China is a vast and diverse country that offers a wealth of experiences for travelers. From ancient temples and historical sites to bustling cities and stunning natural landscapes, there is something for everyone in China. If you’re planning a three-week trip to China, here’s an itinerary that will help you make the most of your time.
Week 1: Beijing, Xian, and Guilin Start your journey in Beijing, the capital of China and one of the most historically and culturally rich cities in the world. Begin by visiting the iconic Forbidden City, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and the former imperial palace of the Ming and Qing dynasties. Take a stroll along the ancient hutongs, traditional alleyways that offer a glimpse into the city’s past. Don’t miss the Temple of Heaven, a complex of religious buildings where emperors of the Ming and Qing dynasties would offer sacrifices to the gods. After Beijing, fly to Xian, the ancient capital of China, where you’ll find some of the country’s most important historical sites such as the Terracotta Warriors and the ancient city walls. From Xian, fly to Guilin, a beautiful city in southern China known for its karst landscapes and scenic rivers. Take a cruise along the Li River and admire the towering limestone peaks that rise up from the water. Visit the Reed Flute Cave, a limestone cave filled with colorful rock formations and stalactites.
Week 2: Chengdu, Yangshuo and Hong Kong Take a flight to Chengdu, a city in southwestern China that is known for its relaxed atmosphere and delicious food. Take a trip to the Chengdu Research Base of Giant Panda Breeding, where you can see giant pandas up close. Visit the Wenshu Monastery, the oldest and largest Buddhist temple in the city. From Chengdu, take a train to Yangshuo, a small town in southern China that is surrounded by stunning karst landscapes. Take a bike ride through the countryside and admire the limestone peaks that rise up from the rice paddies. Visit the Moon Hill, a natural arch that offers great views of the surrounding area. Finally, take a flight to Hong Kong, a special administrative region of China that is known for its bustling city life and vibrant culture. Visit Victoria Peak, which offers great views of the city. Take a trip to the Big Buddha, a bronze statue of the Buddha that sits on top of Lantau Island.
Week 3: Shanghai and Macau Fly to Shanghai, the largest city in China and a major center of finance and culture. Take a walk along the Bund, a promenade that offers great views of the city’s skyline. Visit the Shanghai Museum, which has an extensive collection of Chinese art and artifacts. Finally, take a ferry to Macau, a former Portuguese colony that is now a special administrative region of China. Visit the ruins of St. Paul’s, a 17th-century church that is now a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Take a walk along the Senado Square, a paved square lined with colonial-style buildings.
This itinerary is a great way to experience some of the most interesting and diverse places in China, from the ancient city of Xian to the modern metropolis of Shanghai, and from the scenic landscapes of Guilin and Yangshuo to the cultural melting pot of Hong Kong and Macau. Of course, there are many more places to explore in China, and this itinerary is just a starting point. Feel free to adjust it to suit your interests and budget. No matter what you choose to do and see, China is sure to leave a lasting impression on you.
The itinerary is a combination of culture, history, nature, urban and modern lifestyle all in one. Each destination offers a unique experience, from the historic and cultural sites in Beijing and Xian, to the natural beauty of Guilin and Yangshuo, the vibrant and fast-paced lifestyle of Shanghai and Hong Kong, and the fusion of East and West in Macau. The itinerary is designed to be flexible, allowing for adjustments and additions to suit your interests and preferences.
When planning your trip, be sure to take into account the time of year you plan to visit as well as the climate of each destination. Some places may be more pleasant to visit during certain seasons, and it’s always good to be prepared for the weather. Additionally, it’s also important to note that China is a large country and traveling between destinations can take a significant amount of time, so be sure to factor in travel time when planning your itinerary.
Overall, this itinerary is a perfect blend of culture, history and natural beauty that China has to offer, it offers a chance to immerse yourself in the country’s rich heritage and diverse landscape, making it a journey that you will never forget.