Embark on an unforgettable 19-day China photography tour China’s most picturesque landscapes. Designed for foreign photographers, this itinerary balances a relaxed pace with an engaging schedule, offering countless photo opportunities at the most iconic spots in China.
Day 1: Arrival in Beijing
Welcome to Beijing! After landing, you’ll transfer to your hotel and check in. Take some time to rest and recover from your flight.
In the evening, join a welcome dinner at a traditional Chinese restaurant. This dinner is a perfect opportunity to meet your tour guide and fellow photographers, who share your passion for capturing stunning images.
You’ll discuss the exciting days ahead and get an overview of the itinerary. Enjoy a variety of authentic Chinese dishes, which will give you a taste of the culinary delights you’ll experience throughout your journey. Ensure your camera gear is ready for the next day’s adventure as you prepare for an early start in this historic city.
Day 2: Beijing – Tiananmen Square and The Forbidden City
Begin your photography adventure at Tiananmen Square, the world’s largest public square. Capture the vastness and grandeur of this historic site, surrounded by monumental buildings like the Great Hall of the People and the Mausoleum of Mao Zedong.
Next, head to the Forbidden City, an imperial palace complex filled with intricate architecture and rich history. Spend the afternoon exploring its courtyards and halls, each offering unique photo opportunities. The ancient structures, with their vibrant colors and detailed designs, provide endless subjects for your lens.
End the day with a sunset photo session at Jingshan Park, providing panoramic views of the Forbidden City. The warm evening light creates a perfect backdrop for stunning shots of the sprawling palace complex.
Day 3: Beijing – The Great Wall at Mutianyu
Visit the Great Wall at Mutianyu, a less crowded section ideal for photography. This part of the wall is known for its stunning scenery, with restored watchtowers and scenic views of the surrounding mountains.
Spend the day capturing different perspectives of this ancient wonder, from wide-angle shots of the wall snaking over the hills to close-ups of the intricate brickwork. The lush greenery and dramatic landscapes provide beautiful backdrops for your photos.
Enjoy a traditional Chinese lunch at a nearby restaurant, sampling local specialties. Afterward, continue exploring and photographing the Great Wall until late afternoon.
Return to Beijing in the evening, reflecting on the day’s captures and preparing for another exciting day of photography.
Day 4: Beijing – Summer Palace and Hutongs
Start your day at the Summer Palace, a masterpiece of Chinese landscape design. The tranquil gardens, pavilions, and Longevity Hill offer picturesque scenes perfect for photography. Capture the reflections in Kunming Lake and the intricate details of the Seventeen-Arch Bridge.
In the afternoon, explore the Hutongs, Beijing’s traditional alleyways that offer a glimpse into the city’s cultural essence. These narrow lanes, lined with historic courtyard residences, are filled with life and activity. Photograph the daily routines of local residents, from children playing to vendors selling their wares.
The Hutongs provide a stark contrast to the grandeur of the city’s imperial sites, offering intimate and authentic photo opportunities.
Conclude your day by exploring Beijing’s vibrant nightlife, capturing the energy and lights of this bustling metropolis.
Day 5: Beijing to Xi’an – Ancient City Wall and Muslim Quarter
Fly to Xi’an in the morning. After checking into your hotel, visit the Xi’an City Wall, one of the best-preserved city walls in China. Walk or bike along the wall to capture its vastness and historical significance. The wall offers panoramic views of the city and unique perspectives of its architecture.
In the afternoon, head to the Muslim Quarter, known for its bustling streets and unique architecture. The vibrant market area is filled with food stalls, shops, and lively activity.
Capture the colorful scenes, from the aromatic food stalls to the intricate designs of the Great Mosque. Savor local snacks for dinner and photograph the vibrant street scenes, taking in the rich cultural tapestry of this historic city.
Day 6: Xi’an – Terracotta Army
Spend the day at the Terracotta Army, one of China’s most famous archaeological sites. Discovered in 1974, this massive collection of life-sized soldiers, horses, and chariots was created to protect Emperor Qin Shi Huang in the afterlife.
Photograph the thousands of unique figures, each with distinct facial expressions and details. The sheer scale and craftsmanship of this ancient army are awe-inspiring. Spend the morning exploring the three main pits, capturing wide shots of the rows of soldiers and close-ups of individual figures.
In the afternoon, visit the on-site museum to learn more about the history and significance of this remarkable site. Return to Xi’an in the evening, reflecting on the incredible historical and artistic achievements you’ve witnessed.
Day 7: Xi’an to Chengdu – Jinli Ancient Street
Fly to Chengdu, the vibrant capital of Sichuan Province and home of the giant pandas. After checking into your hotel, spend the afternoon exploring Jinli Ancient Street. This lively pedestrian street is lined with traditional buildings, tea houses, and shops selling local crafts.
The street’s architecture and atmosphere offer excellent photography opportunities, capturing the essence of Chengdu’s rich cultural heritage. Photograph the intricate wooden facades, colorful lanterns, and bustling street scenes.
As evening falls, the street lights up with a warm glow, creating a magical ambiance for night photography. Enjoy a leisurely evening exploring the local cuisine, sampling spicy Sichuan dishes, and capturing the vibrant street life.
Day 8: Chengdu – Chengdu Research Base of Giant Panda Breeding
Spend the morning at the Chengdu Research Base of Giant Panda Breeding, a world-renowned facility dedicated to the conservation and breeding of giant pandas. Photograph these adorable creatures in their naturalistic enclosures as they eat, play, and interact.
The pandas’ playful behavior provides plenty of captivating shots. Spend time in the various enclosures, capturing both wide shots and close-ups of these magnificent animals.
In the afternoon, visit the Wuhou Shrine, dedicated to the famous Three Kingdoms era strategist Zhuge Liang. The serene gardens and historical architecture offer a peaceful and photogenic setting. Capture the intricate details of the shrine and the tranquil beauty of its surroundings. Return to your hotel for a restful evening, reviewing your panda photos and planning for the next leg of your journey.
Day 9: Chengdu to Guilin – Elephant Trunk Hill and Reed Flute Cave
Fly to Guilin, a city renowned for its stunning karst landscapes. After checking into your hotel, visit Elephant Trunk Hill, a natural rock formation that resembles an elephant drinking from the river. This iconic landmark is a symbol of Guilin and provides excellent photo opportunities. Capture the reflection of the hill in the river and the surrounding lush scenery.
In the afternoon, explore Reed Flute Cave, a natural limestone cave illuminated with colorful lights. The cave’s stalactites and stalagmites, highlighted by vibrant lighting, create a magical atmosphere for photography. Spend time capturing the otherworldly beauty of this underground wonder. Return to your hotel in the evening, reflecting on the unique landscapes you’ve photographed.
Day 10: Guilin – Li River Cruise to Yangshuo
Embark on a Li River Cruise to Yangshuo, a journey that offers some of the most picturesque scenes in China. The dramatic karst mountains and serene river views provide a stunning backdrop for photography. Capture the reflections of the limestone peaks in the calm waters and the traditional bamboo rafts gliding along the river.
Disembark in Yangshuo, a charming town known for its scenic beauty and vibrant atmosphere. Spend the evening exploring the town, photographing its lively streets and beautiful surroundings.
Enjoy a traditional Chinese dinner, savoring local dishes, and discussing the day’s captures with your fellow photographers. Yangshuo’s unique landscapes will inspire your creativity and provide countless photo opportunities.
Day 11: Yangshuo – Countryside and Local Villages
Today, explore Yangshuo’s picturesque countryside, known for its stunning karst landscapes and rural charm. Visit local villages to capture the daily life and traditional customs of the residents. The rice paddies, winding rivers, and towering karst mountains create a beautiful backdrop for your photos.
Spend the day photographing the serene beauty of the countryside, from the early morning mist to the vibrant colors of the fields. Interact with local villagers, capturing their portraits and everyday activities.
The simplicity and tranquility of rural life provide a stark contrast to the bustling cities, offering unique and intimate photo opportunities. Return to Yangshuo in the evening, reflecting on the day’s experiences and preparing for the next leg of your journey.
Day 12: Yangshuo (Guilin) to Zhangjiajie by high-speed train
Take the high-speed train to Zhangjiajie, a city famous for its breathtaking natural scenery. You’ll transfer to your hotel and check in. Take some time to rest and recover from your 7-hour high-speed train journey.
Day 13: Zhangjiajie – Tianzi Mountain
Visit Yuanjiajie and Tianzi Mountain, two of the most popular areas in Zhangjiajie National Forest Park. Start with Yuanjiajie, home to the famous “Avatar Hallelujah Mountain.” The panoramic views from this area are breathtaking, with towering sandstone pillars rising from the dense forest below.
Capture the dramatic landscapes from various viewpoints, each offering unique perspectives of this surreal terrain. Next, visit Tianzi Mountain, known for its stunning vistas and natural beauty. The sea of clouds often surrounding the peaks creates a mystical and ethereal atmosphere, perfect for photography.
Spend the day exploring these remarkable areas, capturing the natural beauty and unique rock formations. Return to your hotel in the evening, reviewing the day’s captures and preparing for your next destination.
Day 14: Zhangjiajie – Tianmen Mountain
Visit Tianmen Mountain, known for its stunning views and thrilling glass walkway. Take the cable car to the summit, capturing panoramic views of the surrounding mountains and valleys. The glass skywalk offers a unique perspective, allowing you to photograph the dramatic drop below.
At the top, visit Tianmen Cave, a natural arch in the mountain, and capture the awe-inspiring views. The combination of lush greenery and towering rock formations provides excellent photo opportunities. Return to your hotel in Zhangjiajie for a restful night, reviewing the day’s captures and preparing for the adventures ahead.
Return to your hotel in the evening, reviewing the day’s captures and preparing for your next destination.
Day 15: Zhangjiajie to Hangzhou – West Lake
Fly to Hangzhou in the morning, a city renowned for its scenic beauty and cultural heritage. After checking into your hotel, spend the afternoon exploring West Lake, a UNESCO World Heritage site.
The lake’s serene waters, lush greenery, and historic pavilions provide endless photo opportunities. Capture the reflections of the surrounding landscape in the calm waters and the intricate details of the traditional architecture.
Take a boat ride on the lake to explore different perspectives and enjoy the tranquility of this beautiful area. In the evening, enjoy a traditional Chinese dinner, savoring local dishes and discussing the day’s experiences with your fellow photographers. West Lake’s timeless beauty will inspire your creativity and provide countless stunning shots.
Day 16: Hangzhou – Longjing Tea Plantations and Lingyin Temple
Visit the Longjing Tea Plantations in the morning, known for producing some of the finest green tea in China. Capture the verdant tea fields, which stretch across the rolling hills, and learn about the traditional tea-making process. The lush greenery and orderly rows of tea bushes create beautiful patterns and textures for your photos.
In the afternoon, explore Lingyin Temple, one of the largest and wealthiest Buddhist temples in China. The temple’s ancient architecture, serene gardens, and intricate carvings offer a peaceful and photogenic setting. Spend time capturing the details of the temple’s halls, statues, and surrounding landscapes.
Return to your hotel in Hangzhou for a restful evening, reflecting on the day’s captures and preparing for your journey to Shanghai.
Day 17: Hangzhou to Shanghai – The Bund and Nanjing Road
Travel to Shanghai by train, one of China’s most vibrant and dynamic cities. After checking into your hotel, spend the afternoon exploring The Bund, a historic waterfront area known for its colonial-era buildings and stunning views of the modern skyline.
Capture the contrast between the historic architecture on The Bund and the futuristic skyscrapers of Pudong across the river. The iconic skyline, including the Oriental Pearl Tower and Shanghai Tower, provides excellent photo opportunities.
In the evening, stroll along Nanjing Road, Shanghai’s bustling shopping street. The vibrant lights, busy crowds, and eclectic mix of old and new create a lively atmosphere for night photography. Enjoy the energy of this cosmopolitan city as you capture its unique character.
Day 18: Shanghai – Yu Garden and Zhujiajiao Water Town
Start your day with a visit to Yu Garden, a classical Chinese garden filled with intricate designs and serene ponds. The traditional architecture, rockeries, and pavilions provide a peaceful and photogenic setting. Capture the beauty of the garden’s landscapes and the detailed craftsmanship of its structures.
In the afternoon, visit Zhujiajiao Water Town, known as the Venice of the East. The ancient bridges, canals, and traditional buildings offer unique photo opportunities. Explore the town’s narrow streets and waterways, capturing the charm and tranquility of this historic area. Return to Shanghai in the evening, reflecting on the day’s experiences and preparing for your departure.
Day 19: Shanghai – Departure
On your last day, enjoy some leisure time in Shanghai. You can explore local markets, revisit favorite spots for final photos, or simply relax before your journey home.
In the afternoon, transfer to the airport for your departure flight. Reflect on the incredible memories and stunning photographs you’ve captured throughout this journey.
This 19-day tour has provided a comprehensive and inspiring look at China’s diverse and beautiful landscapes, leaving you with a portfolio of unforgettable images.
Best Time to Visit: The best time for this photography tour is during spring (April to May) and autumn (September to October). During these months, the weather is pleasant, and the landscapes are at their most photogenic.
This itinerary ensures you experience the most popular China photography tour, visiting top photo spots and landmarks. Enjoy a balance of iconic sites and hidden gems, capturing China’s diverse and stunning landscapes. This 19-day journey is designed to inspire and enhance your photographic skills while immersing you in the rich culture and breathtaking scenery of China.
