First things first- You need a visa. As an American you are required to get a 10 year visa, multiple entry. It'll cost around $1,500 HKD, but worth it, I've gone to China twice since I've gotten my visa. Everything needs to be booked before you can apply. I had to retake my picture several times because it has to be the perfect size, hair perfect, and most importantly no earrings!!! Make sure to make an appointment so you don't have to stand on line for hours.
We stayed at the Grand Millennium Hotel- OH MY GOD. The hotel definitely made the trip even more amazing. The first night we went to see the Olympic Stadium from 2008- if you go make sure it's at night. The lights are beautiful! DON'T FORGET TO PACK WARM CLOTHES!!! It was freezing-bring tons of layers.
The next day we took a tour to the Ming Tombs, a jade shoppe, tea shoppe, and last but not least the wall. It was amazing to learn about the culture in China. At the jade store I purchased a beautiful jade bracelet which should bring me good health. The tea store gave use a tea tasting where we were able to learn about different types of tea. The wall was amazing..... We went to the touristy part, if I ever go back I would love to walk along the more isolated parts. The one downfall was there were wayy too many people! And I went on a slow day!! But at the end of the day it was so worth it!
The final day we walked around the Forbidden City- another beautiful day of touring. I also ate a scorpion while we were walking around the street markets- When in China!!
