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9 Days East China & Mt. Huang Tour by Speed Train

Shanghai / Suzhou / Hangzhou / Huangshan

Morbidezza of Southern China - This is a unique trip full of diverse things to see and experience. You will explore the southeastern China, the most prosperous region which is known for diversity of culture - modern metropolis, beautiful water towns, luster of silk in Suzhou, art of Suzhou Classical Garden, Buddhism, Chinese tea culture, Huizhou-style architecture… The fabulous Yellow Mountain pleases both your mind and eyes, which combines the landscape enjoying with cultural exploration in a single trip. You will start the trip from Shanghai. Soak in the excitement of Shanghai's vitality and busyness, then go to experience the exquisite elegance of East China in Suzhou and Hangzhou. Lastly, be amazed at the four wonders of the Yellow Mountain. You will also experience China’s advanced high speed railway system as you taking the bullet trains to Suzhou, Hangzhou and Huangshan.

  • Type : Private Tour
  • Tour Code : CD-SHHT-09
  • Price : $1,391
  • Trip Length : 9D/8N
  • Theme : Hiking / Photography

HIGHLIGHTS OF THIS TOUR

  • Witness the magnificent achievements made by modern Shanghai - the Bund, Nanjing Road, and World Global Financial Center (492meters high), interesting Former French Concession...
  • Appreciate the art of classical gardens, architect I. M. Pei’s masterpiece Suzhou Museum and beautiful water town of Zhouzhuang during your visit in Suzhou.
  • Visit the poetic West Lake, original plantation of Dragon Well Tea at Meijiawu, beautiful Buddhist grottoes, and tranquil Lingyin Temple in Hangzhou.
  • Hike Yellow Mountain, and admire its archetypal granite peaks and twisted pines and visit Tunxi Ancient Street which was built in Song Dynasty with centuries-old history.
  • Visit two remarkable ancient villages, best examples of ancient Huizhou-style architecture, which are listed in UNESCO World Heritage Sites - Hongcun and Xidi.
  • Using high speed bullet train as the major transportation which is fast (average speed over 250km/h), comfortable and punctual.
  • Day 1 ~ 3 Visit Shanghai and Suzhou
    One flexible day for arrival, and one full day to explore the great contrast of modern and old Shanghai by visiting Shanghai Museum (one of Four Greatest Museums in China) and peaceful Former French Concession, modern and prosperous Shanghai World Financial Center, the Bund, etc. Then take a high speed train (0.5 hours) to Suzhou to visit Lingering Garden, Pingjiang Road, Tiger Hill. Also learn about Chinese silk culture in Suzhou No.1 Silk Factory.
  • Day 4 ~ 5 Visit Zhouzhuang and Hangzhou
    Before driving about 0.5 hour from Suzhou to Zhouzhuang, you will visit Suzhou Museum, the masterpiece of the world-famous architect I. M. Pei. Spend a half day at Zhouzhuang to explore this No. 1 Water Town in China. Then get back to Suzhou city to take a high speed train to Hangzhou. In Hangzhou, you will have a day tour to see the landmark - West Lake, and nearby Lingyin Temple. Also go to enjoy the beautiful plantation of Dragon Well Tea.
  • Day 6 ~ 9 Huangshan Tour & Departure
    Take a morning high speed train to Huangshan (about 3.5 hours). Be picked up at railway station, and transfer to Huangshan city to visit Tunxi Ancient Street. Then spend two days hiking Yellow Mountain and sightseeing its famous attractions, including Begin-to-Believe Peak, West Sea Grand Canyon, Bright Summit, Flying-over Rock, Lion Peak and enjoying sunrise and sunset. Before departure, go to visit UNESCO World Heritage Sites – Hongcun and Xidi Ancient Villages.
Itinerary Day by Day (Can Be Customized)
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Day 1 Shanghai Arrival

Airport or railway station pick up and check in hotel

Ni Hao! Welcome to Shanghai, the biggest metropolis in China!

Upon arrival, you will be met by a local tour guide at the arrival hall of the airport/train station/port and escorted to check in your hotel in downtown by a private comfortable vehicle. The rest of today is on your own to relax. If you want to explore nearby, feel free to get some practical suggestions from your tour guide.

Optional Activity - Attend an entertaining Acrobatic Show, including breathtaking “balls of death” acts, chair balancing, hula hoops, juggling of benches, walking in the air, and other breathtaking performances (usually performed during 19:30~21:00).

Arrival Ideas: At present, there are many international and many domestic flights to and from Shanghai. Also, you can arrive in Shanghai city by taking a high speed train from Beijing (5-6hrs), Xian (6-7hrs), Hangzhou (1hrs), Suzhou (30mins), Huangshan (4hrs), and so on.

  • Space Motorcycles Performed in Shanghai Circus World Space Motorcycles Performed in Shanghai Circus World

Day 2 Shanghai (B, L)

Today's highlights: Shanghai Museum, Former French Concession, Shanghai World Financial Center, the Bund, Nanjing Road

After breakfast, you will visit Shanghai Museum, one of the Four Best Museums in China. There are over one billion cultural relics related to Chinese ancient history and art are exhibited inside, including precious bronzes, paintings, calligraphy, ceramics, jade, sculptures, traditional furniture, seals and old coins from more than 5,000 years ago to the Qing Dynasty. Da Ke Ding(bronze food vessel in over 3000 years ago), Bianzhong of Marquis Su of Jin (ancient musical instruments) are the top treasures to visit. An Audio Explanation Device will help you better learn the facts and knowledge of the exhibitions.

Next, take a leisurely walk in the charming Former French Concession which was a special premier living quarter and retail district for expats in early Shanghai (from 1849 AD until 1943 AD). You will browse hundreds of beautiful old French and European style buildings, apartments, villas, boutique shops, restaurants of a wide range of culinary styles standing at tree-lined avenues. Located among the ultra-modern architecture complex, the Former French Concession is a heritage treasury, a significant window into the city’s up-and-down history and an excellent witness of the culture fusion of the East and Europe.

Next, visit the Shanghai World Financial Center (SWFC), “the Eye of Shanghai”, one of the most incredible skyscrapers in Lujiazui. With a height of 492 meters (1,614 ft), the tower is the second tallest building after the nearby Shanghai Tower (632 meter/2,073 ft). Ascend up to the 474 meter-high 100th floor observation deck, try a thrilling skywalk on the transparent glass walkway and enjoy a breathtaking bird’s eye view of the entire city, including the Bund, neighboring Shanghai Tower, Jinmao Tower and many surrounding attractions. Feel Shanghai lying under your feet and blue sky hanging above your head.

Later, get to Nanjing Road, Shanghai’s earliest commercial street and one of the most popular current landmarks. Lots of big name brands, restaurants, cafés, souvenir shops and towering buildings can be seen when you stroll around this busy pedestrian mall. Continue your walk to the Bund, the No. 1 attraction in Shanghai. Stretching along the west bank of the Huangpu River, this 1.5km-long road was a simple towpath for transporting good but developed to the early “East Wall Street” in late 19th century, as a perfect blend of the East meeting the West. The Bund mainly features 52 various European-style architectures praised to the Exhibition of World’s Architecture. Make a pleasant walk to see those western classical and modern style buildings and amazing skyscrapers of Lujiazui across the river.

After the tour, drive back to your hotel. (If you want to spend free time at the Bund, Nanjing Road or somewhere else please let your tour guide know.)

  • Da Ke Ding (Chinese Ancient Food Vessel) - Treasure of  Shanghai Museum Da Ke Ding in Shanghai Museum
  • Tourists Took Photo at The Bund with Backdrop of Lujiazui Tourists Took Photo at The Bund with Backdrop of Lujiazui
  • Wukang Mansion - Iconic Landmark of Former French Concession Wukang Mansion - Iconic Landmark of Former French Concession
  • 474 M High Glass Walkway in World Financial Center 474 M High Glass Walkway in World Financial Center

Day 3 Train to Suzhou - Suzhou (B, L)

Today's highlights: Lingering Garden, Pingjiang Road, Tiger Hill, Suzhou No.1 Silk Factory

Today you are going to take a 0.5 hour’s high speed train to visit the Heavenly City - Suzhou which is famous for its classical gardens and water towns.

Start with an interesting visit to Lingering Garden, one of the Four Greatest Gardens in China as well as the perfect representative of traditional Suzhou Gardens. The Lingering Garden has synthesized almost all the classic features of Suzhou gardens. It is composed of residential areas, shrines, family temple and garden, making fully use of the changings between big and small, bend and straight, bright and dark, tall and low, tight and disperse, with the surrounding landscapes, such as trees, flowers, lake, sky, as backgrounds to create an ingenious system of space. Stepping into the garden, you will find the buildings, rockeries, corridors, pavilions, ponds and trees in Lingering Garden are all standing in the best place, neither too crowded nor too sporadic. The most incredible thing is that, in the same place, looking from different angles, you can enjoy different scenery. Making a step, you will get another feeling of another kind of scenery.

After visiting Lingering Garden, move on to the next site - Pingjiang Road, a peaceful water town style street with canals by side. Narrow lanes, humpbacked bridges, archaistic cafes and shops all make the road fascinating. No longer need to be disappointed about missing a water town, because the water town is just within your sight. Just enjoy a relaxing stroll on Pingjiang Road and take some nice shots.

In the afternoon, you will go to explore the most historical site in Suzhou Tiger Hill. The famous Chinese poet in Song Dynasty (960-1279), Su Shi, once said, “It is a lifelong pity if having visited Suzhou you did not visit Tiger Hill.” He was definitely right. The hill is only 36 meters in height, but covers about 3.5 acres areas with a number of historical sites some of which have history over 2,500 years. The most famous sites include the Yunyan Pagoda which is an over-1000-year-old pagoda with seven stories in height and famously leans much like the Leaning Tower of Pisa, and the Sword Pool where the King of Wu, He Lu, tested and buried his treasured swords about 2500 years ago. Apart from the history, the Tiger Hill is also an amazing place to go for a walk, enjoy natural scenery and experience local custom. Next, transfer from Tiger Hill to Suzhou No.1 Silk Factory where you could not only see how the silk is processed from worm to the final product, but also learn some history and culture of silk in China.

After the tour, go to check in your hotel. Have a good rest! 

  • Lingering Garden Spring Lingering Garden Spring
  • Suzhou No.1 Silk Factory Suzhou No.1 Silk Factory
  • Suzhou Tiger Hill Suzhou Tiger Hill
  • Pingjiang Road Spring Beautiful Pingjiang Road in Spring

Day 4 Suzhou - Zhouzhuang - Train to Hangzhou (B, L)

Today's highlights: Suzhou Museum, Zhouzhuang Water Town

Today after breakfast, you guide and driver will pick you at your hotel to visit the most outstanding museum in Suzhou - Suzhou Museum which is the masterpiece of the world famous architect I. M. Pei who has built Louvre's pyramids in Paris, Morton H. Meyerson Symphony Center in Dallas, the Miho Museum in Japan and many extraordinary buildings all over the world. While he was designing the Suzhou Museum, he combined the features of classical Suzhou Gardens with modern and fashionable characteristics. The museum has collected more than 40,000 decent items of ancient Chinese art, ancient Chinese paintings, calligraphy, porcelains, jade wares, handmade crafts, etc., from bronze ages to Ming and Qing Dynasties.

Next, go to the beautiful water town of Zhouzhuang with about 1 hour's driving. Reputed as the No. 1 Water Town in China, Zhouzhuang is one of the “ten most beautiful towns in the globe” and “world charming water town” with a long history of over 1000 years, appealing sightseeing and authentic flavor of regions south of Yangtze River in China. Visiting Zhouzhuang Ancient Town, you can see 14 ancient particular stone bridges built in Yuan, Ming and Qing dynasties, multiple courtyards linking together on the winding water, more than 800 residents living by the river, etc. which is exactly the look of serene historic water town in east China. Besides the scenery, the special folk culture in Zhouzhuang will tell you about the real gem of culture in Wu area and the sole of this charming place. Famous attractions include the Double Bridge, Old Drama Stage, Cultural Street, Zhang’s Residence and Shen's Residence, etc.

Optional Activities in Zhouzhuang: 1) riding a boat through the canals to appreciate the fascinating scenery of rivers, bridges and local residences and listen to the old songs of the local sculler. 2) enjoying an authentic Kun Opera Performance.

Lastly, drive to take a high speed bullet train to Hangzhou(about 1.5hrs). Upon your arrival in Hangzhou, be met by your local guide and driver and escorted to your hotel in Hangzhou downtown and helped with the check-in procedure. Have a good sleep!

  • Suzhou Museum Architecture Suzhou Museum
  • Zhouzhuang Zhouzhuang

Day 5 Hangzhou (B, L)

Today's highlights: West Lake, Lingyin Temple, Feilai Peak, Meijia Dock Dragon Well Tea Village, China National Tea Museum

After breakfast today, your guide and driver will meet you at your hotel and escort you to start today’s Hangzhou exploration!

First, make the symbolic visit to the picturesque West Lake, which is the iconic site of Hangzhou and a pretty UNESCO World Heritage. Just as the famous traveler Marco Polo did and wrote: “A voyage on this lake offers more refreshment and pleasure than any other experience on earth”, you will start with a 45-minute leisure cruise to enjoy the tranquil lake views as well as the ancient pagodas, traditional arched bridges, tree-lined walkways, beautiful hills, green islands and lush gardens including visit to the beautiful Three Ponds Mirroring the Moon. After the cruise, stroll or take a sightseeing vehicle leisurely around to pass the famous Su Causeway, Bai Causeway, Broken Bridge, Gushan Hill, parks of Fish Viewing at the Flower Pond, Lotus Swaying in the Breeze, Orioles Singing in the Willows, etc. (As the lake is too large, you can take the sightseeing vehicle at any place on the route to save energy. The fee is included.)

Next, go to Feilai Peak (Peak Flying from Afar), which flew to China to spread Buddhism from India according to the legend. It features in over 300 Buddhist carvings lining the riverbanks and hillsides and tucked away inside grottoes. With over 1,000 years, it is the precious fresco treasure in the whole regions south of Yangtze River. Continue to the adjacent Lingyin Temple of nearly 1,700 year, which is the oldest and one of the most popular temples in Hangzhou. Hidden in the luxurious forest, it offers charming and peaceful landscape mixed with the strong Buddhist atmosphere among the large scaled of magnificent and antique temple clusters.

Then, drive uphill to Meijiawu Tea Village, a refreshing wonderland surrounded by mountains with a large area of emerald Dragon Well tea plantations in neat lines and curves. Walk among the tea plantations with fun and take beautiful photos (Optional activity: you can pay a visit to the local tea grower’s family and experience picking tea leaves, watching stir-drying tea leaves, enjoying tea ceremony, tasting Dragon Well tea, etc., which needs extra payment.). After that, go to China National Tea Museum to learn systematically about Chinese tea culture including the history, procession, customs and classification of tea, and admire diverse kinds of tea wares, machines, displays, etc.

After today’s visiting, be escorted back to your hotel in Hangzhou downtown. Have a good sleep!

Evening Ideas: 1) watch a magnificent night show - Enduring Memories of Hangzhou, a live performance by Yimou Zhang with changing lights, music and dancing on the West Lake, which usually starts at 7pm, needs extra payment; 2) feast your eyes with an amazing Music Fountain Show at Third Park, near the eastern lakeside of West Lake, free charged.

  • West Lake Sunset at Changqiao Park West Lake Sunset at Changqiao Park
  • West Lake View at Jixian Pavilion West Lake View at Jixian Pavilion
  • West Lake Boating Experience West Lake Boating Experience
  • Lingyin Temple at Leafy Forest Lingyin Temple at Leafy Forest
  • Feilai Peak Stone Carvings Feilai Peak Stone Carvings
  • Hangzhou Dragon Well Tea Plantation Hangzhou Dragon Well Tea Plantation
  • Lawson Family from UK - Meijiawu Tea Plantation, Hangzhou, Zhejiang Our customers Lawson's Family from UK visited Meijiawu Tea Plantation in Hangzhou, Zhejiang, China in October, 2019.

Day 6 Train to Huangshan & Huangshan (B, L)

Today's highlights: Tunxi Ancient Street

Today after breakfast, you’ll be transferred to take a morning high speed bullet train to Huangshan from Hangzhou East Railway Station. The fast and comfortable train journey costs you only about 1.5 hours to reach Huangshan North Railway Station. After arrival, your private tour guide and driver will pick you up and go to check in your hotel in Huangshan City.

After some rest, you will go to explore the most famous ancient street - Tunxi Ancient Street. First built about 900 years ago, during Song Dynasty (960-1279), Tunxi Ancient Street is a 100% “old” street with well-preserved houses in Huizhou style. It was once called “the Eastern Ancient Rome” by an ancient Western-European architect. Strolling along this 1.5 kilometers long and 7 meter wide street, you could taste the delicious local snacks, purchase some souvenirs, antiques or knick-knacks in the shops, and sip the region’s special tea like Maofeng with hospitable locals…all are the finest experience in this ancient street.

  • Tunxi Ancient Street Survived Relatively Untouched Tunxi Ancient Town
  • Tunxi Ancient Street evening Tunxi Ancient Street evening

Day 7 Huangshan (B)

Today's highlights: Begin-to-Believe Peak, West Sea Grand Canyon, Dispelling Cloud Pavilion, Bright Summit

Walking Distance: about 7~9km/5~6 hrs

Today after breakfast, our guide and driver will pick you up at your hotel, then drive about 80 kilometers (1.5 hours) to the foot of Mount Huangshan (Yellow Mountain), the UNESCO World Heritage Sites and one of the most beautiful mountains in China. Your memorable Huangshan trip starts!

To save energy and time, you will directly transfer by park bus from the mountain foot to Yungu Temple to take a cableway to upper beautiful sightseeing area of Huangshan Mountain – North Sea Scenic Area which is famous for marvelous precipitous peaks, beautiful giant pine trees and far-reaching vision. Walk to lofty Begin-to-Believe Peak (1668m) to stretch your eyesight over cloud seas to far distance, and then hike about 40 minutes to Dispelling Cloud Pavilion to look down the Dreamland - West Sea Grand Canyon. Walk down along the stone steps to the deeper area of the canyon while enjoying the Avatar-like rising rock peaks, unfathomable cliffs, bizarre stones and tenacious pine trees. 

Generally speaking, it takes about 3 hours for an energetic hiker to hike from the Dispelling Cloud Pavilion, via 1st Ring and 2nd Ring to the bottom and return to the starting point. For beginners, children, and senior travelers, you can decide the hiking length on your own according to your physical condition, usually 2 hours for the 1st Ring and 2.5hrs for the 2nd Ring. In the bottom of the canyon, there is also a monorail cable trains for those who don’t want to return by walking to transfer back to the peak area. 

If time and energy allow, you can spend about one hour to explore the Sky Sea Scenic Area where you can enjoy the sunset from the second highest peak - Bright Summit (1840m), visit the incredible Flying-over Rock, then return to your hotel on the mountain and have a good rest.

(Please Note: from December to the late March of next year, West Sea Grand Canyon is usually closed for the cold weather and heavy snow. Please feel free to contact us to adjust your itinerary.)

  • Breathtaking scenery of West Sea Grand Canyon Breathtaking scenery of West Sea Grand Canyon
  • Begin-to-believe Peak Begin-to-believe Peak
  • Anjali from USA - Yellow Mountain Anjali from USA visited Yellow Mountain Huangshan in January, 2019
  • Robert from USA - Yellow Mountain, Huangshan Robert from USA enjoyed the sea of clouds on Yellow Mountain in June, 2019

Day 8 Huangshan (B)

Today's highlights: sunrise, Dawn Pavilion, Stone Monkey Watching the Sea, Lion Peak

Get up early (usually around 5am to 6am) to enjoy the magnificent sunrise from Huangshan. We suggest you watch the sunrise from the Refreshing Terrance which is only a few minutes’ walking from Beihai Hotel. In good-weather days, you can see clearly the golden light of the sun piercing the mists, and rocky peaks rising above the frothy, ever-changing sea of white clouds. After the sunrise, get back to your hotel for breakfast.

Continue on your wonderful sightseeing on the Yellow Mountain to see the famous Dawn PavilionStone Monkey Watching the Sea on the Lion Peak (1690m). Then walk along the wood path to the cable station to take a cable car to exit the mountain. Your driver is ready at the mountain foot to transfer you back to Huangshan City. The rest of today is free for you to relax and have a good rest.

  • Lion Peak Landscape Lion Peak Landscape
  • Beautiful Sunrise of Yellow Mountain Beautiful Sunrise of Yellow Mountain
  • Stone Monkey Watching the Sea (on Lion Peak) Stone Monkey Watching the Sea (on Lion Peak)

Day 9 Hongcun - Xidi - Huangshan Departure (B, L)

Today's highlights: Hongcun and Xidi Ancient Village

Today, you are going to visit two remarkable ancient villages, best examples of ancient Huizhou-style architecture, which are listed in the UNESCO World Heritage Sites - Hongcun and Xidi. Quite different from other traditional ancient villages in China, the layout, landscape, architectural form, decoration, and construction techniques all retain the original features Hongcun and Xidi are much more exquisite and grandiose, because they were built by successful officials or merchants returning home from official appointments and business.

Hongcun, originated during Song Dynasty (960-1276), is praised as the most beautiful village in China. It is famous as the ancient village in the Chinese painting. The most beautiful sites are the Moon Lake, the crescent-like pond surrounded by several grand dwellings, and Southern Lake Academy, a private ancient school served for the village. One interesting fact is that the whole village is arranged in the shape of an ox. The famous Oscar-winner film Crouching Tiger, Hidden Dragon was filmed in Hongcun.

Xidi Village is only about 10km from Hongcun. Its well-spaced houses with white walls, elegant decorations and black tiles are surrounded by mountains, which makes Xidi an ideal place for paint from life. Xidi is a magnificent villager of imperial officers. It contributed about 130 government officials, some of whom were dignitaries in the imperial courts, during Ming and Qing Dynasties. Currently, there are still 124 well-preserved ancient dwelling with unique style in the village.

After the sightseeing, it’s time for departure. Your tour guide and driver will escort you to catch your flight/train to next destination. Our service ends.

  • Chen's Family from USA - Xidi Village Huangshan Chen's family from USA visited Xidi Village in May, 2019
  • Jack and Emily from UK -  Hongcun Village, Huangshan Jack and Emily from UK visited Hongcun Village in October, 2019

Recommended Add-on Options

+2 more days to explore the Ancient heart of China - Xian

Xian, as the capital of 13 ancient China dynasties, is filled with amazing historic and cultural wonders. 

With only 2 days, you can travel the best highlights of ancient capital Xian at an enjoyable pace. The Day 1 is a full day visit to the famous Terracotta Warriors, Ancient City Wall, Local Snack Street - Muslim Quarter. In the Day 2, you have a half day for visiting to the symbol of Xian - Big Wild Goose Pagoda, and having an educational learning in Shanxi History Museum. The rest time is free for departure.

Our guests get viewed by the countless Terracotta Warriors
+3 more days to explore the imperial city of China - Beijing

Beijing, the 'forbidden' city, now is open to the world!

As the capital city of China for more than eight-hundred years, Beijing possesses rich cultural deposits of China. You will need at least 3 days to explore its best highlights. Here is the plan - Day 1 is for you to visit the imperial historical sites, including Tiananmen Square, Forbidden City and Summer Palace; Day 2 is to hike the magnificent Great Wall while Day 3 is for you to have a half-day visiting of the Temple of Heaven,local Hutongs, and depart from the city.

The Forbidden City Overall View from Jingshan Park

The quotation for this trip is from $1,391 Per Person

1. This price is for one person, based on a group of 2 adults sharing one standard double-bed room in 4-star hotel and traveling with our private tour in low seasons.
2. This price is subject to change according your traveling season, group size, hotel class, change of activities in your itinerary and possible fluctuation of currency exchange rate. If you want a lower price, you can get more people to join you, or use economy class hotels.
3. This price is only valid to March 31, 2023.
4. Reference exchange rate of USD 1=RMB 6.85. The final quote is based on current exchange rate. It may change according to the currency fluctuation, while the RMB quotation will be remained the same.

What's included?

  • Professional licensed English-speaking guide;
  • Admission tickets for all attractions listed in the itinerary;
  • Accommodation as listed in the itinerary (4-star standard);
  • Necessary vehicle transfers as listed in the itinerary;
  • Domestic flights (economy class) or high-speed trains (second class) as listed in the itinerary;
  • Airport (and train station) pick up and drop off;
  • Audio explanation device in Shanghai Museum;
  • Cableways to ride up and down Huangshan Mountain;
  • Leisure cruise and sightseeing vehicle at West Lake listed in the itinerary;
  • Luggage Transfers: between airports (railway station) and hotels;
  • All meals as listed(“B” for Chinese and Western breakfast buffet in your hotel; “L” for Chinese Lunch in local restaurant; “D” for Chinese dinner in local restaurant.);
  • Accident insurance;
  • Our service charge, including tour planning, handling, operational and communication charges.

What's excluded?

  • China visa;
  • Personal expenses;
  • Accommodation not listed in the itinerary;
  • Single Room Supplement;
  • Tourist sites which are not listed in the itinerary;
  • Recommended optional activities;
  • Shanghai arrival flight or train on the first day;
  • Huangshan departure flight or train on the last day;
  • Shanghai arrival flight or train on the first day (We can book domestic flights or trains for your);
  • Huangshan departure flight or train on the last day (We can book domestic flights or trains for your);
  • Excess Baggage Charges;
  • Optional tips to guides, drivers, etc.;
  • Optional activities listed in the itinerary: local tea grower family visiting and Enduring Memories of Hangzhou night show in Hangzhou, and acrobatic show in Shanghai, boat riding and Kun Opera Performance in Zhouzhuang.

Check What our delighted customers are saying about our services.

Hi Wonder,

We are safely back in Guangzhou. Wonderful experience. All the planned events were highlights and the little extra side trips were a plus. Thank you for all your careful planning.

Townsend - 2023.3.29‚ USA, March 29, 2023

Hi Leo,

This is a very short customised arrangement during which the China border is not fully opened yet.

China Discovery charges a premium though, but it delivered without fail.

The VOA is very new to even the custom officers who were on duty when I cleared the immigration check at Shenzhen as well as the HK side. I must say that the agent did his professional service by always on the call to allow on-site changes of my arrival time because immigration clearance was so unpredictable. I can be assured that someone is just outside the arrival hall to pick me up and, I could tell the immigration officer that my local contact person is just waiting outside to pick me once I am cleared with this new procedure.

It is always safer to have a local contact to guide you and make arrangements for your local transfer when language ( Cantonese instead of Mandarin) is a problem in China .

Thx for the service . Thx to Matt too.

Rgds

Lowell - 2023.3.24‚ Singapore, March 24, 2023

Rita,

thank you for your arrangement. The tour and logistics were really good. We are very happy and look forward to the next trip in China with your company.

Jack - 2023.3.21‚ Vietnam, March 21, 2023

Dear Jack,

I have tried to leave the following review with tripadvisor several times now but somehow it is not accepted, I do not know why.

"Just back from our 9-day trip to Yunnan, long planned and waited for. It was our second time with China Discovery Tours. Once again they tailored the tour according to our ideas and interests - and succeeded in surprising us! Thanks to the local guides we learned a lot about history, traditions and customs, and, of course, food. We always felt in safe hands and the organization was just perfect with enough on spot flexibility. Big thanks to Jack who figured it all out so well and to the next time with China Discovery! Johannes (GER) & Elizabeth (GRC)"

Thanks again for an excellent trip, best regards, Johannes&Elizabeth

Johannes - 2023.3.20‚ Germany, March 20, 2023

Hi Jack!

It's was great, we loved it! Our tour guide Frank was very kind, informative, and funny :) We loved how easy it was and how much we got to see in a day, I will definitely recommend to our friends!

Ashton - 2023.3.16‚ USA, March 16, 2023
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Check What our customers are saying about us on Tripadvisor.com.

We are one of the few China travel agencies who have kept active and received lots of feedbacks and reviews during pandemic years

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Kelly T
"Beyond expectation! It came shortly after the business trip that I and my wife decided to go on a private tour. Even with such short notice, the service was extraordinary..."
Reviewed on April 3, 2023
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"My husband and I visited Yunnan and Rita of China Discovery arranged every detail of the trip. We visited Kunming, Dali, Shangri-La and Lijiang. Rita booked our flights, train..."
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China Tour

In each destination, you’ll enjoy a comfortable stay in a great location!

The hotels we choose are based on star rating, great locations, well-equipped facilities, cozy bed, high quality service and guests’ feedbacks. Choices are a lot ranging from luxury 5 star, comfortable 4 star to budget 3 star. You could decide where to stay to best suit for your budget and likes. Generally, the hotels have both Western and Chinese breakfast with a wide choices.

If you have already got an ideal hotel, please feel free to tell our travel consultants and they'll book the hotel for you.

Have good sleep in our well-selected hotels in all the destinations of China.

Meals & Dining

China Tour

We can satisfy all the dietary requirements no matter you want Chinese local food, western food, vegetarian food or muslin food.

The restaurants we will take you for lunch or dinner are all designated tourist restaurants approved by local tourist administration bureau. They have very good sanitary conditions and the food is prepared fresh and clean.

There will be some meals excluded in your itinerary as you like, and your private guide will be delighted to give you some suggestions and take you to the local restaurants to taste like Beijing Roast Duck, Xian Dumpling Dinner, Sichuan Hotpot, etc., if you are interested in local food tasting.

All the dining options will satisfy your stomach!

Photo gallery of this trip

  • Space Motorcycles Performed in Shanghai Circus World Space Motorcycles Performed in Shanghai Circus World
  • Da Ke Ding (Chinese Ancient Food Vessel) - Treasure of  Shanghai Museum Da Ke Ding (Chinese Ancient Food Vessel) - Treasure of Shanghai Museum
  • Tourists Took Photo at The Bund with Backdrop of Lujiazui Tourists Took Photo at The Bund with Backdrop of Lujiazui
  • Wukang Mansion - Iconic Landmark of Former French Concession Wukang Mansion - Iconic Landmark of Former French Concession
  • 474 M High Glass Walkway in World Financial Center 474 M High Glass Walkway in World Financial Center
  • Lingering Garden Spring Lingering Garden Spring
  • Suzhou No.1 Silk Factory Suzhou No.1 Silk Factory
  • Suzhou Tiger Hill Suzhou Tiger Hill
  • Pingjiang Road Spring Pingjiang Road Spring
  • Suzhou Museum Architecture Suzhou Museum Architecture
  • Zhouzhuang Zhouzhuang
  • West Lake Sunset at Changqiao Park West Lake Sunset at Changqiao Park
  • West Lake View at Jixian Pavilion West Lake View at Jixian Pavilion
  • West Lake Boating Experience West Lake Boating Experience
  • Lingyin Temple at Leafy Forest Lingyin Temple at Leafy Forest
  • Feilai Peak Stone Carvings Feilai Peak Stone Carvings
  • Hangzhou Dragon Well Tea Plantation Hangzhou Dragon Well Tea Plantation
  • Lawson Family from UK - Meijiawu Tea Plantation, Hangzhou, Zhejiang Lawson Family from UK - Meijiawu Tea Plantation, Hangzhou, Zhejiang
  • Tunxi Ancient Street Tunxi Ancient Street
  • Tunxi Ancient Street evening Tunxi Ancient Street evening
  • Breathtaking scenery of West Sea Grand Canyon Breathtaking scenery of West Sea Grand Canyon
  • Begin-to-believe Peak Begin-to-believe Peak
  • Anjali from USA - Yellow Mountain Anjali from USA - Yellow Mountain
  • Robert from USA - Yellow Mountain, Huangshan Robert from USA - Yellow Mountain, Huangshan
  • Lion Peak Landscape Lion Peak Landscape
  • Beautiful Sunrise of Yellow Mountain Beautiful Sunrise of Yellow Mountain
  • Stone Monkey Watching the Sea (on Lion Peak) Stone Monkey Watching the Sea (on Lion Peak)
  • Chen's Family from USA - Xidi Village Huangshan Chen's Family from USA - Xidi Village Huangshan
  • Jack and Emily from UK -  Hongcun Village, Huangshan Jack and Emily from UK - Hongcun Village, Huangshan

Most Important Trip Notes

Below are some important things to know regarding of train travel tips, traveling documents, hotels and food, weather, booking guide. Traveling with China Discovery, you only need to focus on enjoying your holiday time. We will take care of all the details. Our travel consultants are always ready to help you if you have any questions about the trip.

1. How to travel by high speed trains in China?
Understanding China Train Designations
China trains are divided into two kinds: High Speed Trains and Normal Trains with different speeds, facilities and names. There are three kinds of High Speed Trains in China, differed by the letters G/D/C plus several digits. Generally speaking, G trains are faster and with better amenities. Normal trains are not recommended.
Facilities and Services in China’s High Speed Trains
All China high speed trains are fully air-conditioned and non-smoking. Western toilets are provided. There are also luggage racks, dining car, power plugs, water-dispenser and some other user-friendly facilities equipped on the train.
Which Class of Seat to Take
Second Class Seats, First Class Seats, Business Class Seats are three common seats you can find on most China high speed trains. First Class Seats are strongly recommended. They are larger and less-crowded.
How to Book China Train Tickets
Currently, you can only book China train tickets 30 days in advance. You can book on China Railway’s official website or some online travel agencies, or go to purchase tickets at any of China’s railway station. Passport is always required no matter you book online or at railway stations. If you book train ticket online, you can collect your ticket at the ticket counters in any railway station in China any time.
Security Check & Luggage Check
After arriving at railway station, firstly get your ticket and passport prepared and represent to the staff, and then pass Security Check & Luggage Check, and find the right boarding gate. It's easy and simple.
How to Handle Your Luggage
Traveling with luggage on China train is not a problem. If you take high speed trains, it will be easier to handle your luggage because there are plenty of spaces to place your luggage, and there are also many ways to deliver your luggage.
Related Tips about this tour
When is the best time to take this trip?
All three destinations are suitable for traveling all year round. Summer (Jun, Jul, Aug) days are relatively hot and rainy, while the winter days (Dec, Jan, Feb) are cold but not very cold. Compared with summer and winter, the spring (Mar, Apr, May) and autumn (Sept, Oct, Nov) are more comfortable. Try to avoid China's holidays, such as the May Day, Middle Autumn Days, National Days (first week of Oct) and Spring Festival (usually in February).
Vehicle and Road Condition
The driving hour is usually less 2 hours each day. Most of the roads are in good condition. There may be traffic jams in rush hours and holidays. We usually choose the suitable time to start your trip to avoid large traffic. Our drivers are licensed drivers with many years’ driving experience. All our vehicles are air-conditioned, non-smoking, clean and well-maintained.
Hotels and Dining
The choices for accommodation are flexible. The standards of hotels range from local 3-star to some international 5-star. We usually use 4-star and 5-star hotels for our customers to ensure better stays. All the hotels we choose are usually based on star rating, great locations, well-equipped facilities, cozy bed, high quality service and guests’ feedbacks. Air conditioning and Wi-Fi are usually available. Chinese food is mainly provided in this trip. Western food can be arranged too if you want.
Payment and Booking Guide
1. What kind of payment method do you accept?
PayPal, Wire Transfer/Bank Transfer, Western Union are acceptable before your arrival, and after your arrival, CASH is required.
2. How soon before our trip do you need payment?
Early booking is always better than being rushed, and we would suggest booking to be 2-3 month earlier than your arrival to guarantee the booking items. If you are interested in any of our tours, you can pay a deposit first and balance to be paid 30 days prior to your arrival. You can also choose to pay the full amount to avoid small loss caused by currency exchange rate fluctuation.
3. When should we pay the deposit and the balance?
Certain deposit will be paid if you decide to book, and balance is required to be paid 30 days prior to your arrival. If booking is less than 30 days, full payment is required.

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  • +2 more days to explore the Ancient heart of China - Xian
    +3 more days to explore the imperial city of China - Beijing

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