Where to go in China

The biggest first-time mistake

Trying to see too much.

China rewards:

fewer destinations + more time in each place.

A classic first trip

For around 10–14 days:

Beijing (北京) → Xi'an (西安) → Shanghai (上海)

This gives you imperial history, the Great Wall, the Terracotta Army, a modern megacity and high-speed rail.

Add Chengdu

If you have more time:

Beijing → Xi'an → Chengdu (成都) → Shanghai

adds Sichuan food, relaxed urban culture and giant pandas.

Choose by interest

Tibet travel note

Foreign visitors planning to enter the Tibet Autonomous Region (西藏自治区) should not treat it like an ordinary independent domestic trip.

Travel commonly requires advance arrangements through an authorized travel agency and appropriate permits, and access to specific areas can change.

Re-verify before travel.

A good first trip should leave something out

You do not need Beijing + Shanghai + Xi'an + Chengdu + Chongqing + Guilin + Zhangjiajie + Yunnan in 12 days.

China will still be there for another trip.