China: A Two-Week Itinerary

From Xi’an by Jess

The vast lands of China offer such an abundance of exciting attractions, from the Great Wall of China in Beijing, to the Terracotta Warriors in Xi-an, to the Giant Pandas of Chengdu, that visitors to this astounding country full of history and wonder would be hard-pressed to experience everything in a trip under two months long. That’s why we’ve chosen to highlight China in our series on extended travel vacations. RealTravel contributor, Michelle Finkelstein, has created a two-week itinerary for travelers who don’t have several months to spend exploring this amazing country — and for those who are ready to see it all, her itinerary will get you off to a great start.

Michelle stresses that the best months to visit China are April and September through October, as the weather is mild and pleasant during these times. So, if you’ve been thinking about heading to China, now is definitely a great time to put your plan into action. Check out Michelle’s ideas for things to do, see, and places to stay in exciting cities throughout the country, and be sure to click on the links at the bottom for itineraries from RealTravel members who’ve been there.

China: A Two-Week Itinerary by Michelle Finkelstein

Beijing: Days 1 - 3

Fly into Beijing (formerly Peking), the capital of China and unequivocally one of the greatest cities on the planet. With a population of over 14 million, this thriving metropolis first became a capital during the Mongol Yuan dynasty (1279-1368) and was the seat of power throughout the Ming (1368-1644) and Qing (1644-1911) dynasties.

What to Do
There are an astounding amount of sights in Beijing so plan to be on the go and armed with an excellent street map. I’ve listed the top sights be proximity.

In Beijing

The physical and cultural heart of Beijing is Tian’an Men Square and the Forbidden City.
– Tian’an Men Square – The ‘Square of the Gate of Heavenly Peace’ is a must to people-watch, visit Chairman Mao’s Mausoleum, Tian’an Men, a Ming dynasty gate with the infamous Mao portrait, and Qian Men, the original front gate now a museum. The location of the 1989 student massacre, this square with Communist-era buildings exemplifies mid-20th century China.
– Underground City – History buffs won’t want to miss these bombproof tunnels beneath the city built in the 60s. The maze was stocked with weapons, hospitals, food and water in the event of an emergency.
– Forbidden City – In the heart of Beijing, this complex, officially called the Palace Museum, is arguably China’s most famous landmark and one of the most glorious examples of imperial architecture on earth. Completed in 1420, the palace was the center dynastic China rule for over 500 years and 24 emperors. Until the 1920s it was exclusively for royalty and dignitaries, only opened to the public in 1949. This impressive compound merits a few hours of exploring.

Sites Within the Forbidden City

Outer Court – This remarkable section is the center of the complex.
Golden Water – Symbolizing the five fundamental virtues of Confucianism, five marble bridges span the Golden Water which flows from West to East in a manner meant to resemble the jade belt worn by administrators.
Hall of Supreme Harmony – The largest hall features an ornate throne and painted ceiling was used for important ceremonies.
Palaces of Heavenly Purity & Earthly Tranquility– Imperial sleeping and living quarters.
Imperial Flower Garden – Tranquil symmetrical gardens adorned with pavilions, temples, halls, ancient rock gardens and trees.
Lama Temple (North of the Forbidden City near Di Tan Park) – This colorful 17th century Tibetan Buddhist temple combines Han, Mongol and Tibetan styles and houses a magnificent 55-ft tall statue of Buddha carved from a single block of sandalwood.
Ming Dynasty Temple of Heaven (Southeast of the Forbidden City) – This temple features boldly painted and gilded ceiling and pillars and was where the emperor would pray to his ancestors during the winter solstice.

Outside Beijing Proper:

Arrange a trip outside the city via taxi, private car & driver or an organized tour to see these main highlights.

– Great Wall of China – Built in 221-210 BC to protect newly unified China and then successively added to from the 5th century BC to 16th century AD, this earthen, sone and brick wall winds approximately four thousand miles across the countryside. There are numerous spots to visit along the Great Wall, some with more facilities than others, some in near-ruin.
– Ming Tombs – Usually visited in conjunction with the Great Wall, these 13 imperial burial chambers are spread across 15 square miles on a site chosen for its auspicious feng shui configuration.
– Summer Palace – 6 miles NW of Beijing, this extensive Qing dynasty palace and grounds was the summer retreat from the Forbidden City. The current layout is attributed to Emperor Qianlong (reigned 1736-95) but Empress Dowager Cixi had it rebuilt twice after its destruction by the French and English troops in 1860 and after the 1902 Boxer Rebellion.

For more exciting ideas of things to do and see in Beijing, as well as hotel recommendations, click here.

Xi’an: Days 4 - 5

Fly non-stop (1 hour 15 minute flight) to Xian, the capital of Shaanxi province, where the main draw is the army of terracotta warriors discovered in 1974 by peasants digging a well. Called “The Land of Kings and Flowers”, Xian was home to eleven of China’s great dynasties spanning 4000 years, and was the country’s capital for more than a thousand. You’ll need a good day-and-a-half to see the sights of old Xian and the warriors.

What to Do
– City Walls – Still intact, 9 miles of 14th century walls surround the city. Climb the steps along the South and West Gates and walk along the ramparts.
– Great Goose Pagoda (Dayan Ta) – Tang dynasty 7-tiered Buddhist pagoda built in 652 AD. Light a candle and toss coins from the top windows for good luck.
– Great Mosque – Built in 742 this mosque in the center of the Muslim Quarter is one of the largest in China. Wander the narrow streets of the old quarter and sample the excellent cuisine
– Bell Tower – Look for the green, tiered roof which houses a collection of bells, chimes and musical instruments.
– Shaanxi Provincial Museum – This modern museum houses over 370,000 relics of the Shaanxi civilization. The Shaanxi province in Central China flourished for centuries and reached its peak in the 9th century, when Xian (known as Chang’an) was the largest and richest city in the world with over one million citizens. The collection features ceramics, bronzes, jade, gold and silver artifacts, coins and calligraphy from the pre-Ming to Tang dynasties.
– Terracotta Soldiers – An army of life-size earthenware soldiers was created to guard the tomb of Qin Shi Huangdi, the first emperor of the Qin dynasty, who died around 206 BC. The army’s presence was to guarantee his protection in the afterlife. Still under excavation, so far three pits with over 7000 warriors have been uncovered. Each figured is painstakingly restored, and they were once all painted vibrant colors, which have faded due to air exposure. Most of the wood weapons the soldiers held have long ago decomposed. Historical sources avow that the emperor had over 700,000 people constructing the necropolis over 36 years.
– Pit One – Over 6000 soldiers stand in battle formation – the sight is truly something to behold. Originally they were covered with wood roofs. (more…)

Chengdu: Day 6

Fly direct (1 hour 15 minute trip) to Chengdu, capital of Sichuan province, famous for its pandas, charismatic teahouses and spicy cuisine.

What to Do
– Giant Panda Breeding Research Base – The highlight of Chengdu, this breeding center located 6 miles NE of the city, was inaugurated in 1987 has bred and raised over 27 rare giant panda cubs. Eventually the researchers would like to start releasing them into the wild. You can see about 20 red and 21 giant pandas chewing bamboo or sleeping – a very relaxed bunch!
– Du Fu’s Thatched Cottage – Celebrated Tang dynasty poet’s modest home from 759-764 AD. His poems and history of his life are on display.
– Wenshu Temple – This Buddhist temple, circa 700 AD, is dedicated to Wenshu, God of Wisdom, often shown riding a blue lion.
– Sichuan Opera – Part musical, part comedy show, this performance featuring acrobatics and elaborate costumes is known for its famous Face Changing Dance. An actor changes characters by quickly removing a mask layer or adding makeup with the flash of a hand. (more…)

If this excerpt from Michelle’s two-week itinerary has filled you with you curiosity and excitement about China, be sure to check out the rest of her itinerary, which includes a cruise down the Yangtze River, a visit to the thrilling city of Shanghai, and lots more!

China Itineraries from RealTravelers:
China by Miss JJ
Adventure in China! by The Harstads
May Day Holiday: Finding China in China by Claire and Ryan

China Travel Guides:
Beijing Travel Guide
Xi’an Travel Guide
Chengdu Travel Guide
Yangtze Travel Guide
Shanghai Travel Guide

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