We (3 friends) are thinking of going to China. I studied Chinese and Chinese History (years ago) and spent time there in the 1970s, but I guess it's changed a little since then.

I do large format photography which is one big reason I want to do.

We are thinking of the following cities:
Beijing, Xi-an, Dunhuang, Lhasa, Shanghai.

Does this make sense in terms of a good trip? I've never been to Dunhuang, Xi-an or Lhasa. We've looked at some tours, but have no idea of they are bogus or not.

Any comments are appreciated.

We are thinking of this fall or next spring (2007).

I think you should forget the tour idea. They rarely give you enough time to do serious photography.

Now, you listed 5 places. That's too many for 2 weeks. I'd suggest only 3. 4 at the most. With a little planning, you can do all those places on your own.

...I remember the days that I carried my 4x5 in Yosomite trips. Big cities have advantage of processing the films.
I recommend small but dramatic cities like Pinyou, Dali, Lijong...

I can't see any reason for a tour either. These days China is OK for independent travel - and obviously it wouldn't hurt if you could dust off those old Chinese lessons.

just be aware of nice young girls inviting you to drink tea!

whats the attraction to Shanghai?

oh and ditto rkkwan

If you're thinking of going to Dunhuang to take photographs inside the Buddha caves you should check the current policy. It wasn't allowed when I was there in 2001.

You will found too rush of going five cities in 2 weeks. Area of Forbidden City is very large. Most of the places are not allowed tourist to take photo.

Thanks to you all. Very helpful.

Probably, five is too many.

I've written to find out about photography policy in various areas. It might be 4 guys and one woman (trip is growing).

Someone asked why Shanghai? As I recall, the French and Japanese quarters were very interesting. I used to stay at the Peace Hotel and miss it.

So you'd probably want to budget 7 days, possibly 8 for Beijing and Xi'an. I mean if you were just sight seeing then 6 is also fine but since you'll want to take time to appreciate and photograhp things then maybe that extra time is needed.

Maybe 4 days for shanghai even though you could get away with 3 I predict that you'll appreciate 4 (based on massive assumptions about you). That gives you enough time for one of those two locations. If you held Beijing and Xi'an to 6 days (4 + 2 incl travel which is doable) then possibly you can fit in two extra locations IF you were out to photgraph rather than indulge and experience......if you know what I mean

just an opinion