10-Day Beijing Shanghai Suzhou Hangzhou Tour

Summary

Day 1 Beijing Arrival
Day 2 Beijing: Tiananmen Square, Temple of Heaven, Forbidden City, Nanluoguxiang Hutong
Day 3 Beijing: Mutianyu Great Wall, Summer Palace
Day 4 Beijing-Shanghai by bullet train
Day 5 Shanghai: Yuyuan Garden, The Bund, Jade Buddha Temple, Old French Concession, Nanjing Road
Day 6 Shanghai-Suzhou by train, The Master of Nets Garden, Hanshan Temple, Panmen Gate, Shantang Street
Day 7 Tongli Water Town, Take train to Hangzhou
Day 8 Hangzhou: West Lake boat ride, Guo's Villa, Meijiawu Tea Plantation, Yunqi Bamboo Forest
Day 9 Hangzhou: Morning Market, Grand Canal, Chenghuang Pavilion Hefang Street
Day 10 Hangzhou Departure

Day 1 Beijing Arrival

Upon your arrival in Beijing, your personal driver and English-speaking guide will be waiting for you in the airport arrival hall, holding a sign that reads “Your Way Holiday” for easy recognition. They will assist you with your luggage and escort you to a comfortable private vehicle for your transfer to the hotel. During the drive, your guide will provide a brief introduction to Beijing and share helpful tips for your stay. Sit back, relax, and enjoy a smooth and friendly welcome to China’s historic capital.

Day 2 Beijing

Your day begins with a warm welcome from your personal English-speaking guide, who will be waiting in the hotel lobby holding a clearly marked “Your Way Holiday” sign. After a friendly introduction, your guide will go over the day’s itinerary with you, ensuring you feel well-informed and comfortable before departure. As you set off together, your guide will begin to share fascinating stories and background about Beijing’s rich past and vibrant present.

Your first stop is the vast and symbolic Tiananmen Square, a site that has witnessed some of the most pivotal chapters in China’s modern history. As one of the largest public squares in the world, it stretches out in all directions, lined with monumental landmarks that have shaped the nation’s identity. As you stroll across its sweeping stone expanse, you’ll see the Monument to the People’s Heroes, an obelisk commemorating those who gave their lives in the struggle for national independence; the Great Hall of the People, where major political events take place; and the Mausoleum of Mao Zedong, the final resting place of the founding father of modern China. Your guide will illuminate the deeper meanings behind each monument, share stories from key historical events that unfolded here, and explain how the square continues to serve as a powerful symbol of unity and resilience. They’ll also assist with photography and point out details that might otherwise go unnoticed, making your visit both informative and memorable.

Next, step into a sanctuary of balance and beauty at the Temple of Heaven, a sprawling complex where emperors once communicated with the heavens in hopes of ensuring a prosperous harvest. Surrounded by serene parkland and ancient cypress groves, this site is a masterclass in Ming Dynasty architecture and cosmology. Admire the Hall of Prayer for Good Harvests, a towering, triple-gabled structure built entirely without nails, known for its perfect symmetry and spiritual energy. Continue to the Imperial Vault of Heaven and the Circular Mound Altar, where fascinating acoustic features and symbolic arrangements reflect ancient beliefs about the connection between heaven and earth. As you explore, your guide will reveal how every element—from the color of the tiles to the layout of the buildings—was designed to reflect harmony, balance, and the emperor’s role as the Son of Heaven. They’ll also demonstrate fun interactive features, like the “Echo Wall,” and ensure you don’t miss the most photogenic spots in this tranquil setting.

Around midday, enjoy a well-earned break with an authentic Beijing lunch at a carefully selected local restaurant favored by residents for its consistency and quality. Delight in a spread of regional specialties, including the city’s culinary crown jewel—Peking Roast Duck, skillfully roasted to perfection, carved before your eyes, and served with paper-thin pancakes, scallions, cucumber, and rich hoisin sauce. For a broader taste of Beijing, try dishes like Zha Jiang Mian (noodles with savory soybean paste), handmade dumplings, or seasonal stir-fried vegetables. Whether you’re a foodie or simply curious about Chinese flavors, your guide will turn this meal into a cultural experience, helping you understand the origin of each dish, recommend combinations suited to your palate, and facilitate easy ordering. They’ll even offer tips on local dining etiquette, ensuring your lunch is as smooth and enjoyable as it is delicious.

In the afternoon, enter the legendary Forbidden City, a palace complex that stands as one of the world’s most impressive and best-preserved examples of ancient Chinese architecture. Once the exclusive domain of emperors and their court, this UNESCO-listed marvel boasts over 8,000 rooms, golden roofs, red walls, and decorative details that symbolize the emperor’s divine authority. Pass through the Meridian Gate, the imposing southern entrance, and begin your journey through a sequence of grand halls such as the Hall of Supreme Harmony, where imperial ceremonies were held. Continue through the quieter residential quarters and end in the beautifully landscaped Imperial Garden, an oasis of pines, rockeries, and winding paths. Your guide will expertly lead you along a thoughtfully curated route, helping you navigate the immense grounds efficiently while sharing vivid stories of court intrigue, dynastic power, cultural rituals, and even personal tales of emperors and concubines. They will also highlight hidden symbolism in architectural elements and explain how Confucian values influenced every detail of palace life.

To conclude your day, immerse yourself in the charm of Nanluoguxiang Hutong, one of Beijing’s oldest and most vibrant historic neighborhoods. These narrow alleyways, lined with traditional siheyuan(courtyard homes), capture the essence of old Beijing while embracing modern creativity. As you meander through the lively streets, you’ll pass artisan boutiques, retro snack shops, quirky galleries, and intimate teahouses tucked between grey-brick walls. This area is a living museum of local life, where time seems to slow down. Your guide will bring these alleys to life with anecdotes about the residents who’ve lived here for generations, point out architectural features of the old homes, and share recommendations for where to try the best sesame buns, tanghulu (candied hawthorn), or handmade souvenirs. They’ll also help you interact with shop owners or suggest quiet corners ideal for taking in the atmosphere or snapping a perfect photo.

As the sun sets over Beijing, your guide will escort you back to your hotel, making sure you’re comfortably settled in for the evening. They’ll assist with any dinner reservations, transportation plans, or questions about the following day’s itinerary, ensuring that your first day in the capital ends as smoothly as it began. From insightful commentary and historical storytelling to personalized attention and practical help, your private guide will be with you every step of the way, making your introduction to Beijing both effortless and unforgettable.

Day 3 Beijing

Begin your day with an unforgettable journey to the Mutianyu section of the Great Wall, a less crowded and beautifully preserved segment that winds through forested hills and dramatic mountain ridges. Known for its scenic beauty and impressive restoration, Mutianyu offers one of the most breathtaking perspectives of this iconic wonder. As you travel from the city to the Wall, your private guide will share fascinating stories about its centuries-old construction, the dynasties that fortified it, and the soldiers and villagers who once lived along its path. Upon arrival, choose between ascending by cable car, which grants sweeping panoramic views, or taking a more adventurous hike up the stone steps. Once atop the Wall, walk along its ancient watchtowers and battlements, taking in views that stretch across the rolling hills. Your guide will walk beside you, pointing out defensive features, construction techniques, and unique sections that showcase the brilliance and scale of ancient Chinese engineering. They’ll also help you find the best photo angles and quieter spots for reflection, making your experience as personal as it is profound.

After descending from the Wall, take a well-deserved break to enjoy a delicious lunch at a charming countryside restaurant, favored by locals for its authentic northern Chinese cuisine. Here, you’ll get to taste comforting and flavorful dishes like Shuan Yang Rou (thinly sliced lamb hotpot), the amusingly named Rolling Donkey (a sticky rice pastry rolled in soybean flour), or other seasonal Beijing-style delicacies. More than just a meal, this is an opportunity to immerse yourself in regional culinary culture. Your guide will assist with the ordering process, suggest the most popular dishes, and explain the stories and customs behind the food—whether it’s a festival dish, a family tradition, or a local favorite passed down for generations. You’ll leave the table not only satisfied, but with a deeper appreciation for the flavors that define Beijing’s food heritage.

In the afternoon, continue your cultural exploration with a leisurely visit to the magnificent Summer Palace, an imperial retreat that offers a serene contrast to the Great Wall’s rugged grandeur. Once the favored escape of emperors during the sweltering summer months, this vast complex is a masterpiece of classical Chinese garden design, blending natural beauty with refined architecture. Stroll through the shaded walkways of the Long Corridor, marvel at the elegant stone structure of the Marble Boat, and enjoy the peaceful scenery around Kunming Lake, where willow trees sway over the water and painted pavilions dot the shoreline. Your guide will share vivid tales of imperial life, the empress dowager Cixi’s extravagant renovations, and the symbolic meanings woven into the bridges, halls, and rockeries. Along the way, they’ll help you understand how traditional aesthetics, feng shui principles, and political power were all reflected in this breathtaking royal landscape.

As your enriching day draws to a close, your guide will accompany you back to your hotel, assisting with any special requests, recommendations, or next-day arrangements. They’ll make sure your return journey is smooth and comfortable, giving you the time to relax and reflect on the day’s highlights. From majestic mountain walls to tranquil palace gardens, this day offers a perfect blend of natural splendor, historical depth, and cultural richness—made all the more engaging through the insights, stories, and care provided by your dedicated guide.

Day 4 Beijing to Shanghai by Train

Begin your day with a smooth and worry-free transfer from your hotel in Beijing to the high-speed rail station. Your friendly driver will meet you in the hotel lobby, assist with your luggage, and ensure you arrive at the station in good time. Upon arrival, you’ll be guided through the check-in process, making your departure from Beijing relaxed and effortless.

Board the high-speed train for a fast, comfortable, and scenic journey to Shanghai. As you travel aboard one of China’s world-class bullet trains, enjoy the sleek design, modern amenities, and panoramic views of the countryside passing by. Whether you choose to rest, read, or simply watch the landscapes unfold, the journey offers a pleasant break as you head toward the dynamic energy of the coast.

Upon arrival at the Shanghai station, your private driver will be waiting for you at the designated meeting point, holding a sign with your name. They’ll assist with your luggage and provide a seamless transfer to your hotel, allowing you to settle in quickly and comfortably. This door-to-door service ensures a truly stress-free experience from start to finish.

With all logistics thoughtfully arranged, today offers a seamless transition from Beijing to Shanghai, combining the speed and comfort of high-speed rail with personalized ground transportation on both ends. You’ll arrive in Shanghai refreshed and ready to explore, with the rest of the day free for relaxation or discovery at your own pace.

Day 5 Shanghai

Your private guide will warmly welcome you in your hotel lobby, holding a sign that reads “Your Way Holiday” to ensure an easy and friendly meeting. From there, your personalized Shanghai city tour begins with comfortable transportation and expert guidance throughout the day, allowing you to fully immerse yourself in the city’s rich culture and vibrant history.

Start your day with a visit to the enchanting Yuyuan Garden, a beautifully preserved classical Chinese garden nestled in the heart of Shanghai’s bustling Old City. Dating back to the Ming Dynasty, this exquisite garden captivates visitors with its intricate pavilions, artistically arranged rockeries, winding stone pathways, and tranquil ponds teeming with colorful koi fish. As you stroll through the serene courtyards, your knowledgeable guide will bring the garden’s rich history to life, explaining the deep symbolism embedded in its architecture and landscaping. You’ll hear fascinating stories about the wealthy families who once resided here and discover hidden gems such as the famous Nine-Curved Bridge and the charming Exquisite Jade Rock. Their insights will help you appreciate the garden not just as a beautiful place, but as a cultural treasure reflecting centuries of Chinese artistry and philosophy.

Next, take a leisurely walk along The Bund, Shanghai’s iconic waterfront promenade that offers breathtaking views of the Huangpu River and the city’s contrasting architectural styles. Along this historic stretch, you’ll be surrounded by grand colonial-era buildings that display an eclectic mix of Gothic, Baroque, and Art Deco influences—each telling a story of Shanghai’s past as a global trading hub. Your guide will share intriguing insights into the history of this financial district, highlight landmark buildings such as the Customs House with its famous clock tower, and the elegant Peace Hotel. As you gaze across the river to the futuristic skyscrapers of Pudong, including the Oriental Pearl Tower and Shanghai Tower, your guide will explain how Shanghai transformed from a modest fishing village into one of the world’s most dynamic and cosmopolitan cities.

At midday, enjoy a delicious lunch at a carefully selected local restaurant, where you will have the chance to savor authentic Shanghai cuisine. Typical dishes might include the famous Xiaolongbao (steamed soup dumplings), Hong Shao Rou (red-braised pork belly), or fresh river shrimp prepared in traditional styles. Your guide will assist with ordering, ensuring you sample a variety of flavors that showcase the region’s culinary heritage. Throughout the meal, they will share the cultural significance of each dish, explain cooking techniques, and offer tips on how to fully enjoy the meal—turning your lunch into a memorable gastronomic experience.

After lunch, visit the tranquil Jade Buddha Temple, a serene Buddhist sanctuary renowned for housing two magnificent jade Buddha statues imported from Burma. This peaceful temple offers a quiet retreat from the city’s bustle, featuring traditional halls filled with the scent of incense and beautifully maintained gardens. Your guide will explain the temple’s spiritual importance, recount the legends behind the jade statues, and describe the daily rituals performed by monks and worshippers. They will also guide you on appropriate etiquette during your visit, answer your questions about Buddhism, and help you have a meaningful and contemplative experience.

Following your temple visit, explore the charming Old French Concession, a historic district famous for its leafy streets, elegant European-style villas, and vibrant café culture. This neighborhood beautifully showcases Shanghai’s cosmopolitan past alongside its creative present, with a lively mix of boutique shops, art galleries, and trendy eateries housed within colonial-era architecture. Your guide will lead you through the quaint streets, sharing stories about the French influence on the city’s development, notable past residents, and the area’s ongoing evolution as a cultural hotspot. Along the way, they’ll introduce you to hidden courtyards, recommend must-try local snacks, and help you uncover unique shops that perfectly capture the spirit of this lively and artistic district.

Conclude your day with a visit to Nanjing Road, Shanghai’s bustling commercial artery and one of the world’s busiest shopping streets. Here, dazzling neon lights illuminate a vibrant scene filled with international brands, local boutiques, and an energetic crowd of shoppers and tourists. Your guide will walk you through the most interesting sections, offer tips on the best places to find souvenirs or luxury goods, and introduce you to some of Shanghai’s classic street foods and snacks available along the way. Whether you want to shop, dine, or simply soak in the dynamic urban atmosphere, your guide will help you make the most of this iconic destination.

At the end of the day, your guide will escort you back to your hotel, assisting with any further arrangements you might need, such as dinner reservations or transportation bookings. Their personalized service throughout the day will ensure that your Shanghai experience is rich, comfortable, and unforgettable—leaving you with cherished memories of this fascinating and vibrant city.

Day 6 Suzhou

Your private driver will meet you in the hotel lobby, holding a “Your Way Holiday” sign, and assist you with your luggage before transferring you comfortably to the high-speed train station in Shanghai. With your train tickets prepared in advance, you can relax and enjoy a smooth journey to the station. After completing check-in procedures on your own, board the high-speed train for a short and scenic ride to Suzhou—often called the “Venice of the East” for its graceful canals and timeless charm. Upon arrival, your local private driver will be waiting at the station to welcome you and begin your day of exploration. From this point, your personal guide will accompany you throughout the tour, offering insightful commentary and ensuring a seamless and enriching experience at every stop.

Begin your Suzhou journey with a visit to the Master of the Nets Garden, one of the city’s most elegant and artistically designed classical gardens. Though modest in size, this tranquil retreat exemplifies the beauty of Suzhou garden design, featuring winding corridors, delicately crafted pavilions, intricate rockeries, and peaceful koi ponds. As you stroll through its serene layout, your guide will explain the underlying philosophy of harmony between architecture and nature, and share fascinating stories of scholars who once sought inspiration in this poetic space. Hidden gems such as the Nine-Curved Bridge and the Exquisite Jade Rock offer further insight into the refined aesthetics of Ming and Qing garden culture.

Next, visit Hanshan Temple, a cherished Buddhist sanctuary located beside the Grand Canal and steeped in over 1,400 years of history. Known around China for its legendary bell and its immortalization in Tang Dynasty poetry, this peaceful temple is a place of quiet reflection. Wander through its age-worn courtyards and gaze upon the ancient bell tower and stone steles as your guide shares the story of monk Hanshan, the symbolism of the bell’s chime, and the temple’s influence on Chinese literature and spiritual practice. If timing permits, you may even catch the deep, resonant tolling of the bell—a sound believed to bring peace and good fortune.

After the morning’s cultural immersion, enjoy a well-deserved lunch at a local restaurant known for traditional Suzhou cuisine. Here you’ll savor delicacies such as Squirrel-shaped Mandarin Fish, Braised Lotus Root with Glutinous Rice, and Suzhou-style Mooncakes, all prepared using time-honored techniques. Your guide will assist you with ordering, explaining the cultural stories and regional ingredients behind each dish. This meal not only offers a delicious break but also serves as a deeper exploration of Suzhou’s culinary heritage, known for its subtle sweetness and delicate presentation.

In the afternoon, continue your tour with a visit to Panmen Gate, the only surviving ancient city gate in Suzhou to feature both land and water gates. This rare architectural site is part of the city’s original fortifications and offers a vivid glimpse into its ancient strategic design. Climb to the top of the gate tower for sweeping views of the old city and its surrounding canals, and explore the nearby Ruiguang Pagoda and Wumen Bridge. Your guide will explain how these historic structures reflect Suzhou’s ingenious blending of water management, defense, and urban planning over the centuries.

Conclude your day with a relaxing walk along Shantang Street, a centuries-old canal-side district renowned for its traditional white-walled houses, graceful arch bridges, and vibrant street life. Originally developed during the Tang Dynasty, this historic street preserves the charm of old Suzhou while offering modern touches like artisan boutiques, teahouses, and snack stalls. Your guide will lead you through the most atmospheric sections, point out historical residences and scenic photo spots, and introduce you to unique local products—from silk embroidery to sweet osmanthus rice cakes. Whether you’re sipping tea beside the canal or picking up a handmade souvenir, this experience offers a vivid look into Suzhou’s living traditions.

As the day draws to a close, your private driver will transfer you comfortably to your hotel in Suzhou, ensuring a smooth and relaxing end to your day of discovery. From start to finish, your journey unfolds seamlessly—with thoughtful planning, rich storytelling, and cultural depth—making this Suzhou tour a perfect blend of elegance, history, and ease.

Day 7 Tongli Water Town

Today, step back in time as we journey to Tongli Water Town, one of the most picturesque and historically rich ancient towns in the Yangtze River Delta. Known for its intricate canal system, stone bridges, and well-preserved Ming and Qing architecture, Tongli offers a peaceful glimpse into the rhythm of traditional riverside life. This charming town is built around a network of 15 rivers that weave through seven islets, all connected by 49 ancient bridges. Among the most celebrated are the Taiping (Peace), Jili (Luck), and Changqing (Celebration) Bridges—together forming a symbolic triangle believed to bring harmony, good fortune, and longevity to those who cross all three. These time-honored bridges not only function as passageways but also embody the poetic and symbolic heart of Tongli’s enduring charm.

Your first stop is the serene Retreat and Reflection Garden (Tui Si Yuan), a shining gem of classical Suzhou-style landscaping and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Designed during the late Qing Dynasty, the garden is renowned for its clever use of space, balance of architecture and nature, and tranquil atmosphere. Winding paths lead you past graceful pavilions, lotus-covered ponds, and ornate lattice windows, each feature carefully arranged to create a sense of harmony and introspection. As you explore, your guide will unveil the stories of the scholar who designed the garden as a retreat from public life and how its name reflects the Confucian value of thoughtful self-reflection.

Continue to Chongben Hall (Chong Ben Tang), an exquisite residential compound that reveals the refined lifestyle of Tongli’s elite in centuries past. The hall is admired for its rich wood carvings, elegant courtyards, and traditional design features that reflect the architectural taste of the late imperial period. As you walk through its timeworn corridors and ancestral halls, your guide will share insights into the family traditions once practiced here, as well as highlight the symbolic meanings behind the carved motifs and spatial layout—designed not only for beauty but also in accordance with feng shui principles.

Next, discover the historic Pearl Tower (Zhen Zhu Ta)—not an actual tower, but rather a legendary pavilion tied to one of China’s most romantic folktales. As you admire the elegant structure and its serene surroundings, your guide will recount the touching story of a noblewoman’s sacrifice for love and loyalty, a tale that has inspired countless operas and literary works. The site stands today not only as an architectural highlight but as a cultural emblem that reflects the depth of Suzhou’s storytelling tradition.

Around midday, pause for a leisurely lunch at a charming local restaurant, where you’ll be treated to Suzhou’s delicate and slightly sweet culinary style. Dishes such as Sweet and Sour Mandarin Fish, Wuxi-style Spareribs, and Braised Lotus Root showcase the region’s preference for freshness and subtle seasoning. Your guide will assist in selecting regional favorites and explain the cultural origins of each dish, making this meal an experience that satisfies both the palate and the mind.

After lunch, enjoy a peaceful walk across the Three Bridges (San Qiao)—a cherished ritual in Tongli. The Peace, Luck, and Celebration bridges are often crossed during weddings, birthdays, and festivals as a blessing for happiness and prosperity. Each bridge features a distinct style and story, and your guide will explain their historical significance and the beliefs that have made them central to local life for centuries. The surrounding scenery, where calm waters mirror whitewashed buildings and weeping willows sway overhead, offers a perfect setting for reflection and photography.

Conclude your visit at Jiayin Hall (Jia Yin Tang), a beautifully preserved ancestral residence that exemplifies the craftsmanship and elegance of Tongli’s merchant class. Step into its ornate chambers and shaded courtyards, where carved beams and antique furnishings tell stories of family honor, prosperity, and tradition. Your guide will introduce you to the architectural symbolism and daily rituals that shaped life within these walls, giving you a vivid understanding of Tongli’s cultural richness beyond its waterways.

At the end of your Tongli tour, you’ll be comfortably transferred back to Suzhou Railway Station. From there, you will board the high-speed train on your own for a smooth and scenic journey to Hangzhou. Upon arrival, your private driver will be waiting at the station, holding a “Your Way Holiday” sign for easy recognition. You will then be transferred directly to your hotel in Hangzhou, ensuring a seamless and relaxing conclusion to your day. Though only a few hours long, your visit to Tongli will leave lasting impressions—offering a rare glimpse into the elegance, simplicity, and poetic charm of Jiangnan’s ancient water towns.

Day 8 Hangzhou

Your private driver will meet you in the morning at your Hangzhou hotel lobby, holding a “Your Way Holiday” sign, and escort you to begin a relaxing and scenic day exploring the cultural and natural treasures of Hangzhou.

Begin your exploration with a peaceful leisure boat ride across West Lake, the most iconic landmark of Hangzhou and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. As your wooden boat glides over glassy waters, you’ll pass willow-fringed shores, arched stone bridges, and poetic sights such as Three Pools Mirroring the Moon and Leifeng Pagoda rising in the distance. The gentle rhythm of the boat, paired with misty hills in the background, creates a dreamlike start to your day. Your guide will accompany you on board, pointing out famous locations depicted in Chinese poetry and paintings, while sharing the history, legends, and cultural symbolism that have made West Lake a timeless inspiration for artists and scholars.

After the cruise, take a tranquil walk through Viewing Fish at Flower Pond (Huagang Guanyu), one of the “Ten Scenic Spots of West Lake.” This landscaped garden is beloved for its seasonal flower displays, graceful willows, and koi-filled ponds. Ancient cypress trees shade winding paths that lead to lotus ponds and ornamental bridges, creating an atmosphere of balance and beauty. As you explore, your guide will explain the significance of koi fish in Chinese culture — symbols of perseverance and good fortune — and introduce you to the traditional garden design elements that reflect the harmony between humans and the natural world.

Tucked beside the lake, Guo’s Villa offers a more intimate experience of Jiangnan classical garden design. This well-preserved private estate features intricate rockeries, reflecting ponds, shaded walkways, and secluded courtyards arranged with poetic precision. Unlike larger public gardens, Guo’s Villa gives a rare glimpse into the lifestyle and taste of a cultured family from the Qing Dynasty. Your guide will lead you through the villa’s serene landscape, revealing how each pavilion and corridor is aligned to frame a changing view, and explaining how the principles of feng shui and Taoist thought guided its layout. You’ll also hear about the scholars and painters who found inspiration in these peaceful surroundings.

Around noon, enjoy a well-prepared lunch at a highly rated local restaurant near the tea-growing hills, where the menu highlights the subtle and seasonal flavors of Hangzhou cuisine. You will savor specialties such as Beggar’s Chicken—chicken slow-cooked in lotus leaves and clay for hours, resulting in tender meat infused with herbal aromas; Longjing Shrimp—fresh river shrimp stir-fried with fragrant Longjing tea leaves for a light and elegant taste; Dongpo Pork—a rich, slow-braised pork belly dish made famous by the Song Dynasty poet Su Dongpo; alongside seasonal stir-fried vegetables that are locally sourced and lightly seasoned, and a clear tofu soup or bamboo shoot broth to cleanse the palate. Throughout the meal, your guide will assist with ordering, share the stories behind each dish, and offer insights into how locals traditionally enjoy their meals, making lunch both delicious and meaningful.

After lunch, venture into the peaceful countryside to visit Meijiawu Village, nestled among terraced hills. This traditional tea-growing village is famed for producing Longjing (Dragon Well) tea, one of China’s finest green teas. Walk through emerald fields where farmers hand-pick the first spring leaves, and visit a tea house where tea masters demonstrate traditional pan-firing techniques. While you relax with a freshly brewed cup, your guide will explain the entire tea-making process, introduce the rich heritage of tea in Chinese philosophy and daily life, and share local customs, including how tea is used to welcome guests and promote wellness.

Finish your day with a gentle walk through the Yunqi Bamboo Forest, one of Hangzhou’s hidden natural retreats. Stone-paved paths wind through dense groves of bamboo, their slender trunks swaying gently in the mountain breeze. As sunlight filters through the canopy, casting dappled shadows across the forest floor, you’ll feel a sense of calm and renewal. Your guide will share the significance of bamboo in Chinese culture — representing humility, resilience, and moral strength — and help you spot scenic corners, ancient pavilions, or quiet spots ideal for reflection or photography.

As the sun begins to set, your driver will take you back to your hotel in Hangzhou. With your day perfectly paced and guided with insight and care, you’ll return with not only beautiful photos and local treats, but also a deeper understanding of the poetic and elegant spirit that defines this remarkable city.

Day 9 Hangzhou

Begin your day with a visit to a traditional morning market, where the rhythms of local life unfold in the early hours. Stalls brim with fresh produce, handmade tofu, seasonal flowers, pickled vegetables, and local snacks, while residents barter over prices or pause to chat with neighbors. It’s a vibrant and authentic window into the culinary and social culture of Hangzhou. As you explore the narrow aisles, your guide will help you identify unique local ingredients, explain their uses in Hangzhou cuisine, and perhaps even introduce you to a vendor or two. You’ll have the chance to sample street snacks such as jianbing (savory crepes) or glutinous rice rolls, while gaining insight into how locals begin their day.

Next, take a relaxing stroll or short cruise along the historic Beijing-Hangzhou Grand Canal, the world’s longest manmade waterway and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. This engineering marvel dates back over 2,000 years and once served as a vital lifeline for trade and cultural exchange across dynasties. Today, its banks are lined with preserved houses, old stone bridges, and peaceful scenes of daily life. Your guide will share stories of how the canal shaped Hangzhou’s economic growth, introduce you to iconic canal landmarks like Gongchen Bridge, and explain how the ancient water transport system influenced the development of neighborhoods along its edge.

For lunch, enjoy a relaxed meal at a local restaurant near the canal district, where you’ll experience some of Hangzhou’s beloved traditional dishes. The menu may include Braised Catfish in Soy Sauce, Lotus Root Stuffed with Glutinous Rice, Steamed River Shrimps, and a seasonal bamboo shoot stir-fry, all complemented with soup made from local winter melon or wild herbs.

After lunch, head to the hilltop Chenghuang Pavilion (City God Pavilion), one of Hangzhou’s most scenic and symbolic landmarks. Perched above the city within Wushan Scenic Area, the pavilion features sweeping views of West Lake, the Qiantang River, and the modern skyline. Its architecture, with upturned eaves and colorful detailing, pays tribute to Ming and Qing Dynasty styles. Climb to the top floors to admire the spectacular vistas and traditional interiors adorned with historical exhibits and calligraphy. As you take in the view, your guide will recount the story of Hangzhou’s City God, the role of this temple in folk belief, and how the site blends legend, religion, and civic pride in one striking structure.

Conclude your day at the bustling Hefang Street, a lively pedestrian zone that preserves the look and feel of ancient Hangzhou. Lined with traditional wooden shopfronts, herbal pharmacies, teahouses, and snack stalls, this street has been a commercial center since the Southern Song Dynasty. Your guide will take you through hidden alleys and historic storefronts, point out time-honored crafts like scissor-making and dough figurines, and help you browse local specialties such as dragon beard candy, Hangzhou silk, and tie-dye souvenirs. Whether you’re interested in tasting traditional sweets, sipping Longjing tea, or simply soaking in the lively street atmosphere, your guide will tailor the experience to your interests.

At the end of your exploration, your driver will transfer you back to your hotel in Hangzhou. With a full day of market discoveries, canal history, scenic views, and traditional street life, this tour offers a dynamic and immersive introduction to the soul of Hangzhou—where the ancient and modern coexist in perfect harmony.

Day 10 Hangzhou Departure

On your departure day, your private driver will meet you in the hotel lobby at your scheduled time, holding a clear “Your Way Holiday” sign for easy recognition. After assisting you with your luggage, you'll enjoy a smooth and comfortable transfer to Hangzhou Xiaoshan International Airport in a clean, air-conditioned vehicle.

Whether you're heading home or continuing your travels elsewhere, this seamless door-to-door service ensures a relaxed and worry-free end to your stay in Hangzhou. If needed, your driver will help you find the appropriate check-in area at the terminal and ensure you're dropped off at the correct gate, allowing you to proceed with ease.

With thoughtful planning and reliable service, your final moments in Hangzhou will be just as pleasant as the journey that brought you here.

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. Selected Hotels and Daily Breakfast: Experience a comfortable stay in handpicked hotels, each chosen for its quality and amenities. Enjoy a daily breakfast at the hotel, starting your day on a delicious note. 8. Complimentary Water: Receive a complimentary bottle of water for each person, keeping you refreshed throughout your journey. 9. Travel Agency Liability Insurance: Benefit from coverage under our travel agency liability insurance, providing added protection and peace of mind during your trip.

Price Excludes 1. Personal Expenses: 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.