How to Arrange 13-Day China Itinerary

With the friendly visa-free policies to China, traveling to China becomes more and more convenient now. Tourists eligible for the 30-day visa-free policy can stay in China for 30 days for visa free. And tourists eligible for the 240-hour visa-free transit policy can stay in China for 10 days for visa free. With the popularity of China travel, China’s diverse landscapes, long history, rich culture and beautiful scenery are waiting for your exploration.

13 Day Itinerary with Guilin and Yangtze River

Recommended Tour: 13 Days from Li River to the Yangtze Tour

Day 1-Day 4 Beijing

Day 5-Day 6 Xi’an

Day 7-Day 8 Guilin

Day 9-Day 11 Yangtze River Cruise

Day 12-Day 13 Shanghai

Beijing is one of the best places to know about the history of China, which is also the first station of many foreign visitors to visit China. In Beijing, you can visit the rich collections of relics at the Forbidden City(Palace Museum) and know about the history of China. Jingshan Park is the best place to have a panoramic view of the Forbidden City and the central axis of Beijing. In Beijing, you can also have chance to visit the Great Wall. And there are several sections of the Great Wall in Beijing, you can choose sections of the Great Wall to climb.
 

Xi’an is one of the best places to know about the history and culture of China, particularly if you are interested in the Qin culture of China. Known as the eighth wonder of the world, Terracotta Warriors and Horses stands there for more than 2,000 years. And the warriors and horses are still vivid over the 2,000 years. There are other landmarks in Xi’an like Big and Small Wild Goose Pagodas, Xi’an City Wall and Bell and Drum Tower.
 

Guilin is a city in China that you should not miss if you want to experience the idyllic countryside life. At downtown, you can visit the Elephant Trunk Hill. Climbing to the top of the Elephant Trunk Hill, you can have a panoramic view of Guilin downtown. Taking the Li River Cruise is a good way to experience the karst landform of Guilin, which is picturesque and impressive.
 

Yangzte River Cruise is a famous river cruise in China, starting from Chongqing and ending in Yichang. Taking the Yangtze River Cruise, you can enjoy the stunning view of the landscapes alongside the Yangtze River like Wu Gorge, Qutang Gorge, Goddess Stream and White Emperor City.
 

Shanghai is a international metropolis of China. In Shanghai, you can see many skyscrapers as well as some traditional buildings. Even if strolling around Shanghai without any ideas, it is also a good way to experience the life of the local people.

13 Days China Itinerary with Jiuzhai Valley

Recommended Tour: 13 Days Trip to Jiuzhaigou and Mt Huangshan

Day 1-Day 4 Beijing

Day 5-Day 6 Jiuzhai Valley

Day 7-Day 8 Chengdu

Day 9-Day 11 Mount Huangshan

Day 12-Day 13 Shanghai

With its breathtaking landscapes, featuring colorful lakes, waterfalls and snow-capped mountains, Jiuzhai Valley is a wonderland in the northern Sichuan. Autumn(September to November) is the most beautiful time of Jiuzhai Valley with the crystal water, colorful leaves and snow mountains. Kindly reminder, please pay attention to the crowds of domestic tourists if you plan to visit Jiuzhai Valley in autumn.
 

With its vibrant, multicolored mineral-rich pools, surrounded by snow-capped mountains and dense forests, Huanglong National Park is a picturesque destination in Aba Tibetan and Qiang Autonomous Prefecture of Sichuan Province. Huanglong National Park is not far away from Jiuzhai Valley. And it is a good choice to visit if you plan to visit Jiuzhai Valley in Sichuan.
 

To experience the life of Chengdu people, you can visit the Chengdu Research Base of Giant Panda Breeding and see the cute giant pandas. And you can also stroll around the People’s Park and taste a cup of tea there. In winter, Chengdu people like to enjoy the sunshine outside. By the way, tasting Chengdu hotpot is one of the favorite activities of Chengdu people. Standing at the height of 71 meters(233 feet), the Leshan Giant Buddha is carved into the cliffside where the Min, Dadu, and Qingyi rivers meet. To see the massive Leshan Giant Buddha, you can walk close to see the details of the sculpture, and you can also take the boat to observe the large stone Buddha statue.
 

Huangshan Mountain(Yellow Mountain) is one of the most famous mountains in China with its unique pines, misty clouds, grotesque rocks and hot springs. The Yellow Mountain is always beautiful in different seasons. It is a wonderland in winter when it is covered with snow. And Tunxi Ancient Street, Hongcun Village and Xidi Village are not far away from Yellow Mountain, which you can visit if you have spare time.


 

13 Days China Itinerary with Ancient Capitals

Recommended Tour: 13 Days Explore Ancient Capitals of China

Day 1-Day 4 Beijing

Day 5-Day 6 Zhengzhou

Day 7 Dengfeng

Day 8-Day 9 Luoyang

Day 10-11 Xi’an

Day 12-Day 13 Shanghai
 

Zhengzhou has a deep historical background. It's one of the oldest cities in China and was once the capital of the Shang Dynasty. The Yellow River, also known as the Huang He, is the second-longest river in China and holds profound cultural and historical significance, where you can learn about the river's importance in shaping Chinese civilization. The Dragon Pavilion is located in Zhengzhou’s Old City with traditional architecture, lush gardens and impressive structures. It's especially picturesque during the early morning or sunset. The Iron Pagoda(Tie Ta) is known for its elegant and intricate brick carvings, which feature Buddhist figures and motifs. The Xiangguo Monastery is famous for its well-preserved architecture and serene ambiance. Inside, you’ll find beautiful murals, statues of Buddhist deities and lush gardens.
 

Dengfeng is home to the Shaolin Temple, which is widely recognized as the birthplace of Kung Fu in China. You can explore the ancient temple, watch impressive martial arts performances, and even try out Kung Fu classes or meditation. Songshan Mountain, located near the Shaolin Temple, is one of the Five Sacred Mountains of China. It is known for its deep historical and cultural significance and offers scenic hiking trails with stunning views.
 

Luoyang is a city steeped in ancient history. Luoyang is home to the Longmen Grottoes, one of the most impressive Buddhist cave complexes in China. With thousands of statues, carvings and inscriptions, Longmen Grottoes offers a glimpse into the religious and cultural life of ancient China. The White Horse Temple in Luoyang is often referred to as the birthplace of Chinese Buddhism.