How to Plan a 10-Day China Itinerary: 5 Must-See Routes for 2025

Corinne Meadowstone
5 Min Read
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Planning a 10-day trip to China can be both exciting and overwhelming, given the country’s vastness and rich cultural heritage. Whether you’re interested in history, nature, modern cities, or a mix of all three, this guide presents five well-crafted itineraries for an unforgettable journey in 2025.

Why Choose a 10-Day China Trip?

  • Ideal Duration: Enough time to explore multiple destinations without rushing.
  • Diverse Experiences: Mix of ancient culture, breathtaking nature, and modern cities.
  • Efficient Transport: High-speed trains and domestic flights make travel seamless.

5 Best 10-Day Itinerary Routes

1. Classic China Highlights (Beijing, Xi’an, Shanghai)

Perfect for: First-time visitors who want to see China’s most iconic landmarks.

Itinerary Overview:

  • Day 1-3: Beijing – Visit the Forbidden City, Great Wall (Mutianyu), and Temple of Heaven.
  • Day 4-5: Xi’an – Discover the Terracotta Army, Ancient City Wall, and try Xi’an’s street food.
  • Day 6-10: Shanghai – Explore the Bund, Yu Garden, and take a day trip to Suzhou or Hangzhou.

2. Nature & Scenic Landscapes (Zhangjiajie, Guilin, Yangshuo, Huangshan)

Perfect for: Nature lovers and photography enthusiasts.

Itinerary Overview:

  • Day 1-3: Zhangjiajie – Hike the Avatar Mountains and Tianmen Mountain.
  • Day 4-6: Guilin & Yangshuo – Enjoy a Li River Cruise, bike through rice fields, and visit Reed Flute Cave.
  • Day 7-10: Huangshan (Yellow Mountain) – Hike and see breathtaking sunrise views over the mountain peaks.

3. Cultural & Historical Journey (Beijing, Pingyao, Xi’an, Chengdu)

Perfect for: History buffs and culture lovers.

Itinerary Overview:

  • Day 1-3: Beijing – Discover the capital’s historical wonders.
  • Day 4-5: Pingyao – Experience ancient China in a well-preserved walled city.
  • Day 6-8: Xi’an – Visit the famous Terracotta Army and enjoy the vibrant Muslim Quarter.
  • Day 9-10: Chengdu – See Giant Pandas and experience Sichuan’s spicy cuisine.

4. Modern China & Tech Cities (Shanghai, Hangzhou, Shenzhen, Hong Kong)

Perfect for: Travelers interested in innovation, skyscrapers, and modern culture.

Itinerary Overview:

  • Day 1-3: Shanghai – Visit the futuristic Lujiazui skyline, explore Nanjing Road, and take a Huangpu River cruise.
  • Day 4-6: Hangzhou – Walk around the scenic West Lake, visit Lingyin Temple, and experience Alibaba’s tech hub.
  • Day 7-8: Shenzhen – Discover China’s Silicon Valley, shop in Huaqiangbei, and explore OCT Loft Art District.
  • Day 9-10: Hong Kong – Visit Victoria Peak, enjoy Dim Sum, and explore lively markets.

5. Off-the-Beaten-Path Adventure (Yunnan, Guizhou, Guangxi)

Perfect for: Travelers seeking unique cultural encounters and natural beauty.

Itinerary Overview:

  • Day 1-3: Kunming & Dali – Visit the Stone Forest and explore Dali’s ancient town.
  • Day 4-6: Lijiang & Shangri-La – Walk through Lijiang Old Town, hike Tiger Leaping Gorge, and visit Songzanlin Monastery.
  • Day 7-10: Guilin & Longji Rice Terraces – Experience minority culture and breathtaking landscapes.

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Best Time to Visit China

  • Spring (March-May): Ideal for outdoor activities and blooming landscapes.
  • Summer (June-August): Best for mountain regions but can be hot in cities.
  • Autumn (September-November): Best season for mild weather and clear skies.
  • Winter (December-February): Great for snow landscapes and fewer crowds.

Travel Tips for a 10-Day China Trip

  • Visa Requirements: Check if you need a Chinese tourist visa in advance.
  • Currency: Use Chinese Yuan (CNY); WeChat Pay and Alipay are widely accepted.
  • Packing Essentials: Comfortable shoes, power adapter, and VPN for internet access.
  • Language: Basic Mandarin phrases help, but translation apps are useful.
  • Transport: Use high-speed trains for fast, convenient travel between cities.

Book Your 10-Day China Tour with Worldtastic Travel!

Worldtastic Travel specializes in crafting unforgettable China itineraries tailored to your interests. Whether you’re seeking history, nature, or modern experiences, our expert planners ensure a seamless journey.

Contact us today to start planning your dream China adventure!

 

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