The full arc of China in one journey — imperial Beijing, ancient Xi'an, easy-going Chengdu and the otherworldly pillars of Zhangjiajie, ending in Shanghai's lights.
Route · Beijing → Xi'an → Chengdu → Zhangjiajie → Shanghai
Days 1–4
Beijing
Arrive gently, then take on the icons: the Forbidden City, a quiet stretch of the Great Wall, evenings in the hutongs.
Days 5–6
Xi'an
High-speed rail to the ancient capital — the Terracotta Army, the city walls by bicycle, the Muslim Quarter after dark.
Days 7–8
Chengdu
Slow the pace: pandas in the morning, tea houses in the afternoon, Sichuan's table in the evening.
Days 9–11
Zhangjiajie
Into the landscape that inspired Avatar — sandstone pillars, canyon walkways and mountain air.
Days 12–13
Shanghai
Finish where China meets tomorrow: the Bund, the French Concession, one last remarkable dinner.
This journey is a starting point, never a fixed package. Every route can be reshaped around your dates, interests and travel style.