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14-Day Cultural Exploration of China: From Beijing to Shanghai

Viewed by 254 travelers

Day 1: Beijing Highlights

Beijing, China on March 18, 2025

8:00 AM

Breakfast at Dintaifung

Start your day with freshly made Xiao Long Bao at Dintaifung, a renowned dumpling restaurant.
CNY80, 1 hour

9:30 AM

Visit the Forbidden City

Explore the historic Forbidden City, once the home of Chinese emperors, filled with stunning architecture and rich history.
CNY60, 3 hours

1:00 PM

Lunch at Quanjude Roast Duck

Indulge in Beijing's famous Peking Duck at Quanjude, known for its crispy skin and succulent meat.
CNY200, 1.5 hours

2:30 PM

Tiananmen Square

Stroll through Tiananmen Square, one of the largest public squares in the world, with an important political significance.
Free, 1 hour

4:00 PM

Visit the Temple of Heaven

Discover the Temple of Heaven, where emperors once prayed for good harvests, surrounded by beautiful parks.
CNY35, 2 hours

6:30 PM

Dinner at Siji Minfu

Enjoy dinner at Siji Minfu, famous for its authentic Beijing cuisine, particularly crispy duck variations.
CNY150, 1.5 hours
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Day 2: Great Wall Adventure

Beijing, China on March 19, 2025

7:00 AM

Breakfast at hotel

Fuel up with a buffet breakfast at your hotel before a day exploring the Great Wall.
Included with stay, 1 hour

8:30 AM

Visit the Great Wall at Mutianyu

Spend the day hiking along the stunning Mutianyu section of the Great Wall, known for its picturesque scenery and fewer tourists.
CNY45, 4 hours

1:00 PM

Lunch at The Schoolhouse

Enjoy a delightful lunch at The Schoolhouse, offering farm-to-table dishes with a great view of the Wall.
CNY120, 1 hour

2:30 PM

Continue exploring Great Wall

Further explore the different watchtowers and enjoy breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains.
Free, 2 hours

5:00 PM

Return to Beijing

Head back to the city, reflecting on your incredible day.
CNY50, 1 hour

7:00 PM

Dinner at Donglaishun

Experience authentic Mongolian hotpot at Donglaishun, complete with fresh ingredients and flavorful broths.
CNY180, 1.5 hours
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Day 3: Beijing Culture

Beijing, China on March 20, 2025

7:30 AM

Breakfast at hotel

Enjoy a hearty breakfast at your hotel to gear up for cultural discovery.
Included with stay, 1 hour

9:00 AM

Visit the Summer Palace

Explore the Summer Palace, an expansive royal garden featuring lakes, palaces, and stunning landscapes.
CNY40, 2.5 hours

11:30 AM

Martial Arts Class

Engage in a traditional Tai Chi class in the park – an excellent way to experience Chinese culture firsthand.
CNY150, 1.5 hours

1:00 PM

Lunch at Bai Jia Da Yuan Restaurant

Savor traditional Beijing dishes at Bai Jia Da Yuan, set in a Qing Dynasty garden courtyard.
CNY150, 1.5 hours

2:30 PM

Beijing National Stadium Tour

Visit the iconic Bird's Nest, home to the 2008 Olympics, and admire its modern architecture.
CNY100, 2 hours

5:00 PM

Explore Wangfujing Street

Wander through Wangfujing, a bustling shopping street filled with snacks and shops.
Free, 1.5 hours

7:00 PM

Dinner at Da Dong Roast Duck

Try the famous Da Dong Roast Duck, reputed for its innovative takes on the classic dish.
CNY250, 2 hours
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Day 4: Historic Xi'an

Xi'an, China on March 21, 2025

7:00 AM

Travel to Xi'an

Take a high-speed train to Xi'an, traversing the Chinese countryside in about 5 hours.
CNY500, 5 hours

12:00 PM

Lunch at Defachang

Taste the local specialty, Guobao Roujiamo, at Defachang Restaurant, known for its dumplings.
CNY100, 1 hour

1:00 PM

Visit the Ancient City Wall

Walk or bike along Xi'an's Ancient City Wall, which offers a unique perspective on the city's history.
CNY54, 2 hours

3:00 PM

Explore the Muslim Quarter

Stroll through Xi'an's vibrant Muslim Quarter, filled with street food stalls and shops.
Free, 1.5 hours

5:00 PM

Visit Big Wild Goose Pagoda

Experience the serenity of Big Wild Goose Pagoda, a symbol of Xi'an with rich Buddhist heritage.
CNY30, 1 hour

6:30 PM

Dinner at Lao Sun Jia

Enjoy a fusion of Xi'an's flavors at Lao Sun Jia, famous for its traditional dishes.
CNY120, 1.5 hours
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Day 5: Terracotta Warriors

Xi'an, China on March 22, 2025

7:00 AM

Breakfast at hotel

Savor a traditional breakfast at your hotel before exploring the Terracotta Army.
Included with stay, 1 hour

8:30 AM

Visit the Terracotta Army

Discover the incredible Terracotta Warriors, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and a glimpse into China's ancient history.
CNY150, 3 hours

12:00 PM

Lunch at Terracotta Army Museum Restaurant

Enjoy lunch at the museum restaurant, featuring local dishes with a twist.
CNY100, 1.5 hours

1:30 PM

Return to Xi'an

Travel back to Xi'an city center.
CNY70, 1 hour

2:30 PM

Visit Shaanxi History Museum

Learn about the rich history of Xi'an at this acclaimed museum, showcasing artifacts from ancient dynasties.
Free, 2 hours

5:00 PM

Explore Tang Paradise

Experience a cultural theme park representing the grandeur of the Tang Dynasty.
CNY120, 2 hours

7:30 PM

Dinner at Yi Pin Yuan

Relish traditional Xi'an cuisine at Yi Pin Yuan, known for their lamb soup and noodles.
CNY100, 1.5 hours
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Day 6: Chengdu's Delights

Chengdu, China on March 23, 2025

6:30 AM

Travel to Chengdu

Take a high-speed train to Chengdu, enjoying upscale services on your 3-hour journey.
CNY420, 3 hours

9:30 AM

Breakfast at Hotel

Fuel up at your hotel with a mix of local and Western breakfast options.
Included with stay, 1 hour

10:30 AM

Visit Chengdu Research Base of Giant Panda Breeding

Meet adorable giant pandas in this conservation center dedicated to the species.
CNY58, 2.5 hours

1:00 PM

Lunch at Chen Mapo Tofu

Try the famous Mapo Tofu, a local dish known for its spicy flavors at Chen Mapo Tofu.
CNY80, 1.5 hours

3:00 PM

Explore Jinli Ancient Street

Wander through Jinli Ancient Street, famous for its shops, street food, and festive atmosphere.
Free, 2 hours

5:30 PM

Dinner at Shu Jiu Xiang Hot Pot

Savor a traditional Sichuan hot pot experience at Shu Jiu Xiang, bursting with spices and flavors.
CNY180, 2 hours
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Day 7: Cultural Experiences

Chengdu, China on March 24, 2025

7:00 AM

Breakfast at hotel

Enjoy breakfast at the hotel to kickstart the day.
Included with stay, 1 hour

8:30 AM

Take a Calligraphy Class

Engage in a Chinese Calligraphy class to learn this ancient art and take home your creation.
CNY200, 2 hours

10:30 AM

Visit Wuhou Shrine

Explore Wuhou Shrine, a historical site dedicated to the legendary figures from the Three Kingdoms.
CNY60, 1.5 hours

12:00 PM

Lunch at Jin Ya Restaurant

Dine at Jin Ya for some authentic Chengdu-style cuisine and local specialties.
CNY120, 1.5 hours

1:30 PM

Visit Dujiangyan Irrigation System

Visit this ancient irrigation system, a marvel of engineering that remains operational today.
CNY90, 3 hours

5:00 PM

Return to Chengdu

Travel back to Chengdu city center from Dujiangyan.
CNY60, 1 hour

6:30 PM

Dinner at Spicy Joint

Enjoy spicy street-style food at Spicy Joint, where the big flavors really shine.
CNY80, 1.5 hours
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Day 8: Kailin's Nature

Guilin, China on March 25, 2025

6:00 AM

Travel to Guilin

Depart Chengdu early for a high-speed train ride to Guilin, known for its stunning karst landscapes.
CNY400, 3.5 hours

9:30 AM

Breakfast at Hotel

Enjoy a light breakfast at your hotel.
Included with stay, 1 hour

10:30 AM

Li River Cruise

Set sail on the Li River for a breathtaking cruise, surrounded by emerald green hills and unique rock formations.
CNY350, 4 hours

2:30 PM

Lunch at Yangshuo Restaurant

Delight your taste buds at a riverside restaurant in Yangshuo, featuring local dishes made with fresh ingredients.
CNY120, 1.5 hours

4:00 PM

Explore West Street

Stroll along West Street, bustling with cafes, shops, and local crafts for a taste of Yangshuo's charm.
Free, 2 hours

6:30 PM

Dinner at The Giggling Tree

Savor a relaxed dinner at The Giggling Tree, known for its vegetarian options and delightful ambiance.
CNY150, 1.5 hours
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Day 9: Guilin Adventures

Guilin, China on March 26, 2025

7:30 AM

Breakfast at Hotel

Enjoy breakfast before embarking on today's adventure.
Included with stay, 1 hour

9:00 AM

Visit Reed Flute Cave

Marvel at the stalactite formations and colorful lights of Reed Flute Cave, a natural wonder.
CNY90, 1.5 hours

11:00 AM

Visit Elephant Trunk Hill

See the famous natural rock formation and take photos at the iconic Elephant Trunk Hill.
CNY75, 1 hour

12:30 PM

Lunch at Cloud 9 Restaurant

Feast on Western and Chinese fusion cuisine at Cloud 9 with panoramic views over the Li River.
CNY130, 1.5 hours

2:00 PM

Visit the Two Rivers and Four Lakes

Relax on a boat tour of the scenic Two Rivers and Four Lakes, a stunning area of waterways and parks.
CNY100, 2 hours

5:00 PM

Leisure time in Guilin

Enjoy some free time to explore Guilin on your own or relax at a park.
Free, 2 hours

7:00 PM

Dinner at Guilin Rice Noodles Restaurant

Try the local specialty of Guilin rice noodles in a cozy setting.
CNY80, 1.5 hours
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Day 10: Zhangjiajie's Wonders

Zhangjiajie, China on March 27, 2025

6:00 AM

Travel to Zhangjiajie

Take a high-speed train to Zhangjiajie, the gateway to beautiful national parks.
CNY400, 3 hours

9:30 AM

Breakfast at Hotel

Fuel up at hotel before a day among natural wonders.
Included with stay, 1 hour

10:30 AM

Visit Zhangjiajie National Forest Park

Explore the breathtaking landscapes of Zhangjiajie National Forest Park, known for its towering sandstone pillars.
CNY252, 5 hours

4:00 PM

Visit the Zhangjiajie Grand Canyon

Walk across the famous Glass Bridge that spans Zhangjiajie Grand Canyon for stunning views.
CNY200, 2 hours

6:30 PM

Dinner at the hotel

Dine at your hotel to recharge after a long day of exploration.
CNY150, 1.5 hours
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Day 11: Nature Retreat

Zhangjiajie, China on March 28, 2025

7:00 AM

Breakfast at hotel

Enjoy breakfast at your hotel before another day of nature exploration.
Included with stay, 1 hour

8:30 AM

Visit Tianmen Mountain

Take a cable car to the top of Tianmen Mountain, famed for its natural beauty and the glass skywalk.
CNY300, 3 hours

12:00 PM

Lunch at Tianmen Mountain Cafeteria

Grab a quick lunch at the cafeteria overlooking beautiful mountain views.
CNY80, 1 hour

1:00 PM

Visit Tianmen Cave

Explore the famous hole in the mountain and the trails leading to it.
CNY100, 2 hours

3:30 PM

Return to Zhangjiajie

Travel back to Zhangjiajie city after your exploration.
CNY70, 1 hour

5:00 PM

Visit Wulingyuan Scenic Area

Wander through more stunning natural scenery in the UNESCO-listed Wulingyuan area.
CNY140, 3 hours

8:00 PM

Dinner at Sweet Dumpling Restaurant

Indulge in local Zhangjiajie cuisine at Sweet Dumpling.
CNY100, 1.5 hours
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Day 12: Tranquil Hangzhou

Hangzhou, China on March 29, 2025

6:30 AM

Travel to Hangzhou

Board a train to Hangzhou, known for its picturesque West Lake.
CNY350, 3 hours

10:00 AM

Breakfast at Hotel

Enjoy a leisurely breakfast at your hotel upon arrival.
Included with stay, 1 hour

11:00 AM

Visit West Lake

Relax by the serene waters of West Lake, a UNESCO World Heritage site, taking a boat ride if desired.
CNY70, 2 hours

1:30 PM

Lunch at Lou Wai Lou

Taste Hangzhou’s famous Dongpo Pork at Lou Wai Lou, a restaurant with stunning lake views.
CNY150, 1.5 hours

3:00 PM

Explore Liuhe Pagoda

Visit the beautiful Liuhe Pagoda, offering panoramic views of the surrounding area.
CNY40, 1.5 hours

5:00 PM

Discover Longjing Tea Fields

Tour the famous Longjing Tea Fields and sample some freshly brewed tea.
CNY80, 2 hours

7:30 PM

Dinner at Zhi Wei Guan

Delight in local dishes at Zhi Wei Guan, known for its Hangzhou-style cuisine.
CNY130, 2 hours
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Day 13: Shanghai Experience

Shanghai, China on March 30, 2025

7:00 AM

Travel to Shanghai

Hop onto a train to Shanghai, where modernity meets tradition, just a short ride away.
CNY300, 1.5 hours

9:00 AM

Breakfast at Hotel

Have breakfast at your hotel as you prepare for a day of exploration.
Included with stay, 1 hour

10:30 AM

Visit the Bund

Stroll along the Bund, admiring the captivating skyline of Shanghai with its blend of historical and contemporary architecture.
Free, 1.5 hours

12:30 PM

Lunch at Din Tai Fung

Indulge in dim sum delicacies at Din Tai Fung, known for its superb xiaolongbao.
CNY150, 1.5 hours

2:00 PM

Visit Yu Garden

Explore the traditional Chinese garden, filled with classical pavilions, rockeries, and scenic views.
CNY40, 2 hours

4:30 PM

Explore Nanjing Road

Shop along Nanjing Road, a bustling commercial street known as one of the world's busiest shopping areas.
Free, 2 hours

7:00 PM

Dinner at Lost Heaven

Experience Yunnan cuisine at its best at Lost Heaven, known for its unique dishes and lively atmosphere.
CNY250, 2 hours
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Day 14: Farewell Shanghai

Shanghai, China on March 31, 2025

7:30 AM

Breakfast at Hotel

Enjoy a final breakfast at your hotel before checking out.
Included with stay, 1 hour

9:00 AM

Visit Shanghai Museum

Discover the rich history and art of China at the Shanghai Museum, featuring ancient artifacts.
Free, 2 hours

11:30 AM

Lunch at Baidu Cafe

Savor a last meal at Baidu Cafe with a wide variety of Chinese and Western dishes.
CNY120, 1.5 hours

1:00 PM

Leisure time in the city

Spend some leisure time shopping or relaxing in one of the city's numerous parks.
Free, 2.5 hours

4:00 PM

Return flight home

Catch your flight home, concluding your amazing journey through China.
Varies, N/A
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