Not everyone has the luxury of travelling to places on a long-term basis. Many people work normal 9-5 jobs, which often come with a paltry 1-2 weeks’ vacation allowance.
As a result, many people think they cannot go on a long haul holiday, and therefore stick to countries closer to home.
However, below we will show you how you can make the most of a 1-week visit to China, and enjoy a few of the cultural and historical sites the country has to offer.
The Far East will no longer be just a pipe dream.
Day 1- Arrival- Beijing
This day will mostly consist of travel, from home to Beijing and then rest after the long flight. One of the best hotels in Beijing is the Park Hyatt which has an in-house spa for a well-deserved jetlag massage. Beijing is the major entry point for foreign travellers in China. However, you can also arrive at Shanghai and Guangzhou Airports.
Beijing is the capital of China and situated in the northern edge of the country. The city is home to a rich heritage and is a tourist hotspot.
Day 2- Beijing- Forbidden City
Start your journey with a visit to the Forbidden City, this is located in the centre of Beijing and consists of 980 buildings that make up the Imperial Palace of the Ming and Qing dynasty.
This city is a UNESCO world heritage site and is well worth a visit. Make sure to spare enough time to explore the numerous antechambers and rooms of the city.
Day 3- Beijing- Temples
The following morning head out to the Temple of Heaven, leaving the evening to relax at the Lama Temple.
If you are after astonishing carpentry and decorative curved roofs then these temples will definitely cater to your needs.
Be sure to explore the streets outside the temples. Here you will come across an array of Buddha statues, talismans and incense available for purchase.
Spend the afternoon exploring various other sites in Beijing such as gardens temples and historic tombs.
Day 4- Beijing- The Great Wall of China
Spend the fourth day exploring The Great Wall of China. Head out early so you can spend the whole day hiking and marvelling at this beautiful wonder of the world.
Enjoy the scenic beauty of the surrounding rugged mountains at Jinshanling or Simatai.
Indulge in some local cuisine and take some rest before catching the night train from Beijing to Xi’an.
Days 5- Xi’an- Terracotta Warriors
Xian is an amazing city located in the central north west of China; this place is home to the famous terracotta warriors and horses. There are over 7000 pottery soldiers here guarding the temple of Qin Shi Huang.
Head out early to the terracotta warriors, so you have time to visit the Great Mosque in the afternoon.
End the day off with a delicious meal from the nearby Muslim markets.
Day 6- Xi’an- Other Attractions
Xi’an has many attractions other than the Terracotta Warriors these include the Great Wall, Shaanxi History Museum and the Green Dragon temple. All of which can be visited on day 6.
Day 7- Head Home
Take the morning flight to Beijing Airport to catch your connecting international flight back home.
