Routes

Find a realistic China route before choosing every attraction.

Filter by trip length, travel pace, side trips, and theme. Each route has a clear day-by-day schedule first, then cultural and practical detail.

5 routes shown

7 days / fast

7 Days in China for First-Time Visitors

A compact first-trip route that focuses on Beijing, Xi'an, and Shanghai without trying to see everything.

Start: Beijing End: Shanghai No side trips

Note: This is a fast-paced route. The Forbidden City sells out quickly in peak season; walk-up tickets are generally not avail...

classichistorycity
10 days / balanced

10 Days in China for First-Time Visitors

A balanced first-trip route with enough time for Beijing, Xi'an, Shanghai, and one slower East China stop.

Start: Beijing End: Shanghai Side trips included

Note: Book the Forbidden City in advance (tickets released 7 days ahead; walk-up tickets generally not available). Shanghai ha...

classichistoryculturecitylocal
14 days / balanced

14 Days in China for First-Time Visitors

A broader first-trip route that can add Chengdu or a nature stop after the classic Beijing, Xi'an, and Shanghai route.

Start: Beijing End: Shanghai Side trips included

Note: Chengdu has two airports (TFU Tianfu, ~60km from city; CTU Shuangliu, closer) -- verify which. The Panda Base can sell o...

classichistoryfoodculturelocal
9 days / balanced

Winter Ice Adventure: Beijing + Harbin

Combine Beijing's classics with Harbin's spectacular Ice Festival. For winter travelers only (late December to February).

Start: Beijing End: Harbin No side trips

Note: This itinerary is best from late December to late February during Harbin Ice Festival (exact dates depend on weather and...

classicwinterculturecity
10 days / balanced

Yunnan Nature & Culture: Kunming, Dali, Lijiang

Ethnic minority culture, snow mountains, ancient towns, and highland lakes in China's most diverse province.

Start: Kunming End: Lijiang Side trips included

Note: Yunnan is best visited March-May or September-November. Altitude in Lijiang (2400m) and especially Shangri-La (3300m) ca...

natureculturehistorylocal
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The free route library should answer common needs. Paid planning is for special constraints: children, mobility, niche interests, transit rules, food preferences, or unusual city combinations.

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