The Perfect Week in China: Skylines, Canals, City Walls & Lakes

I know what you’re thinking: “I only have one week in China, and I’ll spend most of it stuck on trains and rushing between sights.” Not necessarily, if you choose the right places!

This blog post will help you plan the perfect, effortless week in China, with cities just a few hours apart.

Everything, from the urban layout to architectural styles and people, will make you feel like you’ve traveled thousands of kilometers when, in reality, you’ll just be moving between two neighboring regions.

Ready to discover Shanghai 🏙️, Suzhou 🛶, Nanjing 🌸, and Hangzhou 🍃?

This article may contain affiliate links, which means that if you purchase through one of them, I may earn a small commission at no extra cost.

First Time in China? The Below Articles Are Packed with Life-Saving Tips!

Table of Contents

Planning Your Trip
Suggested One-Week China Itinerary

Planning Your Trip

General Tips for First-Timers in China

1. Download Alipay, but have cash: Digital payments work perfectly in China, even in more remote areas. Alipay will be so helpful! It allows you to add your country credit or debit card and is immediately ready.

2. Purchase an E-SIM with VPN Included: It’s very convenient! VPN will not be required, and you’ll have unlimited internet data. Airalo works perfectly in China without the need to download a VPN.

3. Licensed Taxis Only! Always stick to licensed taxis, they’re easy to recognize.

4. Book Your Visits in Advance and always have your passport: Chinese tourism is wild! You can book your entry tickets to sites in advance on trip.com or GetYourGuide.com. Your passport may be needed on many occasions to access sites or get free tickets.

Where To Stay in China

No panic! Booking.com works perfectly in China as well. However, you need to know small details regarding accommodation in China.

Prices vary: Expect higher rates in bustling cities like Shanghai, while towns like Nanjing are more budget-friendly.
Different country, different style: You’ll find very modern and old-fashioned hotels.
Cleanliness and service: rooms are usually very clean, and the staff is happy to help, even with a language barrier.
Consider hostels as budget-friendly options: Hostels often offer significantly lower rates and can provide excellent accommodations. Booking offers many hostel options.

High-Speed Trains To Move From One City to Another

I love high-speed trains in China. It is the perfect location to nap at more than 200km/h. To move around the four cities in this itinerary, you will only use high-speed trains, and journeys will always be less than 3 hours. I would opt for late afternoon trains if you can, so you have all the time to discover the cities in the morning. Below are some tips for navigating high-speed trains in China:

Ensure to be at the station one hour before departure.
No +100 w/h battery packs, it won’t pass through the luggage check, and you’ll have no choice but to leave it there.
When at the gate, keep an eye on the big screen. You won’t be able to go through passport control until your train is called.
Study your ticket. You’ll find your carriage number, seat number, and color code. The color indicates where to stand on the platform, so you’re right in front of your carriage when the train comes.
You can skip the automatic ID check and go directly to the manual document check, where a staff member will process your passport.

How To Get Around In Chinese Cities

Subway

The subway is the easiest and most efficient way around Chinese cities. Below are a few handy tips to help you navigate the Chinese subway system:

Bags check: be ready to place your bag through a detector whenever you take the subway.
Metro Fare: You can find the ticket price you need in your Metro app or by using Maps on your iPhone. Enter your destination and starting point, choose “directions by subway,” and voilà—your fare will appear along your route (Machines have an English option, and you can pay through Alipay)
Bilingual Signage: All subway stops are labeled in Chinese characters and their alphabetic transcription (pinyin), so you’ll always know where you are.

Taxi

Taxis can be a convenient way to get around cities in China, especially when going from train stations or the airport to your accommodation. While they’re not always the best option for daily use—thanks to the traffic in many Chinese cities. Here are a few tips to avoid taxi scams:

Avoid hunting for taxis in popular or touristy spots.
Have your destinations available to show to drivers.
Carry some cash in case your app or connection fails.
Download DIDI if you prefer to avoid the language barrier and possible scams.

Bus

Buses are cheaper than taxis if your budget is tight and you have an adventurous soul! Subway and taxis are usually a better option when your time is tight. See below some tips to navigate the bus system in China and make sure you arrive where you need to be:

Use apps to find your route: Tools like Rome2Rio, Google Maps, or Apple Maps can help determine which bus to take.
Get confirmation from locals: Ask your hotel or hostel staff to confirm if a particular bus goes to your destination. It’s always better to double-check!
Ask the driver: When you’re at the bus station, show the driver your destination (written in Chinese) and make sure he says OK!

Why is this the Perfect One-Week Itinerary in China?

Shanghai as a first stop: Pudong International Airport is the ideal place to land in China. Many international flights come here, and starting your trip in a more foreigner-friendly city helps you adjust to China’s flow and avoid some of the culture shocks you might face (especially if it’s your first time there).

Short Train Journeys: The longest train ride is from Nanjing to Hangzhou, which takes about two to three hours. This gives you plenty of time to enjoy each city without the hassle of 10-hour journeys. Plus, the short travel times help keep train ticket prices low. Make sure to book your train tickets on Trip.com and download the app. It’s the easiest way to navigate China’s high-speed train system!

week in china - Shanghai — **Shanghai**‘s Bund River Side

Diversity: These four cities are close, yet so different. Shanghai represents the high-tech Chinese cities we imagine when thinking of China. Suzhou looks like a calm, laid-back water town that was only recently discovered by tourists. Nanjing takes you back to some of the most significant moments in its history as the capital of the Republic of China. Finally, Hangzhou’s landscapes seem painted by a nostalgic Chinese artist still devoted to classical beauty, untouched by modernity.

Well-paced cities: if there’s something I hate when traveling, it’s feeling rushed. Do you know that awful awareness that you missed something unmissable because you ran out of time? In this case, forget it! The spots that will wow you are all close, and you will have plenty of time to wander around and soak in the vibe of each location.

When to Plan this One-Week China Itinerary?

Considering that the beauty of at least two of these cities lies in their natural scenery, I highly recommend planning your trip to China in the spring, especially from April to May. This is the perfect time to see these cities at their best: monuments decorated with cherry blossoms, warm sunshine filling the air, and an atmosphere that makes you want to stay outside late into the night.

If you’re looking for more spring-kissed locations in China, check out this list of 17 enchanting cities that come alive from March to May (P.S. Suzhou, Nanjing, and Hangzhou are in!).

Suggested One-Week China Itinerary

I took this tour between Shanghai, Jiangsu, and Zhejiang provinces in 2019. The four cities on the itinerary are all well-accustomed to foreign tourists, so it works perfectly for first-timers. Moreover, you won’t have to plan any weird van or bus rides, which makes everything easier if you don’t speak Chinese. I spent two days in Shanghai, two in Suzhou, two in Nanjing, and one in Hangzhou. If you only have 7 days available, you can stay only one day in Suzhou or skip Nanjing.

1. Shanghai – Day 1 & 2

Day 1. Laoximen, Xintiandi & Yuyuan Old District

Shanghai’s charm lies in its seamless blending of innovative spirit with long-standing traditions. In the same restaurant, just a table away, you might spot a chic Chinese girl, probably a millionaire’s daughter, and a noisy Chinese family chaotically sharing their meal.

One way to experience this contrast is to stroll from Laoximen to Xintiandi. Laoximen is characterized by Shikumen architecture—low-rise, gray-toned buildings that once served as residential homes. On the other hand, Xintiandi is a trendy spot where young Shanghaiers dine at fancy restaurants, sip overpriced lattes in cozy cafés, and shop for Western brands in shiny malls.

From there, you can head to the Yuyuan Old District, near one of the city’s highlights: Yuyuan Garden. This is probably where you’ll spot the most Western faces during your trip. You’ll also come across Chinese ladies dressed in Tang Dynasty costumes, posing for pictures with traditional Chinese architecture as their backdrop. The air here is filled with the tempting scent of spicy skewers and juicy xiaolongbao from the street food stalls lined up next to each other. It’s the perfect spot to grab lunch or dinner!

Day 2. Yuyuan Garden, Buddhist Temples, Tianzifang & The Bund

On the morning of your second day in Shanghai, head back to the Yuyuan Old District to visit the timeless Yu Garden created during the Ming Dynasty. Despite the crowds, this place feels like fresh air in a not-so-fresh-aired city. You’ll be surrounded by lush plant life, including ancient trees, picturesque pavilions, and a mystical atmosphere enhanced by artificial smoke.

You can’t say you’ve been to China without visiting at least two Buddhist temples. After the Yuyuan Garden, head to the sacred Jade Buddha and Longhua Temple. Now, I’m not the biggest fan of city temples. But still, here you can wander through the halls, soaking in the surreal silence and respectfully observing the different religious practices.

Tianzifang is a great spot for an afternoon stroll. This street embellished with flower decorations is like the Chinese version of an artsy neighborhood. It’s not uncommon to find a chill Chinese artist, covered in tattoos, painting in a coffee shop that turns out to be his own. The narrow alleys are filled with quirky shops where you can splurge on souvenirs.

To wrap up your day, head to one of the most famous sights in China: the Bund. Here, your five senses will be overwhelmed by the sparkling lights of skyscrapers, the sounds of river cruises announcing their arrival at the dock, and a million locals all trying to snap the perfect shot of the Shanghai skyline. It’s truly a once-in-a-lifetime experience!

If you have one more day to spend in Shanghai or simply looking for more information, discover this 3-day Shanghai Itinerary. There’s even more to discover! 🏙️

2. Suzhou – Day 3 & 4

📍 Where to Stay in Suzhou: Gusu District

Day 3. Humble Administrator’s Garden, Suzhou Museum & Pingjiang Road

Even though Suzhou has felt the effects of Chinese modernization, this captivating ancient town, with its pretty canals and cobble-stoned alleys, still captivates the eyes of nostalgic locals and tourists.

You can’t say you’ve visited Suzhou without exploring its most famous (and crowded) classic garden: the Humble Administrator’s Garden. Despite the crowds around you, you’ll feel like you’ve stepped into a painting, where a pavilion with red carvings reflects in the water of a lotus pond, and you’re the elegant Chinese lady admiring the scene from a cobbled bridge. Plan to spend half a day on this painting.

Whether you’re an architecture enthusiast or not, the Suzhou Museum is worth a visit for the uniqueness of its design. The museum, created by Chinese-American architect IM Pei, reflects Suzhou’s architectural style with features like waterways and courtyards but with a modern twist. I’d be lying if I said the building itself doesn’t steal the show from the exhibition. The museum is free, with English explanatory signs, and showcases a valuable collection of jade, ceramics, and textiles, so why not visit?

Suzhou is one of those places you can easily explore on foot without worrying about how tired you are. Its charm will capture all your attention. Alleys like Pingjiang Lu and Shantang Jie are lovely for an aimless wander through elegant teahouses, busy sweet shops, and trendy (overpriced) cafes. This makes the perfect afternoon activity! You can even rest while enjoying a boat ride on the canals to view the city from another perspective and say hi to the many locals you’ll meet on the canals’ shores.

Day 4. Tiger Hill, Twin Pagodas, and the Garden of The Master of the Nets

The second day in Suzhou kicks off early with a visit to Tiger Hill in the northwest part of town. This site holds historical importance for locals, as it’s the burial place of Suzhou’s founder, He Lu. The Cloud Rock Pagoda is undoubtedly the site’s highlight. However, the natural landscape around it is equally important in creating the still and undisturbed atmosphere that defines this place. There’s no better way to start the day: immersed in greenery and spirituality. Plan the morning to visit the site without feeling rushed.

week in china - suzhou — Tiger Hill, Master of the Nets Garden, One of the Twin Pagodas & Couple’s Garden

After visiting Tiger Hill, head back to the town center to explore the Twin Pagodas. Once part of the Dinghui Buddhist site, the Twin Pagodas are a unique feature, as most Buddhist temples usually have just one. They’re surrounded by a charming courtyard that bursts to life with magnolias in spring, making it a picture-perfect spot to escape Suzhou’s tourist crowds.

It’s time to visit another dreamy garden in Suzhou in the afternoon: the Master of the Nets Garden. This UNESCO World Heritage Site is especially admired for its designers’ clever use of space, creating a top-notch blend of art, nature, and architecture. While the garden is relatively small, the harmonious arrangement of its elements makes it feel much larger than it is. If you have time before catching your train, consider visiting the Couple’s Garden. It’s off the usual tourist trail, quiet, and just as enchanting—perfect for one last garden scene before you leave.

For more about everything you can discover in Suzhou, check out this Suzhou Itinerary! 🛶

3. Nanjing – Day 5 & 6

📍 Where to Stay in Nanjing: Fuzi Miao & Qinhuai River Area

Day 5. Purple Hill, Fuzimaio, Zhan Garden

Nanjing has the misfortune of being just a stop from Shanghai to Beijing, and as a result, it is often overlooked. Yet, with its location along the Yangtze River, its perfectly preserved city walls, and streets lined with plane trees, Nanjing is one of China’s most captivating and culturally rich cities.

Having thrived during the Ming Dynasty and then becoming the Capital of the Republic of China, Nanjing can be considered a city mainly visited for its rich past.

Purple Mountain

The first day in Nanjing is dedicated to visiting Purple Mountain (Zijin Mountain), named after the golden and purple hues that color its trees at dawn and dusk. Purple Mountain is home to several historic sites, including:

Meiling Palace: Built by Chiang Kai-shek for his wife (and advisor) Soong Meiling, this palace is unique because it highlights an important woman in Chinese history (one of the only monuments in China dedicated to a woman).

Ming Xiaoling Tomb: The resting place of Zhu Yuanzhang, the founder of the Ming Dynasty.

Sun Yat-sen Mausoleum: Located at the foot of the mountain’s second peak, this mausoleum is dedicated to the founder of the Republic, the Father of Modern China. It’s a bit of a climb but worth the effort.

Linggu Temple: A Buddhist temple that features the Beamless Hall, an impressive structure made without beams, and the Linggu Pagoda, a nine-story pagoda standing 60.5 meters (198 feet) tall.

Zhan Garden & Fuzi Miao

The Zhan Garden and the Confucian Temple (Fuzi Miao) are located in the southern part of Nanjing. The Zhan Garden is a Ming Dynasty complex that once hosted officials from the Taiping Rebellion. Because of this, the garden is home to the Taiping History Museum. If you loved Suzhou, you won’t be disappointed here. Zhan Garden is a peaceful oasis filled with all the natural and architectural elements you’ve come to love from Suzhou: pavilions, rockeries, small lakes, and that magical feeling of being transported back in time.

The Confucian Temple, Fuzi Miao, was once the site of the Imperial Examination. It lies on the banks of the Qinhuai River.

The temple was once the highest national learning institution in China and the center of Confucian study for over 1,500 years.

Today, the area around Fuzi Miao is a popular pedestrian zone filled with tourists, restaurants, and shops. It’s a charming spot to enjoy the evening, embrace the city’s vibrant atmosphere or even cruise along the Qinhuai River.

If you’re looking for well-organized tours, GetYourGuide has many good options for discovering Nanjing!

Day 6. Nanjing Museum, Jiming Temple & Idyllic Parks

Nanjing Museum is one of the largest museums in all of China, and it blends traditional Chinese and modern Western-style architecture. The front structure features a classic temple-style hall with a golden tile roof, while the back boasts a sleek, modern, flat-roofed design. Inside, the exhibitions are diverse. You can wander through 12 galleries showcasing everything from ancient paintings and contemporary art to silk production, Ming and Qing porcelain, and more. Don’t miss the Gallery of the Republican Period, which recreates 1930s Nanjing with life-like buildings that transport you back in time.

week in china - nanjing — Aerial View of Nanjing with the **Jiming Temple**

The second afternoon in Nanjing is dedicated to the city’s northern area, near Xuanwu Lake. Here, you’ll find Jiming Temple, an active Buddhist place of worship that is one of the must-see spots from a scenic perspective. The 7-storey Yaoshifo Pagoda steals the show, standing tall at the top of the hill where the temple is nestled.

Finally, depending on your time before catching the next train, you can stroll through the nearby Jiuhuashan Park, home to a lesser-known Buddhist temple and the Sanzang Pagoda. Alternatively, you can explore Xuanwu Lake Park and its tiny islands, where you’ll find bonsai gardens, cherry blossom trees, and just the right touch of serenity to prepare for your next journey.

For more about everything you can discover in Nanjing, check out this Nanjing Itinerary! 🌸

4. Hangzhou – Day 7

📍 Where to Stay in Hangzhou: Close to Hefang Street

Day 7. West Lake, Longjing Tea Village & Qinghefang Old Street

If you look up the definition of “Chinese classical beauty” in the dictionary, Hangzhou’s West Lake will come up. Green hills crowned with pagodas surround the calm, clear waters, the walkways around the lake are so clean they almost feel unreal, and the only flaw in the idyllic gardens around the lake is the crowd of tourists, who in some way should not be there! If you only have one day in Hangzhou, don’t leave West Lake, where all the city’s beauty is in one place. If you plan on staying two days, you can spend the morning here.

week in china - west lake — **West Lake** during spring

You can hop on a bus in the afternoon and head to the Longjing Tea Village in the hills southwest of West Lake. Surprisingly, it’s not as touristy as you might think, letting you wander freely through the vast tea plantations covering the hills. If you’re there in spring, you might even spot tea workers picking the leaves by hand. The area is also dotted with tea houses where you can taste Longjing Tea, one of the most famous teas in China.

Qinhefang Old Street is the perfect busy-enough spot for a late afternoon or early evening stroll. It’s one of those crowded, touristy pedestrian streets you’ll become familiar with when traveling in China. Be sure to leave some room in your bag for last-minute souvenirs (including tea) and space in your stomach for a well-deserved Chinese dinner—perhaps one of your last in China.

Check out private tours, like those available with GetYourGuide, to simplify your stay and maximize your time in Hangzhou.

This blog post was about the best one-week itinerary in China. It’s the best itinerary because it allows you to discover four unique cities without crossing the country from north to south. Do you already feel inspired to book your next short holiday to China?

DISCLAIMER: This travel itinerary is purely based on my experiences during my trip and is meant to provide inspiration and suggestions for your adventure. Feel free to adapt it to your preferences—there is no need to follow it in detail. All prices, transport options, and instructions mentioned reflect my personal experiences at the time of writing and may have changed since. You must double-check all the details before your trip to ensure accuracy. All opinions and recommendations are my own, rooted in my unique journey through China.

Explore

Connect

The Perfect Week in China: Skyscrapers, Canals, City Walls & Lakes