9 day Itinerary starting in Xian / Chengdu?

Question

We found really nice flights that can get us to/from Beijing / Xian / Chengdu / Kunming.

I was thinking of flying directly to Xian and then doing Pingyao and Datong with train. We really don't mind skipping Beijing and Shanghai - we are very happy to focus on one region and do less internal flights (but open to the idea).

I am quite struggling with filling the itinerary - Xian 2 days, Pingayao and Datong 1-2 days each, and then what? If we then have to fly to the next destination, geography doesn't really matter anymore because we can fly anywhere.

Answer

For a 9-day itinerary starting in Xi’an or Chengdu, focusing on one region is a very practical approach, especially if you want to minimize internal flights and enjoy a deeper experience in fewer locations. Since you are happy to skip Beijing and Shanghai, here’s a detailed suggestion.

Option 1: Starting in Xi’an (Shaanxi Province) and focusing on northern central China

Day 1: Arrive in Xi’an. Spend the afternoon exploring the Ancient City Wall and the Muslim Quarter. Enjoy local snacks and early evening ambiance.
Day 2: Visit the Terracotta Warriors and Horses Museum. Afternoon at the Big Wild Goose Pagoda and nearby gardens.
Day 3: Day trip to Pingyao via high-speed train (approx. 3 hours one-way). Explore the old town walls, streets, and traditional architecture. Overnight in Pingyao.
Day 4: Morning in Pingyao. Travel to Datong (approx. 3–4 hours by train). Explore Yungang Grottoes if time allows.
Day 5: Full day in Datong. Visit Hanging Temple and Huayan Monastery. Evening train or flight to next destination (Chengdu, Kunming, or back to Xi’an for onward flight).
Day 6-9: Depending on your choice:

Option A: Fly to Chengdu. Spend 2 days visiting Giant Pandas, Wuhou Shrine, Jinli Street, and Sichuan Opera. Take a day trip to Leshan Giant Buddha.
Option B: Fly to Kunming. Spend 1-2 days exploring the Stone Forest, Green Lake Park, and Yunnan local culture. Optionally, take a short trip to Dali or Lijiang if time allows.

Option 2: Starting in Chengdu (Sichuan Province) and focusing on southwest China

Day 1: Arrive in Chengdu. Afternoon visit to Wuhou Shrine and Jinli Street.
Day 2: Chengdu Panda Base in the morning. Afternoon Sichuan Opera and local food tour.
Day 3: Day trip to Leshan Giant Buddha or Mount Emei.
Day 4: Fly to Kunming. Explore the city’s Stone Forest and Green Lake.
Day 5: Optional day trip to Dali or Lijiang.
Day 6-7: Explore local Yunnan villages, markets, or natural scenery.
Day 8-9: Return to Chengdu or fly to next destination. Light sightseeing or relaxation depending on flight schedule.

Tips:

High-speed trains in China are convenient and reduce travel fatigue compared to buses or slow trains. Booking in advance is recommended but last-minute tickets are often available for non-peak travel dates.
If you want fewer logistics and a more relaxed pace, focusing either on Xi’an + Pingyao + Datong or Chengdu + Kunming is better than trying to cover both in 9 days.
Use flights for longer distances (e.g., Datong to Chengdu or Kunming) to maximize sightseeing time.
Consider weather: July/August in Xi’an/Datong can be hot, while Chengdu and Yunnan can be humid with occasional rain.

In summary, a Xi’an-centric itinerary allows you to explore ancient northern China, while a Chengdu/Kunming itinerary focuses on southwestern China and natural landscapes. Both approaches minimize internal flights and optimize sightseeing within 9 days.

9 day Itinerary starting in Xian / Chengdu?

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