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China is an enormous nation, and with solely two weeks, it may be laborious to know the place to begin when planning your China itinerary.
Many guests cease by the principle cities: Beijing, Shanghai, and perhaps Xi’an, with a couple of alternatives to get off the overwhelmed path and to expertise the attractive nature of China.
After 5 years of residing in China, I’ve had loads of expertise planning itineraries and displaying my family and friends round. As we speak I’m going to share with you the right two week itinerary for China.
The two week China itinerary I’ve put collectively will present you a number of the greatest issues to do in mainland China and enable you discover the key sights, whereas additionally spending a while on the Tibetan Plateau.
Let’s have a look!
2 Week China Itinerary
So, the place to go in China? For those who solely have two weeks at your disposal, you’re going to must be comfortable with lacking out on a couple of locations.
You will note probably the most iconic cities reminiscent of Beijing and Shanghai, in addition to go to some bucket checklist locations such because the Nice Wall of China, however you’ll have to save lots of Hong Kong and the southern provinces of China for one more journey – there merely isn’t sufficient time.
Under is the final 14 day China itinerary for individuals who wish to get off the overwhelmed path and see a number of the greatest locations to go to in China.
Days 1-3: Beijing
It’s not a visit to China with out stopping by the capital metropolis of Beijing.
After a strong two-years of residing in Beijing, I is perhaps a bit biased, however there are such a lot of unbelievable issues to do on this metropolis.
From mountaineering the Nice Wall of China to wandering the Forbidden Metropolis, and exploring Beijing’s hutongs, you might spend your full two-weeks right here and never see all the things.
Hike the Nice Wall
I’m a little bit of a Nice Wall of China fanatic, and I’ve hiked NINE totally different sections of the wall. (Yeah, I do know I’m a bit obsessed.)
If you wish to see the Nice Wall the best manner, my greatest recommendation is to get off the overwhelmed path and go to the Wild Wall, a piece of the wall not formally open to vacationers.
Both that, or go to part of the nice wall that’s tourist-friendly, however un-restored. Take a look at a piece like Huanghuacheng, Gubeikou, or Jinshanling.
No matter you do, I positively suggest skipping Badaling, probably the most well-known and touristy part of the Nice Wall.
In order for you a piece that’s straightforward to go to, take a public bus to Mutianyu as a substitute. When you gained’t have the wall all to your self, you’ll keep away from the crowds and have unbelievable views!
Wander the Hutongs
I’m in love with Beijing’s hutongs, a community of conventional alleyway streets and courtyard homes that used to cowl all of Beijing.
I’ve proven so many individuals across the hutongs that I’ve developed my very own little hutong-day tour route that covers the Lama Temple, Wudaoying Hutong, the Bell and Drum Towers, and Houhai Lake.
However for my part, one of the best ways to go to the hutongs is to easily get misplaced in your manner from A to B.
I additionally suggest taking a tour of the hutongs to study extra about Beijing’s tradition and historical past.
Viator, a Journey Advisor firm, has a hutong and meals tour.
Tiananmen Sq., Forbidden Metropolis, and Jingshan Park
You may’t go to Beijing with out seeing the enduring Tiananmen Sq. with the large Mao Portrait excessive of the doorway to the Forbidden Metropolis.
Spend about 30-minutes wandering round Tiananmen Sq., then head into the Forbidden Metropolis, the place you may probe for about 2 hours.
The Forbidden Metropolis is GIANT, and you might simply spend all day there, however for me and most of my household and buddies, two hours is simply sufficient to see all the important sights with out getting overwhelmed.
When you’re completed with the Forbidden Metropolis, head to Jingshan Park, the place you may catch a view of the Forbidden Metropolis (and the remainder of Beijing) from above!
In case you have extra time, then remember to make a journey out to see the Summer season Palace for a quiet retreat from the capital.
For those who don’t wish to do it by yourself, listed below are a couple of tour choices for you. Click on every hyperlink to see extra particulars together with value, availability and evaluations.
The place to remain in Beijing
- For sightseers, the realm east of the Forbidden Metropolis is filled with low cost lodging.
- For hostels, there’s the properly situated YHA Peking Worldwide Youth Hostel.
- For a finances resort, buddies have loved the trendy Lodge Kapok, once more proper subsequent to the Forbidden Metropolis.
- A few blocks east you come to Wangfujing the place the high-end accommodations are clustered.
- The Mandarin Oriental is a private favorite, and towers over DongHuaMen evening market (as a consequence of reopen n 2016). Alternatively, search for a family-run conventional courtyard resort in the identical space.
- For those who’re going to be spending each evening within the bars, it might be extra handy to be over by Sanlitun, the place you’ll discover a lot of the expats and backpackers hanging out in Bar Avenue.
Days 4-6: Xi’an
Xi’an is one among my favourite cities in all of China.
This historic capital is a must-see in your China itinerary and may be very straightforward to get to from Beijing. Whereas it’s tempting to take a fast flight, I really suggest using the 4.5 hour high-speed prepare as a substitute.
When you consider arriving on the airport 2 hours early, and the way far the airports are from each cities (and the truth that Chinese language flights are at all times delayed), the prepare finally ends up being each sooner and cheaper than flying!
Bike the Xi’an Metropolis Wall
Biking across the historic metropolis wall is a should in your journey to Xi’an.
You may lease bikes at lots of the important gates on the wall, however personally, I like to recommend beginning on the South Gate.
A motorbike journey across the wall can take wherever from 1-2 hours relying on how usually you cease for images. Not solely will you get to discover this historic website by bike, you’ll have a view of all of downtown Xi’an from the wall!
When you get off the wall I positively suggest exploring the artwork and caligraphy district close to the South Gate.
There are such a lot of outlets and souvenirs within the space, and it’s a ravishing neighborhood to {photograph}.
Discover the Huiminjie Muslim Market
One of the best time to go to the Muslim Market is simply earlier than dinner.
Eat your coronary heart out on the many meals stalls, and wander by way of the memento space to discount for issues to take dwelling.
When you’re right here, remember to strive native lamb kebabs and liangpi noodles!
Terracotta Military
You may’t go all the best way to Xi’an with out taking a day-trip to the Terracotta Warriors – plan time for it in your China itinerary.
This historic military dates again to the primary emperor of China, Qin Shihuang, and is China’s equal to the pyramids.
Right here you may see row upon row of life-size terracotta warriors in large pits.
Altogether, with the bus experience and visiting the positioning, you’ll wish to finances your morning and afternoon for this day-trip.
See all of the tour choices and availability for the Terracotta Warriors right here.
Hua Shan
For those who can handle to squeeze in a day-trip to Hua Shan, then I 100% suggest it!
Take a harrowing cable automobile up the aspect of the mountain, to embark on the “world’s most harmful” hike.
Right here you’ll find the notorious Hua Shan plank stroll, the place you’ll strap your self right into a harness and stroll alongside a plank embedded into the aspect of a cliff.
The view down is sufficient to make your coronary heart beat out of your chest, it’s one of many craziest issues to do in China, however the expertise is value it!
The place to remain in Xi’an
- The extremely rated Jap Home Boutique Lodge affords oriental-style guestrooms in Xi’an downtown, round a 5-minute stroll from Xi’an Metropolis Wall. See charges and availability.
- Hantang Inn Hostel Xi’an is situated within the middle of Xi’an. It combines Chinese language and Western designs. See charges and availability.
- Positioned apart from Tang Paradise, a 9-minute drive from Big Wild Goose Pagoda, Gran Melia Xian affords lodging in Xi’an, that includes personal gardens, a lake and a global model shopping center, indoor pool and spa middle. See charges and availability.
Day 7-8: Jiuzhaigou and Huanglong
Jiuzhaigou in northern Sichuan province is among the most lovely locations I’ve ever been, and among the best locations to go to in China.
Hike all day by way of crystal-clear lakes and rivers that replicate the intense blue sky.
Right here you’ll be capable of see all the best way right down to the underside of every lake, and seize pictures most individuals might solely dream of.
The subsequent morning head to Huanglong, which is understood for its colourful calcite deposit swimming pools. These sky-blue mushroom-cloud swimming pools make it apparent why many Chinese language individuals name Huanglong a “fairyland”.
The place to remain in Jiuzhaigou
- Positioned close to the Jiuzhaigou Nature Reserve, InterContinental Resort Jiuzhai Paradise is about 35 minutes’ drive from Jiuzhaigou Valley Nationwide Park, a UNESCO World Heritage website. See charges and availability.
- Jiuzhai morning resort is a ten minute stroll from the doorway to Jiuzhaigou. See charges and availability.
- Positioned in Jiuzhaigou, Rissai Valley, the extra lux Ritz-Carlton Reserve encompasses a backyard, terrace, bar, and free WiFi all through the property. See charges and availability.
Day 9: Horse trek in Songpan
For those who love using horses, you’ll positively wish to put this in your China itinerary and take a one-day horse trek on the Tibetan plateau.
The lovable mountain city of Songpan, simply close to Jiuzhaigou, is dwelling to day and in a single day journeys on horseback.
Journey with a neighborhood Tibetan information, and discover components of China that almost all vacationers won’t ever see.
Day 10-12: Chengdu
After a fast flight or a 4-6 hour bus experience right down to Chengdu, you’re going to wish to spend the afternoon exploring the attractive gardens and teahouses on this scenic metropolis.
To your first night, I additionally extremely suggest going for decent pot, a well-known consuming expertise from Sichuan and Chongqing.
Don’t fear, they’ve non-spicy broth for individuals who can’t deal with the warmth!
Leshan Buddha day journey
When in Chengdu, you’ll must make a journey to the Leshan Buddha, the biggest carved stone Buddha on the earth.
You may simply hop on a day journey out of your resort, or take one of many many vacationer buses there and again.
This Buddha is certainly well worth the two-hour journey to see its large scale. I’m in regards to the measurement of one among his smaller toes!
The Panda Reserve
For those who go to Chengdu, you positively can’t miss the Panda Reserve, it’s among the best issues to see in China.
You should definitely head there within the morning, when the large pandas are most energetic. Catch them consuming bamboo, taking part in with each other, and sleeping in timber. Who knew little pandas like to sleep in timber?
You’ll additionally want to go to the infant space, the place they’ve the youngest pandas taking part in with toys and rolling round.
Belief me, the Panda Reserve will certainly be a spotlight of your journey. You may take a personal tour right here.
The place to remain in Chengdu
- Ascott Raffles Metropolis Chengdu affords luxurious residences with free Wi-Fi all through the property. The residences all characteristic upscale facilities and a few models are totally geared up kitchen. See charges and availability.
- Positioned alongside the historic Qintai Path, Chengdu Wenjun Mansion Lodge (Kuanzhai Xiangzi Department) is adorned in a conventional Chinese language fashion, a 5-minute stroll from Tonghuimen Subway Station (Line 2). See charges and availability.
- Set in Chengdu, ideally situated subsequent to Jinjiang River, Shangri-La Chengdu affords well-equipped visitor rooms with beautiful metropolis views, elegant eating places and an expensive ballroom. See charges and availability.
Day 13: Beijing
To your final day in Beijing, I like to recommend visiting the Temple of Heaven, my favourite imperial website within the nation and one of many high China vacationer sights. You may take a guided tour right here if you wish to go deeper into the historical past of this fascinating UNESCO World Heritage website.
Afterwards, you may head over to the Pearl Market, one among my favourite bargaining markets in Beijing.
Replenish on sun shades, electronics, silk, pearls, and a brand new suitcase to get all your buying dwelling!
I do know what you’re most likely considering. Wait… no Shanghai on this checklist of locations to go in China?!
Personally, I’m not an enormous fan of Shanghai as a vacationer metropolis.
My resolution to skip it is perhaps fairly controversial, however I actually assume there’s way more to do and see for a traveler in Beijing, than in Shanghai.
Apart from, it’s at all times less expensive to get a round-trip flight out and in of the identical metropolis.
Nevertheless, if you happen to actually wish to go to Shanghai earlier than you permit, I’ve an optionally available Shanghai ending on this itinerary as properly.
Simply have in mind, you’ll solely wish to head to Shanghai if you happen to can really sightsee on day 14, as a substitute of utilizing day 14 to fly dwelling.
Day 13-14: Shanghai
For those who actually wish to spend a while in Shanghai, be sure you have two full days on the finish of your journey to China to provide this mega metropolis justice.
After all, you’ll must see the Bund.
Chances are you’ll wish to cease by a couple of different well-known websites just like the Yu Yuan Gardens and surrounding space, Jing’an Temple, and the French Concession.
I additionally extremely suggest slurping on a plate of soup dumplings whereas in Shanghai.
Many individuals say that the most effective soup dumpling place is simply exterior the Yu Yuan Gardens (you’ll discover the road with out even making an attempt), however personally, I like to recommend going to a small native place exterior of a touristy space to get an genuine expertise.
Lastly, if you would like an important view of the town you may go up in one among Shanghai’s iconic buildings.
I’ve solely been up within the JinMao Tower, however I’m dying to go to the Shanghai World Monetary Heart as a result of they’ve a glass-bottom flooring!
From both of those skyscrapers, you may see all the surrounding metropolis, and the world-famous Pearl Tower proper subsequent door.
The place to remain in Shanghai
- For those who’re on a finances, I like to recommend the Shanghai Hidden Backyard Hostel. The placement in Pudong is correct the place all the things is going on, in addition to being reverse the Bund.
- On the excessive finish, the Langham Lodge in Xintiandi is a superb alternative. Their service is nice and they’re proper by all the great buying and eating venues.
Getting Round China
Navigating China can really feel overwhelming, but it surely’s fairly straightforward to get from place to position.
One of the best ways to get round China is by China’s in depth high-speed prepare community, connecting main cities with consolation and comfort. 12Go is an effective useful resource for ticketed journey in China.
For shorter distances inside cities, you’ll find small native buses, or inside cities, there may be often a metro. Taxis are plentiful and low cost, although the drivers hardly ever converse English.
Alternatively, hail a “Didi,” China’s reply to Uber.
Suggestions for Visiting China
Earlier than you begin reserving sights and accommodations, right here are some things you’ll want to know earlier than you go…
- Get a VPN! China is legendary for having the Nice Firewall over the nation, which suggests social media apps reminiscent of Whatsapp, Fb and Instagram are blocked, in addition to most Google merchandise – Google Maps, Google Translate, Gmail…all the things. You’ll wrestle to make use of the web and not using a VPN.
- Get prepare tickets upfront. There’s often an extended line for tickets on the station and when touring between cities, good seats get booked up upfront.
- Plan to go to in April or October, these are the quieter months and have good climate.
- Be ready for the language barrier. Have necessary addresses written down in Chinese language characters to point out taxi drivers or ask for instructions.
- Carry your individual necessities. Gadgets like bathroom paper, napkins, and hand sanitizer might not at all times be available, so it’s clever to have them available.
- Be ready for the squatty potty.
- You can even get actually low cost eSims from Airalo. You may set it up so it’s able to go as quickly as you arrive. That manner you don’t have to fret about discovering a neighborhood sim card. See costs and availability right here.
Remaining Ideas
Clearly, with a rustic as giant as China, there are such a lot of choices for the place you must spend your two weeks.
For those who want nature, substitute Sichuan with per week in Yunnan and expertise the Longji Rice Terraces or hike the Tiger Leaping Gorge, one of many world’s deepest gorges identified for its unbelievable mountain views and scenes of the Yangtze River.
Or finish your journey in Guilin and Yangshuo, the place you may merely lease a motorcycle and cycle by way of the countryside.
There are far too many unbelievable locations to go to in China, and the unlucky actuality is that it’s not possible to see all the things in a couple of months, not to mention two weeks!
Nevertheless, this China itinerary will create an unbelievable journey round China and is designed to provide you an important introductory go to.
You’ll get a peek at China’s politics, historical past, tradition, pandas, cuisines, and pure magnificence.
You’ll discover the most important cities, and smallest countryside cities, all whereas following a schedule that offers you time to understand every place.
Touring to China may be daunting, and whereas there is no such thing as a such factor as an ideal two week China Itinerary, for my part, this one is as shut because it will get!
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I hope this two-week China itinerary helps you propose your individual China journey. In case you have any China journey suggestions, please share within the feedback.
Supply: Breaking Travel News
