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China One Month Itinerary Overview with Map
| Day | Destination | Highlights |
|---|---|---|
| Day 1-3 | Beijing | Great Wall (Mutianyu), Forbidden City, Summer Palace |
| Day 4-6 | Xi'an | Terracotta Warriors, Ancient Wall, Bell Tower |
| Day 7-10 | Gansu | Dunhuang Mogao Grottoes, Jiayuguang Pass, Zhangye Rainbow Mountains |
| Day 11-17 | Tibet | Potala Palace, Jokhang Temple, Yamdrok Lake, Mount Everest |
| Day 18-19 | Chengdu | Panda Base, Sanxindui Museum, People’s Park |
| Day 20-22 | Yunnan | Lijiang Old Town, Yulong Snow Mountain, Tiger Leaping Gorge, Stone Forest |
| Day 23-25 | Guilin | Li River Cruise, Yangshuo Countryside, West Lake |
| Day 26-27 | Zhangjiajie | Avatar Mountains, Tianzi Mountain, Bailong Elevator, Tianmen Mountain |
| Day 28-30 | Shanghai | The Bund, Suzhou Garden, Yu Garden |
This serves as a rough guide for your China one month Itinerary. Don't like doing homework for your trip? Simply Contact your travel expert at Asia Odyssey Travel for hassle-free travel in China!
Day 1-3: Beijing - Wonderful Opening Act for Your China Itinerary
Welcome to Beijing, a perfect gateway to kick off your epic one month in China. Ancient wonders, imperial grandeur, bustling hutongs, the Great Wall stretching beyond the horizon—this city sets the tone for an unforgettable China trip.
Beijing Overview
- Day 1: Welcome to Beijing!
- Day 2: Beijing's Must-Sees: Tian'anmen Square, Forbidden City, Jingshan Park, and Summer Palace.
- Day 3: The Great Wall Adventure.
The first day is arriving day. After check in, you can take a stroll nearby—maybe grab some dumplings or Peking duck for a first taste of Beijing!
The other day, kick off the day at Tiananmen Square, China's most famous landmark. Then dive into history at the Forbidden City, a massive imperial palace with grand halls, hidden courtyards, and stories of emperors. For the best view, hike up Jingshan Park.
In the afternoon, unwind at the Summer Palace, where emperors used to escape Beijing's heat—expect serene lake views, ancient pavilions, and a lovely walk through traditional gardens.
It's Great Wall Day! Head out early to Mutianyu Great Wall, one of the best-preserved and less crowded sections. Take the cable car up, enjoy epic views, and walk along the historic stone path. On the way back, swing by the Bird's Nest & Water Cube, Beijing's iconic Olympic venues, for a quick photo stop.
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Day 4-6: Xi'an Highlight Tour
Say goodbye to Beijing and head to the second stop of your one month in China with a high-speed train to Xi'an-smooth, fast, and a great way to see China's countryside along the way.
Xi'an Overview
- Day 4: High speed train from Beijing to Xi'an (6 hours).
- Day 5: Time Travel in Xi'an: Terracotta Warriors, Ancient Wall, and Bell Tower.
- Day 6: Xi'an Sights & Off to Dunhuang.
Start with the Terracotta Warriors, thousands of life-sized soldiers standing guard for China's first emperor. After that, head to the Ancient City Wall, where you can walk or rent a bike to cruise along the top for great city views. Wrap up at the Bell Tower, the heart of Xi'an's old town.
The last day in Xi'an, visit the Giant Wild Goose Pagoda, a 1370-year-old Buddhist landmark. Then, stroll through the Muslim Quarter, where you can sample local street food—roujiamo (Chinese hamburger), lamb skewers, and persimmon cakes are must-tries!
In the afternoon, catch a flight to Dunhuang (2.5 hours), the gateway of the Silk Road!
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Day 7-10: Gansu Silk Road Tour
Turn west and Get ready for a whole new vibe in Gansu, desert landscapes and ancient caves await!
Gansu Overview
- Day 7: Duhuang exploration: Mogao Grottoes, Singing Sand Dunes, Crescent Spring
- Day 8: Journey to Jiayuguan – The Western End of the Great Wall.
- Day 9: Colorful Landscapes & Hidden Treasures in Zhangye.
- Day 10: Zhangye high speed train to Xining (2 hours), Then take a flight to Lhasa (2.5 hours).
Why not begin with the Mogao Grottoes? These 735 caves are home to stunning Buddhist art and murals dating back 1,659 years. Follow your guide and learn the real stories behind.
In the afternoon, head to the Singing Sand Dunes and Crescent Spring, where the golden desert meets serene oasis. Climb up for an epic sunset view, or try sandboarding if you're feeling adventurous!
Turn to Jiayuguan, where the Great Wall meets the desert. Explore the Overhanging Great Wall and Jiayuguan Pass. Then drive to Zhangye to meet the Zhangye Danxia Geopark (Rainbow Mountains). These multi-colored rock formations look like something straight out of a painting! Don's miss the Dafo Temple, lying the China's largest reclining Buddha.
The last day in Gansu, make your way to Lhasa, and be ready for an epic adventure in the Tibetan Plateau.
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Day 11-17: Tibet Highlight Tour
Welcome to Tibet! Once you arrive, take it easy—altitude sickness is real, take care of yourself well. Get ready for sacred monasteries, breathtaking mountains, and a whole new cultural experience and vast landscape is waiting in Tibet!
Tibet Overview
- Day 11: Getting a Feel for Lhasa: Lhasa Traditional Handicraft Art Center, Sera Monastery
- Day 12: The Heart of Lhasa: Potala Palace, Jokhang Temple, Barkhor Street
- Day 13: Road Trip to Shigatse.
- Day 14: Shigatse to Everest Base Camp
- Day 15: Sunrise Over Everest & Back to Shigatse
- Day 16: Shigatse to Lhasa.
- Day 17: Goodbye Tibet, Hello Chengdu!
Stay in Lhasa for 2-3 days to acclimatize to the altitude (3670 m). As the capital of Tibet, Lhasa has so much to offer that you'll never be bored. It's time to explore the mysterious monasteries and Tibetan local life.
Warm up your journey with a visit to the Lhasa Traditional Handicraft Art Center, where you'll have a rough understanding of Tibetan culture. Sera Monastery will give you a shock with the monks debating—an intense and fascinating sight!
Time for the big one—the Potala Palace! This towering red-and-white fortress is Tibet's most iconic landmark, packed with unknown story and history. Jokhang Temple is the spiritual heart of Tibet, where pilgrims prostrate themselves in devotion. Nearby, the lively Barkhor Street is the best place to sample local tastes and buy Tibetan souvenirs.
Everest, we're coming! This is the big one—four days through Tibet's vast landscapes, crossing high-altitude passes, shimmering lakes, valleys and deserts, and endless winding mountain roads, all leading to the legendary Mount Everest.
This 1,200-kilometer round-trip is rewarding. You'll have the opportunity to visit Yamdrok Lake, Karola Glacier, Gyawu La Pass, Rongbuk Monastery, Tashilunpo Monastery and the spectacular sunset and sunrise over the highest mountain-Mt. Everest.
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Day 18-19: Chengdu Panda Tour
Upon arrival in Chengdu from Lhasa, you should be rewarded by a big meal of hotpot! Chengdu is just a short stop in your China one month itinerary.
Chengdu Overview
- Day 18: Chengdu City Highlights: Pandas, Sanxingdui Museum, Jinli Old Street
- Day 19: Renmin Park & Fly to Lijiang
Start your Chengdu day with some adorable fluffballs at the Chengdu Panda Base—watch them munch on bamboo, roll around, and nap (a lot). Next, dive into Sanxingdui Museum, where you'll uncover 3,000-year-old bronze masks and relics from a mysterious lost civilization.
Wrap up the day with a stroll down Jinli Old Street, a lively alley filled with red lanterns, street snacks, and local crafts—a great place to soak in Chengdu's relaxed vibe, especially when night falls.
Only one day exploration, it's time to say goodbye. Before leaving, head to People' s Park, and enjoy a cup of Kungfu Tea at the traditional Heming Teahouse. it's a symbol of Chengdu' s laid-back lifestyle.
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Day 20-22: Yunnan Lijiang and Kunming Tour
Move southwest, we'll arrive in Yunnan, meaning "South of the Clouds." Known for its breathtaking landscapes, diverse ethnic cultures, and mild climate, Yunnan is home to stunning destinations like Lijiang, Dali, Kunming and Shangri-La. This time. let's stop at Lijiang and Kunming.
Yunnan Overview
- Day 20: Lijiang tour
- Day 21: Lijiang Tiger Leaping train to Kunming
- Day 22: Kunming
In Lijiang, Jade Dragon Snow Mountain and Lijiang Old Towns are two iconic and must-see attractions. Start your day with a morning visit to the majestic mountain, taking a cable car up to breathtaking alpine views before visiting the stunning Blue Moon Valley at foot.
In the afternoon, return downtown area for the amazing Lijiang Old Town, a maze of cobbled streets, canals, and wooden houses—perfect for grabbing a coffee and getting lost in the charm of the city.
The next day, head north to the Tiger Leaping Gorge, one of the deepest canyons in the world. The roaring Yangtze River crashes through the rocks, creating an epic sight. Then, stop by the First Bend of the Yangtze River, where this legendary river makes a dramatic 180-degree turn.
After soaking in the views, hop on a high-speed train to Kunming (4 hours)—sit back, relax, and enjoy the ride! The day after arrival, head east to the UNESCO Heritage Site Stone Forest, a crazy landscape of towering limestone formations.
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Drive back to city centre and enjoy your last pleasure in Kunming, visiting Yuantong Temple and Green Lake Park. Don't leave Kunming without trying its famous rice noodles! End the day with a steaming bowl of "Crossing-the-Bridge" rice noodles, a Yunnan specialty.
Day 23-25: Guilin Yangshuo Tour
Say goodbye to Yunnan with a 7-hour high speed train to Guilin. It's long, but the various scenery outside your window will keep you awake. The one-month trip to China is close to an end, and it's time to dive into some of the most beautiful rural areas.
Guilin Overview
- Day 23: Kunming to Guilin Train (7 hours)
- Day 24: Li River Cruise (4 hours) from Guilin to Yangshuo
- Day 25: Yangshuo to Guilin,Elephant Trunk Hill, Reed Flute Cave, High Speed train to Zhangjiajie
Upon arrival in Guilin, cruise down the legendary Li River, surrounded by towering karst mountains straight out of a Chinese painting. In Yangshuo, explore the countryside—think rice fields, water buffalo, and quaint villages. Bike or take a scenic ride through the lush landscapes. End the day in West Street, a lively mix of old-world charm and modern cafés, perfect for a relaxed evening stroll.
Head back to Guilin to see its most famous sights. Climb Elephant Trunk Hill, the city's iconic landmark, then step into the magical world of Reed Flute Cave, where colorful lights illuminate incredible stalactites. In the afternoon, catch a 7-hour high-speed train to Zhangjiajie—another long ride, but totally worth it for what's coming next!
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Day 26-27:Zhangjiajie Highlight Tour
Now, you're in Zhangjiajie, the incredible floating mountains in the movie Avatar come to life.
Zhangjiajie Overview
- Day 26: Zhangjiajie National Forest Park: Avatar Mountain, Bailong Elevator, Tianzi Mountain.
- Day 27: Tianmen Mountain, fly to Shanghai
Get ready for jaw-dropping scenery at Wulingyuan Scenic Area. Hike through Yuanjiajie, the inspiration for Avatar's floating mountains. Ride the cable car up Tianzi Mountain for insane panoramic views, then wander the Ten-Mile Gallery, a stunning valley of unique rock formations. Every turn is a postcard moment!
Start the day conquering Tianmen Mountain—home to the world's longest cable car ride, the crazy glass skywalk, and the legendary Tianmen Cave (Heaven's Gate). In the afternoon, fly to Shanghai. The one month trip in China is sailing to its last stop.
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Day 28-30: Shanghai Highlight Tour
Finally, we're in Shanghai, China's most developed metropolis, where you'll say goodbye to this vast and ancient land after your exploration in Beijing, Xi'an, Gansu, Tibet, Chengdu, Yunnan, Guilin, and Zhangjiajie.
Shanghai Overview
- Day 28: Shanghai Tour
- Day 29: Shanghai to Suzhou, China's Garden Paradise
- Day 30: Departure Day, Time to Say Goodbye
Time to soak in the magic of Shanghai! Warm up with a wandering through the classic beauty of Yu Garden. You should buy some souvenirs at Yuyuan Bazaar or Nanjing Road before leaving China.
Take a photo at the Bund with the glittering skyline as your backdrop. It is a microcosm of China's rapid development over the past 30 years. Or you can cross the Huangpu river and ride up Shanghai Tower for the breathtaking Bird's-eye city views.
The second to last day before leaving, take a round-trip to Suzhou, known for its elegant gardens and canals. Explore the stunning Humble Administrator's Garden, visit the Suzhou Museum, and climb Tiger Hill for a view of Suzhou's leaning pagoda. Cruise along Pingjiang Road's canals, then enjoy a stroll through Shantang Street before heading back to Shanghai.
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On your last day in China, pack your luggage and board the plane back home with the wonderful memories of your one-month stay in China.
Best Month to Visit China with the 30-day Itinerary
If you're planning to follow the 30-day itinerary for China, the best time to travel is April to May or September to October.
These months offer the most pleasant weather, with less rainfall, plenty of sunshine, and comfortable temperatures—neither too hot nor too cold. Plus, it's not the peak tourist season, so you can explore without overwhelming crowds.
Another big advantage of traveling during these months is lighter packing. With stable weather, you won't need to carry excessive clothing or gear, making long-term travel much easier. A good packing list includes:
- Two pairs of comfortable sneakers for walking and hiking
- Several pairs of socks for changing
- A mix of short- and long-sleeve shirts for layering
- Two lightweight jackets
- One warm inner layer, especially for high-altitude regions like Tibet and mountain areas like Zhangjiajie
Most hotels in major cities offer self-service laundry facilities, so you can wash and reuse your clothes. You can also pick up some lightweight T-shirts from local markets as both souvenirs and extra travel wear.
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1 Month in China Budget
Traveling in China doesn't have to be expensive. While major cities like Beijing and Shanghai have higher hotel costs ($70–$120 per person per night for double occupancy), accommodations in other regions are more affordable, averaging $30–$70 per person per night.
For sightseeing, entrance fees for China's top attractions typically range from $10 to $40, and when you factor in accommodation, food, and transportation, you can expect to spend around $130–$180 per day on average.
Our recommended 30-day China itinerary offers affordable group tours, where you can join other travelers to cut down costs. These tours include professional English-speaking guides (guides for other languages may cost more), comfortable accommodation, diverse dining options, must-see attractions, and top activities.
With Asia Odyssey Travel, you can explore China's rich history and breathtaking landscapes in a safe, comfortable, and budget-friendly way. Contact us to customize your journey based on your preferences!
Start Your Unforgettable China Journey with Asia Odyssey Travel!
A one-month trip to China is the perfect way to experience the country’s rich history, breathtaking landscapes, and vibrant culture. From ancient wonders to modern marvels, from serene countryside to bustling cities, this journey offers it all.
At Asia Odyssey Travel, we specialize in crafting well-organized, affordable itineraries tailored to your travel style. With our experienced guides, seamless logistics, and insider knowledge, you can explore China stress-free and make the most of your adventure.
If you don’t have that much time, no worries! We offer a variety of China itineraries: including 5-day, 7-day, 8-day, 10-day, 12-day, 14-day, 15-dayand even 3-week tours—so you can explore China at your own pace.
Ready to embark on the journey of a lifetime? Contact us today and let’s start planning your perfect China itinerary!
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