China in 8 Days: 4 Recommended 8-day Itineraries to China

- Vincent Roy
- From
- Vincent Roy
- From
- Oliver Brown
- From
- Alirene
- From Philippines
China 8-day itinerary options
Interested in traveling to China for 8 days? Go through our select 8 days in China itinerary suggestions below.
Itinerary #1: Discover Beijing and the Great Wall


Overview | Activity | Overnight | |
Day 1 | Arrive in Beijing, relax, meet the group and enjoy a Peking Duck dinner | Leisure | Beijing |
Day 2 | Explore Tiananmen Square and Forbidden City, taste traditional culture | City sightseeing tour | Beijing |
Day 3 | Walk a scenic section of the Great Wall and learn dumpling making | Hiking | Gubeikou Village |
Day 4 | Walk Jinshanling Great Wall and enjoy the sunrise views | Hiking | Gubeikou Village |
Day 5 | Explore Panlong Shan Great Wall | Hiking | Gubeikou Village |
Day 6 | Visit the original Great Wall section and reach the highest point | Hiking | Gubeikou Village |
Day 7 | Return to Beijing, explore freely or relax before a farewell dinner | City exploration | Beijing |
Day 8 | Conclude the tour and depart for onward trave |
Embark on a captivating journey through the heart of China, unraveling the vibrant culture and awe-inspiring history of Beijing. Begin your adventure with an immersive city tour, soaking in the grandeur of Tiananmen Square and the Forbidden City while savoring the local delicacies such as the iconic Peking Duck. Traverse the legendary Great Wall, exploring its less-trodden sections like Mutianyu and Jinshanling, where the unspoiled landscapes offer unparalleled panoramic views and a glimpse into China's ancient defensive forte. Engage in hands-on cultural experiences, including traditional dumpling making and historical practice sessions, enriching your understanding of the region's heritage. As the tour progresses, you'll have ample opportunities for leisure exploration, ensuring a balanced blend of structured activities and personal relaxation. The itinerary culminates with a return to Beijing, offering a moment to reflect on the journey amidst the bustling cityscape. See all China holidays.
Itinerary #2: Discover the Mystical Beauty of Tibet


Overview | Activity | Overnight | |
Day 1 | Arrive in Lhasa and acclimate to high altitude with a city wander | Leisure | Lhasa |
Day 2 | Visit Drepung Monastery and explore Tibetan culture at Tibet Museum and Norbulingka | Cultural exploration | Lhasa |
Day 3 | Discover Potala Palace and Jokhang Temple, then stroll Barkhor Street | Historical and cultural tour | Lhasa |
Day 4 | Travel to Shigatse, visiting Yamdrok Lake and Pelkor Chode Monastery | Cultural sightseeing | Shigatse |
Day 5 | Journey to Everest Base Camp via stunning mountain passes | Outdoor exploration | Everest Base Camp |
Day 6 | Watch the sunrise at Everest Base Camp, then return to Shigatse | Outdoor exploration | Shigatse |
Day 7 | Explore Tashilhunpo Monastery and enjoy the scenic drive to Lhasa | Cultural exploration | Lhasa |
Day 8 | Conclude your tour and depart from Lhasa |
Go on a mesmerizing journey through the heart of Tibet, starting from the historic city of Lhasa. Your adventure begins with a gentle introduction to high-altitude life, allowing you to acclimatize while exploring the vibrant local cityscape. Delve into the rich cultural heritage with visits to the expansive Drepung Monastery, the Tibet Museum, and the summer retreat of the Dalai Lama at Norbulingka. Experience the architectural wonder of the Potala Palace and the spiritual ambiance of Jokhang Temple, followed by the buzzing energy of Barkhor Street. Venture beyond Lhasa to the serene Yamdrok Lake and Gyantse's distinguished Pelkor Chode Monastery. A thrilling ascent through the majestic Himalayan passes awaits as you head to the iconic Everest Base Camp, where you will witness unparalleled views of the world's highest peak. Complete your Tibetan odyssey by visiting the significant Tashilhunpo Monastery in Shigatse before returning to Lhasa, cherishing the serene landscapes and cultural richness of this enchanting land. See all cultural, religious and historical tours in China.
Itinerary #3: Cultural Gems of China's South


Overview | Activity | Overnight | |
Day 1 | Arrive in Chengdu, home to the Giant Panda Breeding Center | Wildlife tour | Chengdu |
Day 2 | Visit Leshan Giant Buddha and Mount Emei | Cultural exploration | Emeishan City |
Day 3 | Travel to Guilin; enjoy a Li River cruise | River cruise | Guilin |
Day 4 | Explore Yangshuo’s countryside on a biking tour | Biking adventure | Yangshuo |
Day 5 | Drive to Longji Rice Terraces for an immersive tour | Hiking and exploration | Ping'an |
Day 6 | Return to Chengdu; taste local Sichuan cuisine | Culinary tour | Chengdu |
Day 7 | Go to the Chengdu Research Base for a panda experience | Wildlife interaction | Chengdu |
Day 8 | Depart from Chengdu |
This itinerary is tailored for those wishing to delve into the natural and cultural wonders of southern China. Start in Chengdu, the lovingly labeled 'panda capital,' where a visit to the Giant Panda Breeding Center will melt your heart. Witness the awe-inspiring Leshan Giant Buddha on your way to Mount Emei. Drift leisurely down the Li River from Guilin, absorbing the surreal beauty of karst landscapes. In Yangshuo, a biking tour through the countryside introduces you to traditional village life, while the stunning Longji Rice Terraces offer unforgettable hiking opportunities. Return to Chengdu for a palate-pleasing culinary tour to savor authentic Sichuan flavors.
Itinerary #4: Golf and Cultural Experience

Overview | Activity | Overnight | |
Day 1 | Arrive in Kunming, welcome dinner, and enjoy leisure time | City sightseeing | Kunming |
Day 2 | Play golf at Spring City Resort, amid lush landscapes | Golfing | Kunming |
Day 3 | Explore Kunming's Western Hills, Dianchi Lake, and Yunnan Ethnic Village | City tour | Kunming |
Day 4 | Golf at Spring City, then fly to Shenzhen for leisure | Golfing | Shenzhen |
Day 5 | Play golf at Mission Hills and explore Gualan Painters Village | Golfing | Shenzhen |
Day 6 | Tee-off in the morning and go on an exclusive local host experience | Cultural exploration | Shenzhen |
Day 7 | Golf at Mission Hill and enjoy a shopping tour in Shenzhen | Golfing | Shenzhen |
Day 8 | Final round of golf before departure |
This exclusive itinerary combines an alluring mix of golf, culture, and city exploration for the discerning traveler. Begin your journey in Kunming, graced with a welcome dinner and leisure time. Discover renowned golf with rounds at the Spring City and Mission Hill courses both known for their stunning landscapes and design. As you explore Kunming, be captivated by its eternal spring aura, with scenic sights such as the Western Hills and Dianchi Lake, and immerse in cultural experiences at the Yunnan Ethnic Village. Transition seamlessly to Shenzhen, where art, culture, and shopping thrive, with excursions to the Gualan Painters Village and Shenzhen's vibrant markets. Add an exclusive local host experience, and shop till you drop in some of the best locales in Shenzhen. Golf remains the constant companion through your journey, ensuring a blend of relaxation and sport, topped off with a farewell dinner.
Planning an 8-day itinerary to China?
Embarking on an adventure through China in 8 days offers unparalleled experiences. Whether you're exploring ancient wonders or modern cities, playing golf or experiencing the traditions of the country, you can do it all on an 8-day China itinerary. For more duration ideas, go through our guide on how many days to spend in China.
More information:
Things to do in China
4 days in China
6 days in China
12 days in China