China is a land of contrasts, where ancient traditions coexist with modern developments. Its cities are bustling metropolises, while its countryside is dotted with picturesque villages and breathtaking natural landscapes. With a rich cultural heritage and a wide variety of things to see and do, China is a destination that offers something for everyone. If you’re planning a one-month trip to China, here’s an itinerary that will help you make the most of your time.
Day 1-5: Beijing Start your adventure 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 6-8: 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 9-12: 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 13-16: 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 17-20: Chengdu Fly 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.
Day 21-24: Yangshuo 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.
Day 25-28: 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.
Day 29-30: Macau 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 provides a great introduction to 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.