Quick answer: Choose the number of cities by counting full usable days, not calendar days. Every hotel change and intercity transfer costs time, so fewer bases usually make a first independent trip easier.
Count nights first
A 10-day trip may not contain 10 full sightseeing days. Arrival, departure, and transfer days reduce the usable time.
Count transfers, not just destinations
Four cities means at least three intercity moves. Each move requires packing, local transport, station or airport time, travel, arrival, and another hotel check-in.
Use bases instead of collecting stops
A base lets you stay several nights and make nearby day trips without moving luggage. This is often easier than changing hotels for every place you want to see.
Match the number of cities to your travel style
Choose fewer cities if you:
- dislike early departures
- travel with large luggage
- want flexible mornings
- prefer deeper sightseeing
- are new to China’s transport systems
You can move faster if you already travel lightly and enjoy frequent transfers.
Use the removal test
Remove the least important city from your draft itinerary. If the trip suddenly feels much easier while still including your main priorities, the original plan was probably too busy.
FAQ
Is three cities in 10 days reasonable?
Often yes when the route is logical and transportation is efficient, but the exact answer depends on distance and how much time you want in each place.
Should I add a city just because the high-speed train is fast?
Not automatically. The train ride is only one part of the transfer day.