The short answer
Start with your interests, your time and a realistic travel pace. A shorter list of places often leaves more room to enjoy them.
Start with what you want to experience
Before choosing cities, write down three things you most want from your trip. These might be food, history, mountain scenery, modern cities, gardens, or everyday local life.
Choose one as your main priority. Use the others to shape the trip around it. You do not need to cover every side of China on your first visit.
Count the days you can actually use
Separate your arrival and departure days from your full sightseeing days. An evening arrival may leave time only for reaching your accommodation and having a meal.
For each day, note:
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Where you will wake up and sleep.
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Whether you need to change accommodation.
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Your main activity.
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Time for meals, rest and unexpected delays.
This makes it easier to see whether your route fits your available time.
Include the whole transfer
A train or flight duration is only part of a journey. Include packing, getting to the station or airport, boarding procedures, arrival transport and checking into your next accommodation.
Before adding another destination, ask: “Is the experience worth the time this move takes?”
If the answer is uncertain, keep it as an option for another trip.
Build a flexible daily plan
As a starting point, choose one main activity and one optional activity each day. Adjust this to your energy, interests and travel companions.
Leave space for a longer meal, a neighborhood walk or simply resting. If you are traveling with children or someone with mobility needs, include their pace from the beginning.
Check the route before making commitments
Once your outline feels manageable, confirm the details that could change it:
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Entry requirements for your nationality and route.
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Transport schedules for your travel dates.
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Accommodation location and check-in arrangements.
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Attraction opening days and reservation requirements.
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Cancellation terms for anything you plan to book.
Use current official information and the relevant providers. This guide offers a planning framework; it does not confirm visa eligibility or booking availability.
A simple first-draft checklist
Your itinerary is ready for a closer look when you can answer these questions:
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What is the main experience I am traveling for?
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How many full days do I have?
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Have I included door-to-door transfer time?
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Which activities are optional?
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Where can I slow down if plans change?
A useful itinerary gives your trip direction while leaving room to enjoy being there.