One Week Itinerary for China: Explore the Highlights in 7 Days

Upon arriving in Beijing, the capital city of China, you’ll be greeted by a blend of ancient history and modernity. Start your day with a visit to the Forbidden City, a UNESCO World Heritage Site that was once the imperial palace of the Ming and Qing dynasties. Wander through its expansive courtyards and beautifully preserved buildings to get a sense of China's royal past.

In the afternoon, head to the Tiananmen Square, one of the largest public squares in the world. Here, you can see significant landmarks like the Mao Zedong Memorial Hall and the National Museum of China. Enjoy a stroll through the square and take in its historical importance.

For dinner, visit a local restaurant to taste Peking Duck, a dish famous for its crispy skin and tender meat. Beijing offers a range of dining options, so you might also explore local eateries to experience traditional Chinese cuisine.

Day 2: Exploring Beijing

Begin your day with a visit to the Great Wall of China at Mutianyu. This section of the wall is less crowded than Badaling and offers stunning views of the surrounding mountains. You can hike along the wall or take a cable car to appreciate the sheer magnitude of this ancient structure.

In the afternoon, visit the Temple of Heaven, another UNESCO World Heritage Site known for its impressive architecture and historical significance. The temple complex is a great place to learn about ancient Chinese cosmology and imperial ceremonies.

End your day with a visit to the Summer Palace, a sprawling garden and palace complex that served as a retreat for the emperors. Enjoy a boat ride on Kunming Lake or take a walk through the beautifully landscaped gardens.

Day 3: Travel to Xi’an

Take a high-speed train or flight to Xi’an, the starting point of the Silk Road and home to the famous Terracotta Army. Upon arrival, check into your hotel and head to the Ancient City Wall. You can walk or rent a bike to cycle around this well-preserved fortification and get a panoramic view of the city.

In the evening, explore the Muslim Quarter to experience Xi’an’s vibrant street food scene. Try local delicacies such as biangbiang noodles and yangrou paomo (a type of bread and lamb stew).

Day 4: Terracotta Warriors and Big Wild Goose Pagoda

Dedicate your morning to visiting the Terracotta Army. Located about 45 kilometers from Xi’an, this archaeological site features thousands of life-sized clay soldiers, horses, and chariots buried with the first Emperor of China, Qin Shi Huang. The sheer scale and detail of the figures are truly awe-inspiring.

In the afternoon, visit the Big Wild Goose Pagoda, an ancient Buddhist temple that played a key role in the transmission of Buddhist scriptures to China. The pagoda offers fantastic views of Xi’an and a peaceful atmosphere for reflection.

Day 5: Travel to Chengdu

Fly or take a train to Chengdu, the capital of Sichuan Province. Chengdu is famous for its giant pandas and spicy cuisine. After arriving, visit the Chengdu Research Base of Giant Panda Breeding to see these adorable animals up close and learn about conservation efforts.

In the evening, explore the Jinli Ancient Street, known for its traditional architecture, vibrant atmosphere, and local snacks. Enjoy Sichuan hotpot or other regional dishes that are renowned for their bold flavors.

Day 6: Leshan Giant Buddha and Mount Emei

Take a day trip to Leshan to see the Leshan Giant Buddha, the largest stone Buddha statue in the world. Carved into a cliff face, this impressive figure stands over 70 meters tall and offers a stunning view from both the river and the observation points.

In the afternoon, travel to Mount Emei, one of the Four Sacred Buddhist Mountains of China. Explore its temples, monasteries, and scenic trails. The mountain is known for its natural beauty and spiritual significance.

Return to Chengdu in the evening and enjoy a relaxing dinner in one of the city's many restaurants.

Day 7: Departure from Chengdu

On your final day, take some time to explore any remaining sights in Chengdu or do some last-minute shopping. Visit the Wuhou Shrine, dedicated to the legendary Three Kingdoms period, or enjoy a relaxing stroll in People’s Park.

Before you depart, savor a final meal of Sichuan cuisine or take a moment to reflect on your travels. Make sure to arrive at the airport or train station with plenty of time to spare for your departure.

2222:This one-week itinerary offers a comprehensive tour of China’s highlights, including major cities and historical sites. It balances cultural exploration with local experiences, ensuring an enriching and memorable trip.