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14-Day Family-Friendly Adventure Through China’s Top Destinations

Viewed by 209 travelers

Day 1: Historical Exploration

Beijing, China on June 30, 2025

8:30am

Breakfast at Bai Jia Da Yuan Restaurant

Enjoy a traditional Beijing breakfast featuring Jianbing (savory crepes) and soy milk in a beautiful courtyard setting, perfect for families.
CNY80, 1h

10:00am

Forbidden City

Explore the vast imperial palace complex, rich with history and stunning architecture. Kids will love walking through the large courtyards and spotting ancient artifacts.
CNY60 (adults), Free (under 18), 2h30m

1:00pm

Lunch at Siji Minfu Restaurant

Taste authentic Peking duck and Beijing-style noodles in a family-friendly restaurant near Tiananmen Square.
CNY150, 1h

2:30pm

Tiananmen Square and National Museum of China

Visit Tiananmen Square’s vast open space and then explore the National Museum’s engaging exhibits about Chinese history and culture.
Free entry, 2h

5:00pm

Stroll through Wangfujing Street

Walk along one of Beijing’s famous shopping streets with a lively night market offering snacks and souvenirs.
Free, 1h

7:00pm

Dinner at Dong Lai Shun Hot Pot

Enjoy a family-style hot pot dinner with a variety of ingredients, allowing everyone to customize their meals.
CNY180, 1h30m
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Day 2: Great Wall Adventure

Beijing, China on July 1, 2025

7:30am

Breakfast at hotel

Start the day with a hearty breakfast at your hotel to fuel up for an active day ahead.
Included, 1h

8:30am

Visit Mutianyu Great Wall

Take a family-friendly hike along the Mutianyu section of the Great Wall, which has cable car access and fewer crowds, ideal for kids.
CNY65 (adult cable car round trip), CNY45 (child cable car round trip), 4h

1:00pm

Lunch at The Schoolhouse (near Great Wall)

Dine at this popular family-operated restaurant offering western and Chinese dishes in a cozy environment.
CNY120, 1h

3:30pm

Return to Beijing and rest

Take time to relax at your hotel or explore the surrounding area at your own pace.
Free, 1h30m

5:30pm

Visit Summer Palace

Stroll through the beautiful gardens, scenic Kunming Lake, and ancient pavilions. The boat rides are especially fun for families.
CNY40 (adults), Free (children under 1.2m), 2h

7:30pm

Dinner at Bai Jia Da Yuan Restaurant (optional revisit)

Enjoy another memorable meal with traditional Beijing flavors in an ambient setting, great for winding down the day.
CNY80, 1h
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Day 3: Cultural and Market Exploring

Beijing, China on July 2, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast at hotel

Enjoy a relaxed breakfast at your hotel to prepare for a day exploring traditional culture and shopping.
Included, 1h

9:30am

Temple of Heaven

Visit this UNESCO World Heritage site known for its unique architecture and tranquil park where locals practice tai chi.
CNY35 (adult), Free (under 18), 2h

12:00pm

Lunch at Li Qun Roast Duck Restaurant

Experience some of Beijing’s best authentic roast duck in a rustic, no-frills atmosphere well-loved by locals.
CNY180, 1h

1:30pm

Hutong Tour by rickshaw

Take a fun and educational rickshaw ride through the traditional Beijing hutongs to learn about local life and history.
CNY120, 2h

4:00pm

Visit 798 Art District

Explore modern galleries, street art, and quirky shops in this vibrant contemporary art district, fun for older kids and adults alike.
Free, 1h30m

6:00pm

Dinner at Blue Frog

A western-style casual dining spot offering familiar dishes ideal for children and adults wanting a break from traditional cuisine.
CNY150, 1h30m
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Day 4: Ancient Wonders

Xi’an, China on July 3, 2025

6:30am

Breakfast at hotel

Early breakfast before your flight or train to Xi’an for the next leg of your journey.
Included, 1h

9:00am

Travel to Xi’an (flight/train)

Take a 2-hour flight or approximately 5-6 hour train ride to Xi’an to discover China’s ancient capital.
CNY300-600 per person, Varies

2:00pm

Lunch at Defachang Dumpling Restaurant

Savor a variety of Chinese dumplings at this historic and family-friendly eatery beloved for its playful dumpling shapes.
CNY120, 1h

3:30pm

Visit Ancient City Wall

Bike or walk atop the well-preserved fortress wall that encircles Xi’an’s old town, a fun and active way to explore history with kids.
CNY54 for bike rental, 2h

6:00pm

Dinner at De Fa Chang Dumpling Banquet

Enjoy an elaborate dumpling banquet featuring various flavors and fillings suitable for all ages.
CNY150, 1h30m
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Day 5: Terracotta Army

Xi’an, China on July 4, 2025

7:00am

Breakfast at hotel

Have a quick breakfast to get ready for an exciting day visiting the famous Terracotta Warriors.
Included, 1h

8:00am

Terracotta Army Museum

Discover the awe-inspiring Terracotta Warriors, showcasing thousands of life-sized sculptures of soldiers, horses, and chariots guarding Emperor Qin’s tomb. An unforgettable learning experience for families.
CNY120 (adult), CNY60 (child 6-12), Free under 6, 3h

12:00pm

Lunch at museum café or nearby restaurant

Enjoy a simple meal featuring local Shaanxi dishes to recharge after the morning's exploration.
CNY80, 1h

2:00pm

Big Wild Goose Pagoda

Visit this historic Buddhist pagoda surrounded by a lovely park. Kids will enjoy the musical fountain show (evening if you stay late).
CNY50, 1h30m

5:00pm

Stroll at Muslim Quarter

Experience vibrant street food stalls and shops packed with snacks, souvenirs, and cultural items in Xi’an's Muslim Quarter.
Free entrance, food extra, 1h30m

7:00pm

Dinner at Muslim Quarter street food stalls

Sample family-friendly snacks such as pancakes, lamb skewers, and sweet treats at your leisure in a lively atmosphere.
CNY50-100, 1h
Find Hotels in Xi’an

Day 6: Panda Encounter

Chengdu, China on July 5, 2025

7:00am

Breakfast at hotel

Enjoy breakfast before your morning flight or train to Chengdu.
Included, 1h

9:30am

Travel to Chengdu

Fly or take a train to Chengdu, the hometown of giant pandas and Sichuan cuisine.
CNY300-600, Varies

12:30pm

Lunch at Chen Mapo Tofu Restaurant

Savor authentic Sichuan flavors like spicy mapo tofu, with less spicy options for kids.
CNY120, 1h

2:00pm

Chengdu Research Base of Giant Panda Breeding

Visit the giant pandas in a naturalistic setting; see baby pandas and learn about conservation efforts. Open 7:30am-6:00pm.
CNY58 (adult), CNY29 (child 12 and under), 3h

5:30pm

Relax at People’s Park and enjoy tea at Heming Teahouse

Experience an authentic Chengdu afternoon tea culture in this laid-back park setting where families can soak up local life.
CNY30 per person for tea, 1h30m

7:30pm

Dinner at Yu’s Family Kitchen

Enjoy an upscale Sichuan dinner with a range of mild to spicy dishes, perfect for families wanting to sample local delicacies comfortably.
CNY200, 1h30m
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Day 7: Chengdu and Leisure

Chengdu, China on July 6, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast at hotel

Fuel up for a day filled with cultural experiences and leisure.
Included, 1h

9:30am

Wuhou Shrine and Jinli Ancient Street

Explore Wuhou Shrine dedicated to famous historical figures, then have fun wandering through lively Jinli street full of crafts, snacks, and entertainment.
CNY60 combined ticket, 3h

12:30pm

Lunch at Jinli Snack Street

Try local snacks like spicy rabbit head, rice cakes, and fruit skewers, suitable for adventurous kids and adults.
CNY80, 1h

2:00pm

Visit Sichuan Opera and Face Changing Show

Watch a famous Sichuan opera performance featuring quick face-changing acts that fascinate children and adults alike; shows usually start around 3:00pm.
CNY120, 1h30m

5:30pm

Return to hotel/relax

Rest or swim at hotel pool to recharge for dinner.
Free, 1h30m

7:30pm

Dinner at Jing Yaa Tang

Dine on modern Sichuan dishes served family-style with options suitable for younger guests.
CNY180, 1h30m
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Day 8: Travel to Guilin

Guilin/Yangshuo, China on July 7, 2025

7:00am

Breakfast at hotel

Start early for your flight or train to Guilin, gateway to stunning karst landscapes.
Included, 1h

9:00am

Travel to Guilin

Fly or train to Guilin; quickest travel with flights taking about 1.5 hours.
CNY300-500, Varies

12:30pm

Lunch at McFound Restaurant

Enjoy hearty western and local dishes perfect for families adjusting to new surroundings.
CNY100, 1h

2:00pm

Reed Flute Cave

Explore spectacular limestone caves illuminated with colorful lights showcasing stunning rock formations; open 8:00am-6:00pm.
CNY90, 1h30m

4:00pm

Elephant Trunk Hill Park

Visit this iconic Guilin landmark shaped like an elephant drinking water, a great photo spot and place for kids to run around.
CNY75, 1h

6:30pm

Dinner at Guilin Rice Noodles Restaurant

Try Guilin’s famous rice noodles with various toppings in a casual setting suitable for families.
CNY50, 1h
Find Hotels in Guilin/Yangshuo

Day 9: Li River Cruise & Yangshuo

Guilin/Yangshuo, China on July 8, 2025

7:30am

Breakfast at hotel

Early breakfast for a scenic day ahead on the Li River.
Included, 1h

8:30am

Li River Cruise to Yangshuo

Take a 4-5 hour cruise downstream along the beautiful Li River, passing breathtaking karst peaks and rural villages - a highlight for all ages.
CNY200 per person, 4h30m

1:30pm

Lunch in Yangshuo at Grandma's Kitchen

Enjoy simple, delicious local food with western options to please kids after the cruise.
CNY100, 1h

3:00pm

Bicycle ride through Yangshuo countryside

Rent bikes and explore peaceful rice paddies and limestone hills; leisurely pace suitable for children.
CNY50 bike rental, 2h

6:00pm

Dinner at The Moon and Sixpence

Relax with a western and Asian fusion dinner with a calm garden setting perfect for families.
CNY150, 1h30m
Find Hotels in Guilin/Yangshuo

Day 10: Yangshuo & Travel to Shanghai

Yangshuo / Shanghai, China on July 9, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast at hotel

Enjoy a relaxed breakfast before your morning activities and departure to Shanghai.
Included, 1h

9:30am

Visit Moon Hill

Hike to the famous natural limestone arch; the climb is manageable and offers spectacular views for the whole family.
CNY40, 2h

12:00pm

Lunch at a local noodle shop

Sample freshly made noodles with mild toppings perfect for children and adults.
CNY50, 1h

1:30pm

Travel to Guilin airport and fly to Shanghai

Fly from Guilin to Shanghai (about 3 hours); afternoon flight allows you to arrive by evening.
CNY500-800, 3h30m

6:30pm

Check-in and rest at Shanghai hotel

Take some time to relax after your travel before dinner.
Free, 1h

7:30pm

Dinner at Din Tai Fung

Famous for Shanghai soup dumplings and family-friendly atmosphere, ideal for a light and delicious dinner.
CNY140, 1h30m
Find Hotels in Yangshuo / Shanghai

Day 11: Modern Shanghai

Shanghai, China on July 10, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast at hotel

Start the day fresh with a hotel breakfast.
Included, 1h

9:00am

Visit the Shanghai Tower

Go up to the observation deck of China’s tallest building for panoramic views of the city, an exciting experience for kids and adults alike. Open 9:00am-9:00pm.
CNY180 (adult), CNY100 (child), 1h30m

11:00am

Explore the Shanghai Science and Technology Museum

Engage in fun, interactive exhibits about science and technology - perfect for children’s curiosity and education. Open 9:00am-5:15pm, closed Mondays.
CNY60, 2h

1:30pm

Lunch at Lost Heaven Yunnan Cuisine

Enjoy flavorful yet not-too-spicy dishes from Yunnan province in a lovely setting suitable for families.
CNY150, 1h

3:00pm

Stroll along The Bund

Walk and admire iconic colonial architecture and river views; spot boats on the Huangpu River and enjoy street performances.
Free, 1h30m

5:00pm

Yu Garden and Bazaar

Explore the classical Chinese garden full of ponds, bridges, and pavilions followed by shopping and snack tasting in the Old City Bazaar.
CNY40 (garden entrance), free Bazaar, 2h

7:30pm

Dinner at Jia Jia Tang Bao

Try Shanghai’s famous soup dumplings again in a casual, quick-service style great for families finishing a long day.
CNY80, 1h
Find Hotels in Shanghai

Day 12: Cultural Shanghai

Shanghai, China on July 11, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast at hotel

Enjoy a relaxed hotel breakfast to start your cultural exploration.
Included, 1h

9:00am

Shanghai Museum

Visit a world-class museum showcasing Chinese art, ceramics, and ancient artifacts. Audio guides are available for families. Open 9:00am-5:00pm, closed Mondays.
Free, 2h

11:30am

People’s Square

Relax in the park or let kids play while soaking up urban life in this central city hub.
Free, 1h

12:30pm

Lunch at Element Fresh

Enjoy fresh, healthy meals including vegetarian options, well appreciated by families with kids.
CNY150, 1h

2:00pm

Shanghai Ocean Aquarium

Discover one of the world’s largest aquariums with spectacular underwater tunnels and diverse marine creatures, thrilling for children. Open 9:00am-5:00pm.
CNY160 (adult), CNY110 (child), 2h

5:00pm

Free time or shopping at Nanjing Road

Enjoy one of China’s most famous shopping streets with department stores and boutiques offering souvenirs and entertainment.
Free, 1h30m

7:00pm

Dinner at Lost Heaven Silk Road

Try more family-friendly Yunnan and Western Chinese dishes in a beautiful setting with attentive service.
CNY180, 1h30m
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Day 13: Leisure & Departure Prep

Shanghai, China on July 12, 2025

8:30am

Breakfast at hotel

Relaxed breakfast on your final full day to recharge.
Included, 1h

10:00am

Take a Huangpu River Cruise

Enjoy scenic boat trip along the Huangpu River to see Shanghai’s skyline from a unique perspective. Cruises run daily, about 1 hour long.
CNY120, 1h

11:30am

Return to hotel and pack

Prepare for your departure the next day and rest after the cruise.
Free, 1h30m

1:00pm

Lunch at hotel or nearby restaurant

Enjoy a convenient and relaxing lunch before optional afternoon activities.
CNY100, 1h

2:30pm

Visit Century Park

Explore Shanghai’s largest park with playgrounds, boat rentals, and open spaces ideal for children to run and play.
CNY10, 2h

6:30pm

Dinner at Lost Heaven Yunnan Cuisine

Have a farewell dinner at this popular spot featuring flavorful dishes in a lovely ambiance.
CNY150, 1h30m
Find Hotels in Shanghai

Day 14: Departure Day

Shanghai, China on July 13, 2025

7:30am

Breakfast at hotel

Enjoy your last breakfast in China and prepare for airport transfer.
Included, 1h

9:00am

Transfer to Shanghai Pudong or Hongqiao Airport

Arrive early for international departure.
CNY150 taxi or arranged transfer, 1h
Find Hotels in Shanghai
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