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10-day route

China itinerary for 10 days: Beijing, Xi’an and Shanghai

A realistic first route with three bases and high-speed rail between the major stops.

Verified 1 September 2026 Source-linked

Quick answer

Use 3 nights in Beijing, 2 in Xi’an and 3 in Shanghai, leaving the first and transfer days intentionally lighter. This route is for ordinary entry planning; do not assume it automatically satisfies 240-hour transit rules.

1

Days 1–3 · Beijing

  • Day 1: arrival, hotel registration and an easy neighbourhood walk.
  • Day 2: central historic Beijing.
  • Day 3: Great Wall day with an early start.
2

Days 4–6 · Xi’an

  • Day 4: high-speed rail and evening city-wall area.
  • Day 5: Terracotta Warriors day.
  • Day 6: old-city sights and food, then prepare for the next train.
3

Days 7–10 · Shanghai

  • Day 7: travel and riverside evening.
  • Days 8–9: one historic/urban day and one flexible neighbourhood or day-trip day.
  • Day 10: departure with airport transfer time protected.

Continue planning

Book trains with a passportPrepare the two long rail legs.Need more contrast?Add Chongqing or Zhangjiajie.