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China in 6 Days: 4 Recommended 6-day Itineraries to China

Scenic West Lake in Hangzhou during spring in China
Great Experience
  • Alirene
  • From Philippines
This was my second completely independent trip to China with this tour operator. I wo...” Read More

China 6-day itinerary options

For those contemplating a quick yet fulfilling escape, our China 6-day itinerary suggestions below are tailored to different interests and travel styles.

Itinerary #1: The Majestic Wonders of Beijing and Xi'an

The view of Great Wall of China during summer evening in Beijing.
Experience breathtaking views and a unique blend of history and nature as you hike the scenic Huanghuacheng section of the Great Wall.
Sculptures of numerous warriors placed in rows
While the figures at the Terracotta Army Museum in Xian include warriors, horses and chariots, the warrior figurines vary in height according to their roles, with the tallest being Generals.
  Overview Activity Overnight
Day 1 Start in Beijing and explore its historical sites City sightseeing Beijing
Day 2 Hike the Great Wall of China Hiking Beijing
Day 3 Travel to Xi'an via train and explore the city City exploration Xi'an
Day 4 Visit Terracotta Warriors Cultural heritage tour Xi'an
Day 5 Explore Xi'an’s City Wall and Muslim Quarter City sightseeing Xi'an
Day 6 Return to Beijing for departure    

Discover the essence of China on this 6-day journey through Beijing and Xi’an, where history comes to life. Explore Beijing’s iconic landmarks, from the Forbidden City to Tiananmen Square, before hiking the legendary Great Wall at Mutianyu. Travel by train to Xi’an, the ancient capital, to witness the Terracotta Warriors and stroll along the City Wall and bustling Muslim Quarter. Conclude your adventure back in Beijing, enriched with a deeper understanding of China’s cultural and historical treasures. See all tours in China.

Itinerary #2: Scenic Chengdu and Zhangjiajie

A panda hanging on a tree at Bifengxia nature reserve.
You can visit the natural reserves in Chengdu protecting giant pandas.
This park is one of the most eye-pleasing tourist attractions in China
Zhangjiajie National Forest Park came to be also known as the Avatar Mountain after it was featured in the superhit hollywood movie "Avatar".
  Overview Activity Overnight
Day 1 Welcome to Chengdu and visit the Chengdu Panda Base City exploration Chengdu
Day 2 Explore Mount Qingcheng on a hike Hiking Chengdu
Day 3 Take a train to Zhangjiajie Transfer Zhangjiajie
Day 4 Discover Zhangjiajie National Forest Park, Tianzi Mountain and Yuanjiajie Outdoor exploration Zhangjiajie
Day 5 Walk on the Zhangjiajie Glass Bridge Outdoor exploration Zhangjiajie
Day 6 Bid farewell to China's mesmerizing landscapes    

This itinerary draws you into the charismatic allure of Chengdu and the otherworldly beauty of Zhangjiajie. Immerse yourself in the laid-back culture of Chengdu, a city known for its giant pandas and the spiritual tranquility of Mount Qingcheng. Transition to Zhangjiajie, a natural world unto itself, where towering sandstone pillars inspired the landscapes of Pandora in the film Avatar. Those seeking travel through lush bamboo groves, ancient Taoist roots, and awe-inspiring scenery will find this journey unforgettable.

Itinerary #3: Discoveries from Shanghai to Hangzhou

Panoramic, evening view of Pudong's skyline from The Bund
Shanghai is the most expensive city in mainland China to live in.
A view of Leifeng Pagoda, in Hangzhou, China
Take a tour of iconic landmarks like Leifeng Pagoda in Hangzhou.
  Overview Activity Overnight
Day 1 Start in Shanghai with exploration of the Bund and Nanjing Road City sightseeing Shanghai
Day 2 Visit the Shanghai Museum and Tianzifang City sightseeing Shanghai
Day 3 Travel to Suzhou to stroll through the Humble Administrator’s Garden City exploration Suzhou
Day 4 Explore Wujiang District and discover Tongli Water Town City exploration Suzhou
Day 5 Head to Hangzhou to enjoy a tea plantation visit & the West Lake Outdoor exploration Hangzhou
Day 6 Return to Shanghai for departure    

Journey through the pulsating energy of metropolitan Shanghai and the serene elegance of Suzhou and Hangzhou over this dynamic 6-day itinerary. Begin with the glitzy skylines and bustling streets of Shanghai before embracing Suzhou's classical gardens and quaint water towns. Conclude in Hangzhou, where sprawling tea fields and tranquil waters offer a perfect escape. This itinerary is a brilliant blend of city excitement and serene retreats, ideal for travelers eager to experience China's diversity. See all Shanghai trips.

Itinerary #4: Guilin, Yangshuo and Li River Cruise

A Chinese man practicing Tai Chi amidst the greenery in Yangshuo
Tai Chi is a popular stream of Chinese Kung Fu that travelers should try during their trip to Guilin or Yangshuo.
Motorized boats taking tourists around the Li River
Taking a boat cruise down the Li River, also known as "Li Jiang", is one of the best things to do in China.
  Overview Activity Overnight
Day 1 Start in Guilin. Visit Reed Flute Cave and Elephant Trunk Hill Natural landmark sightseeing Guilin
Day 2 Sail from Guilin to Yangshuo on Li River Cruise Cruise Yangshuo
Day 3 Discover Yangshuo as you bike through countryside and along the Yulong River City exploration Yangshuo
Day 4 Return to Guilin and experience Longji Rice Terraces Outdoor exploration Guilin
Day 5 Visit a local Zhuang village Village exploration Guilin
Day 6 Final exploration of Guilin before departure    

Embark on a breathtaking journey through the diverse landscapes of Guilin and Yangshuo. Start with Guilin’s captivating landmarks before embarking on a picturesque Li River cruise to Yangshuo, famed for its dramatic karst mountains and idyllic rural scenery. Cycle across Yangshuo’s heartland, surrounded by natural beauty, and discover the tiers of the Longji Rice Terraces. This itinerary offers travelers a profound connection with China’s stunning nature and authentic cultural encounters.

Planning a 6-day itinerary to China?

Whether you're intrigued by the hustle of Shanghai or the serene landscapes of Guilin, our 6-day China itineraries showcase the possibilities of experiencing the country. If you are looking for some tweaks to existing itineraries, you can check out our tailormade China holidays. If you need further insights, explore our guide on the best things to do in China. For more duration ideas, check out how many days to spend in China.

More information:
4 days in China
5 days in China
12 days in China

Plan a trip to ChinaWe offer different tour types. You can also chat with a local travel specialist if you want a customized tour to China.
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