Old China Road Trip Itinerary
Embark on a journey through Old China with the Old China Road Trip. This 21 day adventure starts in Beijing and takes you through some of the country's most historic and breathtaking sights, ending in Kunming. Along the way, you'll have the opportunity to explore Badaling, home to the oldest sections of the Great Wall, Pingyao, an ancient walled city that has been designated as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, Xi'an, the ancient imperial capital of China and home to the famous Terracotta Warriors, Chengdu, the capital of Sichuan Province, and Chongqing, the largest city in the world. The total distance of the trip is 3325km and the best time to drive is between April and October.
This road trip is an excellent way to experience the history and culture of China. Along the way, you'll be able to visit some of the country's most important historical sites, as well as take in the stunning landscapes. You'll also have the chance to visit several UNESCO World Heritage Monuments, including the Forbidden City in Beijing and the Mogao Caves in Dunhuang. With excellent road conditions, this road trip is suitable for drivers of all levels and can be managed with a moderate budget. At the end of the trip, you'll be left with a feeling of accomplishment and a wealth of memories that will last a lifetime.
21
number of days
3,339 km
route length
fair
budget
family
good for
on the right
traffic direction
moderate
accident level
START
Beijing
Distance 3,339 km
Driving time 39.5 h
Pace: fast
1,001.6 kWh
Airports
NAY
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PEK
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Beijing, the capital of China, is a city full of history and culture, and the perfect place to start your Old China Road Trip. As the birthplace of ancient Chinese civilization, Beijing has numerous historical sites, such as the Forbidden City, the Great Wall of China and the Summer Palace. Many of these sites are UNESCO World Heritage Sites, and are a must-see for any traveler.
In addition to its historical sites, Beijing is also home to many cultural attractions, such as the National Museum of China and the Temple of Heaven. For those who want to experience the city's vibrant nightlife, there are plenty of bars, clubs, and restaurants to explore.
If you are traveling by air, the closest international airport is Beijing Capital International Airport (IATA: PEK), which is located just outside of the city center. Car rental is available at the airport, and is the perfect way to explore Beijing and the surrounding area.
Beijing is an ideal starting point for the Old China Road Trip, and is sure to provide travelers with an unforgettable experience. Whether you are looking for history, culture, nightlife, or just a great road trip, Beijing is the perfect destination.
1
Beijing
- Badaling
Distance 68 km
Driving time 1.4 h
Pace: modest
17.7 kWh
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Embark on a road trip from Beijing to Badaling and experience the best of China! This 65 km journey takes only two hours and is full of picturesque landscapes and UNESCO Heritage sites. Start by exploring the historic Forbidden City and then take a drive to the Great Wall of China at Badaling. Along the way, you can also visit the Ming Tombs and the Sacred Way. Enjoy the beauty of the area as you drive through the lush mountains and valleys. Don't forget to take a break and take in the breathtaking views!
At the end of the journey, you will arrive at the Badaling section of the Great Wall of China, where you can explore the ancient fortifications and experience the beauty of this iconic structure. Afterwards, you can take a drive back to Beijing and enjoy the stunning scenery. For more information about attractions, accommodation options, recommended restaurants, and campsites along the route, please refer to the "Itinerary" of this stage. So, pack your bags and embark on this amazing journey and experience the best of China!
Badaling - China - Asia - Road Trip - Pixabay
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2
Badaling
- Datong
Distance 283 km
Driving time 3.1 h
Pace: fast
84.8 kWh
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Are you ready for an exciting road trip from Badaling, China to Datong? Then you have come to the right place! This 283 km journey will take you less than 4 hours to complete, and along the way you will have the chance to visit some of the most famous and interesting sites in the area.
To start, you can visit the Badaling Great Wall, a UNESCO World Heritage Site that offers stunning views of the surrounding countryside. After that, you can drive to Yungang Grottoes, another UNESCO World Heritage Site that contains some of the most impressive Buddhist artwork in China. And then you can visit the Hanging Temple, the only existing temple built into a cliff in China, before making your way to Datong.
Once in Datong, you can explore the Yungang Grottoes, the Nine Dragon Screen, and the Huayan Temple. All of these sites offer a unique insight into the history and culture of China.
This is just one of the stages of your China road trip, and more information about attractions, accommodation, restaurants, and campsites along the route can be found in the itinerary of this stage. So what are you waiting for? Get out on the road and start exploring!
Datong - China - Asia - Road Trip - Wikimedia Commons
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3
Datong
- Pingyao
Distance 387 km
Driving time 4.2 h
Pace: fast
116.1 kWh
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Are you ready for an unforgettable road trip from Datong to Pingyao? This journey will take you through some of the most fascinating cultural and historical sites of Northern China. You will be driving for about 4 hours and a distance of 387km, and along the way you will find some of the most unique attractions in the region.
Start your trip in Datong and visit the Yungang Grottoes, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. This is a series of ancient Buddhist temples carved into the sandstone cliffs, and is one of the most important cultural sites in China. After Yungang Grottoes, you will drive to the Hanging Monastery, which is also a UNESCO World Heritage Site. This is an ancient monastery built into the side of a cliff, and is definitely worth a visit.
Once you leave Datong, you will drive to Pingyao, a well-preserved ancient city. Here you can visit the City Wall, the Ancient City Gate, the Rishengchang Exchange Shop, the Ming and Qing Street, and the Shuanglin Temple. The Shuanglin Temple is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, which features a number of ancient Buddhist statues and murals.
Along the way, you'll also drive through some stunning countryside, so be sure to take some time to admire the scenery. There is plenty to explore in both Datong and Pingyao, so make sure to plan enough time to get the most out of your trip. If you need more information about attractions, accommodation options, recommended restaurants, and campsites along the route, you can find it in the "Itinerary" of this stage. So, what are you waiting for? Pack your bags and get ready to explore!
Pingyao - China - Asia - Road Trip - Pikist
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4
Pingyao
- Linfen
Distance 155 km
Driving time 2.0 h
Pace: fast
46.4 kWh
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Embark on a road trip from the ancient city of Pingyao to the city of Linfen! This 155 km journey can be completed in less than 2 hours, and is a great way to explore the historical sites along the way. Two of the UNESCO Heritage sites along the route are the Ancient City of Pingyao and the Hukou Waterfall. Both are amazing attractions you don't want to miss! Additionally, there are plenty of other sites that you can explore during your journey. Make sure to keep your eyes peeled for more historical sites and stunning scenery! Along the way, you can find plenty of accommodation options, recommended restaurants, and campsites. For more information about all the attractions and activities along the route, you can check out the "Itinerary" of this stage. Get ready for an amazing road trip experience!
Linfen - China - Asia - Road Trip - Pixabay
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5
Linfen
- Xian
Distance 359 km
Driving time 3.9 h
Pace: fast
107.8 kWh
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Welcome road-trippers! We invite you to take a fascinating journey from Linfen to Xi'an. This route is 359 km long and can be covered in under 4 hours. Along the way, you’ll be treated to some of the most stunning landscapes in China. Most noteworthy are the lush green hills and winding roads that make for a truly memorable experience.
First, you’ll find yourself in the ancient city of Linfen. Here, you can explore the renowned Hanging Temple and the Nine-Dragon Screen. Then you’ll drive along the picturesque Hukou Waterfall, a breathtaking sight with its roaring waters.
Once you reach Xi'an, you can explore the ancient city walls, the Great Mosque, and the Bell Tower. You will also find the Shaanxi History Museum, with its vast collection of artifacts and relics.
As you make your way along the route, take some time to stop and appreciate the beauty of the land. There are plenty of opportunities to take photos and appreciate the natural scenery.
For more details, including attractions, accommodation options, recommended restaurants, and campsites along the route, please refer to the "Itinerary" of this stage. Enjoy the journey!
Xian - China - Asia - Road Trip - Pixabay
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6
Xian
- Hanzhong
Distance 292 km
Driving time 3.3 h
Pace: fast
87.6 kWh
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Discover the beauty of China on a road trip from Xi'an to Hanzhong! This 286km route takes fewer than four hours to drive and offers spectacular views of mountains, villages, and rivers. Be sure to take your time on the scenic roads and appreciate the gorgeous sights.
Start your journey in Xi'an and explore the ancient city walls, one of the few still standing in China. As you leave the city, take a break at the Huaqing Hot Springs, a popular attraction since the Tang Dynasty. The view of the spring and the nearby mountains is stunning.
Continue your drive and explore the cultural sites of the Wei Valley. This valley is known for its beautiful scenery and historical sites, such as the Lintong Museum and the mausoleum of the first Emperor of China.
Your journey ends in Hanzhong, a city known for its ancient temples and pagodas. The nearby Hanzhong Museum is home to many ancient artifacts and a great place to learn about the city's history.
Along the way, you'll find plenty of places to camp, eat, and rest. For more information about attractions, accommodation options, recommended restaurants, and campsites along the route, check the Itinerary of this stage. So, what are you waiting for? Pack your bags and hit the road!
Hanzhong - China - Asia - Road Trip - Pixabay
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7
Hanzhong
- Chengdu
Distance 448 km
Driving time 5.5 h
Pace: fast
134.5 kWh
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Are you ready for an epic road trip adventure? Join us on a journey from Hanzhong to Chengdu, a journey of 448km that can be completed in fewer than 5 hours.
On the road, keep your eyes peeled for the stunning scenery that awaits you - from the lush hills of Hanzhong to the gorgeous river views of Chengdu. From the vast landscapes, to the quaint villages, the area is full of wonders to explore.
Make sure you make a stop at the Hanzhong Museum, where you can explore the historical artifacts of the city. Don’t forget to visit the Bell Tower and the Drum Tower, two of Hanzhong’s most iconic landmarks. When you arrive in Chengdu, you must explore the Du Fu Thatched Cottage, a shrine to one of China’s most renowned poets. Make sure to also visit the Wuhou Shrine and the People’s Park of Chengdu.
For more information regarding attractions, accommodation options, recommended restaurants, and campsites along the route, please check the Itinerary for this stage.
So, what are you waiting for? Pack your bags and get ready for a road trip you won’t forget!
Chengdu - China - Asia - Road Trip - Pixabay
Chengdu - China - Asia - Road Trip - commons.wikimedia.org
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8
Chengdu
- Leshan
Distance 143 km
Driving time 1.8 h
Pace: fast
42.8 kWh
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Embark on an amazing road trip from Chengdu to Leshan! This journey of 142km can be covered in less than two hours. Along the route, you will get to witness some of the most stunning views and UNESCO Heritage Sites. Start your journey with a visit to the Wuhou Memorial Temple, a popular tourist destination in Chengdu with a history of over 1,000 years. Continue your drive to the stunning Leshan Giant Buddha, the world's largest sitting Buddha statue. Here, you can take in the mesmerizing view of the Buddha carved into the cliff face. Finally, end your journey with a visit to the Lingyun Temple, a beautiful temple located in the city of Leshan. For more information regarding attractions, accommodation options, recommended restaurants, and campsites along the route, please check the Itinerary for this stage. So, get ready for an unforgettable road trip experience from Chengdu to Leshan!
Leshan - China - Asia - Road Trip - Wikimedia Commons
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9
Leshan
- Chongqing
Distance 310 km
Driving time 3.9 h
Pace: fast
93.1 kWh
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Embark on an awe-inspiring journey from Leshan to Chongqing with a roadtrip that will take you through the stunning landscape of Dazu. This 310 km journey will take you fewer than 4 hours and will give you a chance to explore the historical and cultural wonders that this route has to offer.
Start by visiting the Leshan Giant Buddha, a 71-meter tall stone statue of the Maitreya Buddha located at the conjunction of the Minjiang, Dadu, and Qingyi rivers. The statue is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and is a must-see for its sheer magnificence.
Next, take a road trip to Dazu where you can explore the incredible Dazu Rock Carvings, a series of religious sculptures carved into the mountainside. The sculptures, which date back to the 9th century, are a UNESCO World Heritage Site and are some of the most breathtaking sites in China.
Finally, end your journey with a visit to the bustling city of Chongqing. Here, you can explore the bustling city streets and take in the vibrant culture.
For more information regarding attractions, accommodation options, recommended restaurants, and campsites along the route, consult the "Itinerary" of this stage. So plan your trip today and experience the beauty of this incredible road trip.
Chongqing - China - Asia - Road Trip - Wikimedia Commons
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10
Chongqing
- Guiyang
Distance 375 km
Driving time 4.5 h
Pace: fast
112.4 kWh
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Embark on an exciting road trip from Chongqing to Guiyang! The 375km route takes just under 5 hours, so you won’t have to worry about being on the road for too long. Along the way, be sure to look out for the spectacular views of the countryside. Once you arrive in Chongqing, take some time to explore the city’s rich history and culture. Some of the top attractions include the Ciqikou Ancient Town, the Three Gorges Museum, and the People’s Grand Hall. Next, head to Guiyang, the capital of Guizhou Province. Here you can explore the gorgeous Huangguoshu Waterfall, visit the Taihua Temple, and take a stroll around Huaxi Park. For more information on attractions, accommodation, restaurants, and campsites along the route, please refer to the “Itinerary” of this stage. Bon voyage!
Guiyang - China - Asia - Road Trip - Wikimedia Commons
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11
Guiyang
- Kunming
Distance 519 km
Driving time 6.0 h
Pace: fast
155.7 kWh
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Are you ready for an unforgettable road trip starting from Guiyang and ending in Kunming? This journey will cover a distance of 516 km and take you around 6 hours to complete. Get ready to enjoy a scenic drive as you pass through the incredible landscapes of the two cities.
In Guiyang, make sure to visit the Jiaxiu Tower, the symbol of the city. You can also explore the Dragon Palace Cave, a stunning natural landscape. In Kunming, be sure to go to the Golden Temple, a complex of Buddhist temples located in a lake. You can also explore the Black Dragon Pool, a beautiful park with a lake and an ancient temple.
For more information regarding attractions, accommodation options, recommended restaurants, and campsites along the route, please refer to the "Itinerary" of this stage. So, what are you waiting for? Get ready to enjoy an amazing adventure!
Kunming - China - Asia - Road Trip - Wikimedia Commons
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Kunming
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Kunming is the perfect ending point for the Old China Road Trip. Located in the Yunnan Province, it is known as the ‘City of Eternal Spring’ due to its mild climate and pleasant atmosphere. Kunming is home to many important historical sites, such as the Golden Temple and the Dianchi Lake. The Golden Temple is a Buddhist temple complex located on the Yu’an Mountain, and is one of the most important pilgrimage sites in Yunnan Province. The Dianchi Lake is the seventh largest freshwater lake in China, and it offers many recreational activities such as fishing, swimming, and sailing.
Kunming is also known for its many beautiful parks and gardens. The Green Lake Park is a popular destination for visitors, with its tranquil pathways and beautiful gardens. The Cuihu Park is a great spot for a picnic, and it is surrounded by lush greenery and a lake. The Daguan Park is a cultural park, where visitors can enjoy performances and festivals.
For those arriving by air, the closest international airport is Kunming Changshui International Airport (KMG). There are many car rental services available at the airport, making it easy to explore Kunming and its nearby attractions.
Kunming is a fascinating city that is full of life and culture. It is the perfect ending point for the Old China Road Trip, with its many historical and cultural sites and its beautiful parks and gardens.
Old China Road Trip at a glance
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Start:
Beijing
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End:
Kunming
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Distance:
3,339 km
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Stay:
21 days
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Getting there:
Beijing Nanyuan Airport (NAY),
Beijing Capital International Airport (PEK)
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When to drive:
May, June, July, August, September, October
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More info:
More info you can find in the "Itinerary" section at each stage.
Before you set off
Embark on the Old China Road Trip, an epic 21-day voyage from the bustling capital, Beijing, to the vibrant city of Kunming, spanning an impressive 3,325 kilometers. This route is a treasure trove of Chinese civilization, weaving through millennia of history, and offering an intimate encounter with the country's monumental heritage and diverse regional cultures.
Key Destinations and Top Sights:
- Beijing: Explore the imperial splendor of the Forbidden City, a sprawling palace complex with a storied past spanning the Ming and Qing dynasties.
- Badaling: Traverse a well-preserved section of the Great Wall of China, an iconic symbol of Chinese engineering standing as a testament to ancient military prowess.
- Pingyao: Step back in time within the walls of this ancient city, recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site for its exceptionally well-preserved example of traditional Han Chinese urban planning.
- Xi'an: Stand in awe of the Terracotta Warriors, an army of thousands of life-sized sculptures guarding the tomb of China's first emperor, Qin Shi Huang.
- Chengdu: Delight in the laid-back atmosphere of Sichuan's capital, where culinary adventures await, including the famous Sichuan hotpot and a chance to visit the beloved Giant Panda Breeding Research Base.
- Chongqing: Experience the bustling life in what is often mistakenly cited as the largest city by area; its administrative area is indeed vast, but the urban population is more comparable to other major cities.
- Dunhuang: Witness the spiritual and artistic grandeur of the Mogao Caves, a complex of Buddhist cave temples renowned for their ancient frescoes and statuary.
Best Time to Go:
Late spring to early autumn, specifically April through October, is the prime window for this Road Trip. During these months, you'll enjoy temperate weather, which is conducive to driving and exploring the plethora of sights along the route.
Potential Risks:
When embarking on this journey, be prepared for varying regional climates and driving conditions. Urban areas may experience congestion, while remote stretches may present challenges with less-developed infrastructure. Always check local travel advisories and Road conditions in advance.
Facts for Roadtrippers:
- This journey caters to drivers of varying experience levels, boasting well-maintained Roads throughout most of the route.
- The Trip is feasible on a moderate budget, offering a mix of lavish and economical accommodation and dining options.
- A highlight of the adventure is the opportunity to witness several UNESCO World Heritage Sites, each revealing a different facet of China's multifaceted heritage.
A good choice for:
The Old China Road Trip is more than just a drive; it's a comprehensive cultural odyssey. Completing this journey not only instills a deep appreciation for China's grand historical narrative but also creates a tapestry of personal experiences across its diverse landscapes, leaving you with a wealth of stories and memories to cherish.
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