China’s Timeless Beauty: 12-Day China Tour of Shanghai, Huangshan, Hangzhou & Guilin

Summary

Day 1 Shanghai Arrival
Day 2 Shanghai: Yuyuan Garden, Jade Buddha Temple, Old French Concession, The Bund, Huangpu River Night Cruise
Day 3 Shanghai-Zhujiajiao Water Town Tour: Winding alleys, Boat ride, Fangsheng Bridge, Kezhi Garden, Zhujiajiao Museum, Local shops 
Day 4 Shanghai-Huangshan: Take train to Huangshan, Hongcun Ancient Village, Tunxi Old Street
Day 5 Huangshan: Take cable car up the Huangshan, West Sea Canyon
Day 6 Huangshan-Hangzhou: Huangshan Scenic Area, Take train to Hangzhou
Day 7 Hangzhou: West Lake Boat Ride, Fish Viewing Park, Guo garden, Lingyin Temple
Day 8 Hangzhou: Dragon Well Green Tea Plantation, Bamboo Lined Path at Yunqi, Hefang Old Street, Hangzhou Qianjiang New City
Day 9 Hangzhou-Guilin: Hangzhou to Guilin by flight
Day 10 Guilin: Li River Cruise, Yangshuo West Street
Day 11 Guilin: Elephant Trunk Hill, Reed Flute Cave, Seven Star Park
Day 12 Guilin Departure

Day 1 Shanghai Arrival

Upon your arrival at Shanghai's airport or railway station, you will be greeted by a guide holding a "Your Way Holiday" sign—this personal touch ensures a smooth start to your journey. The guide will assist with your luggage and provide a brief introduction to Shanghai, sharing key tips about local transportation and etiquette to help you acclimate quickly. Throughout the transfer to your hotel, he will answer any questions you may have, from recommendations for nearby convenience stores to an overview of the city’s layout. Once you reach your accommodation, the guide will help you check in (if needed) and confirm the next day’s itinerary, ensuring you feel settled before you begin exploring. For dinner, you can choose to follow the guide’s suggestion of a nearby local restaurant specializing in Shanghai’s signature dishes like xiaolongbao (steamed soup dumplings) or opt to wander the surrounding streets to discover casual eateries on your own, immersing yourself in the city’s evening vibe. Afterward, the guide will ensure you return safely to your hotel, marking the end of a relaxed first day.

Day 2 Shanghai

Your day begins with a hearty breakfast at the hotel, featuring Western dishes and Chinese delicacies like congee and kimchi, to fuel you for a full day of exploration. After breakfast, your guide will meet you in the hotel lobby and take you to Yuyuan Garden. Yuyuan Garden is a masterpiece of classical Chinese garden design, dating back over 400 years to the Ming Dynasty. Originally built by an official for his parents, Yuyuan Garden features a harmonious blend of pavilions, rockery, lotus ponds, and winding corridors, each symbolizing prosperity and tranquility. As you wander the gardens, your guide will highlight intricate details, such as the "Exquisite Jade Stone" (a 3.3-meter-tall limestone stone with over 70 holes), and explain how the garden's layout embodies the traditional Chinese philosophy of harmony between man and nature. Today, Yuyuan Garden remains a cultural landmark, attracting locals and tourists alike who appreciate its historical charm and escape the hustle and bustle of the city.

Next, you'll visit the Jade Buddha Temple, a modern yet tranquil Buddhist sanctuary built in the late 19th century and housing two precious jade Buddha statues imported from Burma. The temple's architecture blends traditional Chinese style with Southeast Asian influences, creating a unique spiritual space. Inside the temple, your guide will show you the main Buddha statues: a 1.9-meter-tall seated Buddha carved from a single piece of white jade, depicting the Buddha in a meditative state, and a smaller reclining Buddha, symbolizing his nirvana. Your guide will explain the significance of Buddhist rituals at the temple, such as incense offerings, and share stories of how the temple has withstood war and political change to remain a significant Buddhist center in Shanghai. Visitors often stop here seeking tranquility, making it a popular destination for religious believers and those seeking quiet contemplation.

For lunch, your guide will recommend a local restaurant near the temple, where you can enjoy Shanghainese vegetarian cuisine, a perfect end to your morning's spiritual journey. Specialties include stewed tofu with mushrooms, stir-fried vegetables with garlic sauce, and mock pork with soy sauce. You can customize your meal, all prepared with the characteristically light flavors of Shanghainese cuisine.

After lunch, you'll explore the Old French Concession, a neighborhood that retains traces of Shanghai's colonial past and is now a trendy and vibrant district. Originally established in the 1840s as part of the Shanghai International Studies University concession, this district boasts tree-lined streets, elegant French villas, and Art Deco buildings, many of which have been restored and converted into cafes, boutiques, and galleries. As you stroll along streets like Xingfu Road and Wukang Road, your guide will recount the area's history—once a hub for foreign diplomats and wealthy Chinese families, but now a hub for young locals and creative minds. Your guide may highlight iconic buildings like the Wukang Building (a distinctive curved Art Deco structure nicknamed "Shanghai's Flatiron Building") and explain how this neighborhood's blend of old and new embodies Shanghai's commitment to both history and modernity.

In the evening, you'll travel to the Bund, Shanghai's most famous waterfront area along the Huangpu River. The Bund's history is deeply tied to Shanghai's rise as a global trading port in the 19th and 20th centuries. Its 52 Neoclassical buildings, once home to foreign banks, trading companies, and consulates, line its waterfront. Your guide will take you on a stroll along the promenade, highlighting the HSBC Building (famous for its magnificent dome and the title of "the most beautiful building east of the Suez Canal") and the Peace Hotel, a legendary Art Deco hotel with a long history of hosting celebrities. He'll also explain how the Bund symbolized Shanghai's rise from a small fishing village to a cosmopolitan city and how it remains a symbol of the city's prosperity today, with locals and tourists alike flocking here to admire the Pudong skyline across the river.

As evening falls, you'll board a Huangpu River cruise—a highlight of any Shanghai trip. Your guide will assist you on board and ensure you find a prime vantage point for stunning views of the city ablaze with lights. As the cruise sails along the river, you'll witness the stark contrast between the Bund's historic architecture and Pudong's modern skyscrapers, including the Oriental Pearl Tower and the Shanghai Tower (one of the world's tallest buildings). Your guide will show you Shanghai's landmarks ablaze with light and explore how the Huangpu River has shaped Shanghai's development as a transportation and economic hub. After the cruise, your guide will return you to your hotel or, if desired, recommend a riverside restaurant for dinner where you can continue to enjoy the night views while tasting local seafood.

Travel Tips: Wear comfortable walking shoes, as today’s itinerary involves significant walking (especially in Yuyuan Garden and the Old French Concession). For the Huangpu River Night Cruise, bring a light jacket or shawl—even in warm weather, the river breeze can be cool in the evening. Additionally, Yuyuan Garden can get crowded during peak hours, so the guide will plan the visit to avoid the busiest times, ensuring a more enjoyable experience.

Day 3 Shanghai-Zhujiajiao Water Town Tour

After breakfast at the hotel, we'll drive to Zhujiajiao Water Village, affectionately known as the "Venice of Shanghai." This ancient town, with its thousand-year history, was once a bustling commercial port on the banks of the Huangpu River. Its prime location fostered a rich trading culture, shaping its unique architecture and cultural landscape. Today, ancient waterways and stone bridges still stand, bearing witness to its rich history and offering a glimpse into traditional Chinese life.

Upon arrival, your guide will take you on a stroll through the town's winding alleys. The streets are lined with traditional houses with whitewashed walls and black tiles, their facades reflecting the classic local architectural style. The layout of the ancient town, centered around its waterways, skillfully integrates human settlement with the natural environment, a hallmark of ancient Chinese urban planning.

A highlight of this trip is a leisurely boat ride along the town's canals. During your boat ride, your guide will introduce you to some of its notable landmarks, including the majestic Fangsheng Bridge. This architectural marvel, one of the largest stone bridges in the region, is not only a vital transportation hub but also a treasure trove of cultural heritage. Its name, meaning "Release Life Bridge," draws inspiration from the Buddhist custom of releasing animals, a symbol of compassion and the preservation of life. The bridge has witnessed countless historical changes and has silently witnessed the city's transformation over the centuries.

For lunch, we'll stop at a charming riverside restaurant to savor a variety of water town specialties. Dishes like "Scallion-Braised Eel," "Sweet and Sour Lotus Root," and "Zhujiajiao Rice Cake" will not only delight your taste buds but also tell the story of the city's culinary heritage. Influenced by its abundant water resources, Zhujiajiao's cuisine focuses on fresh seafood and aquatic vegetables, offering a unique culinary experience rooted in its geography and culture.

In the afternoon, we'll continue our exploration, visiting the town's temples and museums. Kezhi Garden, a classical Chinese garden, offers tranquil beauty. Built during a period of prosperity in Zhujiajiao's history, it embodies the essence of Chinese garden art. Its pavilions, rockery, flowing water, ponds, and meticulously designed gardens offer visitors a tranquil retreat where they can appreciate the harmonious blend of nature and architecture.

The Zhujiajiao Museum, on the other hand, offers a comprehensive overview of the town's history. Through its collection of artifacts, photographs, and interactive exhibits, the museum chronicles Zhujiajiao's development from a small fishing village into a thriving commercial center. The museum also delves into Zhujiajiao's cultural traditions, folk customs, and the lives of its former residents, offering visitors a deeper understanding of the local community's identity and heritage.

Wandering through the town, you'll also have the opportunity to browse local shops selling a variety of handicrafts. Bamboo products are a traditional local craft, showcasing the craftsmanship and creativity of local artisans. From intricately carved ornaments to practical household items, these crafts make for unique souvenirs. Desserts like "rice flower candy" offer a glimpse into the local flavor, allowing you to take home a taste of Zhujiajiao's culinary culture.

We will return to Shanghai in the evening. Your travel agency will notify you of tomorrow's departure time. They will confirm your hotel pick-up time based on your flight schedule and remind you to check out and pack your documents before departure. They can recommend an unforgettable restaurant or street food market for your last dinner in Shanghai, leaving you with fond memories of the city.

Day 4 Shanghai-Huangshan

Your day begins with breakfast at the hotel, preparing for your train journey to Huangshan. After breakfast, your guide will greet you at the hotel, assist with your luggage, and escort you to Shanghai Railway Station. Before boarding the train, your guide will confirm the rest of the day's itinerary with you, ensuring you have a clear understanding of your itinerary upon arrival in Huangshan.

The train journey to Huangshan takes approximately two and a half hours, giving you time to relax and enjoy the stunning scenery of East China's countryside: rolling hills, rice paddies, and small villages. Upon arrival at Huangshan Station, you'll travel to Hongcun. Your guide will be waiting at the station to assist with luggage check-in and other services. Hongcun, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is renowned for its well-preserved Ming and Qing dynasty architecture and its unique ox-shaped layout.

Founded in the Southern Song Dynasty, Hongcun boasts over 800 years of history. Upon entering the village, your guide will lead you along the cobblestone streets, showcasing the traditional Hui-style architecture, featuring white walls and black tiles, and intricately carved wooden doors and windows. Hongcun's layout is meticulously designed: two ancient trees (a ginkgo and a maple) at the entrance symbolize the "ox's head," the village's main buildings represent the "ox's body," and the four stone bridges spanning the village's canals represent the "ox's legs." Your guide will explain how this layout brings good luck and prosperity to the village and embodies the traditional Chinese concept of harmony between man and nature.

A highlight of Hongcun is Nanhu Lake, the artificial lake surrounding the village. The tranquil waters reflect the whitewashed walls and black-tiled roofs of the buildings, creating a picturesque scene that has inspired countless painters and photographers. Your guide will take you to the lakeside for a stroll along the boardwalk to admire the scenery. He'll also point out the "Moon Arch Bridge" spanning the lake, a popular photo spot. Also near the lake is Chengzhi Hall, a wealthy merchant's mansion built in the late 19th century. The mansion's beams and windows are intricately carved with flowers, birds, and historical scenes, and is considered a masterpiece of Huizhou architecture. Your guide will take you on a tour of Chengzhi Hall, explaining the significance of these carvings and how the mansion's layout reflects the social structure of a traditional Chinese family.

For lunch, your guide will recommend a local restaurant in Hongcun, where you can sample Hui cuisine—a regional cooking style known for its use of local delicacies and freshness, emphasizing freshness. Dishes include "Braised Shrimp and Bamboo Shoots" (using bamboo shoots harvested from the nearby mountains), "Stir-fried Water Spinach" (bamboo shoots freshly picked from local fields), and "Hui-style Tofu" (silk-smooth tofu cooked with soy sauce and herbs). These simple yet delicious dishes showcase the region's abundant natural resources.

After lunch, you'll depart Hongcun and head to Tunxi Old Street. Located in Tunxi District, in the heart of Huangshan City, Tunxi Old Street is a 1,200-meter-long pedestrian street with over 800 years of history. Once a major commercial street for the tea, silk, and handicraft trade, Tunxi Old Street now boasts a vibrant collection of traditional shops, teahouses, and restaurants, preserving its historical charm while offering convenient transportation. As you stroll through the streets, your guide will introduce you to the old street's traditional architecture—two-story wooden houses with overhanging eaves, red lanterns, and calligraphic signboards. He'll also share the street's history, explaining how it served as a crucial stop on the ancient tea trade route and how it has endured war and modernization, becoming a cultural landmark.

You'll have time to explore the shops along Tunxi Old Street, which sell a variety of local specialties, including Huangshan Maofeng tea, handmade inkstones, and Hui-style paintings. He may also take you to a traditional teahouse, where you can sample different types of tea and learn about the art of the tea ceremony, a vital part of Chinese culture.

At the end of the day, your guide will accompany you to your hotel in Huangshan City.Your guide will assist with check-in and ensure a comfortable stay. For dinner, your guide will recommend a nearby restaurant, such as Huangshan Braised Chicken or River Fish Soup. You can also spend the evening exploring Tunxi Old Street, where many restaurants and street food stalls remain open, offering local delicacies like stinky tofu and sesame cakes. After dinner, your guide will ensure your safe return to your hotel, concluding your day of exploring the ancient village and historic district.

Day 5 Huangshan

You'll begin the day with a hearty breakfast at your hotel in Huangshan City. After breakfast, your guide will meet you at the hotel for the drive to Huangshan. Huangshan, one of China's most famous mountain ranges and a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is renowned for its majestic granite peaks, ancient pine forests, magnificent seas of clouds, and breathtaking hot springs, often referred to as the "Four Wonders of Huangshan." As you approach Huangshan, your guide will recount its legend: it was named after the mythical Yellow Emperor, who, according to legend, attained enlightenment there over 4,000 years ago. He will also explain how Huangshan, with its unique landscape, has become a model for traditional Chinese landscape painting, inspiring generations of Chinese poets, painters, and scholars.

Upon arrival at the base of the mountain, your guide will assist you in purchasing your cable car ticket and take you to the boarding point. Taking the cable car up Huangshan is an experience in itself, offering sweeping views of the valleys and peaks as you ascend. During the 10-15 minute ride, your guide will introduce you to notable landmarks visible from the cable car, such as Lotus Peak (Huangshan's highest peak, at 1,864 meters) and Heavenly Capital Peak (famous for its steep, precipitous rise). They'll also share tips for appreciating the scenery, suggesting noticing the light playing on the granite rocks and the swaying pine trees on the cliff faces.

After disembarking from the cable car, your guide will lead you along a well-paved trail into the heart of the scenic area, first visiting West Sea Canyon, often referred to as Huangshan's "Magic Valley" for its breathtaking scenery. Stretching for kilometers, the canyon boasts narrow gorges, towering cliffs, and winding trails, offering breathtaking scenery at every turn. As you hike through the canyon, your guide will point out unique rock formations with poetic names like "Flying Rock" (a massive rock perched on a cliff face, seemingly poised to take flight) and "Squirrel Leaping Over the Moon" (a rock shaped like a squirrel leaping into the sky). Your guide will explain how these rock formations were formed over millions of years by wind and rain, and how they have become symbols of Huangshan's natural beauty. Along the trail, you'll pass ancient Huangshan pines—another iconic feature of the mountain. These pines grow in the most unexpected places, their roots clinging to the crevices of the granite, their branches twisted into artistic shapes by the mountain breeze. Your guide will highlight some famous pines, such as the "Welcoming Pine" (a 1,500-year-old tree whose branches wave toward visitors like arms, symbolizing hospitality), and explain how these trees have adapted to the harsh mountain environment. He'll also share stories of how poets and painters depicted these pines in their works, cementing their place in Chinese culture as a symbol of resilience and grace. 

For lunch, your guide will take you to a restaurant within the scenic area, where you can savor Huangshan specialties made with ingredients from the surrounding area. Dishes might include "Stir-fried Huangshan Mushrooms" (wild mushrooms picked from the mountain forests, known for their rich, earthy flavor), "Braised Bamboo Shoots with Ham" (tender bamboo shoots paired with local ham for a delicious flavor), and "Mountain Vegetable Salad" (fresh vegetables such as fern sprouts and wild chrysanthemum leaves, served with a light vinegar dressing). These dishes are simple yet bursting with natural flavor, making them a hearty way to recharge after a hike.

After lunch, you'll continue your exploration of West Sea Canyon. Your guide will adjust your pace to ensure you're comfortable and have ample time for photos. He may take you to an observation deck where you can admire the "sea of clouds"—low-hanging clouds that fill the valley, making the peaks look like islands in a sea of white. Your guide will explain that the sea of clouds is most likely to form on clear mornings or after rain and share how it has inspired countless works of art and literature. If you're lucky enough to see a sea of clouds, he'll help you find the best vantage point to capture the moment and offer tips for framing images with pine trees or rock formations.

At the end of the afternoon, your guide will return to the cable car station for the descent. Once you reach the foot of the mountain, he'll accompany you back to your hotel in Huangshan City. For dinner, he can recommend a local restaurant that specializes in "Huangshan Stone Frog Soup" (a local delicacy, but you can also choose other dishes such as stewed pork with chestnuts).We may also recommend exploring the casual restaurants surrounding the hotel. After dinner, your guide will ensure your safe return to the hotel, concluding a day of immersing yourself in the natural wonders of Huangshan.

Travel Tips: When exploring West Sea Canyon, wear non-slip hiking shoes, as the trails can be slippery after rain. Given the changeable mountain weather with common sudden drizzles, pack a lightweight waterproof jacket. Carry a small backpack stocked with snacks like energy bars and water, since replenishing supplies along the trail is limited.

Day 6 Huangshan-Hangzhou

After breakfast, your guide will meet you at your hotel and return to the Huangshan Scenic Area to explore peaks not visited the previous day, focusing on areas renowned for their cultural heritage and breathtaking panoramic views.

Your first stop in the morning will be Bright Summit, Huangshan's second-highest peak, at 1,841 meters. From Bright Summit, you'll enjoy a 360-degree view of the entire mountain range, with views of Lotus Peak and Tiandu Peak on a clear day. Your guide will explain that Guangmingding has long been a favorite among astronomers and photographers for its unobstructed views of both sunrise and sunset. He'll also introduce you to the summit's "astronomical observatory," built in the 1950s and still used for meteorological observations. From the summit, your guide may recite poems depicting the beauty of Guangmingding, offering a glimpse into the cultural heritage of this region.

Next, you'll visit the Cloud-Dispelling Pavilion, a historic pavilion perched on a cliff overlooking the Xihai Gorge. Built during the Ming Dynasty, it earned its name for its ability to "dispel" clouds and mist—on a clear day, you'll enjoy breathtaking views of the gorge and surrounding mountains. Your guide will lead you inside the pavilion, where you can rest for a moment and admire the wood carvings on the beams. Your guide will recount stories of ancient travelers and scholars gathering here to write poetry and paint, and how the pavilion has been restored over the centuries to preserve its historical beauty.

For lunch, your guide will recommend a restaurant near the scenic area's exit, where you can sample more Anhui cuisine. Dishes might include stuffed tofu balls, stir-fried wild vegetables, and sweet potato porridge. This meal is designed to provide a light meal before your train to Hangzhou. After lunch, your guide will accompany you to Huangshan North Station to assist with your luggage, ensuring you arrive in plenty of time for your train departure.

Upon arrival at Station, your guide will meet you for a shuttle bus to your Hangzhou hotel. He will assist with check-in and explain the hotel's amenities, such as the breakfast area and how to use the Wi-Fi. For dinner, your guide will recommend a nearby Hangzhou restaurant renowned for its fresh seafood and delicious flavors, such as "West Lake Vinegar Fish" (a signature dish made with grass carp from West Lake) or "Dongpo Pork" (tender, braised pork named after the renowned poet Su Dongpo). Alternatively, you can stroll the streets near the hotel, where numerous street food stalls sell snacks like "fried rice cakes" and "tanghulu." After dinner, your guide will ensure a safe return to your hotel, marking the end of your Huangshan adventure and the beginning of your Hangzhou adventure.

Day 7 Hangzhou

Your day begins with a delicious breakfast at the hotel. Afterward, your guide will meet you in the hotel lobby and take you to West Lake. A UNESCO World Heritage site and the heart of Hangzhou, West Lake is renowned for its natural beauty and rich cultural history. Your guide will first take you to the boat dock, where you'll board a traditional wooden boat for a West Lake boat ride – the ultimate way to experience the lake's tranquil beauty. As the boat gently glides across the tranquil waters, your guide will point out the "Three Pools Mirroring the Moon," a stone structure consisting of three small pagodas, featured on the back of the one-yuan banknote. Your guide will explain the legend behind the Three Pools Mirroring the Moon and introduce you to other lakeside landmarks such as Leifeng Pagoda and Su Causeway.

After your boat tour, you'll disembark at the historic Fish Viewing Park (Yulan Pavilion) on the north shore of West Lake. This park is renowned for its "Flower Harbor Viewing Fish," one of the "Ten Scenic Spots of West Lake." Visitors can watch hundreds of colorful carp swimming leisurely in a pond surrounded by peonies and cherry blossoms. Your guide will explain how the park's design reflects traditional Chinese garden concepts, with winding paths, rockery, and water features creating an intimate and tranquil atmosphere. As you admire the fish, your guide may mention that feeding the fish is a popular local activity and even provide fish food if you'd like to participate.

Next, you'll visit Guo garden, a classical Chinese garden located on the west bank of West Lake, often called the "First Garden of Jiangnan." Built in the late 19th century by the wealthy merchant Guo Shilin, the garden is a masterpiece of landscape design, blending natural scenery with man-made structures. Your guide will lead you through the garden's two main sections: the Outer Garden and the Inner Garden. He'll highlight intricate details like carved wooden doors, a lotus pond with goldfish, and the "Moon Viewing Pavilion," offering night views of West Lake. He'll also explain how the garden's layout incorporates the scenery of West Lake, making the water seem like an extension of the garden. Today, Guo garden is a popular spot for locals to practice Tai Chi, perform traditional music, and enjoy tea, offering a glimpse into the cultural life of Hangzhou.

For lunch, your guide will recommend a local restaurant near West Lake, where you can sample authentic Hangzhou cuisine. The highlight of the meal will likely be "West Lake Vinegar Fish"—grass carp marinated in vinegar and sugar, then slow-cooked until the sauce is glossy and caramelized, creating the distinctive Hangzhou sweet and sour flavor. Other dishes might include "Dongpo Pork" (pork belly braised in soy sauce and rice wine until melt-in-your-mouth tenderness), "Stir-fried Water Shield" (a leafy vegetable native to West Lake, cooked with garlic), and "Lotus Root with Osmanthus" (a dessert made with lotus root and fragrant osmanthus flowers). Your guide will explain the history behind these dishes, such as how Dongpo Pork was invented by Su Dongpo during his tenure as Governor of Hangzhou.

After lunch, you'll travel to Lingyin Temple, one of China's most renowned Buddhist temples, located at the foot of Lingyin Mountain on the northwest edge of Hangzhou. With a history spanning over 1,600 years, the temple is renowned for its magnificent architecture, ancient Buddha statues, and tranquil surroundings. As you approach the temple, your guide will introduce you to the entrance's "Feilai Peak", a limestone peak covered in Buddhist carvings dating from the 10th to 14th centuries. He'll lead you through these carvings, admiring Learn about famous figures such as the Buddha, Bodhisattvas, and Arhats, and explain their significance in Buddhism.Inside Lingyin Temple, your guide will take you to the main hall, the Hall of Heavenly Kings, which houses a 20-meter-tall Maitreya Buddha and statues of the Four Heavenly Kings. Your guide will explain the symbolic meaning of each statue. Next, you'll visit the Main Hall, the main hall of Lingyin Temple, which houses a 19.6-meter-tall Sakyamuni Buddha seated on a lotus throne. Your guide will share the history of Lingyin Temple, including how it has been destroyed and rebuilt numerous times over the centuries, and how it has remained an important Buddhist center in China.

After the tour, your guide will escort you back to your Hangzhou hotel. For dinner, your guide may recommend a nearby restaurant serving Hangzhou fried noodles or suggest exploring nearby Wulin Square, home to numerous restaurants and food stalls. You may also choose to return to West Lake in the evening to admire the stunning nightscape. Your guide will point out spots where you can see the illuminated Leifeng Pagoda reflected in the water. After dinner, your guide will ensure your safe return to the hotel, ending your day's tour of Hangzhou's nature and culture.

Day 8 Hangzhou

After breakfast, your guide will meet you at your hotel and accompany you to the Dragon Well Green Tea Plantation  (Longjing Tea Garden), located in the hilly southwest of Hangzhou.

Longjing tea is one of China's most famous green teas, with a history dating back to the Tang Dynasty, spanning over 1,200 years. As you stroll through the terraced tea fields, your guide will explain the origins of Longjing tea – its name comes from a nearby spring (Dragon Well), whose water is said to enhance the tea's flavor. Your guide will teach you how to identify the young leaves used for high-quality Longjing tea and explain the plucking process. If available, you'll have the opportunity to participate in a tea plucking experience, where your guide will teach you how to properly pluck tea leaves without damaging the tea plants. Afterward, you'll visit a nearby teahouse where a local tea master will demonstrate the art of brewing Longjing tea. Your guide will explain the brewing steps: using 80°C water, steeping for 1-2 minutes, and then serving the tea in small porcelain cups. Your guide will help you taste the tea and point out its characteristics: its light green color, refreshing aroma, and smooth, sweet aftertaste. He'll also share tips for choosing high-quality Longjing tea, such as selecting flat, bright green, and uniformly shaped leaves.

After lunch, your guide will take you to a village restaurant near the tea plantation to savor farm-to-table Hangzhou cuisine, perfect for your morning tea tasting. Specialties include stir-fried shrimp with tea and dried mushroom and bamboo shoot soup. Your guide will explain that locals often pair Longjing tea with these light dishes to enhance the tea's delicate flavor, and may even suggest a pot of freshly brewed tea. After lunch, you'll head to Bamboo Lined Path at Yunqi, a 2.8-kilometer-long path winding through the dense bamboo forest at the foot of Wuyun Mountain. With over 1,000 years of history, this path has long served as a tranquil retreat for scholars and monks. As you enter the forest, your guide will point out the towering moso bamboos—some reaching 20 meters in height—and explain how the bamboo ecosystem supports local wildlife, from birds to small mammals. He'll explain that this bamboo path was once part of a Buddhist pilgrimage route connecting nearby temples, where ancient travelers would pause, listening to the rustling bamboo leaves and composing poetry. Your guide will adjust your pace, allowing you to immerse yourself in the tranquility and capture the dappled sunlight through the bamboo forest. He might also point out bamboo shoots emerging from the ground in spring and explain how locals harvest them sustainably.

Next, you'll visit Hefang Old Street, a 1,500-meter-long pedestrian street in the heart of Hangzhou that preserves the city's traditional commercial culture. Dating back to the Southern Song Dynasty, the street was once a bustling market for silk, tea, and handicrafts. Today, it's lined with over 100 traditional shops, food stalls, and heritage workshops. Your guide will explain the history of each brand, such as how Zhang Xiaoquan scissors became a favorite of imperial tailors, and show you how artisans craft their products using age-old techniques. Your guide will also recommend classic street snacks like stinky tofu, candied haws, and Hangzhou rice cakes. He'll encourage you to try some of the snacks and point out which stalls are most popular with locals. 

In the evening, you'll travel to Qianjiang New Town, Hangzhou's modern central business district, a stark contrast to the ancient charm of Hefang Old Street. Your guide will take you to the Qianjiang New Town Light Show Observation Deck, where you can admire the skyline, dominated by landmarks such as the Hangzhou International Convention Center and the Zhejiang World Trade Center. He'll explain how the area's design reflects Hangzhou's transformation from a historic city to a global tech hub, while still incorporating traditional Chinese design elements. If you're visiting in the evening (before your return trip), your guide will recommend the famous light show—thousands of LED lights dancing to music on buildings, telling the story of Hangzhou's history and future.

After the tour, your guide will return you to your hotel. For dinner, he may recommend a restaurant in the new town specializing in "creative Hangzhou cuisine" (fusion dishes like tea-smoked duck breast) or suggest returning to Hefang Old Street for more street food. You can also choose a quieter meal near your hotel. After dinner, your guide will ensure your safe return to your accommodation, concluding this day that blends tradition and modernity.

Day 9 Hangzhou-Guilin

After breakfast, your guide will greet you at your hotel, assist with your luggage, and escort you to Hangzhou Xiaoshan International Airport. He'll check you in, check your luggage, and share tips for your short flight to Guilin. Before boarding, your guide will confirm your afternoon itinerary and ensure you have all necessary documents. Upon arrival at Guilin Liangjiang International Airport, your accompanying guide will meet you at baggage claim and escort you to your transfer vehicle. Your guide will take you to your Guilin hotel and introduce you to Guilin, known as "the most beautiful city in the world," shaped by the distinctive karst mountains and the Li River. Your guide will explain that Guilin's name means "Guilin Forest," citing the city's history as a time when fragrant laurel trees once covered the city. He'll also explain that Guilin's scenery has been an inspiration for Chinese art for millennia. He'll also help you check into your hotel and settle in before the rest of the day's activities (or rest if you choose). For lunch, your guide will recommend a nearby restaurant serving Guilin specialties, such as Guilin Rice Noodles—Guilin's signature dish, featuring chewy rice noodles, pickled bamboo shoots, peanuts, and sliced meat in a savory broth.

In the afternoon, you'll have free time to relax or explore nearby attractions, such as the Sun and Moon Pagodas, with your guide's recommendations. He can provide a map and recommend photo spots, such as the wooden bridge connecting the pagodas. For dinner, your guide will recommend a restaurant specializing in Lijiang Fish Hot Pot (fresh Lijiang fish cooked in a spicy or savory broth) or suggest exploring the street food options surrounding your hotel. After dinner, he'll ensure a safe return to your hotel, help you acclimate to Guilin's climate, and prepare for the next day's adventures

Day 10 Guilin

Start your day with a hearty breakfast at the hotel. After breakfast, your guide will meet you at the hotel and transfer you to the Li River Pier in Zhujiang Town, where you will board the iconic Li River cruise to experience Guilin's most famous scenery.

The Li River stretches for 437 kilometers and is renowned for its crystal-clear waters and winding karst formations. These limestone formations were sculpted by water over 200 million years. As the cruise begins, your guide will take you past legendary peaks with poetic names, such as "Elephant Trunk Hill" and "Yellow Cloth Beach." "Yellow Cloth Beach" is a stretch of clear water and yellow sand beach that resembles a piece of cloth, the same pattern featured on the back of the Chinese 20-yuan RMB note.During the cruise, your guide will visit local villages along the riverbank, where you'll see farmers working in the fields and fishermen using cormorants to catch fish. He'll explain how to train cormorants to catch fish and return them to their owners. If possible, he'll even arrange for you to photograph this unique fishing method.

As the boat approaches Yangshuo, your guide will take you on a tour of the "Ten-Mile Picture Gallery," a river lined with spectacular karst formations, including Lotus Peak and Nine Horses Painting Mountain (a mountain with a rock pattern resembling nine horses, a photographer's favorite). He'll help you find the best vantage points on the deck and share tips for capturing the perfect shot, such as waiting for the morning mist to clear for a clearer view. Upon arrival in Yangshuo, your guide will escort you to Yangshuo West Street, a 1,000-meter-long pedestrian street that blends traditional Chinese culture with international flair. As you stroll the streets, lined with ancient banyan trees and traditional brick buildings, your guide will point out unique shops selling hand-painted scrolls, bamboo crafts, and local teas.

For dinner, your guide will recommend a restaurant on West Street that specializes in Yangshuo Beer Fish—a local delicacy made by pan-frying fresh carp and then stewing it in beer, chili peppers, and tomatoes for a rich, spicy flavor. Alternatively, you can sample street food like grilled squid or sticky rice cakes from the numerous stalls. After dinner, stroll the streets to soak up the lively nightlife. Your guide will point out venues for live music or traditional Chinese performances. Afterwards, your guide will escort you back to your hotel, ensuring a safe return and plenty of rest after a busy day.

Day 11 Guilin

After breakfast, your guide will meet you at the hotel and take you to Elephant Trunk Hill, Guilin's most famous landmark, located at the confluence of the Li and Taohua Rivers.

Named after its resemblance to an elephant drinking from the river, the hill's structure is formed by a natural arch (formed by erosion) that forms its trunk and body. With over 2,000 years of history, Elephant Trunk Hill has been an important cultural landmark since the Tang Dynasty, with poets and scholars praising its beauty. As you approach Elephant Trunk Hill, your guide will point out the "Water Moon Cave," the arch beneath the trunk, which is reflected in the water, forming a perfect circle, resembling a bright moon floating on the river. Your guide will take you to the observation deck at the top of the hill, where you can enjoy panoramic views of the Guilin skyline and the Li River. He will also point out the "Puxian Pagoda" behind the hill, a 13-story brick tower built in the Ming Dynasty that adds to Guilin's iconic silhouette.

Next, you'll visit Reed Flute Cave, a natural limestone cave located 5 kilometers northwest of Guilin, known as the "Natural Palace of Art." Formed over 180 million years ago, the cave stretches 240 meters and boasts thousands of stalactites and stalagmites, formed by thousands of years of dripping water. Upon entering, your guide will explain the origin of the cave's name: the reeds growing outside were once used to make flutes. Your guide will lead you through the caverns, admiring colorfully illuminated caverns such as the "Crystal Palace" (a vast chamber with towering stalactites) and the "Sky Stone Forest" (intricate stalactites suspended from the cave ceiling). Your guide will also explain how ancient travelers carved inscriptions into the cave walls—over 700 inscriptions dating from the Tang to Qing dynasties, many praising the cave's beauty. Your guide will stop at key caverns to explain their formation processes, such as how stalactites grow downward from the cave ceiling and stalagmites grow upward from the floor, eventually merging into columns.

For lunch, your guide will recommend a restaurant near the cave that serves home-style Guilin cuisine. Specialties include spicy bamboo shoots with pork and pickled cabbage soup. Your guide will point out that these dishes are typical of Guilin families, giving you a glimpse into authentic local life. After lunch, you'll visit Seven Star Park, Guilin's largest urban park, named for its seven karst peaks that resemble the Big Dipper. The park blends natural beauty with cultural attractions and is a favorite destination for locals and tourists alike. Once inside the park, your guide will take you to Seven Star Cave and Camel Hill, famous for the photograph of Chairman Mao standing at its foot. Your guide will explain that the park is home to over 1,000 plant species, including rare osmanthus trees, and is a popular spot for locals to practice Tai Chi, play chess, and fly kites. Your guide will also take you to the Seven Star Park Zoo, home to Guilin's only giant panda habitat. He will share interesting facts about the pandas, such as their bamboo diet and their status as national treasures, and will help you find the best spots to view them.

At the end of the tour, your guide will accompany you back to your Guilin hotel. For dinner, he or she may recommend a restaurant specializing in Guilin Spicy Hot Pot or suggest exploring the nearby Zhengyang Pedestrian Street for street food like fried rice noodles and sweet potato soup. After dinner, your guide will ensure your safe return to your room and confirm your airport pickup time to help you prepare for your departure the next day.

Day 12 Guilin Departure

On the final day of your trip, you'll enjoy a relaxing breakfast at the hotel, enjoying your favorite Chinese and Western dishes, and bid farewell to Guilin. After breakfast, your guide will meet you at the hotel at the appointed time, assist with your luggage, and escort you to Guilin Liangjiang International Airport. He will assist with check-in and baggage drop-off, ensuring a smooth transition. This concludes your 12-day journey through China's iconic destinations, leaving you with fond memories of ancient history, natural beauty, and warm hospitality.

Price Per Person in US Dollars

Price Includes 1. Cozy Ride: Enjoy the comfort and spaciousness of our air-conditioned car, offering scenic views. 2. Bilingual Expert Guide: Benefit from a personalized experience with a guide fluent in your language, catering to your needs. 3. Entrance Fees: Access all attractions and activities mentioned in the itinerary without worrying about additional entrance fees. 4. Seamless Transfer: Enhance your experience with convenient hotel or train station pickup and drop-off service. 5. Connect Seamlessly: Stay connected with complimentary onboard WiFi, allowing you to share your experiences in real-time. 6. City-to-City Train Tickets: Include the cost of train or flight tickets between the cities listed in the itinerary, ensuring a smooth and efficient travel experience. 7. Complimentary Water: Receive a complimentary bottle of water for each person, keeping you refreshed throughout your journey. 8. Travel Agency Liability Insurance: Benefit from coverage under our travel agency liability insurance, providing added protection and peace of mind during your trip. 9. Comfortable Accommodation: Stay in well-appointed hotels (as specified in the itinerary) with essential amenities, ensuring a restful stay each night throughout your trip.

Price Excludes 1. Personal Expe nses: This includes phone bills, laundry, additional tours, postage, and any entertainment fees not covered in the itinerary. 2. Meals: While meals are not included, our guide will recommend the best local food spots, giving you the chance to explore and choose based on your preferences. (Average cost per person for a regular meal at local eateries: 40RMB/6USD-80RMB/12USD) 3. Tips: Tips are not mandatory but are recommended for excellent service. If you feel satisfied with the service, you may consider leaving a tip. 4. Insurance: Insurance coverage for personal loss, illness, or damages incurred during your trip is not included. 5. Optional Activities: Any optional activities listed in the itinerary are not included in the tour fees, allowing you to choose and participate based on your preferences.