China-4-day-itinerary

China Travel Itinerary: 4-Day Adventure

Day 1: Arrival in Shanghai

  • Morning
    • Arrive at Pudong International Airport (PVG) or Hongqiao International Airport (SHA)
    • Take a taxi or metro (Line 2) to your hotel
    • Check-in at your hotel and rest for a bit
  • Afternoon
    • Visit the iconic Oriental Pearl Tower (50-70 CNY, ~7-10 USD)
    • Explore the nearby Bund (Wai Tan) waterfront area
    • Try some local street food or snacks at the markets

Things to Know:

  • Currency: Renminbi (RMB), also known as Chinese yuan (CNY)
  • Language: Mandarin Chinese is the official language, but many locals speak English in tourist areas
  • Weather: Shanghai has a humid subtropical climate with hot summers and mild winters
  • Safety: Be aware of pickpocketing and scams in crowded areas

Visa Requirements:

  • US citizens: No visa required for stays up to 72 hours (3 days) under the “Short-Stay Visa Exemption Policy”
  • Other nationalities: Check your country’s Chinese embassy or consulate website for specific requirements

Day 2: Shanghai to Hangzhou

  • Morning
    • Take a high-speed train from Shanghai Hongqiao Railway Station to Hangzhou East Railway Station ( approx. 45 minutes, ~100 CNY / $15 USD)
    • Visit the famous West Lake (Xi Hu), one of China’s most beautiful lakes
    • Enjoy a boat ride or walk around the lake
  • Afternoon
    • Visit the Lingyin Temple, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and famous Buddhist monastery
    • Explore the nearby Qinghefang Ancient Street for traditional snacks and souvenirs

Things to Know:

  • Transportation: High-speed trains run frequently between Shanghai and Hangzhou, but tickets can sell out quickly during peak hours
  • Food: Try local specialties like Dongpo pork and steamed buns (bing)
  • Weather: Hangzhou has a subtropical monsoon climate with hot summers and mild winters

Day 3: Hangzhou to Guilin

  • Morning
    • Take a high-speed train from Hangzhou East Railway Station to Guilin North Railway Station ( approx. 4 hours, ~200 CNY / $30 USD)
    • Visit the Reed Flute Cave (Longmen Dong), featuring stunning limestone formations
    • Explore the nearby Seven Star Park for scenic views and ancient architecture
  • Afternoon
    • Take a Li River cruise to see the iconic karst landscape of Guilin
    • Visit the Elephant Trunk Hill, a famous landmark with a unique rock formation

Things to Know:

  • Transportation: High-speed trains run frequently between Hangzhou and Guilin, but tickets can sell out quickly during peak hours
  • Food: Try local specialties like rice noodles (mian) and Guilin-style roast duck
  • Weather: Guilin has a subtropical monsoon climate with hot summers and mild winters

Day 4: Departure from Guilin

  • Morning
    • Visit the Guilin Museum to learn about the city’s history and culture
    • Explore the nearby Jiefeng Temple for traditional architecture and scenic views
  • Afternoon
    • Depart from Guilin Liangjiang International Airport (KWL) or take a bus back to your starting point

Additional Tips:

  • Be prepared for crowds and long lines at popular tourist attractions
  • Bring comfortable walking shoes and sun protection (sunglasses, hat, sunscreen)
  • Try local street food and snacks, but be mindful of hygiene and safety standards