17-day itinerary in China?

Question

I have been to Beijing, Shanghai & Xi’an last year and now am returning to China, but unsure of an itinerary.

I am starting my journey in Chongqing, but as I am travelling from Hanoi, I could begin my trip anywhere in China– the only caveat is that I have a return flight to the UK from Hong Kong, so I must be there before 15 April.

Any suggestions would be very appreciated.

Thanks

Answer

With 17 days in China and starting from Chongqing with a return flight from Hong Kong, you have the flexibility to explore a mix of cultural, historical, and natural highlights without repeating the cities you've already visited. Here's a detailed suggestion:

Since you've already been to Beijing, Shanghai, and Xi’an, you might focus on southwestern and southern China, which offer unique landscapes, culture, and cuisine.

Days 1–3: Chongqing – Explore the city, enjoy hotpot cuisine, visit Ciqikou Ancient Town, and take a short cruise on the Yangtze River or explore the Dazu Rock Carvings nearby.
Days 4–6: Zhangjiajie – Travel from Chongqing to Zhangjiajie (by flight or high-speed train). Spend 2 full days exploring Zhangjiajie National Forest Park, including the Avatar Mountains, Tianzi Mountain, and Bailong Elevator.
Days 7–9: Guilin/Yangshuo – Fly or take a train to Guilin. Explore the Li River, Longji Rice Terraces (Ping’an and Dazhai), and the karst landscape. Consider a Li River cruise to Yangshuo and cycling around the countryside.
Days 10–12: Chengdu – Fly to Chengdu. Visit the Chengdu Research Base of Giant Panda Breeding, enjoy Sichuan cuisine, and explore Wuhou Shrine or Jinli Ancient Street.
Days 13–14: Lijiang or Dali (Yunnan) – Fly to Lijiang or Dali for scenic old towns, mountains, and local Naxi or Bai culture. Alternatively, you could do a short trip to Shangri-La if interested in Tibetan culture.
Days 15–16: Hong Kong – Fly from Yunnan to Hong Kong. Explore the city, Victoria Peak, Tsim Sha Tsui, and enjoy a day trip to Lantau Island if time permits.
Day 17: Departure – Ensure you have plenty of time to get to Hong Kong airport for your return flight.

Additional tips:

Consider booking flights between major regions to save time; train journeys can be long in southwestern China.
Yangshuo and Zhangjiajie require some walking and hiking; make sure your pace is comfortable.
If you prefer fewer flights, it is possible to combine Chongqing → Zhangjiajie → Guilin → Chengdu via high-speed trains, though travel times will be longer.
For scenic and cultural diversity, Yunnan is highly recommended for its landscapes, ethnic culture, and relatively less crowded tourist spots in April.

This itinerary balances natural scenery, cultural experiences, and urban highlights, ending conveniently in Hong Kong for your departure.