For many travelers, China has long been known for its visa requirements. However, in recent years, China has introduced a 240-hour (10-day) visa-free transit policy for certain nationalities, allowing visitors to travel without a visa for up to 10 days in specific regions. This visa-free tour is an excellent opportunity for travelers to explore some of China’s most iconic cities without the hassle of applying for a visa. If you’re planning a 10-day, visa-free tour to China, this guide will help you make the most of your visit to this fascinating country.

Understanding the 240-Hour Visa-Free Policy

The 240-hour visa-free policy allows travelers from certain countries to transit through China without a visa for up to 10 days (240 hours) as long as they are traveling within designated regions. Currently, this policy is available for travelers arriving and departing from the following cities:

• Beijing
• Shanghai
• Guangzhou
• Chengdu
• Xi’an
• Shenzhen
• Hangzhou
• Kunming
• Xiamen

The key requirement for taking advantage of this policy is that your itinerary must be within the city you arrive at, without traveling to other cities in China. However, this visa-free entry can provide plenty of time to explore some of the best highlights of the city.

Why Choose a Customized 10-Day Visa-Free Tour to China?

Opting for a customized 10-day visa-free tour offers several benefits:

• Convenience: No need to deal with the visa application process, saving you time and paperwork.
• Flexibility: A tailored itinerary that focuses on specific regions allows you to see the best of China’s iconic destinations without long-distance travel.
• Cost-Effective: Skipping the visa application fees and planning a more focused itinerary can save on travel costs.
• Expert Guidance: With a customized tour, you’ll have a dedicated travel consultant and local guides to ensure smooth travel and insightful experiences.
• Comfort: VIP transfers, comfortable accommodations, and curated activities make the trip enjoyable for all travelers.

Example Itinerary for a 10-Day Visa-Free Tour to China

This 10-day (240-hour) visa-free tour is designed to allow you to make the most of your time in China by focusing on the key highlights of one or two cities, depending on your interests.

Day 1-3: Beijing – A Blend of History and Culture

Start your visa-free tour in Beijing, the political and cultural heart of China. You’ll spend the first few days exploring the historical and architectural wonders that have shaped Chinese civilization for centuries.

Day 1: Arrival in Beijing

• Arrival at Beijing Capital International Airport. Upon arrival, your guide will meet you at the airport and transfer you to your 5-star hotel in Beijing.
• Evening: Relax at the hotel or take a brief walk around the city to get acquainted with your surroundings.

Day 2: Explore Beijing’s Top Sites

• The Forbidden City: Start the day with a guided tour of the Forbidden City, the imperial palace of Chinese emperors for almost 500 years. It’s an iconic landmark that offers deep insight into China’s royal history.
• Tiananmen Square: Visit one of the world’s largest public squares, located near the Forbidden City.
• Temple of Heaven: Explore this UNESCO World Heritage Site, where emperors once performed rituals for good harvests.
• Peking Duck Dinner: End the day with an authentic Peking duck meal at a traditional restaurant.

Day 3: The Great Wall and Summer Palace

• The Great Wall of China: Take a cable car or hike to the Mutianyu or Badaling sections of the Great Wall, two of the most accessible and scenic parts of this ancient wonder.
• Summer Palace: Visit this vast imperial garden with beautiful lakes, temples, and pavilions. It’s a peaceful and relaxing end to your day.

Day 4-6: Xi’an – Home of the Terracotta Warriors

Next, travel to Xi’an, the ancient capital of China and home to the Terracotta Army.

Day 4: Arrival in Xi’an

• Arrival at Xi’an Xianyang International Airport, where your guide will meet you and take you to your luxury hotel.
• Evening: Visit Muslim Quarter for a walk and try some local street food like lamb skewers and Xi’an’s famous biangbiang noodles.

Day 5: Terracotta Warriors and Ancient City Wall

• Terracotta Army: Visit the Terracotta Warriors, one of the most significant archaeological discoveries in the world. Explore the three main pits and learn about the history behind this life-sized army built for Emperor Qin Shi Huang.
• Ancient City Wall: Spend the afternoon biking or walking along Xi’an’s well-preserved ancient city wall, offering panoramic views of the city.

Day 6: Big Wild Goose Pagoda and Shaanxi History Museum

• Big Wild Goose Pagoda: Visit this iconic Buddhist structure built during the Tang Dynasty.
• Shaanxi History Museum: Explore one of China’s most important museums, which showcases the history of Xi’an, dating back to the Tang Dynasty and beyond.

Day 7-10: Shanghai – A Modern Metropolis

Finish your 10-day journey in Shanghai, China’s bustling economic center with futuristic skyscrapers and a rich colonial past.

Day 7: Arrival in Shanghai

• Arrival at Shanghai Pudong International Airport, where you’ll be greeted by your guide and taken to your luxury hotel.
• Evening: Visit The Bund and take a walk along the waterfront to see the iconic skyline, including the Oriental Pearl Tower and futuristic Lujiazui District.

Day 8: Yu Garden and Shanghai Museum

• Yu Garden: Start the day with a visit to this classical Chinese garden, filled with pavilions, rockeries, and koi ponds.
• Shanghai Museum: Explore this world-class museum showcasing ancient Chinese art and cultural treasures.

Day 9: Shanghai Disneyland or Zhujiajiao Water Town

• Shanghai Disneyland: Spend the day at Shanghai Disneyland, enjoying the rides, shows, and entertainment at this world-famous theme park.
• OR
• Zhujiajiao Water Town: If you prefer a cultural experience, visit Zhujiajiao, an ancient water town with traditional architecture, canals, and bridges, offering a glimpse of old China.

Day 10: Shanghai Free Day

• Spend your final day in Shanghai shopping at Nanjing Road, exploring the French Concession, or visiting one of the many art galleries and museums in the city.
• Evening: Enjoy a Pudong river cruise to see Shanghai’s skyline illuminated at night.

How to Plan Your Customized 10-Day Visa-Free Tour to China

1. Determine Your Entry and Exit Cities

To qualify for the 240-hour visa-free policy, you’ll need to enter and exit through one of the eligible cities (Beijing, Shanghai, Guangzhou, etc.). A customized itinerary can be created based on your preference for specific cities or regions.

2. Work with a Local Expert

A travel consultant specializing in visa-free tours will help optimize your 10-day itinerary based on your interests and the designated cities available under the visa-free policy.

3. Accommodations and Transport

Choose from a range of comfortable, business-friendly hotels and private transportation options, ensuring your journey is smooth and hassle-free.

4. Know the Restrictions

Keep in mind that the 240-hour visa-free policy applies only to travelers who do not leave the designated city and are departing from China within 10 days.

A 10-day (240-hour) visa-free tour is an incredible opportunity to explore some of China’s most iconic cities without the need for a visa. From the historical wonders of Beijing and Xi’an to the modern vibrance of Shanghai, this customizable itinerary lets you experience the diverse facets of China in comfort and style. With the help of a professional tour guide and travel consultant, your 10-day journey will be seamless and tailored to your preferences.