1 Week in China: Top 5 Travel Itineraries

Is 7 days enough for a trip to China? The answer is yes. On a 1-week China tour, you can fully enjoy the best highlights of China at a slow pace. If you're looking for inspiration for your China tour, we've compiled the top 5 one-week itineraries to help you decide your destinations.

#1: First Trip to China: Beijing, Xi'an & Shanghai

Map of Itinerary #1: Shanghai, Xi'an and Beijing

Get on an unforgettable 1-week journey through China's "Golden Triangle," a journey starting in Beijing, passing through Xi'an, and culminating in the dazzling city of Shanghai. If this is your first trip to China, this itinerary is designed for you. You can enjoy yourself in the diverse landscapes of China, from its ancient past to its vibrant present.

Day 1 & 2: Shanghai

Yu Garden

Arriving in Shanghai during the day? You'll likely land at Pudong International Airport. From there, it's about an hour by bus or metro to reach central Shanghai. For a speedier option, consider the Shanghai Maglev Train. This zippy train departs from a special station at the airport and cuts your travel time downtown by 30 minutes.

To make your trip even better, consider staying at a hotel close to the Bund. This way, you can enjoy the stunning night view as soon as you arrive. Hop on a Huangpu River cruise to see the dazzling skyscrapers light up the skyline!

Start your second day with a trip to Yu Garden in the morning. This ancient Chinese garden was built during the Ming Dynasty. Yu Garden is filled with beautiful features: pavilions, ponds, rockeries, and even a bamboo forest. Take a relaxing stroll through the garden and soak up the atmosphere of ancient Chinese culture.

Yu Garden is amazing, but next head to the former French Concession, just a 20-minute walk away. The streets are lined with beautiful buildings that blend Chinese and French styles.

If you are crazy about coffee, there are lots of cafés in the former French Concession. The rich coffee culture in Shanghai is a bit different. You can enjoy a latte or Americano with different kinds of tea added.

In the afternoon, take off from Shanghai Hongqiao International Airport for your next stop: Xi'an.

Day 3 & 4: Xi'an

Terracotta Warriors

On the third day of your trip, your adventure takes you to Xi'an, a historic city that was once the capital of many Chinese dynasties. Your first stop is the amazing Terracotta Warriors, housed in Emperor Qinshihuang's Mausoleum Site Museum. Nicknamed the Eighth Wonder of the World, these life-sized terracotta statues are an army of armored soldiers, all built to guard the emperor in the afterlife.

Besides, you can see other incredible Chinese treasures, like ancient helmets, weapons, and decorations, in the museum. To top it off, you can even get creative and craft your very own mini terracotta warrior to bring home as a souvenir.

On the fourth day, take a bicycle ride on Xi'an City Wall in downtown area. The Xi'an City Wall is stable and well-maintained, even cars can run on it. You can have a better view of this city from the 12-meter-high wall. The whole riding journey will take about 2 hours. It's about noon when you finish riding. Head to the airport after lunch and fly to Beijing.

Day 5 to 7: Beijing

The gate of a palace in the Forbidden City

Beijing is the last destination of your trip. On the fifth day, visit Tiananmen Square first. Tiananmen is the front gate of the Forbidden City. You can walk through the gate and straight towards the Forbidden City, also known as the Palace Museum. The Forbidden City was a group of wooden architects and was the residence of royal families in Ming and Qing dynasty. Now, it's restored and become a museum of royal family. Except for the stunning palaces, you will see some antiques in this museum, like paintings, vases, and jewels.

When you finish visiting, you can stroll in Jingshan Park if there's still spare time.

On the sixth day, it's time to visit the Great Wall, another landmark in China. We recommend Mutianyu Great Wall the best. Because it has convenient equipment to ascend and descend, and it's much smoother than Jinshanling and Jiankou Great Wall. In a word, Mutianyu is suitable for all ages.

On the last day of your trip, visit the Temple of Heaven. In ancient time, it was the place where the emperor of the Ming and Qing dynasties prayed to God. Now, you can see many elders doing Tai Chi and Kung Fu there. When you finish visiting, your China tour ends here. You can go to the airport and set off for your next trip.

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#2: More Natural Landscapes: Hong Kong, Guilin & Zhangjiajie

Map of Itinerary #2: Hong Kong, Guilin and Zhangjiajie

This itinerary is perfect for nature lovers, including picturesque Guilin and stunning Zhangjiajie. If you're on a budget, you can consider this itinerary as well. Because you'll move on to your next destination by bullet train, which is cheaper and more convenient than by airplane.

Day 1 & 2: Hong Kong

The Victoria Harbor

After a night in Hong Kong, you may get used to jet lag and the different climate from your hometown. Your China adventure truly begins!

Start your day with a visit to the Wong Tai Sin Temple! Witness traditional "Kau Cim" rituals, a form of Chinese fortune-telling. Next, head to the Hong Kong Museum for a fascinating glimpse into Chinese art and history through their collection of artifacts. As evening falls, take a Victoria Harbor cruise to witness the stunning city light show. Aim to board before 8 pm, as the show starts at 8 pm and lasts only 10 minutes.

On the second morning, try the traditional Dim Sum brunch. Locals love this social meal, especially in the mornings. Dim sum comes in bite-sized portions, like dumplings, steamed buns, and rice rolls. Order a variety of dishes, sip on tea, and enjoy a relaxed morning. After your delicious dim sum experience, head to the train station for your bullet train to Guilin, departing at 12:05 pm. The ride takes about 3 hours.

In the afternoon, when you arrive in downtown Guilin and check in at the hotel, you can have a rest in the hotel or head straight to Elephant Trunk Hill for a stroll.

Day 3 & 4: Guilin

Li River in Yangshuo County

On the third day, catch an express bus to Zhujiang Wharf and hop on the Li River cruise. This beautiful trip takes you to Yangshuo County, famous for its stunning Li River views. Along the way, towering mountains line both sides of the river. Lush bamboo forests and other greenery carpet the riverside. The scenic journey lasts about 4 hours. Enjoy a complimentary buffet lunch on board and capture photos from the deck. After disembarking, stroll down West Street and indulge in some delicious local snacks.

On the fourth day, take a bamboo raft down the Yulong River, a branch of the Li River. Wear sandals and light clothing, as the water might splash. You can take beautiful photoshoots on the raft. After your scenic ride, hop on an express bus back to Guilin. From there, a bullet train will whisk you away to Zhangjiajie. We suggest you stay in downtown Zhangjiajie because there's no accommodation around the forest parks.

Day 5 to 7: Zhangjiajie

The mountains in Zhangjiajie National Forest Park

Dedicate a whole day on day five to explore the stunning Zhangjiajie National Forest Park. Admire the real-world beauty of Avatar Mountain with its lush trees.

Tianmen Mountain awaits on day six! Choose your adventure: soar up in a cable car or conquer the 999 steps to Heaven's Gate. Don't miss the chance to walk on the thrilling glass skywalk for breathtaking mountain views.

Wrap up your trip with a visit to Fenghuang Ancient Town. Enjoy yourself in the vibrant ethnic customs and capture beautiful buildings with your camera. Once you've explored, head straight to the Fenghuang Ancient Town railway station. Catch the 4 pm bullet train back to Hong Kong and get ready to go home.

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#3: Mixture of Modernity and Culture: Shanghai & Beijing in Depth

Map of Itinerary #3: Beijing and Shanghai

Beijing and Shanghai are highly modernized and the biggest cities in China. They both have rich cultural backgrounds. Beijing was the capital city of the Ming and Qing dynasties, and Shanghai has a lot of remarkable ancient water towns. In this itinerary, you will witness a harmonious blend of modern marvels and enduring cultural treasures.

Day 1 to 4: Beijing

The Lama Temple

7 days for 2 cities are sufficient. Which means you will have a more relaxing journey. After a night resting in the hotel in Beijing, your China tour starts here. Dive into Chinese history and culture at Tiananmen Square and the Forbidden City. After that, head to the foot of the Jinshanling Great Wall and stay in a lodge there.

Early in the morning of the second day, greet the sunrise over the Jinshanling Great Wall and enjoy a scenic hike. Afterwards, return to downtown Beijing for a leisurely stroll through Jingshan Park to unwind before your next day in Beijing.

On the third day, visit the Temple of Heaven, the Lama Temple and the Confucius Temple in a row. These three resorts are close to each other. Witness locals practicing tai chi and soaking up the serene atmosphere at the Temple of Heaven. Enjoy the awe-inspiring Tibetan Buddhist art at the Lama Temple. Just across from there, step back in time at the Confucius Temple, built to honor the great philosopher.

On the fourth day, visit the Summer Palace. It was a beautiful imperial garden with exquisite pavillions. You can take a boat on the lake in the garden. In the afternoon, take a flight to Shanghai for the next part of your trip.

Day 5 to 7: Shanghai

The Bund in Shanghai

Spend day five exploring Yu Garden, an ancient Chinese garden with charming lakes and a bamboo forest. In the afternoon, wander through the former French Concession, admiring the unique blend of western and Chinese architecture. As evening falls, enjoy a Huangpu River cruise and the dazzling light show on the Bund.

On the sixth day, visit Zhujiajiao Watertown. It's also called Venice in China. Glide through the town on a traditional boat, taking in the unique sights. Unlike Beijing's vibrant ancient buildings, Zhujiajiao has charming houses in calming shades of gray and white.

For your last day in Shanghai, head to the awe-inspiring Shanghai World Financial Center. Towering 492 meters tall with 104 floors, it offers breathtaking panoramic views. Zip up in the high-speed elevator and prepare for the stunning city skyline sprawling beneath you like a miniature world.

Your trip to China ends here. Descend the financial center and head to the airport for your next trip.

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#4: Mysterious West China: Tibet and Chengdu

Map of Itinerary #4: Tibet (Lhasa) and Chengdu

Tibet is in the westmost part of China. It's probably the most mysterious place in China because of Mt. Everest, which has lots of legends. However, visiting Tibet might be a little bit challenging because it's the highest part of China. You may need some time to get used to it. So in this itinerary, we will start from the amazing Chengdu, the home of giant pandas, to Lhasa, the capital city of Tibet.

Day 1 to 4: Chengdu

Cute young pandas in Chengdu

Compared with the 3 itineraries above, this one is a little bit challenging: you're going to visit the mysterious western part of China. First stop: Chengdu, the home of giant pandas and the amazing Sichuan hotpot. If you love pandas, this is the place to see them. Chengdu has the biggest panda research base in the world!

On your first day, you'll visit the base and get to see adorable pandas. You can even get a chance to visit baby pandas. In the afternoon, hit the streets to try some delicious local Chengdu food, like savory stuffed pancakes and dumplings. Get ready to tantalize your taste buds!

Spend your second day at the tranquil Wenshu Temple. You can admire ancient architecture and have some cups of tea at the tea house inside the temple.

On day three, you're going out of the downtown area to visit Sanxingdui Museum. Here, you'll uncover the secrets of the ancient Shu kingdom through fascinating artifacts. Prepare to be amazed by these treasures and gain a deeper understanding of Chinese history.

Day 4 to 7: Lhasa

The Potala Palace

On the fourth day, set off to Lhasa by airplane. Spend the rest of the day getting used to the high altitude.

Make your fifth day unforgettable with a visit to Potala Palace, a sacred site in Tibetan culture. Hundreds of Tibetans make the long trek here each year, worshipping at the palace to honor their traditions and seek blessings for their families. Later on that day, head to Jokhang Temple, the heart of Tibetan Buddhism, and admire its sacred halls.

Spend your sixth day exploring Drepung Monastery, once the world's biggest and home to thousands of monks. Soak in the peaceful atmosphere and admire the intricate artwork. In the afternoon, head to Sera Monastery to witness a unique experience: a lively debate among monks about Buddhist philosophy.

On the last day, visit a Tibetan family. Enjoy a delicious home-cooked meal before it's time to head home. Bullet trains and airplanes are both options for reaching your next destination.

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#5: Explore Silk Road: Xi'an and Dunhuang

Map of Itinerary #5: Xi'an and Dunhuang

Silk Road was a general name for several trade routes from Asia to Europe in ancient times. Maybe you've heard about it and wanted to know more. In this itinerary, you will visit two cities: Xi'an and Dunhuang. Both of them play a significant role in the Silk Road and have historical remnants.

Day 1 to 4: Xi'an

Take a bicycle ride on the Ancient City Wall

The first day of your Silk Road tour starts with biking or hiking on Ancient City Wall in downtown Xi'an. This is a fantastic way to enjoy the cultural atmosphere of Xi'an. Next, visit the Big Wild Goose Pagoda, a holy site built in 652 AD. This impressive structure was built by the revered monk Xuanzang to house Buddhist treasures he collected on the Silk Road trip from India back to China.

On the second day, visit the Terracotta Warriors. These life-sized soldier statues were buried with China's first emperor, Qinshihuang, to guard him in the afterlife. After visiting, you can make a clay warrior on your own in craft studios nearby.

On the third day, visit a local family and learn to make Xi'an food with them. The hands-on cooking experience will make you know better about Chinese traditional food. When the night comes, stroll around the grandeur of the Tang Paradise. This sprawling square, built in the architectural style of the Tang Dynasty, reflects the era when Xi'an thrived as China's capital.

On the fourth day, you can enjoy the shadow puppet show, a traditional Chinese performance, on Muslim Street. In the afternoon, it's time to set off to Dunhuang.

Day 5 to 7: Dunhuang

The Mogao Cave

Day five takes you to Dunhuang, a key stop along the Silk Road. Start by exploring the Mogao Caves, a treasure trove of Buddhist sutras, murals, and sculptures, offering a glimpse into the Silk Road's vibrant past. A gentle reminder: To protect the cave, we're not allowed to take photos inside Mogao Caves. The picture above was taken outside Mogao Caves. Next, prepare for the mesmerizing beauty of the Crescent Spring. You will see the golden sands dance around the shimmering crescent-shaped lake.

On the sixth day, visit Yadan National Geological Park. This park is a 2.5-hour drive from Dunhuang, but the journey is worth it. Along the way, you will see the historical remnants of the Silk Road, such as the Yumen Pass, the Hecang Fortress, and the Yang Pass.

Depending on where you're going to next, factor in a full day of travel on your last day in Dunhuang. Since Dunhuang is located in northwestern China, it can take a significant amount of time to reach major cities like Beijing, Shanghai, or Hong Kong, especially if you're catching an international flight out of China.

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Plan Your China Tour With Us

Why not start to plan your trip to China right away! Contact us or write to trip@odynovotours.com for a tailor-made trip. All the details can be adjusted to fit your needs!