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 two-week trip to China, here’s an itinerary that will help you make the most of your time.
Day 1-3: Beijing 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. Next, 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.
Day 4-5: Xian Fly to Xian, the ancient capital of China, where you’ll find some of the country’s most important historical sites. Visit the Terracotta Warriors, a collection of thousands of life-sized statues that were buried with the first emperor of China to protect him in the afterlife. Xian is also home to the ancient city walls, which offer great views of the city.
Day 6-7: Shanghai 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.
Day 8-9: Suzhou Take a train to Suzhou, a city in eastern China that is known for its beautiful gardens and traditional architecture. Visit the Humble Administrator’s Garden, a UNESCO World Heritage Site that is considered one of the most beautiful gardens in China. Take a stroll along the ancient canals, which offer a glimpse into the city’s past.
Day 10-11: Hangzhou Take a train to Hangzhou, a city in eastern China that is known for its natural beauty and rich cultural heritage. Visit the West Lake, a UNESCO World Heritage Site that is surrounded by beautiful gardens, temples, and pagodas. Take a boat ride on the lake and admire the views.
Day 12-13: Guilin Take a flight 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.
Day 14: Hong Kong 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.
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 the natural beauty of Guilin and Hangzhou. 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.