oo much travel? China itinerary feedback (5-22 Nov)

Question

Hi everyone,

We are 2 adults planning a trip to China and would love your advice on whether this itinerary is practical, or if it involves too much time traveling between cities. Do you think this flow works, or is there a better way to organize it?

We’d like to experience both the futuristic side of China (mega cities, nightlife, street food, shopping) as well as its breathtaking natural beauty.

Our draft plan is:

1. Beijing: Nov 5–8

2. Chongqing: Nov 8–12

3. Zhangjiajie: Nov 12–15

4. Furong Ancient Town: Nov 15–16

5. Guilin: Nov 16–18

6. Shanghai: Nov 18–22

Is there anything we need to keep in mind being cold weather?

We’d really appreciate your suggestions and feedback. Thank you!

Answer

Your proposed itinerary covers a wide range of experiences, from bustling modern cities to scenic natural areas, which is great for a varied China trip. However, it is quite packed, and there are several long-distance transfers that may feel tiring. Here’s a detailed feedback on each leg:

1. Beijing (Nov 5–8)

Four days is sufficient to see the highlights: the Forbidden City, Tiananmen Square, Temple of Heaven, Summer Palace, Great Wall (Mutianyu or Badaling), and maybe the hutongs for a local experience.
Weather: Early November in Beijing can be quite chilly, around 5–12°C, with possible windy conditions. Bring layers, a warm coat, and scarves.

2. Chongqing (Nov 8–12)

Flying from Beijing to Chongqing is efficient (approx. 2–3 hours). Four days is ample to explore the city, hot pot cuisine, Yangtze River cruise or cable car rides, Ciqikou Ancient Town, and nearby Dazu Rock Carvings.
Weather: Chongqing is milder than Beijing, around 10–18°C, but it can be foggy or damp. Light waterproof layers are helpful.

3. Zhangjiajie (Nov 12–15)

Travel from Chongqing to Zhangjiajie can be done by flight (~1.5 hours) or overnight train (~7–8 hours). Three days in Zhangjiajie National Forest Park is appropriate to cover major scenic areas: Yuanjiajie, Tianzi Mountain, Golden Whip Stream, and the glass bridge at Zhangjiajie Grand Canyon if interested.
Weather: November is cool and dry, temperatures 8–15°C. Prepare for chilly mornings and evenings, and comfortable walking shoes for the mountainous terrain.

4. Furong Ancient Town (Nov 15–16)

Furong Ancient Town is about 3–4 hours by bus or private car from Zhangjiajie. One overnight stay is enough to enjoy the historic town, riverside views, and local Tujia culture.

5. Guilin (Nov 16–18)

Travel from Furong to Guilin requires either a combination of bus/train or private transfer, likely taking most of a day. Two days in Guilin allows time for Li River cruise to Yangshuo, Reed Flute Cave, Elephant Trunk Hill, and exploring the countryside by bike or bamboo raft.
Weather: Mild and comfortable, around 12–20°C, but can be foggy in the mornings. Light layers and rain protection recommended.

6. Shanghai (Nov 18–22)

Flight or high-speed train from Guilin to Shanghai (~2 hours flight / 7–8 hours by train). Four days in Shanghai is enough to explore Bund, Nanjing Road, Yu Garden, Shanghai Tower, museums, and maybe a day trip to water towns like Zhujiajiao or Tongli.
Weather: Similar to Guilin, mild but can be damp. Temperatures around 12–18°C. Layered clothing advised.

Overall feedback:

Your itinerary is ambitious but doable if you are comfortable with frequent flights and transfers.
Consider that the travel days between cities (especially Furong to Guilin) will reduce sightseeing time, so plan key attractions carefully.
If you prefer a slightly more relaxed pace, you could skip Furong or combine it with Zhangjiajie in one trip.
Book flights and high-speed trains in advance to avoid last-minute issues, especially for November which is off-peak but still busy in scenic areas.
Layered clothing is essential throughout, as northern China (Beijing) is colder than southern regions (Guilin, Shanghai).

In conclusion, your itinerary balances urban and natural experiences well, but be prepared for several full travel days and early departures. Adjusting Furong or allowing extra time in Zhangjiajie/Guilin may make the trip more comfortable.