{"id":35953,"date":"2025-07-11T02:54:42","date_gmt":"2025-07-11T02:54:42","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/hellochinatrip.com\/?post_type=product&p=35953"},"modified":"2025-09-15T06:46:11","modified_gmt":"2025-09-15T06:46:11","slug":"8-days-shanghai-jiangnan-tour-with-rising-star-wangxian-valley","status":"publish","type":"product","link":"https:\/\/hellochinatrip.com\/product\/8-days-shanghai-jiangnan-tour-with-rising-star-wangxian-valley\/","title":{"rendered":"8 Days Shanghai Jiangnan Tour with Rising Star Wangxian Valley"},"content":{"rendered":"\t\t
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8 Days Shanghai Jiangnan Tour with Rising Star Wangxian Valley<\/strong><\/p>\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t

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Must-see & Must-do\uff1a<\/h2>\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t
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Highlight 1: Explore China\u2019s most iconic metropolis: Shanghai. Stroll along the iconic Bund, admire the futuristic skyline featuring Shanghai Tower, and immerse yourself in the blend of East and West at Yu Garden and Nanjing Road.<\/h6><\/div><\/div><\/div>\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t
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Highlight 2: Slow your pace in Hangzhou, often praised as “heaven on Earth.” Glide across West Lake, sip Longjing tea in the misty hills of Meijiawu, and feel the serene rhythm of classical Chinese life.<\/h6><\/div><\/div><\/div><\/div><\/div>\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t
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Highlight 3: Step into Wangxian Valley, a dreamlike realm where cliffs, waterfalls, and glowing pavilions converge into a scene straight from a Chinese myth. As dusk falls, cliffside buildings outlined in golden light turn the mountainside into a \u201cHeavenly Palace on the Clouds.\u201d<\/h6><\/div><\/div><\/div><\/div>\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t
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Highlight 4: Hike the Yellow Mountain, one of China’s Five Sacred Mountains, and prepare to be awestruck by its natural wonders. Its granite peaks and twisted pines are often enveloped in mystical mist, creating ethereal and mystical views.<\/h6><\/div><\/div><\/div><\/div><\/div>\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t
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Highlight 5<\/span>: Wander through the centuries-old Tunxi Ancient Street, where you’ll be immersed in the rich history of Huizhou architecture. Visit the Hu Kaiwen Ink-stick Factory to witness the traditional art of crafting Huizhou Inksticks.<\/h6><\/div><\/div><\/div><\/div>\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t
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Itinerary Quick Look\uff1a<\/h2>\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t
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Nihao! Welcome to Shanghai<\/strong>, China\u2019s 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.<\/p>

Arrival Ideas:<\/strong><\/p>

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.<\/p><\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t

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On this day, your guide will take you to Lujiazui Financial District in Shanghai Pudong New Area to\u00a0the highest building in China<\/strong>\u00a0– the\u00a0Shanghai Tower<\/strong>. It features a dramatic 120-degree twist from its base to its peak. Take the\u00a0world’s fastest lifts<\/strong>\u00a0(traveling at 64km\/h) to the “Top of Shanghai Observatory”<\/strong>\u00a0located on the 118th floor, 546 meters above ground level. Here, you’ll have the unparalleled opportunity to enjoy a\u00a0360-degree panoramic view<\/strong>\u00a0of modern Shanghai and also look down upon the\u00a0Oriental Pearl TV Tower<\/strong>\u00a0(a cultural landmark of Shanghai),\u00a0Jin Mao Tower<\/strong>\u00a0(a traditional Chinese pagoda-like structure with a modern style) and the\u00a0Shanghai World Financial Center<\/strong>\u00a0(the third tallest building in China and the fifth tallest in the world).<\/p>

Next, move to\u00a0Yu Garden<\/strong>, 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 !\u00a0Yu Garden<\/strong>\u00a0was a private garden of the Ming Dynasty (1368-1644) with a history of\u00a0over 460 years<\/strong>, was built in 1559 by\u00a0Pan Yunduan (\u6f58\u5141\u7aef)<\/strong>\u00a0for 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\u00a0iconic Jiuqu Bridge<\/strong>\u00a0(\u4e5d\u66f2\u6865Nine-Bend Bridge\/Zigzag Causeway) and the\u00a0Huxin Pavilion<\/strong>\u00a0(\u6e56\u5fc3\u4eadMid-lake Pavilion, built in the Qing Dynasty, 1616-1912). According to\u00a0Chinese Fengshui<\/strong>, 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\u00a0crafted dragons<\/strong>\u00a0hidden in the buildings, count them, and learn more about the Chinese dragon totem from your guide.<\/p>

Later, explore\u00a0Yuyuan Bazaar<\/strong>\u00a0(Chenghuangmiao Market) outside Yu Garden which is a vibrant\u00a0Shanghai Old Street<\/strong>\u00a0where you can\u00a0try Shanghai\u2019s local snacks<\/strong>\u00a0such as Xiaolongbao (Nanxiang Steamed Bun Restaurant\u5c0f\u7b3c\u5305), Pan-Fried Pork Buns (Fried Dumplings\u751f\u714e\u5305),\u00a0Soup Dumplings<\/strong>\u00a0(\u704c\u6c64\u5305), and Won-ton Soup (\u4e0a\u6d77\u9984\u9968). You can also buy some traditional Chinese handicrafts and artworks for souvenirs here.<\/p>

After lunch, it’s time to venture into the\u00a0Xintiandi<\/strong>\u00a0near the French Concession, where you can admire the elegant residences that stand as a testament to that era.\u00a0Xintiandi (\u65b0\u5929\u5730)<\/strong>\u00a0is a bustling place that seamlessly blends\u00a0Shikumen architecture (\u77f3\u5e93\u95e8)<\/strong>\u00a0with 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\u00a0\u201cNong Tang\u201d (\u5f04\u5802alleyway)<\/strong>\u00a0homes and stands as the pioneering development in the city, demonstrating the commercial viability of preserving historical architecture.<\/p>

Then, enjoy a leisure walk\u00a0from Nanjing Road to the Bund<\/strong>, which is less than a 2 km walk.\u00a0Nanjing Road Pedestrian Street<\/strong>\u00a0is 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.<\/p>

At last, move to\u00a0the Bund<\/strong>, the\u00a0Top 1 Place to Visit on the Shanghai Bucket List.<\/strong>\u00a0The Bund is the best spot to view\u00a0the Oriental Pearl TV Tower<\/strong>\u00a0(a symbol of Shanghai<\/strong>) and\u00a0the three skyscrapers of Lujiazui<\/strong>\u00a0that are famed as the “Kitchen Three Piece Set<\/strong>” (\u9646\u5bb6\u5634\u4e09\u4ef6\u5957) by locals due to their shapes: a syringe (Jin Mao Tower, 421m<\/strong>), bottle opener (Shanghai World Financial Center, 493m<\/strong>), and eggbeater (Shanghai Tower, 546m)<\/strong>, respectively. Kown as \u201cAn Exhibition of International Buildings<\/strong>\u201d,\u00a0the Bund<\/strong>\u00a0is 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<\/strong>” (\u8fdc\u4e1c\u534e\u5c14\u8857). You will visit the Zhapu Road Bridge (\u4e4d\u6d66\u8def\u6865) to capture the “Shanghai Version of Seine River Scenery<\/strong>“(\u4e0a\u6d77\u7248\u585e\u7eb3\u6cb3\u98ce\u5149), followed by Waibaidu Bridge (\u5916\u767d\u6e21\u6865Garden Bridge of Shanghai), where you can admire the Russian Consulate building (\u4fc4\u7f57\u65af\u9886\u4e8b\u9986green roof) that combines Baroque and German Renaissance styles. At\u00a0Huangpu Park<\/strong>\u00a0(\u9ec4\u57d4\u516c\u56ed), established in 1886, you can pay tribute to the Monument to the People’s Heroes (\u4eba\u6c11\u82f1\u96c4\u7eaa\u5ff5\u5854) and discover more about the history of the Bund. After passing the Peace Hotel, you won’t miss the iconic\u00a0Clock Tower<\/strong>\u00a0at the\u00a0Shanghai Customs House<\/strong>\u00a0(\u6c5f\u6d77\u5173\u5927\u697c), the HSBC Building (\u6c47\u4e30\u94f6\u884c), the Golden Bull Plaza (\u91d1\u725b\u5e7f\u573asculpture of a golden bull), and the Gutzlaff Signal Tower (\u5916\u6ee9\u5929\u6587\u53f0), all of which are\u00a0classic attractions of the Bund<\/strong>.<\/p><\/div><\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t

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This morning, your guide will meet you in the hotel lobby and escort you to\u00a0Shanghai high speed train station<\/strong>\u00a0for your\u00a0bullet train to Hangzhou<\/strong>\u00a0(about 1 hour, 158km). And, welcome to Hangzhou, the \u201cHeaven on Earth\u201d and a cultural city with a history of over 5,000 years.<\/p>

You will first visit the picturesque\u00a0West Lake<\/strong>\u00a0(UNESCO World Heritage Site) like a local. The West Lake (\u897f\u6e56) 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\u00a0the city symbol of Hangzhou<\/strong>, 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\u00a0Su Dongpo<\/strong>\u00a0(\u82cf\u4e1c\u5761, The Gay Genius), the classic legend of “The White Snake<\/strong>” (\u767d\u86c7\u4f20), and the tragic romance of “The Butterfly Lovers<\/strong>” (\u6881\u795d), whose fame rivals that of Shakespeare’s “Romeo and Juliet.”<\/p>

You can choose to walk along the\u00a0Su Causeway<\/strong>\u00a0(\u82cf\u5824, 2km long; built by Su Dongpo) while enjoying the famous poetry that aptly captures the beauty of West Lake, written by Su Dongpo (\u82cf\u8f7c): “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\u00a0Su Dongpo Memorial Hall<\/strong>\u00a0(\u82cf\u4e1c\u5761\u7eaa\u5ff5\u9986, 550m away from Leifeng Pagoda).<\/p>

If you are interested in “The Butterfly Lovers<\/strong>” (\u6881\u795d\/Liang Shanbo and Zhu Yingtai\/Liang Zhu), an intangible cultural heritage of China with a history of 1,700 years, you can visit the\u00a0Wan Song Ancient Academy<\/strong>\u00a0(\u4e07\u677e\u4e66\u9662, 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\u00a0Long Bridge<\/strong>\u00a0(\u957f\u6865, 900m away from Leifeng Pagoda), where they bid farewell with deep affection. Nowadays, it is a popular location for couples to take photos of\u00a0Leifeng Pagoda in the Sunset<\/strong>\u00a0(\u96f7\u5cf0\u5915\u7167). Speaking of\u00a0Leifeng Pagoda<\/strong>, you can’t miss the touching legend of “The White Snake” (\u767d\u86c7\u4f20) – “After cultivating for 1700 years, the White Snake transformed into the beautiful\u00a0Bai Niangzi<\/strong>\u00a0(\u767d\u5a18\u5b50). She descended to the mortal realm to search for her past-life benefactor,\u00a0Xu Xian<\/strong>\u00a0(\u8bb8\u4ed9). They met on the\u00a0Broken Bridge<\/strong>\u00a0(\u65ad\u6865), 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 (\u51c0\u6148\u5bfa), which is famous for being one of the “Ten Scenes of the West Lake” (\u897f\u6e56\u5341\u666f) – “Evening Bell Ringing at the Nanping Hill”(\u5357\u5c4f\u665a\u949f).<\/p>

If you are a loyal fan of “Dream of the Red Chamber<\/strong>” (\u7ea2\u697c\u68a6), you must visit the filming location of the 1987 TV series “Dream of the Red Chamber”, the\u00a0Curved Yard and Lotus Pool in Summer<\/strong>\u00a0(\u66f2\u9662\u98ce\u8377), to reminisce about the scene of Lin Daiyu and Jia Bao Yu secretly reading “The Romance of West Chamber” (\u897f\u53a2\u8bb0). 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\u00a0Three Ponds Mirroring the Moon<\/strong>\u00a0(\u4e09\u6f6d\u5370\u6708) to capture the photo seen on the\u00a0Chinese One Yuan Note<\/strong>\u00a0(\u4e00\u5143\u4eba\u6c11\u5e01\u98ce\u666f). 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.<\/p>

After lunch, head to\u00a0Lingyin Temple<\/strong>\u00a0(\u7075\u9690\u5bfa), situated at the west end of West Lake and inside the\u00a0Feilai Peak Scenic Area<\/strong>\u00a0(\u98de\u6765\u5cf0\u666f\u533a). As one of the “Top 10\u00a0Zen Buddhist Temples<\/strong>\u00a0in China”, Lingyin Temple is considered a sanctuary for the soul and attracts countless pilgrims. Founded in 328 AD by\u00a0an Indian monk named Hui Li<\/strong>\u00a0(\u6167\u7406), 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,\u00a0Peak Flying from Afar<\/strong>\u00a0(\u98de\u6765\u5cf0, Feilai Peak). Composed of limestone, it stands out distinctively from the surrounding mountains. Legend has it that when\u00a0Hui Li<\/strong>\u00a0saw this peak, he exclaimed, “It’s a part of\u00a0Holy Mount Grahrakuta<\/strong>. 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\u00a0two stone pagodas<\/strong>\u00a0(built in 960 AD) located on the east and west sides in front of the Great Hall of the Mahavira. These pagodas are\u00a0the oldest relics of the temple<\/strong>. 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\u00a0the largest statue of the Buddha Sakyamuni in the lotus position<\/strong>, and believers lighting incense as they offer their prayers. It is believed that the most effective prayer at Lingyin Temple is for\u00a0seeking romantic relationships<\/strong>. Also, for Chinese people, Lingyin Temple is the place where the famous\u00a0Jigong (\u6d4e\u516c)<\/strong>\u00a0became a monk and practiced. Jigong is usually known as a legendary\u00a0mad monk<\/strong>\u00a0who helped people with a magic fan, although he could have been a real person named\u00a0Li Xiuyuan<\/strong>\u00a0(\u674e\u4fee\u7f18, 1130 or 1148-1209) from the Southern Song Dynasty. You can learn more interesting stories about the\u00a0crazy monk<\/strong>\u00a0at the\u00a0Hall of Jigong (\u6d4e\u516c\u6bbf)<\/strong>.<\/p>

Next, you will visit\u00a0China National Tea Museum<\/strong>\u00a0(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\u00a0two distinct branches:<\/strong>\u00a0Shuangfeng Branch and Longjing Branch (located 3km apart).\u00a0Shuangfeng Branch<\/strong>\u00a0is closer to West Lake and is a beautiful Jiangnan-style garden. Besides a statue of Lu Yu (\u8336\u5723\u9646\u7fbd), the Sage of Tea, and a special exhibition on\u00a0West Lake Longjing Tea<\/strong>, here, you can learn about\u00a0Chinese Tea Culture<\/strong>\u00a0and the life cycle of tea plants, appreciate various exquisite tea utensils, gain insights into ancient tea-drinking and tea-making methods.\u00a0Longjing Branch<\/strong>\u00a0is built on a hillside, with tea trees, tea pavilions, and ponds interspersed in between. From the tea altar at the mountaintop, you can enjoy\u00a0panoramic views of West Lake<\/strong>\u00a0and the surrounding tea mountains. In Longjing Branch, you can learn about\u00a0Global Tea Culture<\/strong>, 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\u00a0Song Dynasty’s Dian Cha<\/strong>\u00a0(\u70b9\u8336foam art on the tea cup). (Note:<\/strong>\u00a0You can choose the branch you would like to visit based on your interests and available time.)<\/p>

Lastly, move to\u00a0Meijiawu Tea Culture Village<\/strong>, the biggest Longjing Tea producing spot. It is said that a trip to Hangzhou won\u2019t 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<\/strong>“, 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\u00a0Lu Zhenghao Tea Plantation<\/strong>\u00a0(\u5362\u6b63\u6d69\u8336\u5e84) to see the old tea roasting process and learn traditional tea-making techniques, experiencing the charm of intangible cultural heritage. Lu Zhenghao (\u5362\u6b63\u6d69) is well-known in the Hangzhou tea industry.\u00a0Premier Zhou Enlai<\/strong>\u00a0visited 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\u00a0Premier Zhou Memorial Hall<\/strong>\u00a0(\u5468\u603b\u7406\u7eaa\u5ff5\u5ba4, 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.<\/p>

Free Time Idea:<\/strong><\/p>

At your free time, you can move to stroll through\u00a0Qinghefang Street (Hefang Street \u6e05\u6cb3\u574a)<\/strong>, 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\u00a0the markets at the back of the imperial court of the Southern Song Dynasty (1127-1279), Hefang Street (\u6cb3\u574a\u8857) 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 –\u00a0Hu Qing Yu Tang<\/strong>\u00a0(\u80e1\u5e86\u4f59\u5802 intangible cultural heritage), a 100-year-old traditional Chinese medicine pharmacy and\u00a0Traditional Chinese Medicine Museum<\/strong>\u00a0(self-pay\u80e1\u5e86\u4f59\u5802\u4e2d\u836f\u535a\u7269\u9986). Founded by Hu Xueyan (\u80e1\u96ea\u5ca9) 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” (\u91d1\u94f2\u94f6\u9505) 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\u00a0Former Residence of Hu Xueyan<\/strong>\u00a0(\u80e1\u96ea\u5ca9\u6545\u5c45) to learn more about Hu Xueyan and his brand of Hu Qing Yu Tang.<\/p><\/div><\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t

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Today, you will be transferred to\u00a0Hanghzhou East Railway Station<\/strong>\u00a0to take a 2-hour\u00a0high-speed train to Shangrao in Jiangxi.<\/strong><\/p>

Welcome to\u00a0Shangrao<\/strong>, the\u00a0gateway to Wangxian Valley (\u671b\u4ed9\u8c37)<\/strong>. Upon your arrival at\u00a0Shangrao Railway Station<\/strong>, a local guide and driver will greet you and transfer you to\u00a0Wangxian Valley<\/strong>\u00a0(about 50 km, 1.5 hours). Upon arrival, your guide will help you check in and\u00a0take a short break.<\/p>

As dusk settles and the lights begin to glow, the contours of the cliffside buildings In\u00a0Wangxian Valley<\/strong>\u00a0become clearly outlined in warm, soft light. The entire mountain cliff transforms, seemingly a “Heavenly Palace on Cloud Nine<\/strong>”\u00a0descended from a myth.<\/p>

It’s truly a sight that brings to mind the Tang Dynasty poet Li Bai’s lines:<\/p>

“\u5371\u697c\u9ad8\u767e\u5c3a\uff0c\u624b\u53ef\u6458\u661f\u8fb0\u3002\u4e0d\u6562\u9ad8\u58f0\u8bed\uff0c\u6050\u60ca\u5929\u4e0a\u4eba\u3002”<\/p>

“High towers reach a hundred feet, one can almost pluck the stars. Dare not speak aloud, for fear of startling the immortals in the heavens.”<\/p>

Strolling through\u00a0Wangxian Valley, you’ll feel as if you’ve stepped into a vibrant\u00a0“Wuxia” (martial arts hero) world<\/strong>, with an ancient and mysterious Eastern realm unfolding before your eyes. Winding paths, flanked by perilous cliffs and cascading waterfalls, lead you past quaint tea houses and pavilions that seemingly teeter on the mountainside. You might even stumble upon an acrobatic “Jianghu \u6c5f\u6e56” street performance or learn a “sword dance” from an NPC, as if you’ve walked right into a scene from a Jin Yong novel.<\/p><\/div><\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t

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By day,\u00a0Wangxian Valley (\u671b\u4ed9\u8c37)<\/strong>\u00a0offers a completely different, yet equally enchanting, experience. Time truly slows down here, revealing the charming\u00a0Gan-style (Jiangxi) ambiance<\/strong>. Above cascading waterfalls, an\u00a0ancient town\u00a0clings to the mountainside<\/strong>. Its earthen walls with yellow plaster, dark grey tiles, and rammed earth houses meticulously preserved, showcasing the original architectural style of Northeast Jiangxi.<\/p>

Stroll through the intricate network of narrow alleys, discovering\u00a0unique shops<\/strong>\u00a0along the way. Admire lanterns, bamboo weaving, and intricate carvings\u00a0– each handcrafted item a testament to the artisan’s dedication and wisdom. The air in the alleys is filled with the tempting aromas of hot noodles (\u70eb\u7c89) and tofu pudding (\u8c46\u8150\u8111), inviting you to savor these delicious\u00a0local flavors<\/strong>.<\/p>

For the adventurous, take a walk along the\u00a0glass walkways<\/strong>\u00a0built directly into the sheer cliffs. Stretching nearly 100 meters above the ground, with rushing rapids and cliffs below, these paths offer a thrilling test of courage while revealing breathtaking views of the canyon\u2019s rugged beauty and undulating mountains.<\/p>

Wangxian Valley boasts\u00a0abundant rainfall<\/strong>, ensuring a constant flow of water. Everywhere you look, you’ll find\u00a0trickling streams, serene springs, and magnificent waterfalls\u00a0like Wangxian Waterfall and Three-Tiered Waterfalls. These dramatic cascades, springing from sheer cliffs, combine with gushing springs and winding streams to form a series of unique and stunning landscapes.<\/p>

It\u2019s hard to believe that such an ethereal wonderland was crafted from an\u00a0ABANDONED QUARRY. This transformation is undeniably a bold, ambitious, and brilliantly creative endeavor.<\/p>

After, your guide will escort you to Shangrao Railway Station for your\u00a0high-speed train to Huangshan City<\/strong>\u00a0(about 1 hour). Upon arrival, your Huangshan guide will pick you up and transfer you to your hotel for check-in.<\/p>

Free time ideas in Huangshan City:<\/strong><\/p>

Tunxi Ancient Street\u00a0(\u5c6f\u6eaa\u8001\u8857)<\/strong>: Explore this bustling historic street with traditional Huizhou-style architecture, shops, and restaurants.<\/p>

Liyang In Lane (\u9ece\u9633in\u5df7)<\/strong>: Discover this charming area, a blend of ancient architecture and modern cafes, bars, and eateries, especially lively in the evening.<\/p><\/div><\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t

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Route:<\/strong>\u00a0Yungu Cable Way – Begin-to-believe Peak – Dispelling Cloud Pavilion -West Sea Grand Canyon – Bright Summit – Flying-over Rock<\/p>

Walking Distance: about 7~9km\/5~6 hrs<\/strong><\/p>

After breakfast, your guide and driver will pick you up from your hotel lobby and drive about 80 kilometers (approximately 1.5 hours) to the foot of\u00a0Mount Huangshan<\/strong>\u00a0(Yellow Mountain), a\u00a0UNESCO World Heritage Site<\/strong>\u00a0and\u00a0one of the Five Sacred Mountains<\/strong>.\u00a0Yellow Mountain<\/strong>\u00a0is famous for its stunning\u00a0natural scenery<\/strong>, which includes\u00a0ancient pine trees<\/strong>,\u00a0oddly-shaped granite peaks<\/strong>,\u00a0winter snow<\/strong>,\u00a0hot springs<\/strong>, and a\u00a0sea of clouds<\/strong>\u00a0that often envelops the mountain range, also known as the “Five Natural Wonders<\/strong>“. 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.<\/p>

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\u00a0back mountain<\/strong>\u00a0to\u00a0Yungu Temple<\/strong>. From here, you’ll board the\u00a0cableway to White Goose Ridge Station (8 mins)<\/strong>. As you ascend, give you breathtaking aerial views of the forests below\u2014a 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\u00a0trek to the poetic Begin-to-Believe Peak<\/strong>. Huangshan is famous for its ancient and oddly shaped pine trees. En route, you’ll admire several like\u00a0Black Tiger Pine<\/strong>,\u00a0and Harp Pine<\/strong>, each with its unique shape and character. When you reach\u00a0Begin-to-Believe Peak,<\/strong>\u00a0you’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.<\/p>

After lunch, it\u2019s time for the grandeur of the\u00a0West Sea Grand Canyon<\/strong>. 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<\/strong>: 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.)<\/p>

After, you have a couple of choices for watching the sunset:\u00a0Cloud-Dispelling Pavilion<\/strong>\u00a0or the higher-altitude\u00a0Bright Summit<\/strong>. From\u00a0Cloud-Dispelling Pavilion<\/strong>, 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 sunset, cloud sea, strange peaks, and deep valley. If time and energy allow, consider extending an hour trek to the\u00a0Sky Sea Scenic Area<\/strong>\u00a0to see\u00a0Flying-over Rock<\/strong>. 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 –\u00a0Bright Summit<\/strong>\u00a0(1840m). After the sunset, it’s a 40-minute trek back to your hotel.<\/p>

Good to know:<\/strong><\/p>

1.<\/strong>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.<\/strong>\u00a0For environmental protection, some hotels on the mountain do not provide disposable toiletries, so it’s advisable to bring your own.
3.<\/strong>\u00a0Staying 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.<\/p>

Tonight, stay overnight on the top of mountain.<\/p><\/div><\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t

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Route:<\/strong>\u00a0Sunrise – Dawn Pavilion – Refreshing Terrace – Monkey Gazing at the Sea – Lion Peak – Yungu Cable Way<\/em><\/p>

Walking Distance:<\/strong>\u00a0about 3km\/2 hrs<\/em><\/p>

Today begins in the dark, pre-dawn hours (usually around 5 am to 6 am), as you’ll want to catch the awe-inspiring\u00a0sunrise that Mount Huangshan is celebrated for<\/strong>. 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.<\/p>

Then proceed to\u00a0Lion Peak<\/strong>\u00a0(1690m) to see the\u00a0Dawn Pavilion<\/strong>,\u00a0Refreshing Terrace<\/strong>,\u00a0Stone Monkey Watching the Sea,<\/strong>\u00a0and various shapes of pines and rocks along the route.\u00a0Lion Peak<\/strong>, as its name implies, really looks like a crouching lion. “Monkey Gazing at the Sea<\/strong>” 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\u00a0Yungu cableway<\/strong>\u00a0down the mountain. Your driver is ready at the mountain foot to transfer you to\u00a0Hongcun Village.<\/strong><\/p>

Next, you will visit one of the most representative Huizhou villages –\u00a0Hongcun<\/strong>. It is renowned for its\u00a0well-preserved ancient architecture and layout<\/strong>\u00a0from the Ming and Qing Dynasties, designated a\u00a0UNESCO World Heritage Site<\/strong>\u00a0in 2000. Often described as a “village in a Chinese painting<\/strong>,” Hongcun has become a magnet for photographers and artists, eager to capture its idyllic scenery and architectural grace.<\/p>

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\u00a0people of Huizhou\u2019s 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 \u201chead,\u201d crowned by two ancient trees as \u201chorns.\u201d The Moon Pond forms its \u201cheart\u201d,\u00a0and<\/strong>\u00a0South Lake is the \u201cbelly.\u201d Four timeworn bridges stand as the ox’s \u201cfeet,\u201d t, straddling the tranquil Jiyin stream, while a meandering canal – the village’s \u201cintestines\u201d – 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.<\/p>

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 \u201cbody,\u201d\u00a0a collection of white-walled, black-tiled Hui-style buildings.<\/strong>\u00a0Here, 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\u00a0South Lake<\/strong>\u00a0and the crescent-shaped\u00a0Moon Pond<\/strong>. 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.<\/p>

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\u00a0South Lake Academy<\/strong>, 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\u00a0mansions<\/strong>,\u00a0courtyards<\/strong>, and\u00a0ancestral halls<\/strong>, such as Chengzhi Hall, Wang Ancestral Hall, Jingxiu Hall, Jingde Hall, and Lexu Hall. Among these, the\u00a0Wang Ancestral Hall<\/strong>\u00a0stands 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.\u00a0Chengzhi Hall,<\/strong>\u00a0founded 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.<\/p>

After the tour, drive back to Huangshan City for accommodation.<\/p><\/div><\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t

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Then, it’s time to end\u00a0your\u00a0Shanghai\u00a0Jiangnan Tour.<\/strong>\u00a0Your guide will escort you to\u00a0the\u00a0Huangshan train station<\/strong>\u00a0for your\u00a0train to Shanghai or your next destination.<\/p>

Departure Ideas:<\/strong>\u00a0From Huangshan, you have excellent high-speed rail connections to several major cities:\u00a0Shanghai (2.5~3.5hrs, chosen by 80% of tourists\u00a0for international departure)<\/strong>, Hangzhou (1.5~2hrs), Suzhou (2~3.5hrs),Beijing (5.5~7hrs), and Guangzhou (7hrs), etc.<\/p>

Thank you for choosing HelloChinaTrip<\/strong>\u00a0for 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!<\/p><\/div><\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t

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