Planning a two-week trip to China? This 14-day China itinerary is designed for travelers who want to see a mix of modern cities, ancient towns, mountains, caves, rivers, and famous landmarks without spending too much time traveling between destinations.

The route starts in Chongqing and continues through Wulong, Xingwen, Fenghuang Ancient Town, Furong Town, Zhangjiajie, Wuhan, and Shanghai.

One of the biggest advantages of this route is China’s high-speed rail network. Several parts of the journey can be completed by train, making it possible to visit several destinations without taking domestic flights.

The itinerary combines city sightseeing with nature and cultural experiences. Expect Chongqing’s futuristic skyline, the karst landscapes of Wulong and Xingwen, the riverside scenery of Fenghuang, the waterfall in Furong Town, the mountains of Zhangjiajie, the historic sights of Wuhan, and the modern skyline of Shanghai.

If this is your first trip to China, this guide also covers transportation, useful apps, train travel, accommodation, food, estimated costs, and practical tips.

The best periods for this route are generally March to May and late September to early November.

Late October is particularly suitable for this itinerary because temperatures are generally comfortable for sightseeing and outdoor activities. Many mountain and park areas can also have autumn colors during this period.

Try to avoid China’s National Day Golden Week from October 1 to 7 if possible. Major attractions, trains, hotels, and public transportation can become extremely crowded during this holiday period.

Always check the weather for each destination before leaving, especially for the mountain areas around Wulong and Zhangjiajie.

A little preparation can make traveling around China much easier, especially for first-time visitors.

• Download Trip.com: Useful for booking hotels, high-speed trains, and attraction tickets. Check train schedules and availability before each trip.
• Install DiDi: DiDi works like Uber and is convenient when public transportation is not available or when traveling with luggage.
• Prepare Mobile Data: Get an eSIM or reliable mobile data plan for maps, translation, transportation, and bookings. Download important maps and information in advance.
• Set Up Alipay or WeChat Pay: Mobile payments are widely used in China. Set up Alipay or WeChat Pay before your trip and keep a backup payment method.
• Carry Your Passport: Keep your passport with you when traveling. It may be required for hotel check-in, train travel, attraction tickets, and identity verification.

The trip begins in Chongqing, a large city known for its dense skyline, steep streets, rivers, bridges, and nighttime views.

Getting to Chongqing

International travelers may need one or more connections before reaching Chongqing Jiangbei International Airport (CKG). After immigration and baggage collection, travelers can reach central Chongqing by metro, taxi, or DiDi. Allow extra time because traffic can be heavy. Check into the hotel and take some time to rest before exploring the city.

China Entry Requirements

Visa requirements depend on nationality and can change. Check the latest requirements before booking flights. Some travelers may qualify for visa-free entry or transit policies, while others need to apply for a visa before traveling.

Carry digital or printed copies of:

• Passport
• Visa, if required
• Hotel reservations
• Return or onward flight information
• Travel insurance
• Basic itinerary

Afternoon: Jiefangbei Pedestrian Street

Start the trip at Jiefangbei Pedestrian Street, one of Chongqing's main commercial areas. The neighborhood has shopping malls, restaurants, cafés, local stores, and plenty of places to try Chongqing food. Allow around two to three hours to explore the area. Nearby Bayi Food Street is a good place to try local dishes such as Chongqing noodles, grilled skewers, hot-and-sour noodles, and other snacks.

Evening: Hongyadong

Head to Hongyadong in the evening. The traditional-style buildings are built into the hillside beside the Jialing River and are especially popular after sunset when the complex lights up. Spend some time walking around the area before having Chongqing-style hotpot for dinner.

Best View of Hongyadong

For one of the best views of Hongyadong, walk toward Qiansimen Bridge. The area is particularly good for photography around sunset and blue hour, when the buildings begin to light up.

Chongqing Visitor Tips

• Wear comfortable shoes because Chongqing has many hills, stairs, and elevated walkways.
• Visit Hongyadong around sunset to see both the daytime and nighttime views.
• Expect large crowds on weekends and holidays.
• Keep your phone and belongings secure in crowded areas.

Where to Stay in Chongqing

Budget: Holiday Inn Express Chongqing Guanyin Qiao — approximately USD $60–80 per night.

Mid-range: Glenview ITC Plaza Chongqing — approximately USD $90–130 per night.

Luxury: Niccolo Chongqing — approximately USD $170–210 per night.

Staying near Jiefangbei is convenient for first-time visitors because many attractions, restaurants, and transportation options are nearby.

Day 2 is a full-day trip from Chongqing to Wulong, best known for its dramatic limestone formations and Three Natural Bridges.

Getting to Wulong

Take a high-speed train from Chongqing North Railway Station to Wulong Railway Station. The journey takes about two hours.  From Wulong Railway Station, take a local tourist shuttle or taxi to the Three Natural Bridges Scenic Area. The trip usually takes another 30–40 minutes. Train schedules vary, so check the latest departure times before traveling.

Three Natural Bridges

The main attraction is the Three Natural Bridges Scenic Area, where enormous limestone bridges rise above a deep valley.

The three natural bridges are:

• Tianlong Bridge
• Qinglong Bridge
• Heilong Bridge

The walking route also includes cliffs, caves, waterfalls, stone paths, and viewing areas.

Allow around 3–5 hours for the scenic area.

Visitor Information

Opening hours and ticket prices can change by season, so check the latest information before visiting. You may bring your passport if required for ticket verification. Wear shoes with good grip because the route includes stairs, uneven paths, and slopes.

Returning to Chongqing

After sightseeing, return to Wulong Railway Station and take a high-speed train back to Chongqing. Check the return train before entering the park so there is enough time to finish the visit and reach the station. Spend the evening back in Chongqing.

What to Eat

Try other local specialties if hotpot was already enjoyed on Day 1:

• Chongqing Xiao Mian
• Grilled fish
• Chuan Chuan skewers
• Local sweet rice cakes

Travel Tip

Bring water, sunscreen, and a light rain jacket. Mountain weather can change quickly.

Day 3 is another nature-focused day trip from Chongqing, this time to Xingwen Stone Sea in Sichuan.

Getting to Xingwen

Take a high-speed train from Chongqing West Railway Station to Xingwen Railway Station.

The journey takes about two hours.

From Xingwen Railway Station, take a local shuttle or taxi to Xingwen Stone Sea Scenic Area. The journey usually takes around 20–30 minutes.

Explore Xingwen Stone Sea

Xingwen Stone Sea is known for its karst landscape, limestone formations, caves, sinkholes, and underground rivers.

One of the main sights is the Xingwen Giant Sinkhole, a huge geological formation measuring approximately 650 meters across.

Continue to Tianquan Cave, where the underground landscape includes limestone formations and streams.

Allow several hours to explore the scenic area.

Visitor Tips

• Wear comfortable shoes.
• Bring drinking water.
• Bring a light jacket because caves can be cooler than the outside temperature.
• Stay on marked trails.
• Check current ticket information before visiting.

Evening

Return to Xingwen Railway Station and take the high-speed train back to Chongqing.

Stay at the same Chongqing hotel for the night.

Day 4 begins with a few final Chongqing sights before continuing to Fenghuang Ancient Town in Hunan.

Morning: Liziba Monorail Station

Visit Liziba Monorail Station, famous for the light rail train passing through a residential building.

For the classic photo, use the viewing platform across from the station.

A phone's 0.5x camera or another wide-angle lens can help fit the building and train into one frame.

Yangtze River Cable Car

Next, take the Yangtze River Cable Car for views over the river and Chongqing's skyline.

Check the operating schedule and ticket availability before visiting because services can change.

Afternoon: Travel to Fenghuang

Return to the hotel, collect your luggage, and head to Chongqing West Railway Station.

Take the high-speed train to Fenghuang Gucheng Railway Station. The journey takes approximately 3.5 hours.

From the railway station, take a local shuttle or taxi to Fenghuang Ancient Town.

Check into the hotel and rest before going out again.

Evening: Fenghuang Ancient Town

Fenghuang Ancient Town is known for its traditional wooden buildings, stone bridges, and riverside setting along the Tuojiang River.

The town becomes especially attractive after sunset when the buildings and bridges are illuminated.

Walk along the river, explore the old streets, and stop at a riverside restaurant for dinner.

Try local Hunan dishes such as sour fish, blood tofu, and sticky rice dishes.

Where to Stay in Fenghuang

Budget: Fenghuang Poshan Inn — approximately USD $35–55 per night.

Mid-range: Mount Villa by T Residence — approximately USD $80–120 per night.

Luxury: Phoenix Story Boutique Resort Hotel — approximately USD $140–220 per night.

Spend a full day exploring Fenghuang rather than rushing through the town.

Morning: Tuojiang River

Start early with a walk along the Tuojiang River.

The morning is generally quieter than the evening, making it a good time for photos and a relaxed walk through the old streets.

Explore the cobbled lanes, traditional buildings, small cafés, and local shops.

Afternoon: Historic Fenghuang

Visit some of the town's historic attractions, including the old city wall and Hong Bridge, also known as Hongqiao Wind and Rain Bridge.

A traditional wooden boat ride on the Tuojiang River is another option for seeing the town from the water.

Visitor Information

Entry to the main ancient town area is free.

Boat rides require a separate ticket.

The old town can be explored throughout the day, although museums, historic buildings, and boat services have their own operating hours.

Wear comfortable shoes because many streets are made of stone and can be uneven.

Evening

Return to the river after sunset to see the illuminated buildings and bridges.

For a relaxed evening, stop at a riverside café or bar.

Soul Café & Bar is one option for riverside seating, food, and evening music.

Best Time for Photos

The period just after sunset is one of the best times to photograph Fenghuang. The lights from the buildings reflect on the Tuojiang River while there is still some light in the sky.

Today, travel from Fenghuang to Furong Town, a historic Tujia town known for its waterfall.

Getting to Furong Town

Take a high-speed train from Fenghuang Gucheng Railway Station to Furongzhen Railway Station.

The train journey takes around 30 minutes.

From the station, take a taxi or local shuttle to Furong Ancient Town. The journey takes approximately 10–15 minutes.

Afternoon: Furong Ancient Town

Furong Town is built along a cliff and is famous for the Furong Waterfall, which flows directly through the historic town.

Walk along the stone streets and explore the wooden buildings, restaurants, shops, and local craft stores.

One of the highlights is the pathway behind the waterfall.

Be careful here because the path can become slippery from water spray, especially after rain.

Evening: Furong Waterfall

After dark, the waterfall and surrounding buildings are illuminated.

This is one of the best times to see Furong Town.

Have dinner at a restaurant overlooking the waterfall and try local Tujia and Hunan dishes such as:

• Rice tofu
• Smoked pork
• Pickled vegetables
• Local spicy dishes

Where to Stay in Furong Town

Budget: Floral Hotel Furong Ancient Town — approximately USD $35–60 per night.

Mid-range: Tusi Xuanfu Hotel — approximately USD $80–120 per night.

Luxury: Furong Town Grand Hotel — approximately USD $150–220 per night.

Travel Tip

Bring shoes with good grip and a light waterproof jacket if visiting the waterfall walkway.

Day 7 begins the Zhangjiajie section of the itinerary.

Getting to Zhangjiajie

Take a high-speed train from Furongzhen Railway Station to Zhangjiajie West Railway Station.

The journey takes around 25 minutes.

From Zhangjiajie West Railway Station, take a taxi or tourist shuttle to the Zhangjiajie National Forest Park area. Allow around 35–45 minutes for this transfer.

Bailong Elevator

One of the major attractions is the Bailong Elevator, which carries visitors up the side of a sandstone cliff.

It provides access to the upper mountain areas and views of Zhangjiajie's famous pillar formations.

Zhangjiajie National Forest Park

Spend the afternoon exploring the park's trails and viewing areas.

The park is famous for its tall quartz sandstone pillars, forests, valleys, and mountain scenery.

The Yuanjiajie Scenic Area is particularly well known for the mountain formations associated with the landscapes seen in Avatar.

Visitor Tips

• Wear proper walking shoes.
• Bring water.
• Keep your passport available for ticket verification.
• Keep your park ticket because it may be checked at different areas.
• Stay on marked paths.
• Check current opening hours and ticket prices before visiting.
• Avoid bringing unnecessary luggage into the park.

Evening

Return to Zhangjiajie West Railway Station and take the train back to Furong Town.

Have dinner near the illuminated waterfall before returning to the hotel.

Day 8 is another full-day trip to Zhangjiajie, this time focusing on Tianmen Mountain.

Getting to Tianmen Mountain

Take the high-speed train from Furongzhen Railway Station to Zhangjiajie West Railway Station.

From the station, take a taxi to the Tianmen Mountain Cableway area.

Tianmen Mountain Cable Car

The Tianmen Mountain Cable Car travels approximately 7.5 kilometers and provides views of the mountains, cliffs, valleys, and the famous 99 Bends Road.

Check the latest route and ticket information before visiting because Tianmen Mountain tickets are organized into different route options.

Via Ferrata Sky Ladder

Adventure travelers can consider the Via Ferrata Sky Ladder, a climbing route attached to the mountain cliffs.

The activity involves safety equipment, ladders, bridges, and narrow sections along the mountain.

It requires a reasonable level of fitness and is not suitable for everyone.

Always check the current age, height, weight, and health requirements before booking.

Glass Skywalk and Heaven's Gate

After the climb, visit the Glass Skywalk and continue toward Tianmen Cave, also known as Heaven's Gate.

The famous 999 Steps lead toward the cave.

Visitors who are uncomfortable with heights can skip the Via Ferrata and focus on the cable car, viewpoints, Glass Skywalk, and Heaven's Gate instead.

Travel Tip

Wear closed-toe athletic shoes.

If participating in the Via Ferrata, follow the guide's instructions throughout the activity.

Mountain weather can change quickly, so bring appropriate clothing and check the weather before leaving.

Return to Furong Town in the evening.

Today, the itinerary moves east to Wuhan, the capital of Hubei Province.

Getting to Wuhan

Take a high-speed train from Furongzhen Railway Station to Wuhan Railway Station.

The journey takes approximately 3.5 hours.

After arriving, take the metro or a taxi to the hotel.

Afternoon: Yellow Crane Tower

Visit Yellow Crane Tower, one of Wuhan's best-known historic landmarks.

The tower has a history stretching back more than 1,800 years and offers views over the Yangtze River and surrounding city.

Explore the gardens, exhibits, and viewing areas around the complex.

Evening: Yellow Crane Tower Night Tour

If operating during the visit, consider returning for the evening Yellow Crane Tower Night Tour.

The show combines lights, projections, music, and storytelling.

Schedules can change depending on the season, weather, and special events, so check the latest schedule before going.

Yangtze River Riverside

Afterward, walk along the riverside area near Yanjiang Avenue for nighttime views of the Yangtze River and Wuhan Yangtze River Bridge.

Dinner: Hubu Alley

For local food, visit Hubu Alley, a popular food street near Yellow Crane Tower.

Try:

• Re Gan Mian (Hot Dry Noodles)
• Wuchang Fish
• Doupi
• Soup dumplings

Where to Stay in Wuhan

Budget: Holiday Inn Express Wuhan Jianghan Road — approximately USD $45–70 per night.

Mid-range: The Westin Wuhan Wuchang — approximately USD $110–150 per night.

Luxury: Wanda Reign Wuhan — approximately USD $220–320 per night.

Morning: Hot Dry Noodles and Jianghan Road

Start with Wuhan's famous Re Gan Mian, or Hot Dry Noodles.

After breakfast, explore Jianghan Road Pedestrian Street, one of Wuhan's main shopping and walking areas.

The street combines historic European-style buildings with shops, cafés, restaurants, and modern shopping centers.

Afternoon: East Lake

Spend the afternoon at East Lake Scenic Area.

The large urban park has walking routes, cycling paths, gardens, and lakeside views.

The East Lake Greenway is another option if there is enough time.

The Hubei Provincial Museum can also be added to the day.

Visitor Information

General access to East Lake's public outdoor areas does not require an admission ticket.

Individual attractions within the area may have separate fees and opening hours.

Wear comfortable shoes because the area is large.

Evening: Optics Valley

Finish the day at Optics Valley Square, also called Guanggu Square.

The area is known for shopping, restaurants, modern buildings, and colorful nighttime displays.

Return to the same Wuhan hotel afterward.

The final part of the trip takes you to Shanghai.

Getting to Shanghai

Take a high-speed train from Wuhan Railway Station to Shanghai Hongqiao Railway Station.

The journey takes approximately 3–4 hours.

After arriving in Shanghai, take the metro or a taxi to the hotel.

Afternoon: Nanjing Road

If there is enough time after check-in, explore Nanjing Road Pedestrian Street.

This is one of Shanghai's best-known shopping areas, with department stores, restaurants, boutiques, international brands, and plenty of city activity.

Evening: The Bund

Visit The Bund around sunset.

The waterfront promenade looks across the Huangpu River toward the skyscrapers of Lujiazui.

The view combines Shanghai's historic waterfront buildings with modern landmarks such as Shanghai Tower and the Oriental Pearl Tower.

Stay until after dark to see the skyline illuminated.

Visitor Information

The Bund is free to visit and is open to the public throughout the day.

There is no admission ticket for the waterfront promenade.

Expect larger crowds during weekends and public holidays.

Where to Stay in Shanghai

Budget: Holiday Inn Express Shanghai Zhabei — approximately USD $60–90 per night.

Mid-range: Central Hotel Shanghai — approximately USD $120–170 per night.

Luxury: The Peninsula Shanghai — approximately USD $350–500 per night.

Morning: Yu Garden

Start the day at Yu Garden, a classical Chinese garden dating back more than 400 years.

The garden features traditional buildings, ponds, rockeries, courtyards, and the famous zigzag bridge.

After visiting the garden, explore the nearby Yuyuan Bazaar for snacks, tea, souvenirs, and local products.

Afternoon: French Concession

After lunch, explore Shanghai's French Concession.

The neighborhood is known for tree-lined streets, historic European-style buildings, cafés, boutiques, and galleries.

Spend time around Wukang Road and Anfu Road for a more relaxed side of Shanghai.

Try Xiaolongbao

Shanghai is famous for xiaolongbao, or soup dumplings.

One well-known option is Nanxiang Mantou Dian, which is especially associated with xiaolongbao.

Evening

Continue exploring the French Concession or return to The Bund for another nighttime view of the skyline.

Travel Tip

Start Yu Garden early if visiting on a weekend or holiday. The area can become crowded later in the day.

Morning: Shanghai Tower

Start the day at Shanghai Tower in Pudong.

At 632 meters, it is China's tallest building and has an observation deck on the 118th floor.

The observation deck provides views across Shanghai, including The Bund, Huangpu River, and the surrounding skyline.

Clear weather will provide the best views.

Visitor Information

Opening times and ticket prices can change, so check the latest information before visiting.

Security screening is required.

Large luggage is not permitted inside the observation deck.

Booking tickets ahead is recommended during busy periods.

Afternoon: Nanjing Road

Return to Nanjing Road for shopping, souvenirs, snacks, or simply a walk through central Shanghai.

Evening: Rooftop Views

For the final evening, enjoy dinner or drinks at a rooftop restaurant or lounge overlooking the Shanghai skyline.

Flair Rooftop Restaurant & Bar is one option, with views toward Lujiazui, The Bund, and the Huangpu River

Keep the final morning relaxed.

Depending on the flight time, there may be enough time for breakfast, a short walk, coffee, or last-minute shopping.

After checking out, travel to Shanghai Pudong International Airport (PVG).

For an international flight, allow at least three hours at the airport for check-in, baggage drop, security, and immigration.

Getting to Pudong Airport

Several transportation options are available:

• Metro Line 2: Affordable and practical.
• Maglev + Metro: A faster option from Longyang Road.
• Taxi or ride-hailing: More convenient when traveling with large luggage.

Allow extra time for traffic if using a taxi.

The cost depends heavily on accommodation, food, transportation, and activities.

The estimates below are based on the itinerary's original budget figures and exclude international flights.

Food

• Budget meals: around USD $7–21 per day
• Mid-range dining: around USD $21–42 per day
• Specialty restaurants and famous dishes: USD $28+ per meal

Transportation

• Metro and local buses: around USD $1–3 per ride
• Taxi or ride-hailing: around USD $3–11 per trip
• High-speed trains: around USD $5–42+ depending on the route and seat class

Accommodation

• Budget hotels and guesthouses: around USD $21–42 per night
• Mid-range hotels: around USD $42–98 per night
• Premium hotels: USD $98+ per night

Estimated 14-Day Budget

Budget traveler: USD $975–1,400

Suitable for travelers choosing affordable hotels, local restaurants, public transportation, and selected attractions.

Mid-range traveler: USD $1,400–2,500

Suitable for travelers who want comfortable hotels, high-speed trains, regular restaurant meals, and major attractions.

Comfort traveler: Around USD $2,550 or more

Suitable for travelers who prefer upgraded hotels, private transportation, premium restaurants, and additional experiences.

These figures can change depending on the season, exchange rates, booking dates, and travel style.

This 14-day China itinerary covers a wide range of experiences, from the busy streets of Chongqing to the mountains of Zhangjiajie and the historic streets of Fenghuang and Furong.

The route then continues east through Wuhan before ending in Shanghai, where traditional gardens, historic neighborhoods, shopping streets, and modern skyscrapers provide a very different final stop.

For travelers who want to see China's natural landscapes, historic towns, local food, and modern cities in one trip, this route offers a practical starting point for planning a two-week adventure.

Before booking, check the latest train schedules, attraction opening hours, ticket prices, weather conditions, and China entry requirements. These details can change, especially during holidays and peak travel periods.

For travelers planning to visit more of China, check out our Beijing blog or more tips, places to visit, and ideas for planning a trip to the capital.