China is a vast and diverse country, full of ancient history, breathtaking scenery and rich culture. With so much to offer, it can be difficult to decide which places to visit, especially if you only have nine days. In this comprehensive guide, we'll take you through a detailed itinerary that will allow you to discover the best of China in a nine-day trip. Get ready for an unforgettable adventure.
Day 1: Arrival in Beijing (Beijing)
Exploring the Capital
Tiananmen Square
Start your journey in the iconic Tiananmen Square, one of the largest public squares in the world. Here you can visit the Monument to the People's Heroes and the Mao Zedong Mausoleum.
Forbidden City
From Tiananmen Square, head to the Forbidden City, the former imperial palace of the Ming and Qing dynasties. This complex of palace buildings is one of China's most important cultural heritages.
Dinner in Wangfujing
End your first day exploring the famous Wangfujing Street, where you can enjoy a delicious dinner at one of the many restaurants offering traditional Chinese food.
Day 2: Great Wall of China and Summer Palace
Excursion to the Great Wall
Mutianyu Section
Visit the Mutianyu section of the Great Wall of China, less crowded than Badaling and with spectacular views. You can walk along its watchtowers and enjoy a cable car ride.
Summer Palace
Imperial Gardens
Return to Beijing to explore the Summer Palace, known for its extensive gardens and magnificent Kunming Lake. Stroll along the Long Corridor and visit the Marble Boat.
Day 3: Temple of Heaven and Hutongs
Visit to the Temple of Heaven
Circular Altar and Prayer Room
The Temple of Heaven is an impressive Taoist temple complex. Don't miss the Circular Altar and the Hall of Prayer for Good Harvest.
Exploring the Hutongs
Rickshaw ride
In the afternoon, explore Beijing's ancient hutongs on a rickshaw ride. These narrow alleys offer a fascinating insight into traditional Chinese life.
Day 4: Travel to Xi'an
High Speed Train to Xi'an
Take a high-speed train to Xi'an, one of China's oldest cities and known for its role on the Silk Road.
Night Exploration
Xi'an City Wall
In the evening, take a walk or rent a bike to tour the ancient Xi'an City Wall, one of the best preserved city walls in China.
Day 5: Terracotta Warriors and Wild Goose Pagoda
Army of Terracotta Warriors
Museum and Excavations
Visit the Terracotta Warriors Museum, one of the largest archaeological excavations in the world. These terracotta soldiers were buried with China's first emperor, Qin Shi Huang, to protect him in the afterlife.
Big Wild Goose Pagoda
Buddhist Temple
In the afternoon, visit the Great Wild Goose Pagoda, an ancient Buddhist temple dating back to the Tang Dynasty.
Day 6: Drive to Chengdu
Train to Chengdu
Take a train to Chengdu, the capital of Sichuan province, famous for its giant pandas and spicy food.
Pandas Sanctuary
Research Centre
Visit the Chengdu Giant Panda Breeding Research Centre to see these adorable animals in their natural habitat.
Day 7: Mount Emei
One Day Excursion
Baoguo Temple
Take a day trip to Mount Emei, one of the four sacred Buddhist mountains in China. Visit the Baoguo Temple at the base of the mountain before climbing.
Cable Car and Hiking
Take the cable car to the top for breathtaking views and explore several Buddhist temples along the way.
Day 8: Travel to Shanghai
Flight to Shanghai
Fly to Shanghai, China's largest city and a major global financial centre.
Stroll along the Bund
Skyline views
In the afternoon, stroll along the Bund for breathtaking views of the Shanghai skyline and Huangpu River.
Day 9: Exploring Shanghai
Yuyuan Garden and Jade Buddha Temple
Yuyuan Garden
Start your last day at the Yuyuan Garden, a beautiful traditional Chinese garden in the heart of the city.
Jade Buddha Temple
Visit the Jade Buddha Temple, one of Shanghai's most famous Buddhist temples, known for its two jade Buddha statues.
Shanghai Tower
Panoramic viewpoint
End your trip with a visit to the Shanghai Tower, the second tallest building in the world. Climb to the observation deck for a panoramic view of the city.
Practical Tips for Travelling in China
Transport
High Speed Trains
China has an extensive network of high-speed trains connecting major cities. Booking in advance is advisable, especially in high season.
Domestic Flights
For long distances, domestic flights are an efficient option. Major Chinese airlines offer frequent flights between major cities.
Accommodation
Hotels and Hostels
China offers a wide range of accommodation options, from luxury hotels to budget hostels. Book in advance to secure the best rates.
Language and Communication
Translation Applications
Language can be a barrier, so carrying translation apps can be very useful. WeChat is a very popular app in China that also has translation functions.
Currency and Payments
Cards and Cash
Although credit cards are accepted in many places, it is always useful to carry some cash. Alipay and WeChat Pay are the most common mobile payment apps.
Conclusion
A nine-day trip to China can be an unforgettable experience if you plan your itinerary well. From historic Beijing and the mysterious Terracotta Warriors in Xi'an, to the pandas of Chengdu and vibrant Shanghai, this tour will allow you to discover some of China's most iconic sights. We hope this guide will help you plan your adventure and enjoy every moment in this fascinating country. Happy travelling!
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