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

A cruise ship in Li River with Kashi Mountain in the background during 8 days in China
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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

Explore one of the top tourist attractions in China: Forbidden City
If you’re looking to be awestruck by Chinese architecture, you needn’t go any further than the Forbidden City (aka the Purple Forbidden City or the Palace Museum).
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.
  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

An old Tibetan lady gazes at the Potala Palace
The majestic Potala Palace in Lhasa boasts over 1,000 rooms, 10,000 altars, and 200,000 statues.
A view of multi colored temple-like structures
The Golden Temple in Lhasa is made up of three temple buildings and the world's largest prayer drum.
  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

Two giant pandas gazing towards the sky
You can visit, observe and volunteer at the Chengdu Panda Research Base.
Li river during sunset
Take a cruise on the Li River to enjoy some of China's most scenic views.
  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

The skyline at Shenzhen at dusk during China in November.
Shenzhen, a modern metropolis of skyscrapers and parks, blends futuristic architecture with historic villages, offering a unique mix of innovation and tradition.
  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

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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