the Li River, surrounded by dramatic karst mountains.
Board the cruise near your hotel.
CNY450, 4 hours

1:00PM

Lunch by the Riverside

Sample fresh river fish and local dishes in a charming riverside restaurant.
Walk from the disembarkation point.
CNY100, 1.5 hours

3:00PM

Free time to explore Yangshuo

Spend your afternoon wandering the stunning scenery or biking around the picturesque countryside.
Bicycle rentals available nearby.
CNY50, 2.5 hours

6:00PM

Dinner at The Giggling Tree

Relax in this countryside restaurant offering both Western and local cuisine.
Take a taxi back to town.
CNY120, 2 hours
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Day 12: Explore Guilin

Guilin, China

8:00AM

Breakfast at Hotel

Get ready for a day of exploration with a fulfilling breakfast.
At your hotel.
Included, 1 hour

9:30AM

Visit Reed Flute Cave

Discover this stunning limestone cave, filled with impressive natural rock formations.
Take a taxi for a 15-minute ride.
CNY90, 2 hours

12:00PM

Lunch at Cloud 9

Enjoy delicious lunch with a sweeping view of the Guilin landscape.
Taxi back to the city.
CNY100, 1.5 hours

1:30PM

Visit Elephant Trunk Hill again (if desired)

Enjoy the hill from a different perspective or relax around the lake.
Taxi to the site.
CNY80, 2 hours

3:30PM

Visit the Guilin's Two Rivers and Four Lakes

Enjoy a tranquil boat ride through this stunning network of lakes and rivers.
Walk to the boat dock.
CNY120, 2 hours

6:30PM

Dinner at The Rice Noodle Shop

Enjoy a mix of local dishes to end your day.
Walk back to the restaurant.
CNY80, 1.5 hours
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Day 13: Travel to Beijing

Beijing, China

7:00AM

Breakfast at Hotel

Kick off your final leg of the journey with a hearty meal.
At your hotel.
Included, 1 hour

8:00AM

Train to Beijing

Catch a high-speed train to the capital city, Beijing.
Taxi to the Guilin Railway Station; the trip will take around 12 hours.
CNY800, 12 hours

8:00PM

Check-in at Hotel in Beijing

Settle into your accommodation and rest after a long journey.
Taxi from the railway station.
CNY50, 30 minutes

9:00PM

Dinner at The People's Great Feast

Savor local Beijing cuisine to celebrate your arrival in the capital.
Walk to the restaurant.
CNY150, 1.5 hours
View Hotel Availability

Day 14: Exploring Beijing

Beijing, China

8:00AM

Breakfast at Hotel

Enjoy a delightful breakfast before you start exploring Beijing.
At your hotel.
Included, 1 hour

9:30AM

Visit the Great Wall at Mutianyu

Conquer one of the best-preserved sections of the Great Wall, featuring stunning landscapes.
Join a guided tour or take a taxi for about 1.5 hours.
CNY100, 4 hours

2:00PM

Lunch at The Schoolhouse at Mutianyu

Enjoy a meal with the backdrop of the Great Wall before heading back to Beijing.
Dinner at The Schoolhouse at your destination.
CNY150, 1.5 hours

4:00PM

Visit the Forbidden City

Wander through the vast palaces and gardens of this UNESCO World Heritage site.
Return to Beijing and take the subway or taxi.
CNY60, 3 hours

7:00PM

Dinner at Dadong Roast Duck

Experience the renowned Peking Duck, known for its crispy skin and savory flavor.
Taxi to the restaurant.
CNY300, 2 hours

9:00PM

Final Stroll in Wangfujing Night Market

End your journey with a stroll through this bustling market filled with food booths and shops.
Walk from dadong to Wangfujing.
Free, 1 hour
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