Contrary to popular opinion, it is possible to travel independently around
China. However, having said that, it has to be one of the most frustrating
countries to travel in as the script is impossible to read for us Indo-European
language speakers. Here is a trip that gets around mostly through flying,
so it is a little easier to see the best parts of China this way and without
having to use the services of a guide. Travelling in China in this way,
you will need to arrange flights and accommodation and the rest you can
fill in as and when you arrive at places.
Fly into Beijing and settle in your chosen hotel – there are plenty
of good tourist class hotels. Spend 2 whole days in Beijing. Sites to
see include the Forbidden City, Tian’anman square, the Temple of
Heaven etc. You can take guided day trips to the Great Wall of China,
the Ming Tombs and the Summer Palace.
Fly from Beijing to Xian, the Imperial capital between 1,000 BC and 1,000
AD. Spend a couple of days in Xian: see the Terracotta Warriors, the Small
Wild Goose Pagoda and there are some hot springs close by. It’s
usually quieter to visit the Warriors in the afternoons.
From Xian, fly to Shanghai, explore Shanghai for a couple of days, walk
down the Bund, the main road by the harbour, visit the Yu gardens and
the old city etc. Ask your hotel to book a day return train ticket to
Suzho, a place in China made famous for its silk production. Explore the
old town, stock up on silk clothes etc and return to Shanghai.
Fly from Shanghai to Guilin, arrive at the airport, arrange to be met
by your hotel and ask them to book a day cruise down the River Li. This
is the most beautiful journey – distinctive rounded hills, and you
can get a chance to see life as it used to be many centuries ago. If you
have more time, it is possible to take longer cruises down the River Li
where you can sleep aboard. Your hotel will be able to advise. There are
also some caves in Guilin: the Reed Flute Caves that are worth a quick
visit.
Fly from Guilin to Canton, explore around and take the train from Canton
to Hong Kong and finish your tour here after having spent a few days exploring
around.