China is a vast and diverse country with a rich history and culture. Unfortunately, not everyone has the luxury of spending weeks or months exploring this beautiful country. If you have only 5 days to spare, here is a suggested itinerary that will help you make the most of your time.
Day 1-2: Beijing
Start your journey in the capital city of Beijing. This ancient city is home to many historic sites, including the Forbidden City, the Temple of Heaven, and the Summer Palace. Take a leisurely stroll along the ancient city walls or take a bike tour to see the city from a different perspective. Be sure to visit the iconic Tiananmen Square, where you can catch a glimpse of the famous portrait of Chairman Mao. For those interested in history, the National Museum of China is a must-see, with a collection of over 1.05 million artifacts.
Day 3: Xi’an
From Beijing, take a train to Xi’an, the ancient capital of China. This city is home to the famous Terracotta Warriors, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and one of China’s most popular tourist attractions. This vast underground army of thousands of life-size figures was buried with the first emperor of China in 210-209 BCE. The museum is huge, so be sure to give yourself plenty of time to explore.
Day 4-5: Shanghai
After Xi’an, take a train to Shanghai, China’s most cosmopolitan city. This city is a perfect blend of the old and the new. Visit the Bund, a famous waterfront area with a great view of the city, and the Yuyuan Garden, one of the most famous classical gardens in China. Take a stroll along the famous Nanjing Road, the city’s main shopping street, or explore the French Concession, a charming area of the city with a distinct European feel.
In just five days, you will experience some of China’s most iconic destinations. Though this itinerary doesn’t allow for much leisure time, it will give you a taste of what China has to offer. Remember, this is just a suggested itinerary, and you can always add or remove places based on your interests and preferences.