Should first-timers do Beijing, Xi’an and Shanghai?
Yes, for many first-timers. Beijing gives political and imperial weight, Xi’an gives the ancient-capital hit, and Shanghai gives modern China — but the route works best when each city has a clear job, not equal nights by default.
Answer
The classic route is useful because it shows three different Chinas without making the first trip too scattered. Beijing is heavy with history and scale; Xi’an adds an ancient-capital layer and strong food; Shanghai changes the tempo with modern city life, neighbourhoods and easier international links. The route becomes weaker when it is treated as a rigid formula. Some travellers need more Beijing time, others want Chengdu or Guilin instead of extra Shanghai days. Use the classic route as a spine, not as proof that the trip is finished.