60 days in China Itinerary

Nine villages make up Jiuzhaigou County, a valley with a wealth of natural sites protected by UNESCO. Some of the natural sites are considered holy by the local Tibetan and Qiang minorities, with many legends and anecdotes associated with each lake, waterfall, off-shoot valley, and snowcapped peak.

On the 23rd (Wed), explore the striking landscape of Jiuzhaigou Natural Reserve. Here are some ideas for day two: take in the spiritual surroundings of Jiuzailing Temple and then admire the sheer force of Nuorilang Waterfall.

For more things to do, where to stay, other places to visit, and other tourist information, go to the Jiuzhaigou County online travel route planner.

Chennai, India to Jiuzhaigou County is an approximately 19.5-hour flight. You can also drive. The time zone difference when traveling from Chennai to Jiuzhaigou County is 2.5 hours. Wrap up your sightseeing by early afternoon on the 24th (Thu) to allow enough time to drive to Chongqing.

With one of the most populated and largest metropolitan areas in the world, Chongqing was the de facto capital of China during World War II. Its wartime political importance and post-war economic boom have left a number of attractions in Chongqing, including war memorials and museums, government buildings, and thriving commercial districts with a wealth of malls and more traditional market areas.

Start off your visit on the 25th (Fri): explore the fascinating underground world of Hongya Cave, shop like a local with Jiefangbei Square, then don't miss a visit to Jiefang Monument, and finally examine the collection at Three Gorges Museum. Here are some ideas for day two: delve into the distant past at Ciqikou (Porcelain Port) and then learn about wildlife with up-close encounters at Chongqing Zoo (Chongqing Dongwuyuan).

To find reviews, traveler tips, maps, and other tourist information, read Chongqing road trip app.

You can drive from Jiuzhaigou County to Chongqing in 8 hours. Other options are to do a combination of taxi and train; or do a combination of bus and flight. Expect a daytime high around 19°C in November, and nighttime lows around 13°C. On the 26th (Sat), wrap the sightseeing up by early afternoon so you can fly to Lhasa.

The capital of the Tibet Autonomous Region, Lhasa possesses a wealth of Tibetan Buddhist sites of historical and cultural importance.

Start off your visit on the 27th (Sun): get to know the fascinating history of Barkhor Street, take in the spiritual surroundings of Canggu Temple, contemplate in the serene atmosphere at Drepung Monastery (Zhebang Si), then steep yourself in history at Norbulingka (Precious Stone Garden), and finally examine the collection at Tibet Museum. Get ready for a full day of sightseeing on the 28th (Mon): steep yourself in history at Sera Monastery, take in the spiritual surroundings of Jokhang Temple, and then take in the spiritual surroundings of Ramoche Monastery (Xiao Zhao Si).

To find where to stay, ratings, and other tourist information, you can read our Lhasa trip maker app.

Getting from Chongqing to Lhasa by flight takes about 4.5 hours. Other options: drive; or take a train. Traveling from Chongqing in November, you will find days in Lhasa are a bit cooler (16°C), and nights are cooler (-1°C). On the 28th (Mon), wrap the sightseeing up by early afternoon so you can fly to Kunming.

With a temperate climate at 2,000 m (6,600 ft) and a variety of tourist attractions, Kunming makes a popular gateway for exploring Yunnan Province.

Start off your visit on the 29th (Tue): make a trip to Yunnan Nationalities Village, then don't miss a visit to Kunming Dragon Gate, then stroll around Green Lake (Cui Hu), and finally steep yourself in history at Kunming Golden Temple. On the next day, contemplate the waterfront views at Dian Lake (Dian Chi) and then stroll around Kunming West Hill (Xishan Forest Park).

For maps, ratings, other places to visit, and tourist information, refer to the Kunming trip planner.

Traveling by flight from Lhasa to Kunming takes 4.5 hours. Alternatively, you can drive; or do a combination of bus and train. Plan for a bit warmer temperatures traveling from Lhasa in November, with highs in Kunming at 22°C and lows at 8°C. Wrap up your sightseeing on the 30th (Wed) to allow time to fly to Lijiang.

The cultural capital of the Naxi people, one of the 55 minority ethnic groups in the country, Lijang traces its history back over 800 years, with the city developing from a trading post on the ancient Southern Silk Road.

Kick off your visit on the 1st (Thu): steep yourself in history at Shuhe Ancient Town, contemplate the waterfront views at Lugu Lake, appreciate the extensive heritage of Old Town of Lijiang - China, then steep yourself in history at Mufu Palace, and finally admire the local landmark of Black Dragon Pond Park. Get ready for a full day of sightseeing on the next day: visit Baisha Naxi Embroidery Institute, contemplate the long history of Lijiang Mural in Baisha Village, and then take in the awesome beauty at Yulong (Jade Dragon) Mountain.

For ratings, photos, traveler tips, and tourist information, go to the Lijiang online trip builder.

Traveling by flight from Kunming to Lijiang takes 2.5 hours. Alternatively, you can take a train; or drive. When traveling from Kunming in November, plan for colder days in Lijiang, with highs around 1°C, while nights are a bit cooler with lows around 1°C. Finish your sightseeing early on the 2nd (Fri) so you can drive to Dali.

Combining a glorious past with modern conveniences and scenic natural surroundings, Dali stands out as one of the most popular tourist destinations in Yunnan, perched in a strategic location and boasting fertile fields for agriculture.

On the 3rd (Sat), explore the ancient world of Zhonghe Temple and then delve into the lush surroundings at Erhai Lake.

To find maps, where to stay, ratings, and more tourist information, refer to the Dali online trip builder.

Traveling by car from Lijiang to Dali takes 2.5 hours. Alternatively, you can take a train; or take a bus. Finish your sightseeing early on the 3rd (Sat) so you can fly to Chengdu.

The home of giant pandas for more than two million years, Chengdu's vast human history cowers in comparison to the natural heritage of the area.

On the 4th (Sun), make a trip to Jinli Pedestrian Street, get to know the fascinating history of Kuanzhai Alley, take in the spiritual surroundings of Qingyang Palace (Green Ram Temple), then take in the spiritual surroundings of Wenshu Yuan Monastery, and finally look for all kinds of wild species at Giant Panda Breeding Research Base (Xiongmao Jidi). Here are some ideas for day two: get engrossed in the history at Wuhou Memorial Temple, get engrossed in the history at Jinsha Site Museum, and then get engrossed in the history at Du Fu Cottage.

For where to stay, reviews, other places to visit, and more tourist information, refer to the Chengdu trip builder site.

Traveling by flight from Dali to Chengdu takes 3.5 hours. Alternatively, you can take a train; or drive. Expect a daytime high around 14°C in December, and nighttime lows around 6°C. Wrap up your sightseeing on the 5th (Mon) early enough to fly to Zhangjiajie.

The city of Zhangjiajie has become particularly well known for its striking surrounding landscape.

Kick off your visit on the 6th (Tue): take in the awesome beauty at Tianzi Mountain and then take a peaceful walk through Wulingyuan Scenic and Historic Interest Area of Zhangjiajie. Here are some ideas for day two: explore the striking landscape of Tianmen Mountain National Forest Park.

For other places to visit, photos, more things to do, and more tourist information, read our Zhangjiajie sightseeing planner.

Traveling by flight from Chengdu to Zhangjiajie takes 3 hours. Alternatively, you can drive; or do a combination of train and bus. Wrap up your sightseeing on the 7th (Wed) to allow time to fly to Xi'an.

Historians often describe Xi'an, capital city for over a dozen dynasties, as the birthplace of Chinese civilization.

Start off your visit on the 8th (Thu): get engrossed in the history at The Museum of Qin Terra-cotta Warriors and Horses, steep yourself in history at Big Wild Goose Pagoda (Dayanta), then don't miss a visit to Xi'an Bell Tower, and finally steep yourself in history at Drum Tower (Gulou). Get ready for a full day of sightseeing on the next day: take in the spiritual surroundings of Xi'an Mosque, then make a trip to Muslim Quarter, and then explore the ancient world of Xi'an City Wall (Chengqiang).

To find photos, where to stay, traveler tips, and tourist information, refer to the Xi'an trip builder tool.

You can fly from Zhangjiajie to Xi'an in 3 hours. Other options are to drive; or take a train. Expect a daytime high around 8°C in December, and nighttime lows around -5°C. Finish your sightseeing early on the 9th (Fri) so you can fly to Qingdao.

The city of Qingdao has become particularly well known for its clean streets, orderly layout, and blending of the old and the new.

Start off your visit on the 10th (Sat): make a trip to Qingdao Huiquan Cape, don't miss a visit to Badaguan Scenic Resort, then don't miss a visit to May Fourth Square, and finally buy something for everyone on your list at Hisense Plaza (Hisense Plaza). On your second day here, examine the collection at Qingdao Beer Museum and then kick back and relax at Golden Beach (Huang Dao).

For ratings, other places to visit, photos, and more tourist information, refer to the Qingdao day trip planning tool.

Traveling by flight from Xi'an to Qingdao takes 4 hours. Alternatively, you can take a train; or drive. In December in Qingdao, expect temperatures between 7°C during the day and -3°C at night. Wrap up your sightseeing on the 11th (Sun) to allow time to fly to Dalian.

The large city of Dalian gets its history from its seaport, its modernity from its industry, and its visitors from the fact it largely keeps these things from view.

On the 12th (Mon), don't miss a visit to Xinghai Square, get up close and personal with brilliant marine life at Ji Di Guan - Pole Aquarium, and then stroll around Laohutan Scenic Park. Here are some ideas for day two: take a stroll through Dalian Laohutan Square and then admire nature's wide array of creatures at Dalian Forest Zoo.

To find more things to do, where to stay, photos, and other tourist information, refer to the Dalian online tour planner.

Fly from Qingdao to Dalian in 2.5 hours. Alternatively, you can drive; or do a combination of car and ferry. Traveling from Qingdao in December, you will find days in Dalian are a bit cooler (3°C), and nights are about the same (-5°C). Finish up your sightseeing early on the 13th (Tue) so you can catch the flight to Harbin.

The influence of neighboring Russia remains visible throughout much of Harbin, with the country's northernmost metropolis possessing an intoxicating eclecticism in its architecture, food, and art.

Kick off your visit on the 14th (Wed): examine the collection at Saint Sophia Cathedral, don't miss a visit to Zhongyang Pedestrian Street, and then get in on the family fun at Harbin Ice and Snow World. Here are some ideas for day two: admire the striking features of Harbin Flood Control Memorial Tower and then head off the coast to Sun Island (Tai Yang Dao).

To find ratings, traveler tips, more things to do, and tourist information, use the Harbin online holiday planner.

Traveling by flight from Dalian to Harbin takes 3.5 hours. Alternatively, you can take a train; or drive. Plan for much colder temperatures traveling from Dalian in December, with highs in Harbin at -11°C and lows at -24°C. Wrap up your sightseeing by early afternoon on the 15th (Thu) to allow time for the flight to Beijing.

As the political and cultural capital of China, Beijing stands at the heart of Chinese history, buzzing with the energy of its high population density and centuries of importance.

Kick off your visit on the 16th (Fri): see The Great Wall at Badaling. Get ready for a full day of sightseeing on the next day: admire the verdant scenery at Longqing Gorge.

To find traveler tips, where to stay, other places to visit, and more tourist information, read Beijing day trip website.

Traveling by flight from Harbin to Beijing takes 3.5 hours. Alternatively, you can take a train; or drive. Traveling from Harbin in December, expect Beijing to be much warmer, temps between 5°C and -8°C. Finish up your sightseeing early on the 17th (Sat) so you can catch the train to Tianjin.

Tianjin stands as one of China's largest metropolises, combining modern flourishes with preserved history and traditions to create a diverse city.

On the 18th (Sun), take a memorable drive along Italian Style Street, then browse the different shops at Ancient Culture Street (Gu Wenhua Jie), then make a trip to Ferris wheel, Eye of Tianjin, and finally examine the collection at Tianjin Museum. On the 19th (Mon), you'll have a packed day of sightseeing: make a trip to TianJin HaiHe YiShi FengQing Qu, admire the striking features of Qing Wang Fu, then get outside with Five Great Avenues, and finally buy something for everyone on your list at Galaxy international Shopping Center.

For maps, where to stay, and tourist information, you can read our Tianjin trip builder site.

You can take a train from Beijing to Tianjin in an hour. Alternatively, you can take a train; or drive; or take a bus. December in Tianjin sees daily highs of 4°C and lows of -5°C at night. Wrap up your sightseeing on the 19th (Mon) to allow time to take a train to Beijing.

Start off your visit on the 20th (Tue): see Mutianyu Great Wall. Keep things going the next day: admire the landmark architecture of Summer Palace (Yiheyuan).

To see maps, other places to visit, photos, and other tourist information, you can read our Beijing travel planner.

Traveling by train from Tianjin to Beijing takes an hour. Alternatively, you can drive; or take a bus. Wrap up your sightseeing on the 21st (Wed) early enough to fly to Shanghai.

With a nickname like the "Pearl of the Orient," it's not surprising Shanghai offers some of the most rewarding attractions and activities in the Far East.

Shanghai is known for sightseeing, shopping, and nightlife. Your trip includes some of its best attractions: take in the pleasant sights at The Bund (Wai Tan), pause for some photo ops at Jade Buddha Temple, take in nature's colorful creations at Yu Garden (Yuyuan), and get engrossed in the history at Shanghai Development Exhibition Hall.

To find other places to visit, more things to do, maps, and other tourist information, go to the Shanghai route site.

You can fly from Beijing to Shanghai in 4 hours. Other options are to take a train; or drive. Expect somewhat warmer weather when traveling from Beijing in December: highs in Shanghai hover around 13°C, while lows dip to 5°C. Wrap up your sightseeing on the 24th (Sat) to allow time to take a train to Suzhou.

One of the oldest settlements in the Yangtze basin, Suzhou remains a complex, labyrinthine set of old canal districts, World Heritage gardens, and sprawling modern developments.

Start off your visit on the 25th (Sun): see the interesting displays at Suzhou Museum and then shop like a local with Pingjiang Road. Get ready for a full day of sightseeing on the 26th (Mon): stroll around Tiger Hill, then stroll around The Classical Gardens of Suzhou, and then steep yourself in history at Tongli Town.

To see other places to visit, traveler tips, reviews, and other tourist information, you can read our Suzhou online trip builder.

Getting from Shanghai to Suzhou by train takes about 1.5 hours. Other options: drive; or take a bus. Wrap up your sightseeing on the 26th (Mon) early enough to drive to Hangzhou.

Hangzhou, the scenic capital of Zheijang Province, remains a popular vacation choice for tourists interested in the area's numerous cultural and natural sights.

Start off your visit on the 27th (Tue): make a trip to Zhejiang University, contemplate in the serene atmosphere at Lingyin Temple, and then get in on the family fun at Hangzhou Songcheng. On the 28th (Wed), you'll have a packed day of sightseeing: don't miss a visit to Hefang Street, admire the landmark architecture of Pagoda of Six Harmonies, then make a trip to Hupao Spring, and finally take in the pleasant sights at West Lake (Xi Hu).

To see photos, reviews, and other tourist information, you can read our Hangzhou trip planning site.

Getting from Suzhou to Hangzhou by car takes about 2 hours. Other options: take a train; or take a bus. In December, daily temperatures in Hangzhou can reach 13°C, while at night they dip to 4°C. Wrap up your sightseeing on the 28th (Wed) to allow time to take a train to Nanjing.

Located on the south bank of the Yangtze River, Nanjing was the capital city of numerous dynasties over the ages.

Start off your visit on the 29th (Thu): explore the different monuments and memorials at Sun Yatsen Mausoleum (Zhongshan Ling), see the interesting displays at Presidential palace of Nanjing, then take an in-depth tour of The Memorial of the Nanjing Massacre, and finally stroll around Xuanwuhu Park. Get ready for a full day of sightseeing on the 30th (Fri): contemplate the long history of Jiming Temple, enjoy the scholastic atmosphere at Site of Nanking University, and then contemplate the waterfront views at Xuanwu lake.

To find traveler tips, maps, more things to do, and more tourist information, you can read our Nanjing online road trip planner.

You can take a train from Hangzhou to Nanjing in 1.5 hours. Alternatively, you can drive; or take a bus. Traveling from Hangzhou in December, plan for a bit cooler nights in Nanjing, with lows around 1°C. Cap off your sightseeing on the 30th (Fri) early enough to go by car to Huangshan.

Named after the "Yellow Mountains" with which the region has long been associated, Huangshan offers access to UNESCO-listed sites both natural and man-made.

On the 31st (Sat), take your sightseeing to a higher altitude at Mt. Huangshan and then explore the stunning scenery at Xihai Great Canyon. Here are some ideas for day two: contemplate the long history of Ancient Buildings of Chengkan Village, identify plant and animal life at Huangshan UNESCO Global Geopark, and then witness a stunning natural landmark at Huangshan Hot Spring.

To see where to stay, photos, more things to do, and other tourist information, refer to the Huangshan holiday planner.

Drive from Nanjing to Huangshan in 4 hours. Alternatively, you can take a bus; or take a train. Finish your sightseeing early on the 1st (Sun) so you can fly to Xiamen.

Known for centuries as a gateway to China, the port city of Xiamen has become a destination in itself, first to domestic visitors and now to a growing number of people from across the world.

Kick off your visit on the 2nd (Mon): get a taste of the local shopping with Zhongshan Road Walking Street, then see the interesting displays at Yuyuan Garden, and then hike along Kulangsu Huandao Road. On your second day here, walk around Xiamen Botanical Garden, then contemplate in the serene atmosphere at Nanputuo Temple, and then gain insight at Xiamen University.

To see photos, where to stay, ratings, and other tourist information, use the Xiamen day trip planning site.

Traveling by flight from Huangshan to Xiamen takes 3.5 hours. Alternatively, you can take a train; or drive. In January, daytime highs in Xiamen are 21°C, while nighttime lows are 13°C. Finish your sightseeing early on the 3rd (Tue) to allow enough time to fly to Shenzhen.

A fairly humble collection of farming and fishing villages and towns until 1979, you wouldn't guess as much when taking a tour of Shenzhen.

Start off your visit on the 4th (Wed): get your game on at Sea World and then try out the rides at Shenzhen Window of the World. Get ready for a full day of sightseeing on the next day: take in the architecture and atmosphere at St.Anthony's Catholic Church of Shenzhen, stroll around Shenzhen Lianhuashan Park, and then make a trip to Dafen Oil Painting Village.

To find ratings, more things to do, where to stay, and other tourist information, read our Shenzhen online tour planner.

You can fly from Xiamen to Shenzhen in 4.5 hours. Other options are to take a train; or drive. In January, daily temperatures in Shenzhen can reach 23°C, while at night they dip to 15°C. Finish up your sightseeing early on the 5th (Thu) so you can go by car to Hong Kong.

Witness the vibrant skyline of Hong Kong, an impressive urban territory on the southern coast of China.

Pack the 6th (Fri) with family-friendly diversions at Hong Kong Disneyland. Spend the 7th (Sat) exploring the fascinating underwater world at Ocean Park. There's still lots to do: take in panoramic vistas at Victoria Peak (The Peak), step off the mainland to explore Lantau island, take in the waterfront at Tsim Sha Tsui Promenade, and get engrossed in the history at Hong Kong Museum of History.

To find reviews, maps, other places to visit, and other tourist information, use the Hong Kong trip planner.

You can drive from Shenzhen to Hong Kong in an hour. Other options are to take a train; or take a bus. Expect a daytime high around 23°C in January, and nighttime lows around 17°C. Finish your sightseeing early on the 9th (Mon) to allow enough time to do a combination of to Macau.

Vacation in Macau to discover one of the world's richest cities organized as an autonomous region of China that, until 1999, was administered by Portugal.

Start off your visit on the 10th (Tue): admire the landmark architecture of Ruins of St. Paul's, steep yourself in history at Taipa Village Macau, get your bearings at Macau Tower Convention & Entertainment Centre, then contemplate in the serene atmosphere at A-Ma Temple (Ma Kok Miu), and finally examine the collection at Macao Museum. Get ready for a full day of sightseeing on the next day: contemplate in the serene atmosphere at Kun Iam Temple, don't miss a visit to Largo do Senado (Senado Square), then appreciate the extensive heritage of Historic Centre of Macau, and finally try your luck at Casino at Venetian Macao.

To find reviews, more things to do, maps, and tourist information, read our Macau trip builder app.

Getting from Hong Kong to Macau by combination of takes about an hour. Other options: drive; or ride a ferry. Finish up your sightseeing early on the 11th (Wed) so you can travel to Guangzhou.

A massive metropolis and critical international trading hub, Guangzhou sprawls along the Pearl River, distinctly vibrant and cosmopolitan.

Kick off your visit on the 12th (Thu): admire nature's wide array of creatures at Chimelong Safari Park and then make a trip to Canton Tower. Here are some ideas for day two: look for gifts at Beijing Road Raw Material For Medicine Shopping Mall and then step off the mainland to explore Shamian Island.

Ask Inspirock to suggest an itinerary and make planning a trip to Guangzhou fast, fun, and easy.

You can take a train from Macau to Guangzhou in 1.5 hours. Alternatively, you can drive; or take a bus. January in Guangzhou sees daily highs of 22°C and lows of 12°C at night. Wrap up your sightseeing on the 13th (Fri) to allow time to fly to Sanya.

The climate and coastline bring visitors from far and wide on vacations to Sanya, with its 40 km (25 mi) of shoreline almost entirely devoted to tourism.

On the 14th (Sat), stroll around Nanshan Buddhist Cultural Garden, take in the spiritual surroundings of Nanshan Temple, and then kick back and relax at Dadonghai Beach. Keep things going the next day: steep yourself in history at Binglang Ethnic Village and then kick back and relax at Yalong Bay.

To find ratings, reviews, more things to do, and other tourist information, you can read our Sanya holiday builder site.

Fly from Guangzhou to Sanya in 3 hours. Alternatively, you can do a combination of car and ferry; or drive. Traveling from Guangzhou in January, things will get somewhat warmer in Sanya: highs are around 30°C and lows about 19°C. Finish your sightseeing early on the 15th (Sun) to allow enough time to fly to Guilin.

The riverside karst landscape around Guilin has long made it a favorite with Chinese poets, photographers, and travelers.

On the 16th (Mon), hit the best photo ops around with an inspiring photography tour, take some stellar pictures from Fubo Hill, and then stroll around Riyue Shuangta Cultural Park. Get ready for a full day of sightseeing on the next day: snap pictures at Nanmen Bridge, then get into the urban bustle at Guilin Yaoshan Mountain Scenic Resort, then take a stroll around Lijiang Folk Customs Garden, and finally explore the fascinating underground world of Reed Flute Cave (Ludi Yan).

To see traveler tips, ratings, more things to do, and other tourist information, you can read our Guilin day trip app.

You can fly from Sanya to Guilin in 3.5 hours. Other options are to drive; or do a combination of car and ferry. When traveling from Sanya in January, plan for cooler days and a bit cooler nights in Guilin: temperatures range from 15°C by day to 7°C at night. Finish your sightseeing early on the 17th (Tue) to allow enough time to drive to Yangshuo County.

Yangshuo County, the area surrounding a popular tourist resort town, boasts a landscape featuring all the ingredients necessary to attract a flood of tourists.

Start off your visit on the 18th (Wed): relax and float downstream with a rafting and tubing tour, contemplate the waterfront views at Yulong River, and then don't miss a visit to West Street. On the 19th (Thu), you'll have a packed day of sightseeing: explore the striking landscape at Moon Hill and then explore the striking landscape at Silver Cave.

To see traveler tips, more things to do, other places to visit, and tourist information, you can read our Yangshuo County route builder.

Traveling by car from Guilin to Yangshuo County takes 1.5 hours. Alternatively, you can take a bus. In January, plan for daily highs up to 15°C, and evening lows to 7°C. Finish up your sightseeing early on the 19th (Thu) so you can catch the flight to Wuhan.

The provincial capital, Wuhan represents a major hub of commerce, industry, and culture in the center of the country.

Kick off your visit on the 20th (Fri): snap pictures at Wuhan Yangtze River Bridge, make a trip to Hubu Alley, then contemplate the waterfront views at East Lake in Wuhan, and finally get engrossed in the history at Hubei Provincial Museum. Get ready for a full day of sightseeing on the 21st (Sat): explore the striking landscape of Donghu National Park.

To find other places to visit, photos, more things to do, and tourist information, refer to the Wuhan holiday maker site.

Traveling by flight from Yangshuo County to Wuhan takes 3 hours. Alternatively, you can take a train; or drive. Traveling from Yangshuo County in January, expect Wuhan to be little chillier, temps between 10°C and 0°C. Finish up your sightseeing early on the 21st (Sat) so you can catch the flight back home.