7-Day Shanghai Hangzhou Shangrao Tour

Shanghai Arrival--Transfer to Hotel--Free Time

4+star hotels

Breakfast

Welcome to Shanghai, a dazzling fusion of the historic and the hyper-modern! Upon your arrival at the airport, you will be warmly greeted and transferred to your hotel. After the long flight, this day is yours to relax, acclimate to the new time zone, and start feeling the vibrant energy of this incredible city. Unpack, take a moment to unwind, and perhaps take a casual stroll around your hotel's neighborhood to get a first taste of local life. We recommend saving your energy for the adventures that begin tomorrow. In the evening, you might want to explore nearby local eateries for your first authentic taste of Shanghainese cuisine—perhaps some savory soup dumplings (Xiaolongbao) or a bowl of hearty noodles. This gentle introduction ensures you are refreshed and ready to dive deep into the rich tapestry of culture, history, and breathtaking sights that Shanghai has to offer, starting with a full day of iconic exploration tomorrow.

Yu Garden--Jade Buddha Temple--Nanjing Road--The Bund

4+star hotels

Breakfast

Today, we immerse ourselves in the heart of Shanghai. Our journey begins at the serene Yu Garden, a magnificent example of a classical Chinese garden from the Ming Dynasty. Wander through its peaceful landscapes, pavilions, and rockeries, a hidden oasis amidst the urban jungle. Next, we proceed to the revered Jade Buddha Temple, home to two exquisite jade Buddha statues brought from Burma. The atmosphere here is one of tranquil devotion, offering a profound spiritual experience. In the afternoon, we shift gears to the bustling Nanjing Road, one of the world's busiest shopping streets. Feel the pulsating energy as you explore a mix of modern malls and historic shops. As evening approaches, we culminate the day at The Bund. This famous waterfront promenade offers a stunning panorama of Shanghai's iconic skyline, where the colonial-era buildings of the past stand directly opposite the futuristic towers of Pudong, including the Oriental Pearl Tower. It’s a breathtaking sight, especially as the city lights begin to twinkle at dusk.

Take a high-speed Train to Hangzhou--Transfer to Hotel--Free Time

4+star hotels

Breakfast

Bid a temporary farewell to Shanghai as we board a modern high-speed train for a short and comfortable journey to Hangzhou, a city renowned for its unparalleled natural beauty and often described as "Paradise on Earth." The train ride itself is an experience, offering glimpses of the evolving Chinese landscape as we swiftly travel to one of the country's most beloved destinations. Upon arrival and checking into your hotel, the rest of your day is dedicated to exploring Hefang Street at your own pace. This lively historic street is a recreation of an ancient Southern Song Dynasty boulevard. Stroll past traditional architecture, browse a fascinating array of shops selling local crafts like silk and tea, and sample delicious Hangzhou snacks. The street is alive with cultural performances and the charming ambiance of old-world China, making it the perfect introduction to the leisurely pace and rich history that define the enchanting city of Hangzhou.

West Lake--Broken Bridge--Curved Yard Lotus Breeze--Xiaohe Straight Street (Grand Canal)

4+star hotels

Breakfast

Today is dedicated to exploring the legendary West Lake, the UNESCO World Heritage site that is the very soul of Hangzhou. Our day begins with a visit to the Broken Bridge (Duanqiao), steeped in the famous Chinese folktale of the White Snake. Whether you see it under a dusting of snow or amidst lush greenery, its poetic charm is undeniable. We then continue to the Curved Yard Lotus Breeze (Quyuan Fenghe), a garden particularly stunning in summer when its ponds are filled with blooming lotus flowers, creating a scene of serene beauty. In the afternoon, we escape the more tourist-trodden paths and head to Xiaohe Straight Street (Xiaohe Zhijie). Located along the historic Grand Canal, this area offers a glimpse into the old canal life with its preserved traditional houses, now housing quaint cafes, independent art studios, and boutique shops. It’s a quieter, more artistic side of Hangzhou that provides a perfect, peaceful contrast to the day's earlier sights.

Lingyin Temple--Feilai Feng Grottoes--Hight-speed Train to Wangxian Valley

4+star hotels

Breakfast

On our final morning in Hangzhou, we seek spiritual enrichment at one of China's most famous and revered Buddhist temples, Lingyin Temple (Temple of the Soul's Retreat). Nestled in a forested valley, the temple complex is a place of profound peace, featuring magnificent halls, intricate carvings, and a palpable sense of history. The journey to the temple takes you through the Feilai Feng Grottoes (Peak Flown From Afar), where you can marvel at hundreds of ancient Buddhist statues carved into the limestone caves and cliffs over a millennium ago. After this inspiring visit, we will enjoy lunch before transferring to the railway station. Here, we board another high-speed train, this time heading towards the mystical and photogenic Wangxian Valley, an ancient village dramatically built into a cliffside, where a night of unique accommodation and stunning views awaits.

Wangxian Valley--Back to Shanghai

4+star hotels

Breakfast

Awake in the breathtaking Wangxian Valley, a remarkable destination that seems plucked from a fantasy film or ancient Chinese painting. This entire day is yours to freely explore this immersive experience. During the day, hike along the scenic trails that weave through the canyon, crossing swaying suspension bridges and passing by cascading waterfalls. The village's distinctive ancient-style architecture, built precariously along the cliff face, creates a spectacular visual spectacle. As dusk falls, the true magic of Wangxian Valley reveals itself. The entire canyon is illuminated by thousands of lights, transforming it into a dazzling, golden dreamscape. The view of the glowing village reflected in the river below is an unforgettable sight and a photographer's paradise. After a full day of exploration and witnessing this mesmerizing transformation, we will return journey to Shanghai, checking into our hotel upon arrival.

Shanghai Departure

Breakfast

Savor a final leisurely breakfast in Shanghai, perhaps enjoying one last taste of local flavors. Depending on your flight schedule, you may have some free time for some last-minute souvenir shopping or a final stroll through the city's vibrant streets. Afterwards, at the pre-arranged time, you will be transferred from your hotel to Shanghai Pudong International Airport or Shanghai Hongqiao International Airport for your departing flight. We hope you leave with a camera full of stunning photos, a deeper understanding of China's diverse beauty, and cherished memories of your journey.