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. 

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 explore the China National Tea Museum, the only national museum dedicated entirely to tea culture. It houses 3,865 items, including ancient tea specimens and foreign tea sets. The museum has two branches: (1) Shuangfeng Branch - closer to West Lake, featuring Jiangnan-style garden, a statue of Lu Yu, and exhibits on Longjing Tea and Chinese tea history. (2) Longjing Branch - set on a hillside overlooking West Lake, focusing on global tea culture, traditional tea-making techniques, and historic tea rituals such as Tang-dynasty tea boiling and Song-dynasty Dian Cha.

Continue to Meijiawu Tea Culture Village, the largest Longjing Tea-producing area. Known for receiving state leaders and foreign guests since the 1950s, the village becomes especially lively during the Qingming tea-picking season. More than 30,000 fresh tea buds are needed to produce 1 kg of premium Longjing Tea. Stroll through streets lined with Ming and Qing architecture, tea houses, and workshops. Visit Lu Zhenghao Tea Plantation to witness traditional tea roasting. If time permits, you can stop by the Premier Zhou Enlai Memorial Hall (closed Mondays). Meijiawu is also a great place to enjoy lunch featuring authentic Hangzhou cuisine and Longjing tea.

Afterward, experience West Lake (UNESCO World Heritage Site) like a local. West Lake is famous for temples, gardens, bridges, pagodas, tea houses, willow-lined paths, and literary heritage. Countless poems, legends, and love stories are tied to its beauty. Choose your way to explore: take a walk, bike (free for the first hour), take a lake cruise (self-pay), or ride a sightseeing bus (self-pay).

Walk along the Su Causeway (苏堤) and recall Su Dongpo’s famous lines:

“The shimmering ripples delight the eye on sunny days;

The misty hills are marvelous in rainy haze…”

If you’re a fan of Chinese legends, you may also explore:

• Wan Song Academy (万松书院) where Liang Shanbo and Zhu Yingtai studied together in the “Butterfly Lovers” legend.
• Long Bridge (长桥) their farewell spot, now known for views of Leifeng Pagoda at Sunset.
• Leifeng Pagoda (self-pay) - central to the legend of The White Snake, one of China’s most beloved myths.

Fans of Dream of the Red Chamber can visit the filming site Quyuan Fenghe (曲院风荷) or take a boat tour (self-pay) to Three Ponds Mirroring the Moon, the scene depicted on the Chinese one-yuan banknote.

After enjoying West Lake, visit Jingci Temple (净慈寺), facing Leifeng Pagoda across the lake. Founded in 954, it is famous for the “Evening Bell at Nanping Hill,” one of the Ten Scenes of West Lake, and is associated with the legendary monk Ji Gong. Every afternoon after 4:00 PM, the temple bell echo across the hills. Enjoy peaceful view and feel its charm.

Later, stroll through Qinghefang Street (Hefang Street), the historic marketplace of the Southern Song Dynasty. Here you can explore traditional workshops, snack stalls, and the century-old Chinese medicine pharmacy Hu Qing Yu Tang, now also a museum (self-pay). Founded by Hu Xueyan, one of the wealthiest merchants of the late Qing Dynasty, the site displays Qing-style architecture and traditional medicine-making demonstrations. Time permitting, visit the Former Residence of Hu Xueyan.

Optional Evening Programs:

1. Impression West Lake Show (19:40–20:35)

A world-famous outdoor performance directed by Zhang Yimou, staged directly on West Lake with lights, music, dance, and breathtaking water effects. It features scenes inspired by classical poems, legends, and music including “The Butterfly Lovers,” “High Mountains and Flowing Water,” and “Memories of Jiangnan.” (Tickets must be booked in advance. Shows may be canceled due to weather or technical issues.)

1. Hangzhou Grand Canal Night Cruise (19:00/19:30/20:20; about 1 hour)

Enjoy a nighttime cruise on the world’s oldest and longest man-made canal (UNESCO). The 2,500-year-old Beijing-Hangzhou Grand Canal is beautifully illuminated at night. See cultural squares, historic wharfs, old warehouses, and the ancient Gongchen Bridge before returning to Wulinmen Wharf. (Best time: April–October. In winter, cruise schedules may be reduced.)

This morning, your guide and driver will meet you at your hotel and take you to Wuzhen Water Town (Xizha Scenic Area, 西栅景区). It is located about 80 km northeast of Hangzhou (around 1-1.5 hours by car). Known as one of the most popular and best-preserved ancient water towns in the Jiangnan region, Wuzhen stands out even among the famous “Top Six Water Towns” such as Zhouzhuang, Tongli, Luzhi, Xitang, and Nanxun.

Wuzhen perfectly embodies the classic charm of a Jiangnan Water Town, with its well-preserved Ming and Qing Dynasty architecture, flowing canals, graceful arched bridges, ancient docks, riverside pavilions, stone-paved alleys, and traditional teahouses. The local residents still enjoy an authentic waterside lifestyle and unique folk customs, creating a landscape often described as a Chinese ink-painting come to life. It’s no wonder people say, “Once you come to Wuzhen, you’ll never want to leave,” as the town’s romantic, nostalgic atmosphere captures the essence of old China.

Xizha Scenic Area is composed of twelve small islands connected by more than seventy bridges and waterways, forming a well-designed, immersive experience. Upon arrival, you will stroll along the riverside and main streets - plan to spend at least 3-4 hours exploring this large area. Take your time to enjoy its beauty and local culture.

You won’t miss the charming attractions (passing by or visiting as many as possible. To save time, not every minor stop will be included) such as Indigo Fabric Workshop (草木本色染坊), Zhaoming Academy (昭明书院), Foot-binding Culture Museum (三寸金莲博物馆), Wuzhen Old Post Office (乌镇邮局), White Lotus Pagoda (白莲塔), and Guandi Temple (关帝庙), along with lively highlights like the Water Theatre (水上戏台), Xuchang Sauce Garden (叙昌酱园), and the Water Market (水上集市). As you wander through the canals and alleyways, your guide will share the stories, history, and traditions that make this region so culturally rich. Relax and enjoy the slow rhythm here.

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!