Perfect Unique Itineraries China (Pro Travel 2025)

My Epic 1-Week Adventure Through China: From Ancient Wonders to Modern Marvels

Hey there, fellow wanderlusters! It’s your girl from Funky Fresh Travels, back with another thrilling tale of discovery and adventure. This time, I’m taking you on a whirlwind tour of China, where I spent an unforgettable week exploring some of the most iconic sights this incredible country has to offer. Buckle up, because we’re about to embark on a journey that’ll have you booking your tickets to the Middle Kingdom faster than you can say “nǐ hǎo”!

Get ready to enjoy the local cuisine in amazing Chinese restaurants for a unique experience. Enjoy the natural beauty and the chinese culture !

I wrote a travel guide and recommendations below about two major cities : Beijing and Shanghai

Day 1-2: Shanghai – Where East Meets West

As I stepped off the plane in Shanghai, the energy of this bustling metropolis hit me like a ton of bricks. This city is the perfect blend of old-world charm and futuristic innovation, and I couldn’t wait to dive in headfirst! My first stop? The enchanting Yu Garden. Let me tell you, folks, this place is a feast for the eyes! As I wandered through the intricate pavilions and zigzag bridges, I felt like I’d stepped back in time to the Ming Dynasty. The contrast between the traditional Chinese architecture and the towering skyscrapers in the background was absolutely mind-blowing.

Pro tip: Don’t forget to grab some xiaolongbao (soup dumplings) from one of the nearby street vendors. Trust me, your taste buds will thank you!Next up was a stroll through the Former French Concession. Picture tree-lined streets, art deco villas, and hipster cafes galore. It’s like a little slice of Paris right in the heart of Shanghai.

I may or may not have spent way too much time (and yuan) shopping in the quirky boutiques along Tianzifang alley. As the sun set, I hopped on a night cruise along the Huangpu River. The neon-lit skyline of the Bund and Pudong was absolutely breathtaking. I couldn’t help but feel like I was in a sci-fi movie as we glided past the futuristic Oriental Pearl Tower. Shanghai museum are great too.

Day 3-4: Xi’an – Terracotta Warriors and Ancient City Walls

After a quick high-speed train ride (seriously, these things are amazing!), I found myself in Xi’an, the ancient capital of China. This city is like a time capsule, with over 3,000 years of history just waiting to be explored .The main event, of course, was the legendary Terracotta Army. As I stood face-to-face with thousands of life-sized clay warriors, each with their own unique features, I was absolutely awestruck. It’s mind-boggling to think that these incredible sculptures have been standing guard for over two millennia.

Fun fact: The Terracotta Army was discovered by local farmers in 1974 while digging a well. Talk about a lucky find! After getting my fill of ancient history, I decided to take a more active approach to sightseeing. I rented a bike and set off to cycle along the top of Xi’an’s Ancient City Wall. Let me tell you, pedaling along this 14km circuit with views of both the old town and modern city was an experience I’ll never forget. As the sun began to set, I made my way to the Muslim Quarter for a street food adventure.

The sights, sounds, and smells of the bustling market were intoxicating. I stuffed myself silly with roujiamo (Chinese hamburgers), hand-pulled noodles, and the most delicious lamb skewers I’ve ever tasted. It was a feast fit for an emperor!

Day 5-7: Beijing – Imperial Grandeur and the Great Wall

For the grand finale of my Chinese adventure, I hopped on a quick flight to Beijing, the beating heart of China. This city is where ancient history and modern ambitions collide in the most spectacular way. My first stop was the iconic Tiananmen Square, the largest public square in the world. As I stood there, surrounded by imposing government buildings and the famous portrait of Chairman Mao, I couldn’t help but feel the weight of history pressing down on me. But the real showstopper was just a stone’s throw away – the magnificent Forbidden City. As I stepped through the massive red gates, I felt like I was entering another world.

The sheer scale of this imperial palace is mind-boggling, with over 9,000 rooms spread across 180 acres. I spent hours wandering through the endless courtyards and halls, marveling at the intricate dragon carvings and vibrant paintings. The Hall of Supreme Harmony, with its golden throne, was particularly awe-inspiring. I couldn’t help but imagine the emperors of old holding court here, deciding the fate of an entire nation.But the pièce de résistance of my trip was yet to come.

On my last full day in China, I set off bright and early for the Great Wall. I chose to visit the Mutianyu section, known for its stunning views and fewer crowds. As I climbed the ancient steps, huffing and puffing (note to self: work on cardio before next big trip), I couldn’t believe I was actually walking on one of the wonders of the world.

The wall snaked off into the distance as far as the eye could see, hugging the contours of the rugged mountains. It was a humbling reminder of the incredible feats humans are capable of. I spent the entire day exploring the wall, taking in the breathtaking views, and pinching myself to make sure it wasn’t all a dream. As the sun began to set, casting a golden glow over the landscape, I knew I had just experienced something truly special.

Epic 2-Week China Adventure: From Ancient Wonders to Modern Marvels

Hey there, fellow wanderlusters! It’s Eric, from Funky Fresh Travels, back with another thrilling tale of discovery and adventure. This time, I’m taking you on a whirlwind tour of China, where I spent an unforgettable two weeks exploring some of the most iconic sights this incredible country has to offer. Buckle up, because we’re about to embark on a journey that’ll have you booking your tickets to the Middle Kingdom faster than you can say “nǐ hǎo”!

Days 1-3: Beijing – Imperial Grandeur and Ancient Wonders

As I stepped off the plane in Beijing, the energy of this bustling metropolis hit me like a ton of bricks. This city is where ancient history and modern ambitions collide in the most spectacular way, and I couldn’t wait to dive in headfirst!

Day 1: Tiananmen Square and the Forbidden City

My first stop was the iconic Tiananmen Square, the largest public square in the world. As I stood there, surrounded by imposing government buildings and the famous portrait of Chairman Mao, I couldn’t help but feel the weight of history pressing down on me. But the real showstopper was just a stone’s throw away – the magnificent Forbidden City. As I stepped through the massive red gates, I felt like I was entering another world.

The sheer scale of this imperial palace is mind-boggling, with over 9,000 rooms spread across 180 acres. I spent hours wandering through the endless courtyards and halls, marveling at the intricate dragon carvings and vibrant paintings. The Hall of Supreme Harmony, with its golden throne, was particularly awe-inspiring. I couldn’t help but imagine the emperors of old holding court here, deciding the fate of an entire nation.Pro tip: Get there early to beat the crowds, and don’t forget to climb up to Jingshan Park for a breathtaking panoramic view of the Forbidden City!

Day 2: Temple of Heaven and Summer Palace

On my second day, I kicked things off with a visit to the Temple of Heaven. This UNESCO World Heritage site is a masterpiece of architecture and symbolism. I joined the locals in their morning tai chi routines in the surrounding park – talk about an authentic Beijing experience!

In the afternoon, I made my way to the Summer Palace, another UNESCO gem. This vast complex of lakes, gardens, and palaces was the perfect escape from the hustle and bustle of the city. I took a leisurely boat ride on Kunming Lake, soaking in the serene beauty of the landscape.

Day 3: The Great Wall of China

No trip to Beijing would be complete without a visit to the Great Wall of China. I chose to visit the Mutianyu section, known for its stunning views and fewer crowds. As I climbed the ancient steps, huffing and puffing (note to self: work on cardio before next big trip), I couldn’t believe I was actually walking on one of the wonders of the world.

The wall snaked off into the distance as far as the eye could see, hugging the contours of the rugged mountains. It was a humbling reminder of the incredible feats humans are capable of. I spent the entire day exploring the wall, taking in the breathtaking views, and pinching myself to make sure it wasn’t all a dream. As the sun began to set, casting a golden glow over the landscape, I knew I had just experienced something truly special.

Days 4-6: Xi’an – Terracotta Warriors and Ancient City Walls

After a quick high-speed train ride (seriously, these things are amazing!), I found myself in Xi’an, the ancient capital of China. This city is like a time capsule, with over 3,000 years of history just waiting to be explored.

Day 4: Terracotta Army

The main event, of course, was the legendary Terracotta Army. As I stood face-to-face with thousands of life-sized clay warriors, each with their own unique features, I was absolutely awestruck. It’s mind-boggling to think that these incredible sculptures have been standing guard for over two millennia .Fun fact: The Terracotta Army was discovered by local farmers in 1974 while digging a well. Talk about a lucky find!

Day 5: Ancient City Wall and Muslim Quarter

After getting my fill of ancient history, I decided to take a more active approach to sightseeing. I rented a bike and set off to cycle along the top of Xi’an’s Ancient City Wall. Let me tell you, pedaling along this 14km circuit with views of both the old town and modern city was an experience I’ll never forget.

As the sun began to set, I made my way to the Muslim Quarter for a street food adventure. The sights, sounds, and smells of the bustling market were intoxicating. I stuffed myself silly with roujiamo (Chinese hamburgers), hand-pulled noodles, and the most delicious lamb skewers I’ve ever tasted. It was a feast fit for an emperor!

Day 6: Big Wild Goose Pagoda and Tang Dynasty Show

On my last day in Xi’an, I visited the Big Wild Goose Pagoda, a beautiful Buddhist landmark that’s been standing since the 7th century. The view from the top is well worth the climb!I capped off my Xi’an adventure with a spectacular Tang Dynasty Show, complete with colorful costumes, traditional music, and mesmerizing dance performances. It was the perfect way to immerse myself in the rich cultural heritage of this ancient city.

Days 7-9: Chengdu – Pandas and Spicy Delights

Next stop on my Chinese adventure was Chengdu, the capital of Sichuan province and home to two of my favorite things: giant pandas and mouth-numbing spicy food!

Day 7: Chengdu Research Base of Giant Panda Breeding

I kicked off my Chengdu visit bright and early at the Chengdu Research Base of Giant Panda Breeding. Watching these adorable black and white furballs munching on bamboo and rolling around in their enclosures was hands down one of the cutest experiences of my life. The base does incredible work in panda conservation, and I left with a newfound appreciation for these gentle giants.

Day 8: Leshan Giant Buddha

Today, I took a day trip to see the Leshan Giant Buddha, and let me tell you, this UNESCO World Heritage site did not disappoint! Carved into the side of a cliff face, this 71-meter-tall Buddha is an awe-inspiring sight. I took a boat ride to get a full view from the river, then hiked up for a close-up look. The sheer scale of this ancient marvel is mind-blowing!

Day 9: Sichuan Cuisine and People’s Park

No visit to Chengdu would be complete without diving deep into Sichuan cuisine. I started my day with a cooking class, learning to make classics like kung pao chicken and mapo tofu. Fair warning: Sichuan peppercorns are no joke – my mouth was buzzing for hours! In the afternoon, I headed to People’s Park to experience local life. I joined in a game of mahjong (and lost spectacularly), watched elderly couples ballroom dancing, and even had my ears cleaned by a street ear cleaner (yes, that’s a thing, and yes, it was strangely satisfying).

Days 10-12: Guilin and Yangshuo – Karst Mountains and River Magic

Time to trade the urban jungle for some of China’s most stunning natural scenery! Guilin and Yangshuo in southern China are famous for their otherworldly karst landscapes, and boy, did they deliver.

Day 10: Li River Cruise

The highlight of my time in this region was undoubtedly the Li River cruise from Guilin to Yangshuo. As we glided down the river, I was surrounded by towering limestone peaks, their reflections shimmering in the calm waters. It felt like I had stepped into a traditional Chinese painting. The scenery was so breathtaking that I nearly wore out my camera’s shutter button!

Day 11: Yangshuo Countryside

Today, I rented a bike and set off to explore the Yangshuo countryside. Pedaling through rice paddies, past water buffalo lazily chewing grass, and alongside the winding Yulong River was like stepping back in time. I stopped at a local farmer’s house for lunch, where I tried my hand at making oil tea, a local specialty. Let’s just say I won’t be quitting my day job anytime soon!

Day 12: Longji Rice Terraces

For my last day in the region, I took a trip to the Longji Rice Terraces, also known as the Dragon’s Backbone. These ancient terraces, carved into the mountainside over centuries, are a testament to human ingenuity and perseverance. The view from the top, with the terraces stretching out like a giant staircase to the sky, was absolutely worth the challenging hike.

Days 13-14: Shanghai – Where East Meets West

For the grand finale of my Chinese adventure, I hopped on a quick flight to Shanghai, where ancient traditions and futuristic innovations collide in the most spectacular way.

Day 13: The Bund and Yu Garden

My first stop in Shanghai was the iconic Bund. Walking along this waterfront promenade, with colonial-era buildings on one side and the futuristic Pudong skyline on the other, perfectly encapsulates Shanghai’s blend of old and new.In the afternoon, I lost myself in the winding alleys of Yu Garden, a classical Chinese garden that’s a peaceful oasis in the heart of the bustling city. The intricate rockeries, koi-filled ponds, and traditional pavilions transported me back to the Ming Dynasty.

Day 14: Shanghai Tower and Farewell Feast

On my last day, I zoomed up to the observation deck of Shanghai Tower, the world’s second-tallest building. The view from the top is absolutely mind-blowing – you can see the entire city sprawled out beneath you like a giant living map. For my farewell dinner, I treated myself to a feast at a local Shanghainese restaurant. From xiaolongbao (soup dumplings) to hongshao rou (red-braised pork), every bite was a flavor explosion. As I raised a glass of baijiu (Chinese rice wine) to toast my incredible journey, I couldn’t help but feel a twinge of sadness that my Chinese adventure was coming to an end.

3 Weeks itinerary in China

Week 1: Beijing and Xi’an – Imperial Wonders

Days 1-4: Beijing – The Heart of China

Day 1: Arrival and Forbidden City

The majestic Forbidden City, a must-visit destination in Beijing

Day 2: Tiananmen Square and Temple of Heaven

The iconic Temple of Heaven, a masterpiece of Chinese architecture

Day 3: Great Wall of China

The awe-inspiring Great Wall of China, a testament to human ingenuity

Day 4: Summer Palace and Hutongs

Days 5-7: Xi’an – Ancient Capital of Wonders

Day 5: Travel to Xi’an and Muslim Quarter

Day 6: Terracotta Warriors

Day 7: Xi’an City Wall and Big Wild Goose Pagoda

Week 2: Central and Southern China – Natural Splendors

Days 8-10: Chengdu – Pandas and Spice

Day 8: Travel to Chengdu and Jinli Street

Day 9: Giant Panda Base and Sichuan Opera

Day 10: Leshan Giant Buddha

Days 11-13: Zhangjiajie – Avatar Mountains

Day 11: Travel to Zhangjiajie

Flight to Zhangjiajie, preparing readers for the upcoming natural wonders

Day 12-13: Zhangjiajie National Forest Park

Days 14-15: Guilin and Yangshuo – Karst Landscapes

Day 14: Li River Cruise

Day 15: Yangshuo Countryside

Week 3: Eastern China – Modern Marvels and Ancient Beauty

Days 16-18: Shanghai – East Meets West

Day 16: Travel to Shanghai and The Bund

Day 17: Yu Garden and Pudong

Day 18: Day Trip to Suzhou

Day 19-20: Huangshan Scenic Area

Travel to Huangshan and ascend the mountain by cable car

Day 21: Hangzhou and Departure

Beijing A 3-Day Adventure in China’s Capital

About to take you on a whirlwind tour of Beijing that’ll knock your socks off! Buckle up, because we’re diving headfirst into a 3-day itinerary that’s packed with imperial wonders, mouthwatering eats, and some seriously cool vibes. Let’s get this party started!

Day 1: Imperial Grandeur and Tantalizing Tastes

Morning: Forbidden City Fabulousness

Rise and shine, early birds! We’re kicking off our Beijing adventure with a bang at the legendary Forbidden City. Trust me, this place is the real deal – it’s like stepping into a time machine and landing smack dab in the middle of imperial China (https://windhorsetour.com/china-travel-tips/top-china-attractions#:~:text=2.%20Forbidden%20City%20in%20Beijing%20%2D%20World).The Forbidden City: Where ancient emperors lived their best lives

Pro tip: Get there early to beat the crowds and snag those Insta-worthy shots without a sea of tourists photobombing your pics. As you wander through the vast courtyards and ornate halls, keep your eyes peeled for the intricate details – we’re talking dragon motifs, golden roofs, and enough bling to make a rapper jealous.

Afternoon: Tiananmen Square and People Watching

After you’ve had your fill of imperial splendor, take a short stroll to Tiananmen Square. This massive open space is like the beating heart of Beijing, surrounded by some seriously impressive buildings . It’s the perfect spot for people watching and soaking in the bustling energy of the city. Tiananmen Square: Where history meets modern-day China

Evening: Wangfujing Street Food Extravaganza

As the sun sets, it’s time to unleash your inner foodie on Wangfujing Street. This bustling food paradise is where the magic happens, folks! From sizzling lamb skewers to crispy jianbing (trust me, you’ll want to try these savory crepes), your taste buds are in for a wild ride.Feeling adventurous? Why not try some scorpion on a stick? It’s crunchy, it’s daring, and it’ll make for one heck of a travel story. Just remember to wash it all down with a cold Tsingtao beer – you’ve earned it!

Day 2: Great Wall Wonders and Hutong Hideaways

Morning: Conquer the Great Wall

Rise and grind, travelers! Today, we’re tackling the granddaddy of all Chinese attractions – the Great Wall. We’re heading to the Mutianyu section, which is a bit further out but totally worth it for the killer views and fewer crowds The Great Wall: Where you can literally walk through history Insider tip: Take the cable car up to save your energy for exploring. And if you’re feeling extra funky, zoom back down on the toboggan ride – it’s like a roller coaster with a side of ancient history!

Afternoon: Hutong Heaven

After conquering the Wall, it’s time to dive into Beijing’s charming hutongs. These narrow alleyways are like a maze of coolness, packed with hidden gems and local life. Hop on a rickshaw for a guided tour, or just wander and see where your feet take you. Keep your eyes peeled for cute cafes, quirky shops, and locals going about their day. It’s like stepping into a whole different world right in the heart of Beijing!

Evening: Peking Duck Perfection

You can’t leave Beijing without trying the OG of all Chinese dishes – Peking Duck. We’re heading to Da Dong Duck Restaurant for the crème de la crème of crispy, juicy duck goodness . Watch in awe as the chef skillfully carves the duck tableside, then wrap that crispy skin and tender meat in a thin pancake with all the fixings. It’s a flavor explosion that’ll have you dreaming of duck for days!

Day 3: Temple Hopping and Modern Marvels

Morning: Temple of Heaven and Tai Chi

Start your day with some zen vibes at the Temple of Heaven. This UNESCO World Heritage site is a masterpiece of Chinese architecture and landscaping . But here’s the real treat – join the locals for some early morning tai chi in the surrounding park. It’s the perfect way to channel your inner kung fu master and get those good vibes flowing.

Afternoon: 798 Art District

Time to fast-forward to modern Beijing with a visit to the uber-cool 798 Art District. This former industrial area has been transformed into a hipster haven of contemporary art galleries, funky cafes, and street art that’ll make your Instagram feed pop.Wander through the galleries, grab a coffee at one of the trendy cafes, and keep your camera ready – every corner of this place is a potential photoshoot waiting to happen.

Evening: Sanlitun Shenanigans

We’re wrapping up our Beijing adventure in style at Sanlitun, the city’s trendiest nightlife district. Start with some retail therapy at the swanky Taikoo Li shopping center, then hit up one of the area’s rooftop bars for sunset cocktails with a view.As the night progresses, dive into the vibrant bar scene. Whether you’re in the mood for live music, craft cocktails, or just some good old-fashioned people watching, Sanlitun’s got you covered. It’s the perfect way to toast to an epic Beijing adventure!

Practical Tips for Your Beijing Bonanza

Getting Around: Beijing’s subway system is your best friend – it’s cheap, efficient, and covers all the major spots. Grab a transportation card to save time and money .

Best Time to Visit: Spring (April-May) and autumn (September-October) are ideal, with comfortable temperatures and clear skies. Winter can be chilly but offers unique experiences like seeing the Great Wall covered in snow.

Where to Stay: For first-timers, the Wangfujing area is perfect – it’s central and close to major attractions. If you’re after a more local vibe, check out the Hutong area near Houhai.

Must-Try Eats: Besides Peking Duck, don’t miss out on jianbing (savory crepes), dumplings, and hot pot. Your taste buds will thank you!

Language Barrier: Download a translation app and learn a few basic Mandarin phrases. A little effort goes a long way!

Stay Connected: China’s internet is… let’s say, unique. Grab a VPN before you arrive to keep your social media game strong.

Shanghai : A 3-Day Whirlwind Adventure in China’s Coolest City

Hey there, fellow wanderlusters! It’s Eric, from Funky Fresh Travels, back with another epic adventure. This time, we’re diving headfirst into the dazzling metropolis of Shanghai for a 3-day extravaganza that’ll knock your socks off! Buckle up, because we’re about to embark on a journey that blends ancient wonders with futuristic marvels, all served with a side of mouthwatering eats. Let’s get this party started!

Day 1: From Skyscrapers to Street Food

Morning: The Bund Bonanza

Rise and shine, early birds! We’re kicking off our Shanghai adventure with a bang at The Bund. Trust me, this waterfront promenade is where the magic happens. Picture this: on one side, you’ve got a lineup of colonial-era buildings that’ll make you feel like you’ve stepped back in time. On the other? A futuristic skyline that’ll have you questioning if you’ve accidentally landed on the set of a sci-fi movie. The Bund: Where old-school cool meets new-age awesome

Pro tip: Get there early to beat the crowds and snag those Insta-worthy shots without a sea of tourists photobombing your pics. As you stroll along, keep your eyes peeled for the eclectic mix of architectural styles – we’re talking everything from neo-Gothic to art deco. It’s like a real-life history lesson, but way cooler!

Afternoon: Pudong Sky High

After you’ve had your fill of The Bund’s ground-level awesomeness, it’s time to take things up a notch – literally! We’re heading to the Pudong side to get our heads in the clouds at the Shanghai Tower. This bad boy stands at a whopping 632 meters, making it the tallest building in China and the second tallest in the world. Talk about living the high life!

The Oriental Pearl Tower: Shanghai’s iconic skyline stunner But wait, there’s more! Right next door is the Oriental Pearl TV Tower, with its funky space-age vibe. If you’re feeling brave, hit up the glass-bottomed observation deck for a view that’ll make your knees weak (in the best way possible). It’s like walking on air, folks!

Evening: Tianzifang Treats

As the sun sets, we’re diving into the labyrinth of Tianzifang. This artsy enclave is where Shanghai’s hipster heart beats. Nestled in the old shikumen houses, it’s a maze of narrow alleys packed with quirky boutiques, art galleries, and cafes that’ll make your Instagram feed pop.

Get ready to unleash your inner foodie, because Tianzifang is a smorgasbord of culinary delights. From traditional Shanghai snacks to fusion cuisine that’ll blow your mind, your taste buds are in for a wild ride. My personal fave? The soup dumplings (xiaolongbao) – they’re like little pockets of heaven!

Day 2: Time Travel Tuesday

Morning: Yu Garden Zen

Rise and shine, travelers! We’re starting day two with a zen moment at Yu Garden. This Ming Dynasty masterpiece is like stepping into a classical Chinese painting. With its intricate pavilions, rockeries, and ponds, it’s the perfect spot to find your inner peace (and maybe pretend you’re a time-traveling emperor for a hot minute) .Pro tip: Get there early to beat the crowds and capture the morning light reflecting off the pond. It’s pure magic, I tell ya!

Afternoon: French Concession Flair

After our morning zen, we’re fast-forwarding to the 1920s with a stroll through the French Concession. This neighborhood is like the lovechild of Paris and Shanghai, with tree-lined streets, art deco villas, and enough charm to make you swoon. Keep your eyes peeled for hidden gems like secret gardens and vintage shops. And if you’re feeling peckish, pop into one of the trendy cafes for a croissant that’ll transport you straight to the Champs-Élysées.

Evening: Nanjing Road Neon Nights

As night falls, we’re hitting up Nanjing Road – Shanghai’s answer to Times Square. This pedestrian street is a neon-lit wonderland of shops, restaurants, and street performers. It’s sensory overload in the best possible way! Feeling lucky? Try your hand at bargaining in one of the local markets. Just remember, it’s all part of the fun, so channel your inner negotiator and go for gold!

Day 3: Water Town Wonders and Skyline Sunsets

Morning: Zhujiajiao Ancient Town

On our final day, we’re escaping the city buzz for a slice of ancient China in Zhujiajiao. This 1,700-year-old water town is like stepping into a traditional Chinese painting. With its winding canals, stone bridges, and old-world charm, it’s the perfect antidote to Shanghai’s futuristic frenzy .Hop on a gondola for a lazy cruise down the canals, and don’t forget to sample some of the local street food. The stinky tofu might sound scary, but trust me, it’s a flavor explosion you won’t forget!

Afternoon: M50 Creative Vibes

Back in the city, we’re diving into Shanghai’s contemporary art scene at M50. This creative hub is housed in a former textile mill and is now home to some of the city’s most cutting-edge galleries and studios. It’s like walking through a living, breathing art installation! Keep your eyes peeled for street art as you wander – some of China’s most famous graffiti artists have left their mark here.

Evening: Huangpu River Cruise

We’re wrapping up our Shanghai adventure in style with a sunset cruise on the Huangpu River. As we glide along, we’ll watch the city transform from day to night, with the skyscrapers lighting up like a galaxy of stars. It’s the perfect way to say goodbye to this incredible city, with The Bund on one side and Pudong’s futuristic skyline on the other. Talk about ending on a high note!

Wrapping Up My Chinese Adventure

As I boarded my flight home, my head was spinning with all the incredible experiences I’d had in just one short week. From the futuristic skyline of Shanghai to the ancient wonders of Xi’an and Beijing, China had shown me its many faces, and I was utterly captivated.This trip was a perfect blend of history, culture, and modernity. I tasted flavors I never knew existed, saw sights that left me speechless, and met people whose warmth and hospitality touched my heart. China, you’ve stolen a piece of my soul, and I can’t wait to come back for more!

For all you adventurers out there looking to follow in my footsteps, here are a few quick tips:

1. Visa Requirements: Make sure to check the latest visa policies before you go. As of my trip, many countries enjoy visa-free travel to China for short stays. But if you’re planning a longer adventure, you’ll need to apply for a tourist visa (L Visa).
2. Best Time to Visit: I went in early autumn (September), which was perfect. The weather was mild, and the crowds weren’t too crazy. Spring (April-May) is another great time to visit.
3. Transportation: Don’t be afraid of the high-speed trains – they’re comfortable, efficient, and a great way to see the countryside. For longer distances, domestic flights are a time-saver.
4. Language: While English isn’t widely spoken, a translation app and a few basic Mandarin phrases will go a long way. The locals really appreciate it when you make an effort!
5. Food: Be adventurous with your eating! Chinese cuisine is incredibly diverse, and each region has its own specialties. From spicy Sichuan dishes to delicate Cantonese dim sum, your taste buds are in for a treat.

So there you have it, folks – my whirlwind tour of China in just one week. It was a rollercoaster of emotions, flavors, and experiences that I’ll cherish forever. China may be an ancient civilization, but it’s got its eyes firmly set on the future, and I can’t wait to see what’s next for this fascinating country.

WHO AM I ?

Hello !

I am Eric, a French Australian citizen based between Australia, Asia and Bali and I love to travel and experience the world. I generally like outdoor activities, wellness, great food and venues, party and real local adventures! I am a Yoga practitioner and fitness lover.

I created this blog because I love to travel and I want to share my experiences with others. I’ve been traveling since I was a child, and I’ve been to over 50 countries. I’ve seen some amazing things and met some amazing people, and I want to help others experience the same things.

I believe that travel is one of the best ways to learn about the world and about yourself. When you travel, you’re forced to step outside of your comfort zone and experience new things. You learn about different cultures, different religions, and different ways of life. You also learn about yourself, your strengths, and your weaknesses.

Travel can also be a great way to make new friends. When you’re traveling, you’re surrounded by people from all over the world, and you’re all in the same boat. You’re all there to explore and experience new things, and that can create a bond between people.

Let’s connect together!

I hope that my travel blog will inspire others to travel and to see the world. I also hope that it will help people to learn about different cultures and to become more open-minded.