The Ultimate 10-Day China Itinerary: An Unforgettable Journey

Picture yourself hiking the Great Wall at dawn, sipping tea with locals in a remote village, or wandering through futuristic skyscrapers in Shanghai. China, a land where ancient traditions meet cutting-edge modernity, is a world unto itself. This 10-day itinerary promises not only to highlight the must-see sites but also to immerse you in experiences that travelers often overlook.

Day 1-2: Beijing – The Heart of China

Beijing, the capital of China, serves as the perfect gateway into this vast country. Start your journey with the Forbidden City, an awe-inspiring display of Chinese imperial power. The sprawling palace complex houses over 980 buildings, giving you a glimpse into the grandeur of the Ming and Qing Dynasties.

• Don’t miss: Tiananmen Square, one of the largest public squares in the world. It is a place steeped in history, from Mao's founding speech of the People's Republic of China to the student protests of 1989.
• Afterward, head to the Temple of Heaven, where emperors once prayed for good harvests. The surrounding park is full of locals practicing tai chi, flying kites, and engaging in lively conversations.

The Great Wall at Mutianyu

Start Day 2 early by visiting the Great Wall at Mutianyu, a less crowded section compared to Badaling. The views here are simply breathtaking, with the wall snaking along the mountainous terrain for as far as the eye can see. Make sure to hike a few sections to appreciate the architectural marvel that the wall represents. The hike can be a challenge, but the panoramic views will make it worth the effort.

Day 3-4: Xi’an – The City of Eternal Peace

Catch a high-speed train or short flight to Xi'an, one of China’s oldest cities and the start of the ancient Silk Road. Your first stop should be the Terracotta Warriors, a collection of over 8,000 life-size soldiers and horses buried with Emperor Qin Shi Huang. Each warrior has a unique facial expression, and the attention to detail is astonishing.

• Explore: The Ancient City Wall, one of the few fully intact city walls left in China. Renting a bike and cycling along the top of the wall is a fantastic way to see the city from a unique vantage point.
• Visit the Muslim Quarter: This bustling area is filled with food stalls offering local delicacies such as lamb skewers, biang biang noodles, and various sweet treats.

Day 5-6: Chengdu – Pandas and Spice

Chengdu, the capital of Sichuan Province, is known for two things: pandas and spicy food. Your first stop should be the Chengdu Research Base of Giant Panda Breeding, where you can see these adorable creatures lounging, playing, and munching on bamboo.

• Afterward, dive into Sichuan cuisine at a local hotpot restaurant. The fiery, numbing sensation of Sichuan peppercorns combined with the deep flavors of the broth will leave a lasting impression on your taste buds.
• Visit the Wuhou Shrine: This temple is dedicated to Zhuge Liang, a famous strategist from the Three Kingdoms period. The surrounding gardens offer a peaceful escape from the bustling city.

Day 7: Guilin – A Scenic Wonderland

Fly to Guilin, known for its dramatic karst mountains and river landscapes. One of the best ways to experience this natural beauty is by taking a Li River cruise to Yangshuo. The cruise winds through some of the most picturesque scenery in China, with limestone peaks rising dramatically from the water.

• When you arrive in Yangshuo, rent a bike and explore the countryside at your own pace. The area is dotted with small villages, rice paddies, and ancient temples, making it a perfect place to get off the beaten path and experience rural China.

Day 8: Yangshuo – Escape to Nature

Yangshuo offers countless opportunities for outdoor adventure. Go rock climbing on one of the area's famous karst peaks or take a bamboo raft down the Yulong River. Unlike the more popular Li River, the Yulong offers a quieter, more serene experience.

• For something less strenuous, consider a calligraphy class or a cooking class where you can learn how to make traditional dishes like dumplings or stir-fried vegetables.

Day 9-10: Shanghai – The Future is Now

Wrap up your trip in Shanghai, a city that embodies modern China’s rapid development. Start with a visit to The Bund, where the contrast between colonial-era buildings and the futuristic skyline of Pudong is most apparent.

• Explore the French Concession, a trendy district filled with boutiques, cafes, and art galleries. The tree-lined streets and European architecture make it a unique area of the city.
• Don’t miss: The Shanghai Tower, the second tallest building in the world. For a thrilling end to your journey, head to the observation deck and take in the view from 632 meters above the city.

A Journey of Contrasts

What makes this 10-day China itinerary truly unforgettable is the stunning contrast between ancient and modern, urban and rural, fast-paced and serene. One day you’re cycling along the ancient walls of Xi’an, and the next you’re gazing at Shanghai’s futuristic skyline. The itinerary covers all the major highlights, but it also allows time to discover hidden gems, interact with locals, and delve deeper into Chinese culture.

Whether it's the silent grandeur of the Terracotta Army, the breathtaking views from the Great Wall, or the chaos of a Sichuan hotpot meal, this journey will leave you with memories that last a lifetime.

If you’re ready for a culturally rich, visually stunning, and gastronomically exciting adventure, this 10-day itinerary will not disappoint. From pandas to skyscrapers, ancient relics to modern art, China has it all—and more.