China is a vast and diverse country with a rich history, breathtaking landscapes, and dynamic cities. Planning a 10-day trip to China may seem daunting, but with this detailed itinerary, you can experience the country’s top highlights. From exploring ancient wonders to modern marvels, this journey offers a perfect blend of culture, history, and natural beauty.

Day 1-3: Beijing – The Historical and Cultural Heart

Why Visit?
Beijing is the capital of China and home to iconic landmarks like the Great Wall, Forbidden City, and Tiananmen Square.

Day 1: Forbidden City and Tiananmen Square

The Forbidden City
– Why Famous: A UNESCO World Heritage Site, this former imperial palace is a masterpiece of Chinese architecture.
– Google Maps: Forbidden City.
– Opening Times: 8:30 AM–5:00 PM (Closed on Mondays).
– Tickets: ¥60 ($9 USD).

Tiananmen Square
– Why Famous: One of the largest public squares in the world, surrounded by historical landmarks.

Dining Recommendation:
Quanjude Roast Duck Restaurant: A must-try for authentic Peking duck.

Day 2: The Great Wall at Mutianyu

Why Famous: This restored section of the Great Wall offers breathtaking views and fewer crowds compared to Badaling.
Google Maps: Mutianyu Great Wall.
Opening Times: 7:30 AM–5:30 PM.
Tickets: ¥60 ($9 USD); Cable car: ¥100 ($15 USD).

Day 3: Temple of Heaven and Summer Palace

Temple of Heaven
– Why Famous: A Ming Dynasty architectural gem where emperors prayed for good harvests.
– Google Maps: Temple of Heaven.
– Opening Times: 6:00 AM–8:00 PM.

Summer Palace
– Why Famous: A stunning imperial garden and lake retreat.
– Google Maps: Summer Palace.
– Tickets: ¥30 ($5 USD).

Dining Recommendation:
Din Tai Fung: Famous for soup dumplings and other Chinese delicacies.

Day 4-5: Xi’an – The Ancient Capital

Why Visit?
Xi’an is home to the Terracotta Army and rich Silk Road history.

Day 4: Terracotta Army and City Wall

Terracotta Army
– Why Famous: Thousands of life-sized clay soldiers buried with China’s first emperor.
– Google Maps: Terracotta Army.
– Opening Times: 8:30 AM–5:30 PM.
– Tickets: ¥120 ($18 USD).

Xi’an City Wall
– Why Famous: The oldest and most complete city wall in China.

Dining Recommendation:
Muslim Quarter: Try biang biang noodles and lamb skewers.

Day 5: Big Wild Goose Pagoda and Great Mosque

Big Wild Goose Pagoda
– Why Famous: A Tang Dynasty Buddhist pagoda.
– Google Maps: Big Wild Goose Pagoda.

Great Mosque
– Why Famous: A fusion of Chinese and Islamic architecture.

Day 6-7: Guilin and Yangshuo – Nature’s Masterpiece

Why Visit?
Famous for its karst landscapes, rivers, and rice terraces.

Day 6: Li River Cruise

Why Famous: A scenic boat ride through stunning karst formations.
Google Maps: Li River.
Tickets: Starting from ¥300 ($45 USD).

Dining Recommendation:
Rice noodle shops: Try Guilin-style rice noodles.

Day 7: Longji Rice Terraces

Why Famous: Known as the “Dragon’s Backbone,” these terraced fields offer incredible views.
Google Maps: Longji Rice Terraces.

Day 8-9: Shanghai – The Modern Marvel

Why Visit?
Shanghai blends modern skyscrapers with historic charm.

Day 8: The Bund and Yu Garden

The Bund
– Why Famous: A riverside promenade with colonial architecture and views of the Pudong skyline.
– Google Maps: The Bund.

Yu Garden
– Why Famous: A classical Chinese garden.

Dining Recommendation:
Nanjing Road: Great for street food.

Day 9: Shanghai Tower and Tianzifang

Shanghai Tower
– Why Famous: The tallest building in China with a stunning observation deck.

Tianzifang
– Why Famous: A bohemian arts district with cafes and boutique shops.

Day 10: Suzhou or Hangzhou – A Day Trip

Suzhou: Famous for its classical gardens and canals.
Hangzhou: Known for West Lake and Longjing tea plantations.

Google Maps:
Suzhou Gardens.
West Lake.

Travel Tips for China

1. Currency: Use Chinese Yuan (CNY); mobile payments like Alipay are widely used.
2. Transportation: Use high-speed trains for intercity travel and subways within cities.
3. Language: Learn basic Mandarin or use a translation app like Pleco.

Conclusion
This 10-day itinerary showcases China’s history, culture, and natural beauty. From ancient wonders like the Great Wall and Terracotta Army to the modern skyline of Shanghai, China offers an unforgettable journey.

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Have you visited China or are you planning your trip? Share your experiences and questions in the comments below!