Complete China Travel Itinerary: 15-Day Tropical Adventure
Plan your perfect China travel experience with this comprehensive 15-day journey through the tropical southern provinces, beaches, and cultural sites.
This customized itinerary offers an ideal travels in China experience through the country’s stunning tropical regions. From the beaches of Hainan Island to the vibrant cities of Guangdong and the diverse landscapes of Yunnan, this 15-day journey showcases China’s southern tropical splendor.
Discover China’s Tropical Gems Without a Visa
China’s southern provinces offer a perfect blend of stunning beaches, rich culture, and lush landscapes. This 15-day itinerary takes advantage of the new visa-free policy for certain nationalities, allowing you to explore the best of Hainan Island, Guangdong Province, and Yunnan Province.
Visa-Free Policy Overview
Before we start, it’s important to understand the visa-free policy:
- 30-day Visa-free policy.
- This policy applies to business, tourism, visiting relatives and friends, and transit purposes.
💡 Tip: Always check the latest visa policies before your trip, as regulations can change.
Days 1-5: Hainan Island Paradise
Days 1-3: Sanya (三亚) - The Hawaii of China
- Arrive at Sanya Phoenix International Airport
- Relax at Yalong Bay or Dadonghai Beach
- Visit Nanshan Temple and the 108m tall Guanyin statue
- Enjoy fresh seafood at Sanya Bay
Where to Stay:
Explore Sanya with:
💡 Tip: Don’t miss the stunning sunsets at Sanya Bay!
Days 4-5: Haikou (海口) - Capital Charms
- Travel to Haikou by high-speed rail
- Visit the colonial-style Qilou Old Street (骑楼老街)
- Explore Haikou Volcanic Cluster Global Geopark
- Relax at Holiday Beach
Where to Stay:
Explore Haikou with:
Days 6-10: Guangdong’s Urban Tropics
Days 6-8: Guangzhou (广州) - City of Flowers
- Fly from Haikou to Guangzhou
- Visit Canton Tower for panoramic city views
- Explore Shamian Island’s colonial architecture
- Take a Pearl River night cruise
- Experience Cantonese cuisine at Shangxiajiu Pedestrian Street
Where to Stay:
Explore Guangzhou with:
💡 Tip: Try dim sum for breakfast at a traditional tea house!
Days 9-10: Shenzhen (深圳) - Modern Marvels and Nature
- Take a high-speed train to Shenzhen
- Visit Window of the World theme park
- Explore OCT Loft creative culture park
- Hike in Wutong Mountain for stunning city views
- Relax at Dameisha Beach
Where to Stay:
Explore Shenzhen with:
Days 11-15: Yunnan’s Diverse Landscapes
Days 11-13: Kunming (昆明) - Spring City
- Fly from Shenzhen to Kunming
- Explore the Stone Forest (Shilin) geological park
- Visit Green Lake Park and Yuantong Temple
- Take a day trip to the Western Hills and Dragon Gate
Where to Stay:
Explore Kunming with:
Days 14-15: Lijiang (丽江) - Ancient Town and Nature
- Take a high-speed train to Lijiang
- Wander through Lijiang Ancient Town, a UNESCO World Heritage site
- Visit Black Dragon Pool for views of Jade Dragon Snow Mountain
- Experience Naxi culture and cuisine
Where to Stay:
Explore Lijiang with:
💡 Tip: Try Yunnan’s famous “Crossing the Bridge” noodles!
Practical Tips for Your Tropical China Adventure
- Weather: Pack for varied climates. Hainan and Guangdong are tropical, while Yunnan can be cooler, especially in Lijiang.
- Transportation: High-speed trains connect major cities. Taxis and ride-hailing apps are convenient for local travel.
- Language: English is less common in some areas. A translation app can be helpful.
- Respect Local Customs: Dress modestly when visiting temples and traditional villages.
Best Time to Visit
- October to April is ideal for Hainan and Guangdong, with less rainfall and more comfortable temperatures.
- Spring (March to May) and Autumn (September to November) are the best times to visit Yunnan.
- Avoid Chinese national holidays when domestic tourism peaks.
Culinary Delights to Try
- Hainan: Wenchang chicken (文昌鸡), Dongshan lamb (东山羊肉), Jiaji duck (嘉积鸭)
- Guangdong : Dim sum (广式点心), roast goose (烧鹅), wonton noodles (云吞面)
- Yunnan: Crossing the Bridge noodles (过桥米线), Rushan (乳扇 Yunnan cheese), Xuanwei ham (宣威火腿)