Discover the best of Eastern China on this carefully designed 9-day cultural journey, combining the vibrant metropolis of Shanghai, the classical gardens of Suzhou, the scenic beauty of Hangzhou, the UNESCO-listed landscapes of Mount Huangshan, the ancient villages of Hongcun and Huizhou, and the rich history of Nanjing. Unlike standard sightseeing tours, this itinerary combines iconic landmarks with authentic cultural experiences, including traditional embroidery, oil paper umbrella painting, and Huizhou ink-making workshops. Travelers will also enjoy high-speed rail travel, comfortable accommodations, carefully selected regional cuisine, and professional tour guides, creating a seamless and immersive journey through some of China's most celebrated cultural destinations.
We offer complimentary pickup from Shanghai Pudong International Airport (PVG), Shanghai Hongqiao International Airport (SHA), and hotels within downtown Shanghai. Please provide your flight details or hotel information at least 48 hours before departure. Our local team will contact you one day before the tour to confirm the exact pickup time and meeting point.
Arrival in Shanghai Arrive in Shanghai in the afternoon. Meet your local representative at the airport and receive assistance with immigration procedures and baggage collection. Transfer to your hotel in downtown Shanghai for check-in and some time to relax. If time permits, guests are encouraged to explore Shanghai at their own pace. Recommended areas include the famous Nanjing Road Pedestrian Street, The Bund, and Yuyuan Bazaar, where you can experience the city's unique blend of modern skyline, colonial architecture, local culture, and traditional Shanghai snacks.
After breakfast, experience the world-famous Shanghai Maglev Train, the fastest commercial magnetic levitation railway, reaching speeds of up to 431 km/h.
Continue to the Shanghai Tower Observation Deck, China's tallest building, where you can enjoy breathtaking 360-degree panoramic views of Shanghai's modern skyline from the 118th floor.
Later, board the Shanghai Sightseeing Bus for a relaxing tour through the city's iconic districts and landmarks, offering a unique perspective of Shanghai's vibrant urban landscape.
In the evening, guests may choose to join an optional Huangpu River Cruise (at own expense) to admire the spectacular contrast between the historic Bund and the illuminated skyscrapers of Pudong.
After breakfast, board a high-speed train from Shanghai to Suzhou, a city celebrated for its UNESCO-listed classical gardens and rich cultural heritage.
Visit the Humble Administrator's Garden, one of China's most famous classical gardens and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Explore its elegant pavilions, tranquil ponds, winding corridors, and traditional landscape design that embody the essence of Jiangnan garden art.
Continue to the Suzhou Embroidery Museum, where you'll learn about the history of Suzhou embroidery, one of China's most refined traditional handicrafts. Enjoy a hands-on embroidery workshop guided by skilled artisans.
In the afternoon, stroll through Pingjiang Road Historic Block, a well-preserved canal-side neighborhood featuring stone bridges, traditional residences, teahouses, and local boutiques.
In the evening, visit the beautifully illuminated Master of the Nets Garden and enjoy traditional Kunqu Opera and Pingtan performances before transferring to Hangzhou for an overnight stay.
West Lake is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of China's most iconic scenic destinations. Stroll along its peaceful lakeside paths, admire elegant bridges, willow-lined shores, and picturesque gardens, while experiencing the timeless beauty that has inspired poets and artists for centuries.
Visit Leifeng Pagoda, one of Hangzhou's most famous landmarks overlooking West Lake. Ascend the pagoda for spectacular panoramic views and learn about the legendary story of the White Snake, one of China's most beloved folk tales.
Lingyin Temple is one of China's most important and historic Buddhist temples, with a history dating back over 1,600 years. Explore its magnificent halls, ancient architecture, and tranquil surroundings while learning about Chinese Buddhist culture and traditions.
Explore Feilai Peak Scenic Area, renowned for its remarkable collection of ancient Buddhist grottoes and stone carvings dating from the 10th to the 14th centuries. The scenic area combines impressive cultural relics with beautiful natural landscapes.
Join a traditional Hangzhou Oil Paper Umbrella Workshop, where you'll learn about the history and craftsmanship of this centuries-old folk art. Under the guidance of experienced artisans, create and decorate your own handmade oil paper umbrella as a memorable cultural souvenir.
In the evening, enjoy the spectacular Romance of the Song Dynasty live performance, showcasing Hangzhou's history, legends, and the prosperity of the Southern Song Dynasty through music, dance, and stunning stage effects
Travel by High-speed Train from Hangzhou to Huangshan, enjoying a comfortable and efficient journey through the picturesque countryside of eastern China.
Travel by high-speed train from Hangzhou to Mount Huangshan, one of China's most spectacular UNESCO World Heritage Sites. Upon arrival, transfer to the scenic area and board the Yungu Cableway for a comfortable ascent into the heart of the mountain. Explore some of Huangshan's most iconic viewpoints, including Beginning-to-Believe Peak, famous for its ancient pine trees and breathtaking granite peaks, and Monkey Watching the Sea, one of the mountain's best-known natural rock formations overlooking a sea of clouds. In the evening, check in to a mountaintop hotel. Weather permitting, enjoy the unforgettable sunset over Mount Huangshan, where golden light, dramatic peaks, and drifting clouds create one of China's most spectacular natural landscapes.
Begin the day with an early morning visit to admire the spectacular sunrise over Mount Huangshan, weather permitting. Watch the first rays of sunlight illuminate the granite peaks and rolling sea of clouds, creating one of China's most breathtaking natural spectacles. Continue to explore the famous West Sea Grand Canyon, renowned for its dramatic cliffs, towering peaks, and mist-filled valleys. Ride the scenic funicular through the canyon before visiting Bright Summit, the second-highest peak of Mount Huangshan, offering magnificent panoramic views. Later, pass iconic landmarks including Aoyu Peak, Lotus Peak, and the world-famous Greeting Pine, one of the most recognizable symbols of Mount Huangshan. Descend the mountain by the Yuping Cableway, concluding your unforgettable Huangshan experience.
After descending the mountain, travel to Hongcun Ancient Village, a UNESCO World Heritage Site celebrated for its remarkably preserved Huizhou architecture and picturesque rural scenery. Visit the historic Chengzhi Hall, often referred to as the "Folk Forbidden City" for its exquisite wood, brick, and stone carvings. Continue exploring Hongcun's most iconic landmarks, including South Lake, the charming Painting Bridge, and Moon Pond, where centuries-old residences and tranquil waterways create the timeless beauty that inspired the film Crouching Tiger, Hidden Dragon.
Travel to Huizhou Ancient City, one of China's four best-preserved ancient cities and the historic center of Huizhou culture. Visit the ancient Huizhou Prefecture Government Office to learn about the region's administrative history and cultural heritage. Continue with a traditional Huizhou Ink Making Workshop, where you'll discover the craftsmanship behind one of China's Four Treasures of the Study. Learn the traditional techniques of ink production and create your own handcrafted ink under the guidance of skilled artisans.
In the afternoon, travel by high-speed train to Nanjing. In the evening, explore the historic Confucius Temple (Fuzimiao) and the picturesque Qinhuai River Scenic Area. Stroll along the lively riverside streets, admire the illuminated traditional architecture, and experience the vibrant atmosphere of one of Nanjing's most iconic cultural districts.
Visit Dr. Sun Yat-sen's Mausoleum, the final resting place of Dr. Sun Yat-sen, the founding father of modern China. Set against the scenic Zhongshan Mountain, the mausoleum is celebrated for its grand architecture, historical significance, and peaceful natural surroundings.
Explore the Ming Xiaoling Mausoleum, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and the burial place of the Hongwu Emperor, founder of the Ming Dynasty, and Empress Ma. Walk along the famous Sacred Way, lined with impressive stone animal and guardian statues, and discover the architectural traditions of China's imperial tombs.
After sightseeing, enjoy free time at Xinjiekou, Nanjing's premier shopping and commercial district, where you can explore local boutiques, department stores, or relax at a café. In the evening, board a high-speed train back to Shanghai and transfer to a hotel near Shanghai Airport for an overnight stay.
After breakfast, enjoy some free time until your scheduled airport transfer. At the designated time, your driver will take you to Shanghai Pudong International Airport or Shanghai Hongqiao International Airport, depending on your flight schedule. After check-in, board your international flight back to Vancouver, bringing your unforgettable journey through Shanghai, Suzhou, Hangzhou, Huangshan, Hongcun, Huizhou, and Nanjing to a memorable conclusion. We sincerely thank you for traveling with us and hope to welcome you again on another adventure in China.
If you cancel at least 3 full day(s) before the scheduled departure time, you will receive a full refund.
If you cancel within 3 day(s) of the scheduled departure, you will receive a 0% refund.
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