21 Days in China
Day 1
Beijing
 
Explore the Forbidden City, where emperors once ruled, and absorb centuries of history as you wander its vast corridors and gardens. Then, visit Tiananmen Square, a place of both reverence and reflection on Chinese history. End the day at the Temple of Heaven, where ancient traditions of prayer and meditation unfold in a peaceful park setting.
Forbidden City
Tiananmen Square
Temple of Heaven
Day 2
Beijing
 
Experience the Great Wall at Badaling, a must-see marvel of ancient engineering, and enjoy panoramic views that sweep across the landscape. The day continues at the Summer Palace, where imperial gardens and tranquil lakes provide a perfect contrast to the city. End by diving into the hutong alleyways of Beijing, engaging with local life while tasting the delightful street food.
Great Wall of China
Summer Palace
Hutong Tour
Day 3
Xi'an
 
Discover the fascinating Terracotta Army, a testament to the ingenuity of ancient China, before cycling along the Ancient City Wall of Xi'an, where history and modernity meet. Conclude with a visit to the Big Wild Goose Pagoda, an icon of the city that highlights its Buddhist history and offers breathtaking views.
Terracotta Army
Ancient City Wall
Big Wild Goose Pagoda
Day 4
Xi'an
 
Start your day exploring the Muslim Quarter, where street food and rich textures of history bring Xi'an's culture to life. Continue to the Shaanxi History Museum, filled with artifacts that span thousands of years, and finish with a climb up the Bell Tower, an iconic structure that illuminates the city’s historical significance.
Muslim Quarter
Shaanxi History Museum
Bell Tower at Xi'an
Day 5
Chengdu
 
Begin in Chengdu with a visit to the giant panda sanctuary, where playful pandas entertain and educate about wildlife conservation. Then wander through Jinli Ancient Street, indulging in local street food and shopping for unique handicrafts. Finally, explore the Wuhou Shrine, a peaceful retreat reflecting on the rich history of the Three Kingdoms era.
Chengdu Research Base of Giant Panda Breeding
Jinli Ancient Street
Wuhou Shrine
Day 6
Chengdu
 
Experience the captivating performances of Sichuan opera, filled with stunning artistry, before exploring Du Fu Thatched Cottage, where tranquility meets poetry. The day concludes at Qingyang Palace, a serene Taoist temple offering a peaceful retreat in the heart of Chengdu.
Sichuan Opera
Du Fu Thatched Cottage
Qingyang Palace
Day 7
Lhasa
 
Begin your exploration of Lhasa at the awe-inspiring Potala Palace, where history and spirituality blend seamlessly. Then visit Jokhang Temple, the spiritual center of Tibetan Buddhism, witnessing the devotion of local pilgrims. Finally, stroll along Barkhor Street, immersing yourself in the vibrant culture and traditions of the Tibetan people.
Potala Palace
Jokhang Temple
Barkhor Street
Day 8
Lhasa
 
Your exploration continues at Norbulingka Palace, a tranquil summer residence rich in Tibetan artistry. Next, delve into the depths of Tibetan Buddhist practice at Drepung Monastery before witnessing the unique culture of Sera Monastery's monks debating philosophy.
Norbulingka Palace
Drepung Monastery
Sera Monastery
Day 9
Guilin
 
Enjoy a picturesque cruise on the Li River, surrounded by breathtaking scenery that has inspired generations of artists. Once in Yangshuo, explore the vibrant culture and local shops of this charming town. Conclude with a visit to the mesmerizing Reed Flute Cave, where stunning rock formations create an otherworldly experience.
Li River Cruise
Reed Flute Cave
Elephant Trunk Hill
Day 10
Guilin
 
Explore the breathtaking Longji Rice Terraces, an agricultural wonder that reflects centuries of tradition. A visit to Seven Star Park beckons with its natural beauty and recreational opportunities, and Fubo Hill rounds out your day with stunning views and a glimpse into the area's ancient culture.
Longji Rice Terraces
Seven Star Park
Fubo Hill
Day 11
Shanghai
 
Discover Shanghai’s iconic Bund, where history and modernity intertwine, before finding tranquility in the classical Yu Garden. End the day at the awe-inspiring Shanghai Tower, soaking in breathtaking views of the sprawling city below.
The Bund
Yu Garden
Shanghai Tower
Day 12
Shanghai
 
Experience the vibrant energy of Nanjing Road, a shopping haven where local culture thrives. Then, explore the artistic charm of Tianzifang, where creativity and local craftsmanship shine through. Conclude at the Oriental Pearl Tower, enjoying breathtaking views and insights into Shanghai’s dynamic heritage.
Nanjing Road
Tianzifang
Oriental Pearl Tower
Day 13
Suzhou
 
Discover the serenity of the Humble Administrator's Garden, where nature and architecture perfectly blend. Then, visit Tiger Hill, home to the famous leaning pagoda, and soak in historical tales and stunning views. Conclude at the Suzhou Museum, where modern design meets ancient heritage.
The Humble Administrator's Garden
Tiger Hill
Suzhou Museum
Day 14
Suzhou
 
Start your day at Pingjiang Road, where historical charm meets local flavor, followed by a tour of the Lingering Garden, a classic example of Chinese landscape design. End with a visit to the serene Hanshan Temple, where spiritual tranquility enhances the overall experience.
Pingjiang Road
Lingering Garden
Hanshan Temple
Day 15
Hangzhou
 
Explore the stunning West Lake, letting its serene beauty wash over you during a leisurely boat ride. Visit the historic Lingyin Temple, a sanctuary of peace and spirituality. Finally, experience the lively Hefang Street, immersing yourself in local culture and craft.
West Lake
Lingyin Temple
Hefang Street
Day 16
Hangzhou
 
Start your day's adventure at the Six Harmonies Pagoda for breathtaking river views, then visit the Longjing Tea Plantation to learn about tea production and enjoy tastings. Conclude with exploration at the China National Tea Museum, delving into the rich cultural history of tea.
Six Harmonies Pagoda
Longjing Tea Plantation
China National Tea Museum
Day 17
Huangshan
 
Discover the breathtaking Yellow Mountain, where stunning vistas and unique granite peaks await. Afterward, explore the enchanting Hongcun Ancient Village, filled with rich architecture and local charm, before visiting Xidi, where traditional village life unfolds.
Yellow Mountain (Huangshan)
Hongcun Ancient Village
Xidi Ancient Village
Day 18
Huangshan
 
Experience the vibrant atmosphere of Tunxi Ancient Street, where history meets local culture, before exploring Huizhou Ancient City, rich in traditional architecture. The day concludes in Chengkan Village, showcasing the harmonious relationship between ancient practices and the surrounding nature.
Tunxi Ancient Street
Huizhou Ancient City
Chengkan Village
Day 19
Beijing
 
Begin your day at the Buddhist Lama Temple, immersing in spiritual serenity and stunning architectural details. Next, explore the creative vibe of the 798 Art Zone, where contemporary art thrives amidst historical surroundings. End the day at the impressive Bird's Nest stadium, a symbol of modern China and Olympic legacy.
Lama Temple
798 Art Zone
Beijing National Stadium (Bird's Nest)
Day 20
Beijing
 
Discover Beijing's fascinating past at the Capital Museum, exploring a range of artifacts that tell the story of the city. Then, visit the Beijing Zoo, where giant pandas and other wildlife offer educational insights. End with a tour of the National Museum of China, absorbing the vast historical and cultural heritage on display.
Capital Museum
Beijing Zoo
National Museum of China
Day 21
Beijing
 
Explore bustling Wangfujing Street, where shopping and delicious street food abound. Next, visit the Beijing Ancient Observatory for a look at the historic instruments of astronomy. Conclude your journey at Beijing World Park, with its delightful miniature replicas of global landmarks, wrapping up your diverse experiences in China.
Wangfujing Street
Beijing Ancient Observatory
Beijing World Park