I. 14-Day Itinerary: A Journey Through Ancient and Modern China
Days 1-3 Beijing: Imperial Charm Meets Folk Vitality
On your first day in Beijing, check the flag-raising time in advance and arrive at Tiananmen Square early to secure a front-row spot. You'll be deeply moved by the solemn atmosphere as the Honor Guard marches in perfect formation—when the five-star red flag rises with the morning sun, the sense of national pride transcends language. Next, visit the Palace Museum (Forbidden City), the world's largest ancient imperial palace complex, which is full of fascinating details: the bronze lions at the entrance of Taihe Hall are male on the left and female on the right—the male rests his paw on a ball, symbolizing imperial power, while the female caresses a cub, representing inheritance. The plaque "Zhengda Guangming" (Upright and Bright) in Qianqing Palace once concealed the Qing Dynasty's "secret imperial succession" edict. Book a in-depth tour (with English service) or rent an audio guide to truly unlock the historical secrets behind the red walls and yellow tiles. In the afternoon, climb Wanchun Pavilion in Jingshan Park, the best spot to overlook the entire Palace Museum. The golden glazed tiles shine in the sun, and the central axis stretches clearly from south to north, showcasing the symmetrical beauty of the Forbidden City in all its glory.
Devote the second day to the "Great Wall of China". Badaling Great Wall is recommended for its convenient transportation and well-developed English signs and services. If you want to avoid crowds, Mutianyu Great Wall is a better choice, with lusher vegetation and two options for ascending/descending: cable car or slide. Take the high-speed train from the city center to Badaling (only 20 minutes from Qinghe Station to Badaling Great Wall Station), which is faster and more comfortable than tourist buses. For hiking, start from Tower 1 (North) to Tower 8 (North)—this is the essence of Badaling. Though the terrain undulates, the views are spectacular, with the Great Wall winding like a giant dragon over the mountains. After reaching Tower 8 (Heroes' Slope), don't forget to take a photo with the stone stele inscribed with "He who has never been to the Great Wall is not a true hero". After descending, visit the Great Wall Museum to learn about its construction history from the Warring States Period to the Ming Dynasty through cultural relics and videos. In the afternoon, return to the city and head to Olympic Park. The steel structure of the Bird's Nest resembles a woven nest, more futuristic when lit up at night; the Water Cube's blue bubble membrane looks fresh and transparent during the day and changes colors at night. If time permits, go inside the Water Cube to see the former Olympic swimming venue or enjoy the water park.
The third day focuses on Beijing's dual character of "imperial grandeur and folk warmth". In the morning, wander through the Summer Palace, an imperial garden built by Emperor Qianlong to celebrate his mother's birthday. It combines the grandeur of northern landscapes with the delicacy of southern gardens. Start with Renshou Hall (where Empress Dowager Cixi held court behind a screen), then take a cruise on Kunming Lake—opt for the antique boat with English commentary, which offers a stunning view of the Longevity Hill and Foxiang Pavilion. The Seventeen-Arch Bridge connects the east bank to Nanhu Island, and its arches form the "Seventeen Moons Reflecting on Water" spectacle during a full moon. After disembarking, stroll along the Long Corridor, adorned with over 14,000 paintings depicting historical stories, landscapes, flowers, and birds—each deserves careful appreciation. In the evening, leave the imperial garden and explore the hutongs (alleyways) around Nanluoguxiang, where you'll find authentic Beijing flavors: Wenyu Cheese's original flavor is smooth and not overly sweet; Yao's Fried Liver (available in mild spice) with steamed buns is a classic Beijing late-night snack. To avoid commercialized main streets, turn into nearby Mao'er Hutong or Yandai Xiejie to see well-preserved siheyuan (courtyard house) gateways, some marked as "Cultural Relics Protection Units". Rent a bicycle (tandem bikes available) and ride around Shichahai Lake. Stop at Silver Ingot Bridge to enjoy the "Silver Ingot View of Mountains"—on clear days, you can see the outline of the Western Hills. For a Peking Opera experience, visit Chang'an Grand Theatre or Huguang Guild Hall. Book tickets in advance on the official website and choose front seats. A program guide in English is provided before the show, allowing you to appreciate the performers' movements, facial makeup, and music even if you don't understand the lyrics.
Days 4-5 Xi'an: Touch the Qin and Tang Dynasties' Legacy
Take the high-speed train from Beijing to Xi'an (about 4.5 hours). Upon exiting the high-speed rail station, you'll feel the ancient charm of this imperial capital—the city wall is clearly visible in the distance, and street lamps are designed in Tang Dynasty style. The highlight of Day 4 is the Emperor Qinshihuang's Mausoleum and Terracotta Army Museum, known as the "Eighth Wonder of the World". Enter the museum and first visit Pit 1, the largest pit with over 6,000 terracotta warriors. Standing on the viewing platform, you'll see the neatly arranged army divided into vanguards, main forces, and rear guards, with infantry, cavalry, and chariot soldiers each performing their duties. Each warrior has a unique face, hairstyle, and costume—even the nail patterns are clearly visible. Guides will share an interesting fact: the warriors were originally painted in bright colors but faded quickly due to oxidation after excavation; most of what you see now is the original clay color. After visiting Pit 1, don't miss the Bronze Chariots Exhibition Hall. The "Crown of Bronze" high chariot and sedan chariot are cast in bronze but can move flexibly, and the number of spokes on the wheels conforms to the ancient Chinese concept of "round sky and square earth". In the afternoon, visit Huaqing Palace, which not only has Tang Dynasty imperial hot springs but also bears marks of modern history—the Pavilion of Military Remonstrance, site of the "Xi'an Incident", is halfway up Lishan Mountain. From the pavilion, you can see the positions where Zhang Xueliang and Yang Hucheng's troops were stationed. The evening's "Song of Everlasting Sorrow" live performance is a must-see. Set against Lishan Mountain with a lake as the stage, over 300 performers in Tang Dynasty costumes depict the love story of Emperor Xuanzong and Yang Guifei. When "pear blossom rain" falls and fireworks soar into the sky, you'll feel as if you've traveled back to a Tang Dynasty night. Book tickets a week in advance and choose middle seats in Area A for the best view.
Day 5 starts with Xi'an City Wall, the largest and best-preserved ancient city wall in China. With a circumference of 13.7 kilometers, it has four main gates (east, west, south, and north). Climb the wall from Yongning Gate (South Gate), the most intact and beautifully decorated gate. Rent a mountain bike (single or double, with safety helmet) for a 90-minute ride around the wall. You'll be struck by the contrast between the ancient streets inside and the modern skyscrapers outside. Stop near Wenchang Gate halfway—here you can see the wall connecting to the Forest of Steles Museum and catch a glimpse of the Small Wild Goose Pagoda. In the afternoon, visit the Giant Wild Goose Pagoda, built under the supervision of Monk Xuanzang to house Buddhist scriptures and relics he brought back from India. Climb the narrow wooden stairs—each floor offers different views, and the top floor provides the best panoramic view of southern Xi'an. The musical fountain at the North Square is worth watching (check the daily schedule in advance). The fountain changes shapes with the music, reaching up to 30 meters high, and the light show is stunning. In the evening, explore Huimin Street, Xi'an's food hub. Avoid the touristy main street and head to side alleys like Xiyangshi and Dapiyuan for authentic dishes: Sun's Mutton Soup with Baked Bread (break the bread into small pieces for better flavor, served with sweet garlic and chili sauce to cut greasiness); Jia San's Beef Soup Dumplings (suck the soup first to avoid burning your mouth); and sweet treats like zenggao (glutinous rice with red dates and red beans) and jinggao (rice cake with honey and jam). If you're interested in Tang Dynasty culture, visit the "Chang'an Twelve Hours" theme block. Rent a Tang-style costume (various sizes and styles available) to immerse yourself in Tang Dynasty street life: watch shadow puppet shows, listen to pipa performances, play pitch-pot games, and try Tang Dynasty snacks like "Hu Bing" (sesame flatbread) and "Lao Ying Tao" (sweet cherry jelly).
Days 6-7 Zhangjiajie: Step into the Magical Land of "Avatar"
On Day 6, enter Zhangjiajie National Forest Park. Purchase a combined ticket (including entry and shuttle bus) on the official website in advance—the park is large, and shuttle buses are essential. In the morning, visit Golden Whip Stream, a 7.5-kilometer valley with crystal-clear water where small fish swim freely. The exotic peaks reflect in the water, creating the "Reflection Gorge" scenic spot. Along the way, you'll pass attractions like "Eagle Guarding the Golden Whip" and "Cleaving the Mountain to Rescue Mother"—each peak evokes a mythological story. The Golden Whip Rock stands straight like a golden whip, guarded by the adjacent "Eagle Guarding the Golden Whip" peak. Watch your step on the stone path, and be cautious of macaques (do not feed them to avoid scratches). Have lunch at a farmstay near the valley—try local dishes like stir-fried bacon with bamboo shoots and green pepper with rock ear (a unique fungus growing on rocks in Zhangjiajie). In the afternoon, take the Bailong Elevator, the world's tallest outdoor elevator (326 meters). In just 66 seconds, you'll ascend from the valley floor to the mountain top. The view will take your breath away: thousands of quartz sandstone peaks rise abruptly like pillars supporting the sky—this is the filming location of "Hallelujah Mountains" inAvatar. Climb Huangshi Village and walk along the circular viewing platform. Attractions like "Five Fingers Peak" and "Star-Picking Platform" are distinctive. When clouds swirl around the peaks, it feels like a fairyland.
Day 7 is for Tianmen Mountain. The scenic area has three parts: Tianmen Cave, East Line, and West Line—recommend the "West Line + Tianmen Cave" route. In the morning, take the scenic bus to the foot of Tianmen Cave and climb the 999 steps (Heavenly Stairs). At the top, you can witness the "Tianmen Sunrise" spectacle when the sun shines through the cave. The Glass Skywalk next to Tianmen Cave is a must-try. Built on a cliff at an altitude of 1,430 meters, the transparent tempered glass floor offers a clear view of the abyss below. Wear non-slip shoes, and if you're afraid of heights, stay close to the cliff wall. After the glass walk, take the alpine cableway down—the 7,455-meter cableway is the world's longest alpine passenger cableway. The 28-minute ride offers views transitioning from forests to the city, and when clouds are thick, you'll feel like floating in a sea of clouds. In the afternoon, visit the Guigu Plank Road in Tianmen Mountain National Forest Park. The plank road clings to the cliff, adjacent to Guigu Cave, where the Warring States Period strategist Guiguzi is said to have practiced. In the evening, savor Tujia ethnic cuisine. The must-try dish is "Tujia Three Delicacies Hot Pot" (stewed bacon, pork intestines, chicken with potatoes and radishes, rich in flavor) and "Steamed Mixed Preserved Meats" (bacon, sausage, and salted fish steamed together, savory and delicious). After dinner, watch a Tujia song and dance performance—listen to the "Dragon Boat Tune", watch Tujia girls perform the "Waving Dance", and even participate in the interactive "Crying Wedding" ritual (a unique Tujia wedding custom).
Days 8-9 Guilin & Yangshuo: A Pastoral Journey on the Water
Take the high-speed train from Zhangjiajie to Guilin (about 3.5 hours). After checking into your hotel and resting briefly, start your landscape tour. The core of Day 8 is the Li River cruise—recommend the Yangdi-Xingping section (about 20 kilometers, 2.5 hours), which features the most spectacular scenery of the Li River, including "Nine-Horse Painting Hill", "Huangbu Reflection", and "Wangfu Stone". The cruise uses motorized bamboo rafts (4 people per raft), and the boatman will slow down and remind you to take photos at key spots. The most iconic photo spot is "Huangbu Reflection", which is the scene on the 20 RMB banknote—bring a 20 RMB note to compare with the real view. "Nine-Horse Painting Hill" tests your observation skills: the rock patterns on the peak resemble nine horses, and the number you can spot depends on your perception. After the cruise, stop at Xingping Ancient Town. Small and charming, the town has old houses lining the bluestone streets and many shops selling handicrafts like bamboo weaving and landscape paintings. In the afternoon, return to Guilin city and visit Elephant Trunk Hill, the symbol of Guilin, named for its resemblance to an elephant drinking water. The best viewing spot is by the river in Elephant Trunk Hill Park—at dusk, the setting sun casts a glow on the hill, creating the "Elephant Trunk Hill and Moon over Water" scene. For a panoramic view, go to Zizhou Park across the river to capture both the hill and the Li River. In the evening, dine at "Chunji Roast Goose", a time-honored Guilin restaurant. The roast goose has crispy skin and tender meat, served with plum sauce to cut greasiness. Guilin rice noodles are a must-try staple—here they are served "dry" (mix with soup and toppings yourself) with a chewy texture.
On Day 9, travel to Yangshuo—only 18 minutes by high-speed train from Guilin, making transportation very convenient. Yangshuo's landscapes are more gentle than Guilin's. Start with a manual bamboo raft cruise on the Yulong River (recommend the Chaoyang Wharf-Gongnongqiao section, about 1.5 hours). Unlike the motorized rafts on the Li River, Yulong River rafts are poled manually by boatmen, moving slowly to let you savor the leisure of "boating on clear waters". The raft passes through several small dams, and the boatman skillfully navigates over them, splashing water for a refreshing feel. Both sides are covered with continuous rice fields and scattered farmhouses—green in spring and golden in autumn, every snapshot is a pastoral painting. After the cruise, rent an electric bike (many rental shops on Yangshuo streets, about 30 RMB per day, negotiable) to ride along the Ten-Mile Gallery. This road is flanked by rolling peaks, passing attractions like Moon Hill (showing shapes from "full moon" to "crescent" when viewed from different angles), the Big Banyan Tree (over 1,400 years old, filming location of the movieThird Sister Liu), and Butterfly Spring. When tired, rest at a roadside farmstay and order "Beer Fish" (Yangshuo's specialty—Li River fish braised in beer, fresh and tender), paired with local Liquan Beer. In the afternoon, experience intangible cultural heritage (ICH) crafts. Yangshuo tie-dye has a long history—at ICH workshops, teachers will teach you to tie and dye fabric to make a unique handkerchief or scarf as a souvenir. Zhuang brocade is woven with colored silk threads into patterns of landscapes, flowers, and birds, with exquisite craftsmanship—small brocade items make great souvenirs. In the evening, wander around Yangshuo West Street, which blends cozy cafes, bookstores, lively bars, and snack stalls, remaining bustling until midnight.
Days 10-11 Chengdu: Encounter Sichuan's Slow Life and Folk Vigor
Fly from Guilin to Chengdu (about 2 hours). Upon arrival, head straight to Chengdu Research Base of Giant Panda Breeding (visit in the morning when pandas are most active). The base has old and new areas—the "Moon Cub House" and "Sun Cub House" in the new area are the best spots to see panda cubs. July-September is the peak birth season, when you can see fluffy cubs curled up in incubators or being fed by breeders. Adult pandas in the old area roam outdoors—some napping in trees, others munching on bamboo, looking adorable. There are shuttle buses (10 RMB per person) for those with limited energy, but walking is recommended for closer views. Keep quiet during your visit, do not use flash photography, and never feed the pandas. In the afternoon, explore Kuanzhai Alley, consisting of three parallel alleys: Kuan Alley (Wide Alley) preserves many old Chengdu courtyard houses with teahouses and private restaurants; Zhai Alley (Narrow Alley) is more artistic, with specialty shops, cafes, and cultural and creative studios; Jing Alley (Well Alley) features folk murals and a "Brick Culture Wall". Recommend having gaiwan tea (lid-and-bowl tea) at "Xiaolong Fandajiang" Teahouse in Kuan Alley, order "San Da Pao" (glutinous rice cakes thrown on a board to make three loud sounds, served with brown sugar and soybean powder), and watch a free Sichuan Opera face-changing show (scheduled daily). In the evening, try snacks at Kuixinglou Street, Chengdu's "food street"—highlights include "Mao Jiao Huo La" spicy skewers, "Granny Ye's Bobo Chicken", and "Fu Qiang Spare Ribs" (sweet and sour).
Day 11 is filled with Bashu cultural charm. In the morning, visit Wuhou Temple, the only temple in China dedicated to both a ruler and his minister—Liu Bei and Zhuge Liang of the Three Kingdoms period. Upon entering, you'll first see the plaque "Temple of Emperor Zhaolie of Han" (Liu Bei's posthumous title), while the "Wuhou Temple" plaque is behind it, reflecting the etiquette of "emperor first, minister second". The "Chu Shi Biao" (Memorial on Sending Troops) stele, calligraphed by Qing Dynasty calligrapher Yue Zhongqi, has powerful handwriting worth admiring. Adjacent to Wuhou Temple is Jinli Ancient Street—combined tickets are available for both attractions. In the afternoon, experience Sichuan's slow life at an old teahouse. Recommend "Heming Teahouse" in People's Park, a century-old establishment. Order jasmine tea (a classic gaiwan tea), and watch the tea master pour tea with a long-spouted pot in a smooth, rhythmic manner. You can also try Sichuan ear cleaning—masters use special tools to gently clean your ears, paired with a head massage that will make you feel relaxed. Jinli Ancient Street comes alive in the evening, with red lanterns lining the streets and the aroma of snacks filling the air: San Da Pao, sugar-fried chestnuts, potstickers with jelly, and rabbit heads—all irresistible. Try "Shu Daxia" Hot Pot, a popular Chengdu brand. The spicy broth is rich and fragrant; for those who can't handle spicy food, a yuanyang (dual-flavor) pot is available. Must-order dishes include tripe, duck intestines, and beef aorta, which should be blanched "seven up and eight down" for the best texture. In the evening, watch a Sichuan Opera performance at "Shu Feng Ya Yun" Theater. The professional cast performs not only face-changing but also fire-spitting, lamp-rolling, and shadow puppetry. Tea and snacks are provided before the show, and the seats are comfortable. If you're interested in cooking, book a Sichuan cuisine cooking class (with English instruction). Under the chef's guidance, learn to make Mapo Tofu (mastering heat and seasoning ratio is key) and twice-cooked pork (selecting the right meat and caramelizing sugar properly). Afterward, enjoy your homemade meal.
Days 12-14 Shanghai: Experience East-Meets-West Modern Vitality
Fly from Chengdu to Shanghai (about 2.5 hours). The trendy vitality of this "Pearl of the Orient" greets you as soon as you arrive. Day 12 starts with the Bund, a 1.5-kilometer waterfront lined with dozens of buildings of diverse international styles, including the Gothic Peace Hotel, Baroque有利 Building (Youli Building), and Neoclassical HSBC Building. Each building has a story: the Peace Hotel's green copper roof is iconic, with luxurious Art Deco interiors; the HSBC Building was once hailed as "the most luxurious building from the Suez Canal to the Bering Strait". Visit the Bund in the morning or evening to avoid daytime crowds—early morning brings tranquility with local Shanghai residents doing morning exercises, while dusk offers a dazzling light show as lights on both sides of the Huangpu River shine. When visiting the Oriental Pearl Tower, recommend the two-sphere ticket (including the 259-meter all-transparent observation corridor and 263-meter main observation deck). The 259-meter corridor has a glass floor, offering a clear view of the streets and Huangpu River below (nerve-wracking for the faint of heart). The 263-meter deck provides a 360-degree panoramic view of Shanghai, with Lujiazui's skyscrapers and Huangpu River boats in full view. In the afternoon, visit Yuyuan Garden, Shanghai's most famous classical Jiangnan garden, with exquisitely arranged rockeries, ponds, pavilions, and towers. The "Yulinglong" (Jade Exquisite) is the garden's treasure—a 3-meter-tall Taihu stone with the four characteristics of "wrinkles, holes, thinness, and transparency". It's said that pouring water into any hole will make water flow out of all other holes. Yuyuan Tourist Mart next to the garden is perfect for souvenirs—the headquarters of Nanxiang Steamed Dumplings is here, serving fresh, thin-skinned dumplings with juicy fillings (suck the soup first to avoid burning). Pear Paste Candy, a traditional Shanghai snack, relieves coughs and moistens the lungs, with a sweet but not cloying taste.
Devote Day 13 to Shanghai Disneyland Resort—good preparation ensures a great experience. First, buy tickets and reserve entry time on the official website in advance. Download the "Shanghai Disneyland Resort" app, bind your ticket to check wait times for attractions and obtain reservation cards (required for popular rides). Arrive early to line up—after opening, head straight to popular attractions: "TRON Lightcycle Power Run" is Disney's iconic ride, with motorcycle-style seats racing at high speed in the dark, paired with lights and sound for an exciting experience; "Seven Dwarfs Mine Train" combines roller coasters with fairy tales, passing through the Seven Dwarfs' mine, cute and fun; "Soaring Over the Horizon" takes you on a "world tour" via dome screen technology, flying over landmarks like the Eiffel Tower, Great Wall, and Sydney Opera House for an immersive experience. Have lunch at park restaurants—recommend the roasted pork ribs at "Batuu BBQ" (generous portions and great taste) and chicken rice at "Camp Discovery Harthouse". Watch the parade in the afternoon (around 3 PM, check the app for exact time)—Disney characters ride floats along the street, interacting with visitors. The evening fireworks show is the highlight, usually starting at 8:30 PM. Fireworks burst over the castle, paired with lights and music, creating a romantic and stunning scene. Arrive 1 hour early to secure a spot in front of the castle for the best view. The park has many photo spots, such as in front of the castle, Mickey Avenue, and Alice in Wonderland Maze—don't forget to take photos with Disney characters (check meeting times and locations in advance).
The final day focuses on Shanghai's "old charm and new fashion". In the morning, wander through Tianzifang, a cultural and creative district renovated from old Shanghai shikumen (stone-gate) buildings, preserving red brick walls and dormer windows while housing various artistic shops. Recommend visiting "Shoubai Art" (Shanghai paper-cut art with unique works) and "Scent Library" (customizable perfume). When tired, step into a café like "Cat's Sky Bookstore"—order coffee and write a postcard to friends or yourself. Tianzifang also has many snacks, such as "Uncle A's Scallion Pancakes" (freshly baked with strong scallion flavor) and "Alley Spicy Pork Noodles" (a classic Shanghai local noodle dish). In the afternoon, travel to Zhujiajiao Ancient Town, Shanghai's best-preserved Jiangnan water town, quieter than Zhouzhuang. With crisscrossing rivers and numerous bridges, it's known as the "Pearl of Jiangnan". Recommend a hand-paddled boat tour (6 people per boat)—the boatman will paddle and explain the town's history. As the boat glides along the river, the white walls, black tiles, and small bridges create a Jiangnan ink painting scene. After disembarking, explore the old streets—North Street is the main street, with shops selling specialty products like braised pork, smoked beans, and foxnut cake. The Fangsheng Bridge, a five-arched stone bridge built in the Ming Dynasty, is the town's landmark, with a wide deck offering a panoramic view. In the evening, go to Xintiandi, a trendy district renovated from old shikumen buildings, where red brick walls blend with glass curtain walls, merging Eastern and Western cultures. Xintiandi is home to high-end restaurants, bars, and luxury stores, such as "Din Tai Fung" (a renowned Taiwanese dumpling brand) and "Blue Frog" (American restaurant). Enjoy a cocktail and experience Shanghai's nightlife to conclude this 14-day panoramic journey.
II. Travel Essentials: Comprehensive Guide to Planning, Taboos, and Customs
1. Practical Planning Guide
For travel time, spring (April-May) and autumn (September-October) are China's golden travel seasons. Most regions have mild temperatures (15-25℃), with flowering crabapples in Beijing, cherry blossoms in Xi'an, rapeseed flowers in Guilin, and plane trees in Shanghai at their best. Summer (June-August) is hot and rainy in southern China, but mountainous areas like Zhangjiajie and Guilin are cooler (20-28℃), ideal for summer retreats—carry rain gear and check the weather forecast to avoid heavy rains. Winter (December-February) is cold and dry in northern China (temperatures in Beijing and Xi'an can drop to -5℃), but you can experience Spring Festival temple fairs and rock sugar hawthorns. Southern cities like Chengdu and Shanghai have milder temperatures (5-15℃), suitable for escaping the cold. For inter-city transportation, high-speed trains are the first choice—routes like Beijing to Xi'an (4.5 hours), Xi'an to Zhangjiajie (3.5 hours), Guilin to Yangshuo (18 minutes), and Chengdu to Shanghai (6.5 hours by high-speed train or 2.5 hours by plane) are very convenient. Buy high-speed train tickets via the "12306" app (supports passport registration). Stations have English signs and self-service ticket machines. For urban transportation, Beijing, Shanghai, Chengdu, and Xi'an have extensive subway networks with English announcements and signs. Purchase a "China Transportation Card" (valid in multiple cities) or use mobile payment (WeChat and Alipay have "bus/train ticket" functions). Between attractions in Guilin and Yangshuo, book a private car through your hotel (drivers with English service available) or take tourist buses (affordable with fixed schedules).
For documents, foreign tourists must apply for a Chinese tourist visa (L visa) in advance. Check the application process on the official website of the Chinese embassy/consulate in your country. Generally, you need to provide a round-trip flight itinerary, hotel reservation confirmation, and travel itinerary. Processing takes 5-7 working days, and your passport must be valid for more than 6 months beyond your departure date. Booking popular attractions in advance is crucial: Book the Palace Museum 7 days in advance via its official website or WeChat mini-program, with morning and afternoon time slots. Register with your passport number and enter with your passport. Book the Emperor Qinshihuang's Mausoleum and Terracotta Army Museum 1 day in advance via its official website, with time-slotted entry. Book Zhangjiajie National Forest Park and Tianmen Mountain National Forest Park 3 days in advance via the "Zhangjiajie Tourism Official Platform". Book Shanghai Disneyland Resort 7 days in advance via its official website. For accommodation: In Beijing, stay near Dongdan or Chongwenmen (interchange of Metro Lines 1, 5, 7; 1-2 stops from Tiananmen and the Palace Museum), such as "The Opposite House Beijing" (English service, 10-minute walk from Tiananmen). In Xi'an, stay near the Bell Tower (interchange of Metro Lines 2, 6; walking distance to the City Wall and Huimin Street), such as "The Westin Xi'an" (overlooks the Bell Tower at night). In Chengdu, stay near Chunxi Road or Kuanzhai Alley (interchange of Metro Lines 2, 3; convenient for food and shopping), such as "The Temple House Chengdu" (hidden beside Kuanzhai Alley, rich Chinese style). In Shanghai, stay near the Bund or East Nanjing Road (interchange of Metro Lines 2, 10; walking distance to the Bund and Yuyuan Garden), such as "Waldorf Astoria Shanghai on the Bund" (a century-old historic building with an excellent location). For a local experience, book a homestay via platforms like Airbnb—many hosts offer English service and recommend off-the-beaten-path attractions. Itinerary abridgment suggestions: 7-day tour: "Beijing (2 days) - Xi'an (2 days) - Shanghai (3 days)" (classic city route covering imperial, ancient, and modern styles). 10-day tour: "Beijing (3 days) - Xi'an (2 days) - Chengdu (2 days) - Shanghai (3 days)" (cultural and culinary route combining history, food, and modern vitality). For nature lovers: "Zhangjiajie (3 days) - Guilin & Yangshuo (3 days) - Chengdu (2 days)" (natural and cultural route).
2. Notes and Cultural Taboos
For language communication: While major cities and popular attractions have English signs, Chinese is the main language for daily communication. Download offline translation apps in advance (Youdao Translator and Google Translate support offline Chinese-English mutual translation) and "Chinese Travel Phrasebook" apps with common travel dialogues (ordering food, asking for directions, shopping). Learning simple Chinese phrases helps: "Nǐ hǎo" (Hello), "Xièxie" (Thank you), "Máfan nǐ" (Excuse me), "Duōshao qián" (How much). Locals will be enthusiastic when hearing foreign tourists speak Chinese. Write important information (hotel address, attraction names, emergency contact numbers) in both Chinese and English, or save it as a photo on your phone for easy reference to drivers or staff. For payment methods: WeChat Pay and Alipay are widely used in China, accepted in shopping malls and street stalls. Foreign tourists can bind international credit cards (Visa and Mastercard supported) by following the instructions on the "Foreign Tourist Payment" page in WeChat or Alipay. Note that small vendors in remote areas or rural markets may only accept cash. Exchange an appropriate amount of RMB in advance at the airport or bank (show your passport). Recommend 500 RMB per person per day—sufficient for daily needs. Cash can be withdrawn at bank counters or ATMs (many support international bank cards). When shopping, feel free to ask "Néng zhéjià ma?" (Can you give a discount?)—some small shops, especially for handicrafts, accept haggling.
Pay extra attention to cultural taboos to avoid awkwardness due to cultural differences: When dining, do not stick chopsticks upright in rice (associated with traditional funeral rituals, considered inauspicious), do not tap bowls with chopsticks (once done by beggars), and do not reach over others' chopsticks to pick up food. Accept gifts or business cards with both hands, and try to hand things to others with both hands—avoid using the left hand (considered unclean in some cultures). When visiting temples, palaces, or museums, follow "No Photography" and "No Touching" signs, do not speak loudly, and do not climb cultural relics. When entering ethnic minority areas (e.g., Zhuang and Miao villages in Guilin and Yangshuo), respect local religious beliefs and customs—for example, take off your shoes before entering a Zhuang stilted house and do not touch Miao silver ornaments casually (some are ritual objects). For health and safety: Tap water in China is generally not drinkable directly. Drink bottled water (widely available in supermarkets and convenience stores, 1-2 RMB per bottle) and avoid unboiled water. While street food is delicious, choose clean stalls with many customers and avoid cold dishes to prevent stomach discomfort. Carry common medications: cold medicine (e.g., Tylenol), stomach medicine (e.g., Berberine for diarrhea), motion sickness medicine (e.g., Dimenhydrinate for long trips or cruises), sunscreen (essential in summer as southern China has strong UV rays), and mosquito repellent (necessary in scenic areas like Guilin and Yangshuo with many mosquitoes in summer). For chronic diseases (e.g., hypertension, diabetes), bring enough medication and prepare English instructions for medical use. Keep an eye on valuables (phone, wallet, passport) at crowded attractions (e.g., Palace Museum, Bund, Shanghai Disneyland)—use anti-theft backpacks or fanny packs. Obey traffic rules: Vehicles drive on the right in China. Cross the road at crosswalks and follow traffic lights (red for stop, green for go)—do not jaywalk. Take licensed taxis (with roof lights and company logos). Ask for the approximate fare before getting in or use navigation apps to avoid detours. Save emergency contacts: Ministry of Foreign Affairs Global Emergency Call Center for Consular Protection and Services (+86-10-12308, 24-hour English service), local emergency call 110 (English service available), medical emergency call 120 (English service available), and hotel front desk number (save as a speed dial). Other details: Most attractions require walking and have stairs (e.g., Great Wall, Zhangjiajie, Palace Museum)—wear comfortable, non-slip sneakers. Carry a folding umbrella or raincoat in summer as it rains frequently. China uses 220V electricity with plug types A (two flat pins), C (two round pins), and I (three flat pins)—buy a universal adapter in advance. Use trash cans in scenic areas—littering or damaging natural landscapes/cultural relics may result in fines.
3. Overview of Local Customs and Folkways
Beijingers are straightforward and enthusiastic, valuing politeness in communication. They often use "Nín" (a polite form of "you") to show respect. The Spring Festival is their most grand traditional festival. From the 23rd day of the 12th lunar month (Little New Year), families clean their homes, paste couplets, and hang New Year paintings. On New Year's Eve, families gather to eat dumplings—one dumpling contains a coin, and the person who finds it is said to have good fortune in the coming year. From the first to the fifth day of the first lunar month, people visit relatives and friends to give New Year's greetings, and elders give "lucky money" to children. Parks like Ditan and Longtan hold temple fairs with dragon and lion dances, Peking Opera performances, and snack stalls, bustling with activity. Elderly Beijingers in hutongs have traditional hobbies: bird-keeping (carrying birdcages to parks in the morning to let birds sunbathe and learn to sing), chess-playing (elderly men playing Xiangqi at street stone tables with onlookers offering advice), and shuttlecock-kicking (groups kicking shuttlecocks in circles with various tricks). Tourists are welcome to join—elders will happily teach you. As a capital of 13 dynasties, Xi'an preserves many traditional customs. Qinqiang Opera is the local representative opera, with high-pitched tones and exaggerated movements and expressions to convey emotions. Though you may not understand the lyrics, you can feel the emotional intensity. Recommend watching a Qinqiang performance at "Yisu Society Cultural Block" with English subtitles. Xi'an's Hui people live near Huimin Street. During Ramadan (10th month of the Islamic calendar) and Eid al-Adha (12th month of the Islamic calendar), they hold special activities—Ramadan features scripture recitations and feast of sacrifice, while Eid al-Adha has group prayers and song-and-dance performances. Tourists can watch respectfully but do not take photos or disturb. During the Spring Festival, the Datang Everbright City holds a large-scale lantern show—hundreds of thousands of lanterns decorate the street like a Tang Dynasty night scene, with immersive performances like "Tumbling Lady" and "Painting Figure", making you feel like traveling back to the Tang Dynasty.
Chengdus are gentle and humorous, and "slow life" is the city's hallmark—even on the bustling Chunxi Road, you can see people enjoying tea in teahouses. On the Start of Spring, Chengdu has the custom of "beating the spring ox"—people beat a clay ox with whips to "awaken the land" and pray for good weather and a bumper harvest. Temples like Qingyang Palace hold this ritual, and tourists can participate. Gaiwan tea and ear cleaning are Chengdu's favorite pastimes. At Heming Teahouse in People's Park, ordering a cup of gaiwan tea and spending the afternoon watching others play chess and chat is the most authentic Chengdu lifestyle. Mahjong is an indispensable entertainment—you can see people playing mahjong in teahouses, on streets, and in community open spaces. Tourists can try "Sichuan Mahjong" (without east-south-west-north winds, featuring the "bloody battle" rule)—locals will patiently teach you. As a city blending Eastern and Western cultures, Shanghai's customs combine tradition and modernity. During the Spring Festival, Yuyuan Garden holds a large-scale lantern show with exquisite lanterns shaped like zodiac animals, mythological stories, and city landscapes—crowded with people when lit up at night, a signature Spring Festival activity in Shanghai. On the Mid-Autumn Festival, Shanghainese gather with family to eat mooncakes and appreciate osmanthus flowers. Guilin Park is famous for its osmanthus—during Mid-Autumn, golden, silver, and orange osmanthus bloom, filling the air with fragrance. The park holds an Osmanthus Festival with snacks like osmanthus cake and osmanthus wine. Lane culture is Shanghai's most distinctive folk culture—neighbors in lanes are friendly, greeting each other in the morning and sharing homemade breakfast. In the evening, adults chat on stools at lane entrances while children chase and play. Tourists can visit "Tianzifang" and "Shikumen Museum" to experience the warmth of lane life and taste traditional snacks like glutinous rice balls, fried dough sticks, and soybean milk.
Guilin and Yangshuo are multi-ethnic areas where ethnic groups like the Zhuang, Miao, and Yao live in harmony, preserving rich customs. The Zhuang's San Yue San (Third Month Festival) is their most lively festival. On the third day of the third lunar month, Zhuang people wear traditional costumes and gather by rivers or on hills to sing folk songs—young men and women express affection through singing and give silk balls (a Zhuang mascot symbolizing true love) to their crushes. Festival activities include bronze drum beating, silk ball throwing, firecracker snatching, and eating five-color glutinous rice (soaked in five kinds of plant juice, symbolizing a bumper harvest). The Miao's Si Yue Ba (Fourth Month Festival) commemorates the Miao hero Yanu. On this day, Miao people wear exquisitely embroidered costumes and silver ornaments (symbolizing wealth and auspiciousness), perform Lusheng and bronze drum dances, and hold bullfighting and horse racing. The Yao's Panwang Festival honors their ancestor Panwang. On the 16th day of the 10th lunar month, Yao people slaughter pigs and sheep to worship Panwang, perform long-drum dances, and sing Panwang songs—the powerful long-drum dance reflects the Yao's courage and perseverance. Local ICH crafts are also worth exploring: Zhuang brocade is woven with colored silk into landscape, flower, and bird patterns, exquisite and suitable as high-end souvenirs. Yao silver craftsmanship has a history of over 1,000 years—silversmiths hammer silver into thin sheets, then carve and hollow out to make necklaces, bracelets, and hair accessories, each a unique work of art. Yangshuo tie-dye uses cotton and linen fabric—tie, bind, and sew the fabric before dyeing; the unique patterns formed after untying make for personalized souvenirs. When interacting with ethnic minorities, respect their customs: take off your shoes before entering a Zhuang stilted house, do not touch Miao women's silver headdresses casually, and ask for permission before taking photos. This way, you can better integrate into local life and experience the enthusiasm and simplicity of ethnic minorities.
Keywords: 14-day China tour, Beijing Xi'an Zhangjiajie Guilin Chengdu Shanghai itinerary, China travel guide for foreign tourists, Chinese cultural experience, Chinese food guide, Chinese customs and folkways, China travel notes