China is a vast and diverse country with a rich history and culture. From the bustling cities to the tranquil countryside, there is something for everyone to enjoy. If you have three weeks to explore this amazing country, here is a suggested itinerary to help you make the most of your time.
Day 1-4: 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 5-7: Xi’an
Next, head 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 8-10: Guilin
From Xi’an, take a train to Guilin, a city famous for its breathtaking natural beauty. The limestone karst mountains that surround the city are simply stunning, and the Li River is one of the most picturesque in China. Take a leisurely boat trip along the river to see the karst mountains up close and enjoy the tranquil rural scenery.
Day 11-14: Shanghai
After a few days in Guilin, 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.
Day 15-18: Suzhou
From Shanghai, take a train to Suzhou, a city famous for its beautiful gardens and canals. Suzhou is considered the “Venice of the East” and is a great place to relax and unwind after the hustle and bustle of Shanghai. Take a boat trip along the canals to see the city’s famous gardens, such as the Humble Administrator’s Garden, which is considered one of the most beautiful gardens in China.
Day 19-21: Hangzhou
Finally, end your trip in Hangzhou, a city that is famous for its natural beauty and tranquil atmosphere. Hangzhou is situated in the foothills of the Tianmu Mountains and is home to the famous West Lake, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Take a boat trip on the lake, or take a hike in the surrounding hills. Hangzhou is also famous for its tea, so be sure to visit one of the many tea houses in the city.
China is a vast and diverse country with so much to see and do. This itinerary is just a suggestion, and there are many other places you can visit depending on your interests. We hope this itinerary helps you plan your trip and enjoy the best that China has to offer.