Top 10-Day China Itineraries
Let’s be real: planning a trip to China is wild. The country’s huge, the choices are endless, and the FOMO is real. So if you’ve got just 10 days and want to make every moment count, you’re in the right place. I’ve pulled together the most-loved China itineraries based on research, trends, and what travelers keep raving about, so you can skip the hours of Googling and get straight to the good stuff.
Whether you’re into ancient wonders, epic landscapes, or just want to try every dumpling you see, there’s a route here for you.
1. Classic China Highlights: Beijing, Xi’an & Shanghai
This is the crowd-pleaser. If you’re new to China, this “golden triangle” is a sure bet:
- Beijing
- The Great Wall (can’t-miss, trust me)
- Forbidden City (Palace Museum)
- Summer Palace
- Xi’an
- Shanghai
You get history, culture, and that wild Shanghai energy, all in one trip.
2. Yunnan Adventure
Love nature? Crave something less touristy? Yunnan’s your jam.
- Kunming: Stone Forest, Yuantong Temple
- Dali: Erhai Lake, Three Pagodas
- Lijiang & Shangri-La: Lijiang Old Town, Songzanlin Monastery, Tibetan culture vibes
It’s perfect for hikers, photographers, and anyone who wants to see a different side of China.
3. Yangtze River Cruise
Want to chill while seeing jaw-dropping scenery? This one’s for you:
- Kick off in Shanghai: The Bund, Nanjing Road
- Cruise Chongqing to Yichang: Yangtze River Cruises, Three Gorges Dam, Fengdu Ghost City
You’ll see ancient towns, misty cliffs, and some of the world’s coolest river views—all while barely unpacking your suitcase.
4. Pandas & Culture
You like pandas? Do you love food? You want a hit of history? This itinerary’s got you.
- Chengdu: Panda Base, Jinli Ancient Street
- Xi’an: Terracotta Warriors, Big Wild Goose Pagoda
- Beijing: Great Wall, Hutongs
Read Our Content on Panda visits here:
Perfect for families, foodies, or anyone who wants to see pandas up close.
5. Zhangjiajie Avatar Mountains & Fenghuang
If you want your Instagram to pop (and your jaw to drop), head here:
- Zhangjiajie: National Forest Park, Tianzi Mountain
- Fenghuang: Ancient Town
The scenery is bananas, think floating mountains and misty forests straight out of a movie.
6. Guilin, Yangshuo & Longji Rice Terraces
Need to unplug? This region is all about chill mountain vibes and riverside beauty.
- Guilin: Reed Flute Cave, Elephant Trunk Hill
- Yangshuo: Li River Cruise, Biking
- Longji: Rice Terraces
It’s slow travel at its best, perfect for soaking up the scenery.
7. Silk Road Adventure
Got a thing for epic history? This one’s for you:
- Xi’an: Terracotta Warriors
- Dunhuang: Mogao Caves
- Jiayuguan: Jiayuguan Fortress
You’ll travel along ancient trading routes, see desert oases, and feel like a total explorer.
Real Talk Before You Go
China is huge, and there’s no one perfect way to see it. These seven routes show off the best slices, from wild cities to chill countryside to legendary landmarks. Check those official links for up-to-date info and tickets, and keep an eye on things like visas and weather before you book.
Got your favorites picked out? Awesome, your adventure starts now.
