7 Days Shanghai Hangzhou Huangshan Tour: Discover East China's Essence by Bullet Train

Nihao! Welcome to Shanghai, China’s most internationalized and vibrant city! Shanghai's long-term fusion of Eastern and Western cultures has contributed to Shanghai's unique culture. Upon your arrival at the airport/train station in Shanghai, the tour guide and driver will meet and greet you at the exit, and then escort you to the well-selected hotel in downtown Shanghai. The rest of the day is free on your own so you can have a good rest for the jet lag or explore by yourself around your hotel.

Arrival Ideas:
Travelers can go to Shanghai easily by air or high speed train. There are two airports - Shanghai Pudong International Airport and Shanghai Hongqiao International Airport operating numerous international and domestic airlines. Travelers can go to Shanghai by air from most cities in China, like Beijing, Xian, Guangzhou, Chengdu, Guilin, Kunming, Lijiang, Lhasa, and more. In addition, travelers can take high speed train to Shanghai from Beijing (4.5-6 hours), Xian (6-7.5 hours), Huangshan (2.5-3 hours), Guangzhou (7-8.5 hours), Suzhou (0.5 hour), Hangzhou (about 45 mins), Wuhan (3.5-4.5 hours), etc.

On this day, your guide will take you to Lujiazui Financial District in Shanghai Pudong New Area to the highest building in China - the Shanghai Tower. It features a dramatic 120-degree twist from its base to its peak. Take the world's fastest lifts (traveling at 64km/h) to the "Top of Shanghai Observatory" located on the 118th floor, 546 meters above ground level. Here, you'll have the unparalleled opportunity to enjoy a 360-degree panoramic view of modern Shanghai and also look down upon the Oriental Pearl TV Tower (a cultural landmark of Shanghai), Jin Mao Tower (a traditional Chinese pagoda-like structure with a modern style) and the Shanghai World Financial Center (the third tallest building in China and the fifth tallest in the world).

Next, move to Yu Garden, the most celebrated classical Chinese garden hidden in the bustling downtown area of Shanghai, where you can appreciate the beauty of a Jiangnan water town ! Yu Garden was a private garden of the Ming Dynasty (1368-1644) with a history of over 460 years, was built in 1559 by Pan Yunduan (潘允端) for his father to enjoy his retired life. You will see the winding paths and changing scenery, the plants and ponds, the brick carvings, stone carvings, clay sculptures, and wood carvings in the garden, all designed with great craftsmanship. On the way to Yu Garden, you will pass by the iconic Jiuqu Bridge (九曲桥Nine-Bend Bridge/Zigzag Causeway) and the Huxin Pavilion (湖心亭Mid-lake Pavilion, built in the Qing Dynasty, 1616-1912). According to Chinese Fengshui, the zigzag causeway is designed to thwart spirits, who can only journey in straight lines. As you enter Yu Garden, you can explore various beautifully crafted dragons hidden in the buildings, count them, and learn more about the Chinese dragon totem from your guide.

Later, explore Yuyuan Bazaar (Chenghuangmiao Market) outside Yu Garden which is a vibrant Shanghai Old Street where you can try Shanghai’s local snacks such as Xiaolongbao (Nanxiang Steamed Bun Restaurant小笼包), Pan-Fried Pork Buns (Fried Dumplings生煎包), Soup Dumplings (灌汤包), and Won-ton Soup (上海馄饨). You can also buy some traditional Chinese handicrafts and artworks for souvenirs here.

After lunch, it's time to venture into the Xintiandi near the French Concession, where you can admire the elegant residences that stand as a testament to that era. Xintiandi (新天地)is a bustling place that seamlessly blends Shikumen architecture (石库门) with modern urban fashion style. It offers a comprehensive introduction to the local Shikumen (stone-gate house) architecture, along with enticing dining and shopping options. This upscale entertainment and shopping complex is modeled on traditional “Nong Tang” (弄堂alleyway) homes and stands as the pioneering development in the city, demonstrating the commercial viability of preserving historical architecture. Enjoy a visit to the Shikumen Open House Museum (石库门屋里厢博物馆), which showcases the Shikumen lifestyle of middle-class families in Shanghai (上海小资) during the 1920s and 1930s. The house consists of front and back sections, with two floors and a total of eight rooms, including a "courtyard", "pavilion room”, "kitchen" and more. Rather than calling it a museum, it feels more like a cozy home of old Shanghai.

Then, enjoy a leisure walk from Nanjing Road to the Bund, which is less than a 2 km walk. Nanjing Road Pedestrian Street is one of the iconic attractions of Shanghai, known as the "Number One Commercial Street in China". It serves as a window to Shanghai's openness to the world and a paradise for shoppers from both domestic and international locations. Nanjing Road is the perfect place to experience century-old Chinese time-honored shops.

At last, move to the Bund, the Top 1 Place to Visit on the Shanghai Bucket List. The Bund is the best spot to view the Oriental Pearl TV Tower (a symbol of Shanghai) and the three skyscrapers of Lujiazui that are famed as the "Kitchen Three Piece Set" (陆家嘴三件套) by locals due to their shapes: a syringe (Jin Mao Tower, 421m), bottle opener (Shanghai World Financial Center, 493m), and eggbeater (Shanghai Tower, 546m), respectively. Kown as “An Exhibition of International Buildings”, the Bund is a collection of 52 buildings representing various international architectural styles. Since 1844 (Qing Dynasty), foreign banks, trading companies, clubs, and newspapers have gathered here, showcasing the former glory of the "Wall Street of the Far East" (远东华尔街). You will visit the Zhapu Road Bridge (乍浦路桥) to capture the "Shanghai Version of Seine River Scenery"(上海版塞纳河风光), followed by Waibaidu Bridge (外白渡桥Garden Bridge of Shanghai), where you can admire the Russian Consulate building (俄罗斯领事馆green roof) that combines Baroque and German Renaissance styles. At Huangpu Park (黄埔公园), established in 1886, you can pay tribute to the Monument to the People's Heroes (人民英雄纪念塔) and discover more about the history of the Bund. After passing the Peace Hotel, you won't miss the iconic Clock Tower at the Shanghai Customs House (江海关大楼), the HSBC Building (汇丰银行), the Golden Bull Plaza (金牛广场sculpture of a golden bull), and the Gutzlaff Signal Tower (外滩天文台), all of which are classic attractions of the Bund.

This morning, your guide will meet you in the hotel lobby and escort you to Shanghai high speed train station for your bullet train to Hangzhou (about 1 hour, 158km). And, welcome to Hangzhou, the “Heaven on Earth” and a cultural city with a history of over 5,000 years.

You will first visit China National Tea Museum (China Tea Museum), the only national-level thematic museum in China dedicated to tea and tea culture. It houses a collection of 3,865 items, including 156 precious artifacts, 170 specimens of tea leaves from ancient to modern times, and 349 sets of foreign tea utensils. The museum is divided into two distinct branches: Shuangfeng Branch and Longjing Branch (located 3km apart). Shuangfeng Branch is closer to West Lake and is a beautiful Jiangnan-style garden. Besides a statue of Lu Yu (茶圣陆羽), the Sage of Tea, and a special exhibition on West Lake Longjing Tea, here, you can learn about Chinese Tea Culture and the life cycle of tea plants, appreciate various exquisite tea utensils, gain insights into ancient tea-drinking and tea-making methods. Longjing Branch is built on a hillside, with tea trees, tea pavilions, and ponds interspersed in between. From the tea altar at the mountaintop, you can enjoy panoramic views of West Lake and the surrounding tea mountains. In Longjing Branch, you can learn about Global Tea Culture, how tea spread from China to the world, and China's intangible cultural heritage of traditional tea-making techniques, China's historic tea ceremonies, and related customs, such as the Tang Dynasty's Tea Boiling and the Song Dynasty's Dian Cha (点茶foam art on the tea cup). (Note: You can choose the branch you would like to visit based on your interests and available time.)

Next, move to Meijiawu Tea Culture Village, the biggest Longjing Tea producing spot. It is said that a trip to Hangzhou won’t be complete without visiting Meijiawu Tea Village. It has hosted many national leaders, government heads, and friendly visitors worldwide since the 1950s. During the Qingming Festival (early spring), tea-picking women are busy harvesting tea leaves, creating the scenic of "MeiJiawu Early Spring", one of the 10 New Views of West Lake. It is said that more than 30,000 hand-picked fresh tea buds are needed to produce 1 kg of high-quality Longjing Tea (Dragon Well Tea). Meijiawu has a history of tea cultivation for over 600 years. As you stroll along its ancient streets lined with Ming and Qing dynasty buildings, you will encounter numerous tea workshops, hear the soothing sounds of gurgling streams, and be enveloped by the delightful fragrance of tea. You can also visit Lu Zhenghao Tea Plantation (卢正浩茶庄) to see the old tea roasting process and learn traditional tea-making techniques, experiencing the charm of intangible cultural heritage. Lu Zhenghao (卢正浩) is well-known in the Hangzhou tea industry. Premier Zhou Enlai visited Meijiawu 5 times (1957-1963), meeting Lu Zhenghao each time, showing great concern and guidance for tea production and development. Meijiawu's West Lake Longjing tea gained fame thanks to Lu Zhenghao and became a national gift tea, renowned worldwide. You can also visit the Premier Zhou Memorial Hall (周总理纪念室, Closed on Mondays) to learn more. Mejiawu is also a great place for lunch with authentic Hangzhou cuisine and to enjoy a cup of Longjing Tea (Green Tea), one of the Top 10 Famous Teas in China.

After lunch, head to Lingyin Temple (灵隐寺), situated at the west end of West Lake and inside the Feilai Peak Scenic Area (飞来峰景区). As one of the "Top 10 Zen Buddhist Temples in China", Lingyin Temple is considered a sanctuary for the soul and attracts countless pilgrims. Founded in 328 AD by an Indian monk named Hui Li (慧理), it is the oldest and most famous temple in Hangzhou, with a history of over 1,700 years. Directly facing Lingyin Temple is a hill with a peculiar name, Peak Flying from Afar (飞来峰, Feilai Peak). Composed of limestone, it stands out distinctively from the surrounding mountains. Legend has it that when Hui Li saw this peak, he exclaimed, "It's a part of Holy Mount Grahrakuta. Why has it flown here?" Hence, it acquired the name "Peak Flying from Afar." He also believed that Feilai Peak was a hidden dwelling of immortals. That is why he built a temple facing the peak and named it "Lingyin", which means "a hidden dwelling of immortals". While exploring inside Lingyin Temple, you will come across two stone pagodas (built in 960 AD) located on the east and west sides in front of the Great Hall of the Mahavira. These pagodas are the oldest relics of the temple. As you hike through the temple, you will hear stories and learn about the history behind the towering trees and numerous Buddhist grottoes. Amidst the impressive landscape and Buddhist culture, you will encounter the largest statue of the Buddha Sakyamuni in the lotus position, and believers lighting incense as they offer their prayers. It is believed that the most effective prayer at Lingyin Temple is for seeking romantic relationships. Also, for Chinese people, Lingyin Temple is the place where the famous Jigong (济公) became a monk and practiced. Jigong is usually known as a legendary mad monk who helped people with a magic fan, although he could have been a real person named Li Xiuyuan (李修缘, 1130 or 1148-1209) from the Southern Song Dynasty. You can learn more interesting stories about the crazy monk at the Hall of Jigong (济公殿).

After that, you will discover the picturesque West Lake (UNESCO World Heritage Site) like a local. The West Lake (西湖) is large, and you can choose to hike, ride a bike (free for the first hour), board a boat (self-pay), or take a sightseeing bus (self-pay) to explore it. As the city symbol of Hangzhou, it is adorned with temples, museums, islands, villas, tea houses, memorial halls, pools, arched bridges, pagodas, monasteries, and casual walkways lined with classic willow trees. The culture-laden West Lake overwhelms every visitor with its beauty. For Chinese people, West Lake is the most romantic place, inspired by poems written by Su Dongpo (苏东坡, The Gay Genius), the classic legend of "The White Snake" (白蛇传), and the tragic romance of "The Butterfly Lovers" (梁祝), whose fame rivals that of Shakespeare's "Romeo and Juliet."

You can choose to walk along the Su Causeway (苏堤, 2km long; built by Su Dongpo) while enjoying the famous poetry that aptly captures the beauty of West Lake, written by Su Dongpo (苏轼): "The shimmering ripples delight the eye on sunny days. The dim hills present a rare view in a rainy haze. West Lake compares to Xi Zi at her best. She is gorgeous, richly clothed or plainly dressed." Su Dongpo, a Chinese calligrapher, essayist, gastronomer, pharmacologist, poet, politician, romanticist, and travel writer during the Song dynasty, has deep connections with Hangzhou. Having served as an official in Hangzhou twice, he governed West Lake, constructed the Su Causeway, and prioritized the well-being of the people. He was affectionately known as the "Old Mayor" and greatly admired by the people. You can learn more by visiting the Su Dongpo Memorial Hall (苏东坡纪念馆, 550m away from Leifeng Pagoda).

If you are interested in "The Butterfly Lovers" (梁祝/Liang Shanbo and Zhu Yingtai/Liang Zhu), an intangible cultural heritage of China with a history of 1,700 years, you can visit the Wan Song Ancient Academy (万松书院, 940m from the Long Bridge), where Liang Shanbo and Zhu Yingtai once studied together for three years. Today, it is a famous spot for blind dates in Hangzhou. You can also visit the Long Bridge (长桥, 900m away from Leifeng Pagoda), where they bid farewell with deep affection. Nowadays, it is a popular location for couples to take photos of Leifeng Pagoda in the Sunset (雷峰夕照). Speaking of Leifeng Pagoda, you can't miss the touching legend of "The White Snake" (白蛇传) - "After cultivating for 1700 years, the White Snake transformed into the beautiful Bai Niangzi (白娘子). She descended to the mortal realm to search for her past-life benefactor, Xu Xian (许仙). They met on the Broken Bridge (断桥), parted ways at the Leifeng Pagoda, and thus unfolded the most extraordinary love story in Chinese mythological history. There are two autonomous escalators that transport visitors to the base of Leifeng Pagoda (self-pay). The pagoda itself offers bird's-eye views of West Lake, the entire city of Hangzhou, and Jingci Temple (净慈寺), which is famous for being one of the "Ten Scenes of the West Lake" (西湖十景) - "Evening Bell Ringing at the Nanping Hill"(南屏晚钟).

If you are a loyal fan of "Dream of the Red Chamber" (红楼梦), you must visit the filming location of the 1987 TV series "Dream of the Red Chamber", the Curved Yard and Lotus Pool in Summer (曲院风荷), to reminisce about the scene of Lin Daiyu and Jia Bao Yu secretly reading "The Romance of West Chamber" (西厢记). Renowned Redology researcher Tu Mo Re believes that the original author of "Dream of the Red Chamber" was Hangzhou poet Hong Sheng. You can also take a boat tour (self-pay) to the Three Ponds Mirroring the Moon (三潭印月) to capture the photo seen on the Chinese One Yuan Note (一元人民币风景). There are too many places and stories for you to uncover around the West Lake. Throughout China, no other lake has attracted so many poets, scholars, painters, sculptors, calligraphers, and even emperors for such an extended period. Just enjoy your time there.

After the West Lake Tour, you can move to stroll through Qinghefang Street (Hefang Street清河坊), located in the old Hangzhou city, which will bring you back to the scenes of prosperity at the foot of the old imperial city. As the markets at the back of the imperial court of the Southern Song Dynasty (1127-1279), Hefang Street (河坊街) has not only witnessed the thousand years of changes in Hangzhou but also retained the cultural memories of the old generations. If you are interested in Chinese Herbal Medicine Culture you can visit the landmark of the Hefang Street - Hu Qing Yu Tang (胡庆余堂 intangible cultural heritage), a 100-year-old traditional Chinese medicine pharmacy and Traditional Chinese Medicine Museum (self-pay胡庆余堂中药博物馆). Founded by Hu Xueyan (胡雪岩) in 1874, the wealthiest merchant in the late Qing Dynasty and the Medicine King of Jiangnan, the museum is an excellent spot to appreciate the Qing Dynasty architectural style with a front shop and rear workshop, watch pharmacists make a prescription, try a cup of healthy herbal tea. Today, the "Golden Shovel and Silver Pot" (金铲银锅) displayed in the museum have become national-level cultural relics and are acclaimed as "Chinese National Treasures". Wandering along the street you can try to find a unique architecture made of bronze while passing all kinds of shops and sampling all kinds of local snacks. Also, if time permits you can also visit the Former Residence of Hu Xueyan (胡雪岩故居) to learn more about Hu Xueyan and his brand of Hu Qing Yu Tang.

This morning, your guide and driver will pick you up at your hotel and take you to Wuzhen Water Town (West Scenic Area西栅) to explore the town that combines both ancient Jiangnan culture and modern fashion atmosphere. You will find out why it is famed as “Once came to Wuzhen, then never leave” and fall into a romantic atmosphere that hails old China.

Wuzhen Water Town is located on the west side of the famous Beijing Hangzhou Grand Canal (京杭大运河, World Heritage). It is the junction of Shanghai (130km), Hangzhou (90km), and Suzhou (70km), with a long history of more than 6,000 years. As one of the Top 6 Water Towns in China's Jiangnan region (along with Zhouzhuang, Tongli, Luzhi, Xitang, and Nanxun), Wuzhen is known as "the Land of Fish and Rice "(鱼米之乡) and the most cultural water town. Wuzhen exemplifies the typical characteristics of Jiangnan Water Towns (江南水乡), preserving the original appearance and layout of an ancient town during the Ming and Qing Dynasties. Characterized by burbling brooks, arched bridges, ancient docks, pavilions, and corridors, slab-stone paved alleys, waterside tea houses, its residents still enjoy a cherished waterside lifestyle, special folk customs, and Chinese Painting-like Jiangnan (水墨江南) landscape.

You can choose to explore Wuzhen by boat, sightseeing car, or on foot. Our Wuzhen trip will focus on the West Scenic Area of Wuzhen (Xizha Area). The Xizha area (西栅景区) is composed of 12 small islands, interconnected by over 70 small bridges, witnessing the prosperity of Wuzhen (a bonus for Chinese stone bridge fans). When visiting Wuzhen Water Town, it is a must to take a ride on a traditional rowboat (乌镇摇橹船) and experience the authentic Jiangnan charm. You can choose to board a boat at the pier (25mins; self-pay) and follow the Xishi River (西市河) towards the west, heading to the highest structure in Wuzhen, the Bailian Pagoda (White Lotus Pagoda白莲塔). From there, you can enjoy a panoramic view of the Grand Canal (京杭大运河) and the picturesque scenery of Wuzhen (vice verse, walk to Bailian Pagoda, then take the boat back). Sitting on the rowboat, you will have the best angle to experience the immersive atmosphere of a Chinese ink painting (中国水墨画). Along the way, you can admire the white-walled, black-tiled architecture and exquisite woodwork of many buildings from the Ming and Qing dynasties. Capture the reflections of ancient bridges on the water and the bustling scenes on the bridges, listen to the guide's explanations of the unique water pavilions (水阁) of riverside residences, and learn about the daily life of "中国最后的枕水人家" who live by the water. The boat will pass through Wuzhen's highest bridge Dingsheng Bridge (定升桥) and the most unique Qiaoli Bridge (桥里桥), arriving at the disembarkation pier.

Once you disembark, you can take a leisurely stroll along the stone-paved streets of the ancient town, exploring the intriguing historical sites hidden within. Learn about the preserved customs and cultural heritage of the town, participate in intangible cultural heritage experiences, browse through a variety of shops, and savor local delicacies such as Jiaxing zongzi (嘉兴粽子sticky rice dumplings), Dingsheng cake (定胜糕better eat it at the Dingsheng Bridge), and shredded radish pancake (萝卜丝饼).

As a classic water town of Jiangnan style, Wuzhen is a poetic and romantic place for photography. You can rent a Hanfu from Xiqingtang (囍庆堂), showcasing traditional Chinese wedding culture, and take beautiful photos at the cloth drying area of Indigo Fabric Workshop (草木本色染坊), which offers intangible cultural heritage experiences in tie-dyeing using herbal dyes. If you are single and would like to pray for love and marriage, you can visit Yue Lao Temple (月老庙) to worship the Chinese version of Cupid. Sure, if you would like to send a postcard to your loved one, you cannot miss a stop at the hundred-year-old Wuzhen Post Office (乌镇邮局), where you can experience the slow-paced postal service of the past when there was no internet or cellphones. Here, let me share a poem called "Congqianman" (从前慢) written by Muxin (木心, 1927-2011), a contemporary Chinese painter, writer, and poet. It includes the famous lines, "In the past, carriages were slow, and letters traveled far. One lifetime was only enough to love one person". To explore the artistic works of Muxin, you can visit the Mu Xin Art Museum (木心美术馆,self-pay), which is closed on Mondays. If you want to know why Wuzhen is renowned as “the Home of Silk" (丝绸之府), just visit the Yida Silk Mill (益大丝号, since 1875) for the silk culture of the Jiangnan region. Additionally, the Three-Inch Golden Lotus Museum (三寸金莲博物馆) is a place where you can uncover the distorted historical process of ancient Chinese women pursuing beauty through the harmful practice of foot binding. If you wish to explore the library in Wuzhen, a visit to the Zhaoming Academy (昭明书院) is recommended. Don't miss the Yichang Blacksmith Workshop (亦昌冶坊), where cast iron pots are handmade, known as the "Number One Pot in the World." Lastly, the Xuchang Soy Sauce Workshop (叙昌酱园) allows you to delve into the process of making Chinese doubanjiang (豆瓣酱fermented chili bean paste), soy sauce, and pickled vegetables.

After the tour, drive back to Hangzhou for accommodation.

This morning, your guide will meet you in the hotel lobby and escort you to Hangzhou high speed train station for your bullet train to Huangshan (about 1.5-2 hours).

Welcome to Huangshan, a city well-known for the Yellow Mountain! Upon your arrival in Huangshan, a local guide and driver will greet you at the train station exit and escort you to your hotel for check-in in Huangshan City. (Tip: It is suggested to arrive before 14:00)

After resting at your hotel, take a relaxing stroll on the 900-year-old Tunxi Ancient Street. Tunxi Old Street is paved with maroon flagstones, over 1,000 meters long, consisting of a main street, three cross streets, and 18 alleys. The buildings along the street have a distinctive local style known as Huizhou style, featuring white walls and black tiles, elaborate carvings. As you wander, you'll discover that many shops have been family-owned for over a century, offering a curious array of wares from inkstones and brushes to local teas and Mao badges. Don't miss the chance to savor local gastronomic delights like Mao Tofu (毛豆腐), Shaobing (烧饼), and the pungent Smelly Mandarin Fish (臭鳜鱼).

Located on the old street, the Tunxi Museum is a treasure trove that offers profound insights into the rich tapestry of Anhui's history. Here, you can marvel at a collection that spans Ming and Qing Dynasty furniture, delicate porcelain, and intricate Huizhou carvings. Special emphasis is given to the "Four Treasures of the Study" - the brush, ink, paper, and inkstone that are cornerstones of Chinese calligraphy and painting. Due to the long history and exceptional quality of these "Four Treasures" in Anhui, many scholars and artists prefer using them. These high-quality tools enjoy a great reputation not only in China but also internationally.

Your cultural exploration doesn't end here. Within a short distance, the Hu Kaiwen Ink-stick Factory is one of the oldest and most prestigious inkstick producers in China, renowned for producing high-quality inksticks. Huizhou Inksticks (徽墨) have long been considered the highest grade among all kinds of inksticks. In fact, the ingredients of inksticks remain a mystery, known only to a few remaining manufacturers of this traditional craft. Here, you can witness the process of making inksticks, which still preserves the essence of traditional craftsmanship with a hand-operated soot collection (点烟). Moreover, the factory boasts an extraordinary collection of 7,800 precious inkstick molds created by famous artists from various dynasties since the Ming and Qing dynasties. If you're interested in Chinese art, culture, or the tools used in traditional Chinese calligraphy and painting, it can be a unique and enlightening experience.

After breakfast, your guide and driver will pick you up from your hotel lobby. Today you are going to visit two iconic sites in the Huangshan region: Hongcun Village and the Yellow Mountain (Mount Huangshan).

Discover Hongcun Village - One of the Ancient Huizhou-style Villages

There are many ancient villages in China, while the ancient villages in southern Anhui have their own unique tradition. The ancient villages in southern Anhui are predominantly designed in the Huizhou architectural style, a school of design that showcases intricate wood carvings, walls of pristine white, and roofs of contrasting black tiles. The “Horsehead” walls, named for their shape, are another characteristic feature. These architectural elements come together to create scenes that seem plucked right from a traditional Chinese ink painting- serene, timeless, and profoundly beautiful. Huizhou villages often have a rich history tied to the Huizhou merchants, one of the three major commercial groups in ancient China. Upon amassing wealth, they often returned to their hometowns to build luxurious mansions, ancestral halls, and archways, contributing to their family-residing villages.

Today, you will visit one of the most representative Huizhou villages - Hongcun. It is renowned for its well-preserved ancient architecture and layout from the Ming and Qing Dynasties, designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 2000. Often described as a "village in a Chinese painting", Hongcun has become a magnet for photographers and artists, eager to capture its idyllic scenery and architectural grace.

Established in the Song Dynasty, Hongcun Village is over 900 years old. The lay of the Hongcun was remodeled according to geomantic (feng shui) ideas. It is common to see Hui-style villages often situated near mountains and water sources, aligning with the people Huizhou’s belief that harmony with the natural environment promotes the well-being and prosperity of the villagers. In the embrace of southern Anhui's rolling hills, Hongcun unfolds like a living ox-shaped tapestry. Leigang Hill forms its majestic “head,” crowned by two ancient trees as “horns.” The Moon Pond forms its “heart”, and South Lake is the “belly.” Four timeworn bridges stand as the ox's “feet”, straddling the tranquil Jiyin stream, while a meandering canal - the village's “intestines” - adds a flowing cadence to daily life. All these elements converge at the serene South Lake, a natural mirror that not only reflects the village's ethereal beauty but also anchors its feng shui harmony.

Step inside and you are led through labyrinthine cobblestone streets, meandering like poetic verses. These lanes, narrow yet inviting, seem to whisper the stories of generations past as they guide you through the village's “body,” a collection of white-walled, black-tiled Hui-style buildings. Here, 103 ancient buildings from the Ming and Qing dynasties, and 34 buildings from the Republican era are preserved. The villagers uphold time-honored traditions and customs, living a pastoral life that feels as if suspended in another era. The most beautiful sites are the expansive South Lake and the crescent-shaped Moon Pond. These tranquil bodies of water act as natural mirrors, capturing the timeless beauty of ancient bridges and classic Huizhou architecture as if they were scenes on a painted scroll. It is especially beautiful during the season when lotus flowers are in full bloom.

The ancient inhabitants of this village have left a rich legacy of material and spiritual wealth. On the north bank of Southern Lake, you will find South Lake Academy, a private ancient school that served the village, and was a good architectural representative of the family academies of Huizhou. Scattered throughout the village are several mansions, courtyards, and ancestral halls, such as Chengzhi Hall, Wang Ancestral Hall, Jingxiu Hall, Jingde Hall, and Lexu Hall. Among these, the Wang Ancestral Hall stands as the largest and most well-preserved family shrine in the village. A portrait of the Wang family's grand matriarch hangs on the left wall inside the hall - Hu Zhong who designed and led the construction of Hongcun's water management system, shaping the village into what it is today. Chengzhi Hall, founded by a salt merchant, is the largest private residence in Hongcun and is often referred to as the "Folk Forbidden City." The mansion is renowned for its intricate Huizhou "Three Carvings," which include brick carvings, wood carvings, and stone carvings. Among these, the wood carvings are particularly exceptional. Some are even gilded, exuding magnificence and opulence that testify to the wealth and prestige of its original owners.

Hiking Mount Huangshan (Yellow Mountain) - One of China's Five Sacred Mountains

Route: Yungu Cable Way - Begin-to-believe Peak - Dispelling Cloud Pavilion - Bright Summit - Flying-over Rock

Walking Distance: about 6km/5 hrs

After lunch, 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". Huangshan has been a subject of inspiration in Chinese art, literature, and traditional landscape paintings for centuries. More than 400 years ago, during the Ming Dynasty, Xu Xiake, a renowned geographer and traveler, visited Huangshan Mountain twice and uttered the famous phrase, "After visiting the Five Sacred Mountains, one does not need to see any other mountains; after visiting Huangshan, one does not need to see the Five Sacred Mountains". This illustrates the status and importance of Huangshan Mountain among the famous mountains in China.

To maximize your time and energy and experience the mountain's most mesmerizing sceneries on the top, a sightseeing bus will transfer you directly from the foot of the mountain to Yungu Temple. From here, you'll board the cableway to White Goose Ridge Station (8 mins). 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. Upon arrival, you'll notice the air is cooler and crisper. Now begins your trek 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. After soaking in the views at Begin-to-Believe Peak, you will trek for about 40 minutes to your mountaintop hotel for a break.

After the break, you have a couple of choices for watching the sunset: Cloud-Dispelling Pavilion or the higher-altitude Bright Summit. From Cloud-Dispelling Pavilion, it takes about 30 minutes to get back to the hotel. The Cloud-dispersing Pavilion is called so because the cloud will disperse upon reaching here. It is a good place to admire the absurd stones, cloud sea, strange peaks, and deep valleys. If time and energy allow, consider extending an hour-long trek to the Sky Sea Scenic Area to see Flying-over Rock. This massive rock, estimated to weigh around 360 tons and standing approximately 12 meters high, appears to balance precariously on a narrow base atop another boulder. Enjoy the sunset from the second highest peak - Bright Summit (1840m). After the sunset, it's a 40-minute trek back to your hotel.

Good to know:

1.Travel light! There is a lot of walking involved on the mountain, so it's recommended to carry only essential items and pack light. Alternatively, you can store your luggage at the mountain's base.
2. For environmental protection, some hotels on the mountain do not provide disposable toiletries, so it's advisable to bring your own.
3. Staying on the mountain allows you more time to appreciate additional scenic views of Huangshan, especially sunrise and sea of clouds. However, due to the high transportation costs on the mountain, hotel facilities may be limited. The star-rated hotels might not be up to the standard of those in big cities like Shanghai. Due to the moist weather on the mountains, the rooms could be a little humid. Despite the lack of choice, we will select a relatively comfortable hotel for you.

Route: Sunrise - West Sea Grand Canyon - Lion Peak - Begin-to-Believe Peak - Yungu Cable Way

Walking Distance: about 5km/4 hrs

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. As the sky gradually lightens, you'll witness one of nature's most glorious spectacles: the sun rising over the fabled peaks and valleys of Mount Huangshan. With hues of orange, pink, and gold illuminating the sky, it's a moment so sublime that it has been the muse of countless poets and painters for centuries. After the sunrise, get back to your hotel for breakfast. (Tip: The sunrise is influenced by the weather, but Huangshan in different weather conditions can unveil different forms of beauty. Even if the sky is overcast or foggy, it can create a mystical and ethereal atmosphere.)

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. The hike can be tailored to your energy level and time constraints; a 2-hour round-trip will get you to the 1st ring, while a 2.5-hour expedition will take you to the 2nd ring. (Please note: The thrilling and rugged trails make this activity challenging and physically demanding. Also, the West Sea Grand Canyon is usually closed during cold weather and heavy snow.)

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 cableway (8 mins) down the mountain. Our driver will be ready wait for you at the foot of mountain and and transfer you to catch your flight/train to the next destination. (Tip: It is suggested leave after 16:00.)

Thank you for choosing Asia Odyssey Travel for your China tour, and we are always here working for you and hope to see you again for your next trip to China/Asia. Safe journey!