Seamless Weekend Escape: 2-Day Hangzhou Highlights Tour with Impression Westlake Show

Day 1 Shanghai-Hangzhou

In the morning,  your adventure unfurls with a delightful escape from the urban hustle of Shanghai, greeted by your dedicated chauffeur at your hotel, poised to escort you to the train station for a scenic journey to Hangzhou. Upon arrival, a gracious welcome awaits as your guide, brandishing a distinctive "Your Way Holiday" sign, extends a warm greeting at the station exit, heralding the onset of your unforgettable escapade.

Prepare to be entranced by the ethereal beauty of Hangzhou's crown jewel, the UNESCO World Heritage site, West Lake. As Marco Polo once mused, "A voyage on this lake offers more refreshment and pleasure than any other experience on earth."Your knowledgeable guide will accompany you throughout this journey, providing fascinating insights and stories about the history and significance of West Lake. As you embark on a tranquil 45-minute cruise across its crystalline expanse, your guide will point out notable landmarks and share anecdotes about the ancient pagodas that stand sentinel amidst a tableau of lush gardens, arching bridges, and verdant hillsides.

Next, venture to the enchanting enclave of the Fish Viewing at the Flower Pond within Huagang Park. Nestled at the nexus of Su Causeway, this picturesque sanctuary beckons with its verdant foliage and meandering streams, evoking a sense of sublime tranquility.Your attentive guide will accompany you on this serene journey, offering insights into the park's history and significance as you meander along shaded pathways. Pause to admire the riotous burst of color from blooming flowers that fringe the water's edge, creating a kaleidoscope of natural beauty.

Continue your odyssey to the storied Leifeng Pagoda, a cultural icon steeped in myth and legend within the West Lake Scenic Area. Revered as one of the "Ten Scenes of West Lake," this architectural marvel stands as a testament to ancient folklore and artistic ingenuity.As you reach the pinnacle of the pagoda, panoramic vistas await, offering sweeping views of West Lake's ethereal beauty and the distant cityscape of Hangzhou. Your guide will point out key landmarks and share anecdotes about the significance of each, allowing you to fully appreciate the timeless allure of this hallowed site. Prepare to be mesmerized as history and myth intertwine to captivate your imagination, leaving you with a deeper understanding of the rich tapestry of stories that define the Leifeng Pagoda.

Savor a sumptuous lunch at a local eatery favored by discerning epicureans, where tantalizing flavors and authentic culinary delights await to tantalize your taste buds. Indulge in Hangzhou's renowned culinary treasures, from savory Dongpo pork to delicate West Lake fish in vinegar gravy, each dish a symphony of flavors that pay homage to the region's rich culinary heritage. (Alternatively, enlist the expertise of your guide to uncover hidden gastronomic gems catering to your dietary preferences.)

As afternoon unfolds, delve deeper into Hangzhou's rich cultural tapestry with a visit to the esteemed China National Tea Museum. Immerse yourself in the time-honored tradition of tea cultivation and appreciation, as you explore interactive exhibits showcasing the art of tea-making and sample an array of exquisite brews.Throughout your visit, your attentive guide will be on hand to offer fascinating insights into the history and significance of tea culture in China. With their expertise, you'll gain a deeper appreciation for the rituals and traditions surrounding this beloved beverage, from the cultivation of tea leaves to the intricacies of tea ceremony.

Later, Journey onward to the enchanting Guo Garden, an opulent villa steeped in history and architectural splendor. Originally conceived as a private retreat for a Qing Dynasty silk merchant, this elegant estate epitomizes the harmonious fusion of man-made opulence and natural beauty. Meander through its verdant corridors and tranquil courtyards, where meticulously landscaped gardens and tranquil ponds beckon with their serene beauty. Lose yourself in the timeless elegance of this historic gem, where every stone and structure tells a story of bygone eras. Your guide will ensure that your visit to Guo Garden is not just a sightseeing excursion, but a journey through time and culture.

As twilight descends, prepare to be dazzled by the mesmerizing spectacle of the Impression Westlake Show at Yue Lake Area. Directed by visionary filmmaker Zhang Yimou, this awe-inspiring performance seamlessly integrates symphonic melodies, graceful dance, and traditional Chinese opera against the backdrop of West Lake's nocturnal splendor.Your guide will assist you with purchasing tickets for the Impression Westlake Show, ensuring that you have reserved seats for this unforgettable experience. Marvel at the spectacle as performers take to the stage, their graceful movements illuminated by the soft glow of lanterns, creating a mesmerizing tableau of light and shadow upon the tranquil waters.

With hearts alight with the magic of the day's discoveries, bid adieu to Hangzhou's enchanting embrace as your chauffeur awaits to transport you back to your hotel, a testament to the seamless blend of exemplary hospitality and unforgettable experiences that define your journey through this storied city.

Day 2 Hangzhou--Shanghai

After a delightful breakfast, meet your guide in the hotel lobby, ready to embark on a day filled with cultural exploration and historical wonders. Today, your exciting tour begins with a visit to the revered Lingyin Temple, a destination that promises to enchant and inspire.

Lingyin Temple, also known as the Temple of the Soul's Retreat, stands as one of the ten most famous ancient Buddhist temples in China. Its rich history and spiritual significance draw countless visitors and pilgrims each year. Founded in 328 AD during the Eastern Jin Dynasty, this sacred site has been a sanctuary of peace and reflection for centuries, nestled amid the serene landscapes of the Wulin Mountains.As you approach the temple, you will be greeted by the grandeur of its ancient architecture, which has withstood the test of time and remains a testament to traditional Chinese design and craftsmanship. The temple's complex includes numerous halls, pavilions, and pagodas, each adorned with intricate carvings and detailed decorations that tell the stories of Buddhist lore and legend.

Following your visit to Lingyin Temple, your journey continues with a visit to the nearby Amanfayun Hotel. Nestled in a picturesque valley, this luxurious resort offers a unique blend of traditional Chinese architecture and modern comforts. The Amanfayun Hotel is more than just a place to stay; it is an experience in itself, providing a tranquil retreat that harmonizes perfectly with the serene surroundings of Lingyin Temple.The hotel is designed to reflect the aesthetic and cultural heritage of the region, with its charming stone pathways, traditional courtyard houses, and lush gardens. Each room and suite is a sanctuary of peace, offering breathtaking views of the surrounding forests and mountains. The interiors are elegantly furnished with a blend of contemporary and traditional elements, ensuring a comfortable and luxurious stay.

Lunch at the local Tea Farmer's House to try the local delicacies

Lunch at the local Tea Farmer's House to try the local delicacies

Enjoy your Lunch at the restaurant popular with the local people to stay away from the tourists' meals.( In china, do not go to the tourists's restaurants when you are on a tour. You shold go to the right place to have the meals, then you are in real china ). We give you the meal options as below:

1) Lunch at Local Tea Farmer's Tea House to know the real life of the local people: And we also can organize tea farmers teach you how to prepare, cook local delicaies if you want to. You can learn how to cook: Beger's Chicken, Westlake carp in vinegar source (Do not be scared, no bones!!! Aha), Lotus root, bamboo shoot...and other many tasty vegetables )

2) At the local restaurants which are popular with local people, such as Grandma's Kitchen, Green Tea Restaurants...And also fancy ones as well, 28 Hubin Road(Top 50 Best in Asia, Jinsha Restaurant in Four Seasons Hotel. We are the local, we are the sources. We know many excellent restaurants even not listed on Lonely Planet and some other travel guides.

After lunch, drive to Meijiawu Plantation: Tea village is seated at the hinterland of West Lake Park and it boasts the most important tea production basis. Here you are in an original natural environment, just relax your feelings and enjoy the special tea culture, taste the fragrant tea while appreciating the beautiful village scenery.

Later,Later, continue your journey to the Bamboo Lined Path at Yunqi, a place that promises to captivate your senses with its breathtaking natural beauty. As you step into the forest, you are immediately struck by the sheer magnificence of the bamboo groves towering above you. The experience is humbling, making you feel a sense of awe and insignificance in the face of nature's grandeur.The bamboo trees, reaching skyward with their slender yet sturdy trunks, highlight why bamboo is so highly regarded and widely used in Asian construction, particularly as scaffolding. Their robustness is palpable as you touch the smooth, resilient surfaces, marveling at their strength and versatility.

The final stop of your journey is the captivating Song Dynasty Street, now renamed Zhongshanlu Beiduan. Despite its modern name, this historic street continues to lead visitors back in time to the era of the Northern Song Dynasty (960-1127 AD). The street stretches a charming 400 meters (1,310 feet) and offers a delightful blend of history, culture, and local flavor.The street's vibrant atmosphere is further enhanced by various street performers and artisans displaying their talents. Musicians playing traditional Chinese instruments, calligraphers demonstrating their art, and craftsmen creating intricate paper cuttings add to the lively and culturally rich environment. These performances and displays offer a deeper understanding of the artistic and cultural practices that have shaped Hangzhou over the centuries.

At the end of your enriching day in Hangzhou, your guide will escort you to the Hangzhou railway station to catch your train back to Shanghai. Upon arrival at the station, your guide will assist you with your luggage and ensure that you have all the necessary tickets and information for a smooth journey. You will then board the comfortable train, ready to relax and reflect on the day's adventures as you travel back to Shanghai.

Price Per Person in US Dollars