China-5-day-itinerary

Day 1: Arrival in Beijing

  • Arrival: Arrive at Beijing Capital International Airport (PEK)
  • Visa Requirements: Check if you need a visa to enter China. Citizens of some countries can enjoy a 72-hour or 144-hour visa-free transit policy.
  • Transportation: Take the airport express train (RMB 25) or a taxi (around RMB 100-150) to your hotel
  • Accommodation: Check-in to your hotel and freshen up
  • Places to Go:
    • Visit the Forbidden City (RMB 60), a UNESCO World Heritage Site and former imperial palace
    • Explore the nearby Tiananmen Square, one of the largest city squares in the world
  • Activities:
    • Watch the flag-raising ceremony at Tiananmen Square (free)
    • Try traditional Beijing street food, such as jiaozi (dumplings) or zhajiangmian (noodles with fermented soybean sauce)

Day 2: Beijing

  • Places to Go:
    • Visit the Mutianyu Great Wall (RMB 55), a less crowded and more scenic section of the Great Wall
    • Explore the Sacred Way, a pedestrian path lined with ancient cypress trees
  • Activities:
    • Hike or take a cable car ride at the Mutianyu Great Wall
    • Visit the Ming Tombs (RMB 50), the burial site of 13 Ming Dynasty emperors
  • Things to Know: Be prepared for crowds and long lines at popular tourist attractions

Day 3: Beijing to Xi’an

  • Transportation: Take a high-speed train (around RMB 500-800) from Beijing West Railway Station to Xi’an North Railway Station
  • Places to Go:
    • Visit the Terracotta Warriors and Horses Museum (RMB 150), a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the greatest archaeological discoveries in history
    • Explore the ancient city walls and Muslim Quarter of Xi’an
  • Activities:
    • Watch a traditional Chinese shadow puppet show (around RMB 50)
    • Try local Xi’an cuisine, such as rou jia mo (meat burgers) or liang pi (cold skin noodles)

Day 4: Xi’an

  • Places to Go:
    • Visit the Big Wild Goose Pagoda (RMB 50), a Buddhist pagoda and iconic landmark of Xi’an
    • Explore the Shaanxi History Museum (RMB 50), which features a vast collection of cultural relics and artifacts
  • Activities:
    • Take a bike ride or stroll along the ancient city walls (free)
    • Enjoy a traditional Chinese massage or spa treatment (around RMB 100-200)

Day 5: Departure from Xi’an

  • Transportation: Take a taxi or bus (around RMB 20-50) to Xi’an Xianyang International Airport (XIY)
  • Departure: Depart from Xi’an and head back home

Other Things to Know

  • Currency: The Chinese yuan (RMB) is the local currency. You can exchange money at banks, airports, or hotels.
  • Language: Mandarin Chinese is the official language, but many locals in tourist areas speak some English.
  • Safety: Be mindful of pickpocketing and scams in crowded areas. Avoid carrying large amounts of cash and keep valuables secure.
  • Internet: Internet access may be limited due to government restrictions. Consider purchasing a local SIM card or portable Wi-Fi hotspot.

This itinerary provides a glimpse into China’s rich history, vibrant culture, and breathtaking landscapes. Enjoy your trip!