11 days in East Asia Itinerary

With a nickname like the "Pearl of the Orient," it's not surprising Shanghai offers some of the most rewarding attractions and activities in the Far East.

On the 3rd (Sat), view the masterpieces at Shanghai Propaganda Poster Art Centre, shop like a local with Nanjing Lu (Nanjing Road), then examine the collection at Shanghai Museum (Shanghai Bowuguan), and finally relax and rejuvenate at some of the best spas. On the next day, take in nature's colorful creations at Yu Garden (Yuyuan), take in the pleasant sights at The Bund (Wai Tan), then take in panoramic vistas at Shanghai World Financial Center, then make a trip to Oriental Pearl Tower (Dongfang Mingzhu), and finally take some stellar pictures from Jin Mao Tower.

To see photos, where to stay, reviews, and more tourist information, refer to the Shanghai online journey planner.

Monroe, USA to Shanghai is an approximately 29-hour flight. The time zone changes from Central Standard Time (CST) to China Standard Time (CST), which is usually a 14 hour difference. When traveling from Monroe in December, plan for little chillier days in Shanghai, with highs around 52°F, while nights are about the same with lows around 40°F. Finish your sightseeing early on the 4th (Sun) to allow enough time to fly to Xi'an.

Historians often describe Xi'an, capital city for over a dozen dynasties, as the birthplace of Chinese civilization.

Start off your visit on the 5th (Mon): surround yourself with nature on Travel China Guide. Keep things going the next day: don't miss a visit to Kaiyuan Square, explore the ancient world of Xi'an City Wall (Chengqiang), and then get engrossed in the history at The Museum of Qin Terra-cotta Warriors and Horses.

To see photos, traveler tips, ratings, and more tourist information, read Xi'an trip itinerary builder tool.

Traveling by flight from Shanghai to Xi'an takes 4 hours. Alternatively, you can take a train; or drive. Expect slightly colder temperatures when traveling from Shanghai in December; daily highs in Xi'an reach 45°F and lows reach 23°F. Wrap up your sightseeing on the 6th (Tue) early enough to fly to Beijing.

As the political and cultural capital of China, Beijing stands at the heart of Chinese history, buzzing with the energy of its high population density and centuries of importance.

Beijing is known for historic sites, sightseeing, and museums. Your trip includes some of its best attractions: see Mutianyu Great Wall, get to know the fascinating history of Summer Palace (Yiheyuan), take in panoramic vistas at Bell and Drum Towers, and ponder the world of politics at Temple of Heaven.

To find ratings, where to stay, other places to visit, and more tourist information, read our Beijing trip tool.

Traveling by flight from Xi'an to Beijing takes 4 hours. Alternatively, you can take a train; or drive. When traveling from Xi'an in December, plan for slightly colder days in Beijing, with highs around 40°F, while nights are about the same with lows around 19°F. Cap off your sightseeing on the 9th (Fri) early enough to catch the flight to Chongqing.

With one of the most populated and largest metropolitan areas in the world, Chongqing was the de facto capital of China during World War II. Its wartime political importance and post-war economic boom have left a number of attractions in Chongqing, including war memorials and museums, government buildings, and thriving commercial districts with a wealth of malls and more traditional market areas.

Kick off your visit on the 10th (Sat): contemplate the waterfront views at Chongqing Wu River and then see the interesting displays at Three Gorges Museum.

To see photos, traveler tips, maps, and more tourist information, read our Chongqing tour planner.

Fly from Beijing to Chongqing in 4.5 hours. Alternatively, you can take a train; or drive. When traveling from Beijing in December, plan for somewhat warmer days in Chongqing, with highs around 53°F, while nights are warmer with lows around 44°F. Finish your sightseeing early on the 11th (Sun) to allow enough time to travel back home.