Day 1 Arrival in Shanghai
Our well-trained driver and tour guide will meet you outside the customs of Pudong Airport after your check-out procedures are fully completed and then transfer to your hotel to check in.
Visit the Bund. Start at the southern end and walk north along the Huangpu River, taking in the historic colonial buildings that have become symbolic of old Shanghai. This promenade offers spectacular views across to the futuristic skyline of Pudong, serving as a perfect introduction to Shanghai’s rich architectural heritage.
Stroll down Nanjing Road. Begin at the junction near the Bund and make your way west through this bustling commercial street. Famous for its vibrant energy, Nanjing Road features a range of shops from high-end boutiques to traditional vendors, providing a comprehensive retail experience and a feel for Shanghai’s dynamic urban culture.
Enjoy the cruise in the Huangpu River, which is the gateway to Yangtze to enjoy the night view of Shanghai.
Get back to the Hotel, relax & refresh.
- Shanghai
Day 2 Shanghai City Tour：Yuyuan Garden & Bazaar, Shanghai TV Tower, Former French Concession & Xiantiandi
Our well-trained guide and driver will pick up you at 09:00 AM in the hotel lobby.
Head to the most popular Yu Garden –a lovely Ming Dynasty garden dotted with bridges, pavilions, pools, and rock formations. After Yuyuan Garden, you’ll visit the surrounding areas, it is regarded as The Happy Shopping Kingdom for small items like inexpensive Chinese ornamental items. Where you can also find Chinese cultural souvenirs such as pearls, jade, and silk as well.
Then you will visit the Shanghai TV Tower ,Marvel at this iconic symbol of modern Shanghai, which offers panoramic views of the city from its observation decks. This landmark provides a striking contrast to the historic beauty seen earlier in the day.
In the end, you’ll visit the Former Concession & Tianzifang Area to enjoy the atmosphere of east meets west or one of the new popular places in Shanghai.
Get back to the Hotel, relax & refresh.
- Shanghai
Day 3 Water Town Tour
Wander the streets and cruise the waterways of the oldest water town in Jiangsu Province, and arguably one of the most beautiful. Smaller than Suzhou and Hangzhou, Zhouzhuang is 60 kilometers from Shanghai. The town is filled with quaint stone bridges, decorated eaves, and ancient temples and pagodas. The most famous bridges are the single-arched Fu’an Bridge built in 1355, and the Ming Dynasty Double Bridge. There is also a 900-year-old Taoist temple, beautiful South Lake, and the Hall of Shen’s Residence which was built by a Qing Dynasty millionaire.
Get back to the Hotel, relax & refresh.
- Shanghai
Day 4 Shanghai →Suzhou →Shanghai
Start with an interesting visit to Lingering Garden, one of the Four Greatest Gardens in China as well as the perfect representative of traditional Suzhou Gardens. The Lingering Garden has synthesized almost all the classic features of Suzhou gardens. It is composed of residential areas, shrines, family temple and garden, making fully use of the changings between big and small, bend and straight, bright and dark, tall and low, tight and disperse, with the surrounding landscapes, such as trees, flowers, lake, sky, as backgrounds to create an ingenious system of space. Stepping into the garden, you will find the buildings, rockeries, corridors, pavilions, ponds and trees in Lingering Garden are all standing in the best place, neither too crowded nor too sporadic. The most incredible thing is that, in the same place, looking from different angles, you can enjoy different scenery. Making a step, you will get another feeling of another kind of scenery. After visiting Lingering Garden, move on to next site Shantang Ancient Street, a wonderful place for a relaxing walking. It used to be an important trade and culture center during Ming and Qing Dynasties, and now is famous as “the miniature of old Suzhou and the window of Wu culture”. Enjoy the ornate water-town style architectures, marvel at the bustling streets and savor at local snacks.
In the afternoon, you will go to explore the most historical site in Suzhou Tiger Hill. The famous Chinese poet in Song Dynasty (960-1279), Su Shi, once said, “It is a lifelong pity if having visited Suzhou you did not visit Tiger Hill.” He was definitely right. The hill is only 36 meters in height, but covers about 3.5 acres areas with a number of historical sites some of which have history over 2,500 years. The most famous sites include the Yunyan Pagoda which is an over-1000-year-old pagoda with seven stories in height and famously leans much like the Leaning Tower of Pisa, and the Sword Pool where the King of Wu, He Lu, tested and buried his treasured swords about 2500 years ago. Apart from the history, the Tiger Hill is also an amazing place to go for a walk, enjoy natural scenery and experience local custom.
Then transfer back to Shanghai hotel (around 1-1.5 driving hour).
- Shanghai
Day 5 Shanghai →Hangzhou by train
After breakfast, go to take an early morning high speed train to Hangzhou (1hr), the “Heavenly City on Earth” and capital city of Zhejiang Province. Upon your arrival, your private tour guide and driver will pick you up at the railway station, and then set out on today’s sightseeing.
First, make the symbolic visit to the picturesque West Lake, which is the iconic site of Hangzhou and a pretty UNESCO World Heritage. Just as the famous traveler Marco Polo did and wrote: “A voyage on this lake offers more refreshment and pleasure than any other experience on earth”, you will start with a 45-minute leisure cruise to enjoy the tranquil lake views as well as the ancient pagodas, traditional arched bridges, tree-lined walkways, beautiful hills, green islands and lush gardens including visit to the beautiful Three Ponds Mirroring the Moon. After the cruise, stroll around to pass the famous Su Causeway, Bai Causeway, Broken Bridge, Gushan Hill, parks of Fish Viewing at the Flower Pond, Lotus Swaying in the Breeze, Orioles Singing in the Willows, etc. (As the lake is too large, you can take the sightseeing vehicle at any place on the route to save energy. The fee is included.)
After lunch, go to Lingyin Temple of nearly 1,700 year, which is the oldest and one of the most popular temples in Hangzhou. Hidden in the luxurious forest, it offers charming and peaceful landscape mixed with the strong Buddhist atmosphere among the large scaled of magnificent and antique temple clusters.
Step into the enchanting world of tea at the prestigious China National Tea Museum, located in the scenic Longjing Village. Here, you will be captivated by a diverse collection of tea artifacts and exhibits that showcase China’s rich tea heritage. Our guide will lead you through interactive displays and offer insights into the profound connection between tea and Chinese culture. Explore the centuries-old traditions of tea as you engage with immersive exhibits and participate in interactive demonstrations, Learn about the nuanced flavors and aromas of various tea types, from fragrant green teas to robust black teas. Your guide will provide detailed explanations about the art of tea brewing and the cultural significance of tea rituals, enhancing your appreciation of this beloved beverage. Then, drive uphill to Meijiawu Tea Village, a refreshing wonderland surrounded by mountains with a large area of emerald Dragon Well tea plantations in neat lines and curves. Walk among the tea plantations with fun and take beautiful photos
(Optional activity: you can pay a visit to the local tea grower’s family and experience picking tea leaves, watching stir-drying tea leaves, enjoying tea ceremony, tasting Dragon Well tea, etc., which needs extra payment.).
After today’s visiting, be escorted back to your hotel in Hangzhou downtown.
- Tunxi
Day 6 Hangzhou
After breakfast, Set off on a leisurely exploration of the enchanting Guo Garden, a masterpiece of classical Chinese garden design that beckons you to uncover its rich historical tapestry. With your knowledgeable guide as your companion, delve into the origins architectural nuances, and cultural motifs meticulously integrated into its layout, As you meander through the garden, marvel at the intricate craftsmanship evident in every pavilion, winding corridor, and tranquil courtyard Each architectural facet narrates a chapter of the garden’s evolution across centuries, showcasing a harmonious fusion of Confucian, Taoist, and Buddhist influences that epitomize classical Chinese aesthetics. Then head to Hangzhou’s Grand Canal and Gongcheng Bridge, As you stroll along the banks of this ancient waterway, immerse yourself in its storied history. Learn from our guide about the Grand Canal’s essential role as a conduit for trade and cultural exchange, connecting the bustling markets of northern and southern China for generations. Take a moment to admire Gongcheng Bridge,an architectural masterpiece that spans the canal with elegance and dignity. Delve into the bridge’s constructions our quid reveals the intricate techniques and artistic craftsmanship that characterized its building process. Discover how Gongcheng Bridge exemplifies Hangzhou’s architectural prowess and enduring cultural heritage across centuries.
In the afternoon, visit the Visit Hugingyutang Traditional Chinese Medicine Museum, a sanctuary where ancient healing practices come alive. Accompanied by our knowledgeable guide, immerse yourself in the profound principles of traditional Chinese medicine (TCM). Explore the intricate world of herbal remedies, renowned for their therapeutic benefits rooted in centuries of wisdom and experience, Engage in enlightening discussions with our guide, who unveils the holistic approach to health that lies at the heart of TCM. Discover the art of acupuncture, a therapeutic technique that harmonizes the body’s energy flow, promoting balance and vitality. At last, spend some free time at the Qinghefang Old Street, is a good place to experience the life of Old Hangzhou, because it is the epitome of historic Hangzhou. A great place for shopping, eating, and sightseeing. You can see the well-preserved old buildings, explore the interesting boutique stores, and choose your favorite souvenirs.
Optional : Impression West Lake is an enchanting outdoor performance set against the stunning natural backdrop of West Lake in Hangzhou. Created by renowned director Zhang Yimou, this show combines the natural beauty of the area with impressive artistic performances.
- Hangzhou
Day 7 Hangzhou→Mt. Huangshan by train
Today after breakfast, you’ll be transferred to take a morning high speed bullet train to Huangshan from Hangzhou East Railway Station. The fast and comfortable train journey costs you only about 1.5 hours to reach Huangshan North Railway Station. After arrival, your private tour guide and driver will pick you up and go to check in your hotel in Huangshan City.
After some rest, you will go to explore the most famous ancient street – Tunxi Ancient Street. First built about 900 years ago, during Song Dynasty (960-1279), Tunxi Ancient Street is a 100% “old” street with well-preserved houses in Huizhou style. It was once called “the Eastern Ancient Rome” by an ancient Western-European architect. Strolling along this 1.5 kilometers long and 7 meter wide street, you could taste the delicious local snacks, purchase some souvenirs, antiques or knick-knacks in the shops, and sip the region’s special tea like Maofeng with hospitable locals…all are the finest experience in this ancient street.
- Tunxi
Day 8 Huangshan
After breakfast, your guide and driver will pick you up from your hotel lobby and drive to the foot of Mount Huangshan (Yellow Mountain), a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the Five Sacred Mountains. Yellow Mountain is famous for its stunning natural scenery, which includes ancient pine trees, oddly-shaped granite peaks, winter snow, hot springs, and a sea of clouds that often envelops the mountain range, also known as the “Five Natural Wonders”.
To maximize your time and energy, you will be directly transferred to board the cableway to Yuping Station. As you ascend, give you breathtaking aerial views of the forests below—a canvas of endless green, with granite peaks and twisted pines veiled in mist.
Continue your hiking to the poetic Begin-to-Believe Peak. Huangshan is famous for its ancient and oddly shaped pine trees. En route, you’ll admire several like Black Tiger Pine, and Harp Pine, each with its unique shape and character. When you reach Begin-to-Believe Peak, you’ll understand how it got its name. The stunning vistas, which include a mixture of cliffs, valleys, and uniquely shaped rocks, will make you begin to believe in the mystical aura that Huangshan is famous for.
Then we will tour the Beihai scenic area that includes Bright Summit, Flying-over Rock，Cloud-Dispelling Pavilion. Bright Summit is the second highest peak on the mountain (1860m). From this vantage point, you can see other notable peaks like Celestial Capital Peak (Tiandu Peak), Lotus Peak, and Jade Screen Peak. Then, walk for 20 more minutes to get to the famous Flying-over Rock. It’s fascinating to see how a 12-meter-high giant rock has been standing still on a flat but small stage of stone for millions of years. Lastly, keep walking for about 45 minutes to the Cloud-Dispelling Pavilion to admire the sunset. Stay overnight on top of the Yellow Mountain.
- Huangshan
Day 9 Huangshan→Jingdezhen
Today begins in the dark, pre-dawn hours (usually around 5 am to 6 am), as you’ll want to catch the awe-inspiring sunrise that Mount Huangshan is celebrated for. Make sure you’re dressed warmly and adequately – mountain temperatures can be surprisingly chilly in the morning.
After breakfast, it’s time for the grandeur of the West Sea Grand Canyon. Walking into the Xihai Grand Canyon is like stepping into a Chinese ink painting, with numerous peculiar rocks and towering stones standing before your eyes. The scenery is magnificent, and the Huangshan pine growing on the rocks takes on myriad poses and postures.
Then proceed to Lion Peak (1690m) to see the Dawn Pavilion, Refreshing Terrace, Stone Monkey Watching the Sea, and various shapes of pines and rocks along the route. Lion Peak, as its name implies, really looks like a crouching lion. “Monkey Gazing at the Sea” is an evocative rock formation that resembles a monkey contemplating the ocean of clouds below. It’s a visual treat that also offers the perfect photo opportunity. Afterward, walk to the White Goose Ridge Cable Station to take the Yungu cable way down the mountain.
Your driver is ready at the mountain foot to transfer you to Jingdezhen which is about 2.5 hours’ drive from Huangshan.
After checking in to your hotel in Jingdezhen, you will start to explore this China’s “porcelain capital” with an interesting visit to Sculpture Porcelain Factory Market which was once the factory building and park of the Sculpture Porcelain Factory, one of the ten largest porcelain factories in Jingdezhen. After the old porcelain factory was reformed and merged, the local area was vacated and gradually became a gathering place for young people. It is also a porcelain journey, but this place is a place with an artistic atmosphere. Compared with the traditional porcelain in the ancient kilns, the things here are not so much “porcelain” as they are “ceramic gadgets”. Many local young artists and students will also come here to sell their works, which mostly have strong personal styles and are more in line with the preferences of the younger generation, such as Japanese anime style, cute animal style and so on.
- Jingdezhen
Day 10 Jingdezhen→Shanghai
Today after breakfast, go to visit Jingdezhen Ancient Kiln Folk Customs Museum is the only national 5A-level tourist attraction in China with a ceramic culture theme. The park preserves and inherits the world’s largest wood-fired kiln, which holds the Guinness World Record, as well as the national intangible cultural heritage of Jingdezhen’s handmade porcelain craftsmanship and Jingdezhen’s traditional porcelain kiln workshop construction skills. The expo area is built on a hilly forest park, with bamboo forests and trees everywhere, making it especially cool. The biggest highlight of the park are the ancient kilns that represent the highest firing technology of each dynasty. Many of them can still be used today, and they will be fired at a specific time every autumn. Here you can learn about the ceramic production processes, and each process has professional ceramic masters to demonstrate on site. You can also enjoy the rare performance of the porcelain band, all of whose instruments are made of Jingdezhen porcelain.
After ancient Kiln folk culture exploration, move to nearby China Ceramic Museum which is the first large-scale ceramic-themed art museum in China. It houses over 50,000 pieces of ceramic masterpieces from different historical periods starting from the Neolithic era to the Han and Tang dynasties. Additionally, it also collects numerous foreign and out-of-town ceramics, as well as items like metal, stone, and jade artifacts, calligraphy, and paintings. The museum also showcases modern and contemporary Jingdezhen ceramic masterpieces. On the top floor, there is a gallery spanning hundreds of meters, exhibiting the traditional 72-step process of ceramic making in Jingdezhen. Each copper sculpture vividly depicts the process, making it highly engaging for visitors.
Your last attraction to visit in Jingdezhen is Xinping Porcelain Palace which is a complex of circular buildings with a unique architectural style that combines elements of Hakka tulou and traditional Chinese architecture. It is decorated with tens of thousands of pieces of porcelain, making it a true “porcelain palace”. The palace was built by a local villager, Yu Ermei, over a period of 10 years. The palace also houses a large collection of porcelain paintings depicting various themes from Chinese traditional culture, such as the Four Classic Novels, Journey to the West, and the Eight Immortals Crossing the Sea.
You will be transferred to catch a high speed train back to Shanghai to catch your flight/train to next destination.
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