Three Days Hangzhou Highlights Tour Package with All-Inclusive Extension to Wuzhen Water Town

Summary

Itinerary Highlight
Day1 Hangzhou: West Lake Boat Cruise, Viewing Fish at the Flower Pond, Guo Garden, China National Tea Museum, Leifeng Pagoda
Day2 Hangzhou: Lingyin Temple, Bamboo-Lined Path at Yunqi, Meijiawu Tea Plantation, Six Harmonies Pagoda, Southern Song Imperial Street
Day3 Hangzhou - Wuzhen Water Town: Jiangnan Hundred Beds Museum, the Folk Custom Museum, Sanbai Wine Workshop, Hongyuan Thai Dye House, Shadow Play Show

Day1 Hangzhou

Upon arrival in Hangzhou, your local tour guide will be waiting to greet you with a warm welcome. Look for the “Your Way Holiday” sign as you step out of the hotel lobby or the Hangzhou train station. Your guide will assist you with your luggage and ensure a seamless start to your day of exploration. Throughout the day, your guide will provide insightful commentary, answer any questions you may have, and offer personalized recommendations to enhance your experience.

Begin your adventure with a West Lake boat cruise, a quintessential experience that highlights Hangzhou’s natural beauty and serenity. As you drift across the lake’s placid waters, take in the stunning views of the celebrated Three Pools Mirroring the Moon, one of the lake's most picturesque and iconic sights. The cruise offers a peaceful escape and allows you to appreciate the delicate interplay between ancient pagodas, traditional arched bridges, and lush green islands. The landscape’s harmony and the lake’s reflective waters create a truly enchanting experience, making West Lake an unforgettable highlight of your visit. Your guide will provide engaging information about the lake’s history and significance during your West Lake boat cruise, enhancing your appreciation of this beautiful setting.

Next, explore Viewing Fish at the Flower Pond, located at the southern end of the Su Causeway. This picturesque park is known for its clear stream flowing from Huajia Hill, which merges beautifully with West Lake. The park’s name, "Flowery Harbor," reflects the vibrant and varied flora that graces the area. Stroll through the park’s expansive grounds, where you can admire a diverse collection of trees and colorful flowers, including a stunning peony garden that blooms in the spring. The tranquil goldfish pond is a perfect spot for observing these graceful creatures in their natural environment, adding to the park’s serene and picturesque ambiance. Your guide will share interesting facts about the park’s design and its role in Hangzhou’s cultural landscape.

Afterwards, visit Guo Garden, an elegant villa built in the 19th century for a wealthy Qing Dynasty silk merchant. This beautiful retreat exemplifies traditional Chinese design, where architectural elements and natural surroundings blend in perfect harmony. The villa, which has been lovingly restored, offers views of the scenic Spring Dawn by the Sudi Causeway and the serene Southern Screen Hill and Baochu Pagoda. Wander through the villa’s two main sections: "Living in Quietness," the former residence of the owner, and "Sky in the Mirror," a tranquil garden featuring a serene pond, covered walkways, picturesque bridges, and lush greenery. The garden’s peaceful atmosphere provides a delightful contrast to the bustling city. Your guide will provide context about the villa’s history and its architectural significance, enriching your visit.

For lunch, savor a variety of local delicacies at a carefully selected restaurant. Begin with Xia Bao Shan Mian, a flavorful dish of stir-fried noodles combined with succulent shrimp and tender eel, offering a delightful medley of textures and tastes. Complement your meal with Zha Xiang Ling, crispy spring rolls filled with a savory mix of ingredients, providing a satisfying crunch and a burst of flavor. In addition, you might enjoy other regional specialties recommended by your tour guide, ensuring a diverse and authentic taste of Hangzhou’s culinary scene. The local dining experience will give you a true sense of the area’s gastronomic delights. Your guide will ensure that your lunch experience is pleasant and that you have the opportunity to try the best local dishes.

In the afternoon, visit the China National Tea Museum, dedicated exclusively to celebrating China’s rich tea heritage. Discover an extensive collection of tea-related artifacts and learn about the historical and cultural significance of tea in Chinese society. The museum provides engaging exhibits on traditional tea art and the various types of tea cultivated across China. As you sample different teas, enjoy the museum’s scenic setting amidst lush tea plantations, which enhances the tranquil and educational experience of exploring the world of tea. Your guide will offer insights into the tea-making process and the cultural importance of tea, making your visit both informative and enjoyable.

Conclude your tour with a visit to Leifeng Pagoda, a historic and culturally significant landmark located within the West Lake Scenic Area. Renowned for its association with the Legend of the White Snake, this ancient pagoda is deeply embedded in Chinese folklore and cultural history. The legend, which has inspired numerous operas, films, and television series, adds a layer of mystique to this architectural marvel. The pagoda’s elegant design and its rich historical context make it a captivating site, offering a memorable conclusion to your day of exploration. Your guide will share the fascinating story behind the pagoda and its place in Chinese cultural heritage, enriching your understanding of this iconic landmark.

Your day wraps up with a comfortable drive back to your hotel, where you can reflect on the many cultural and scenic treasures you’ve experienced in Hangzhou. This enriching journey through the city's highlights, guided by an expert who ensures every detail is taken care of, guarantees a lasting impression of Hangzhou’s natural beauty and historical significance.

Day2 Hangzhou

After enjoying a sumptuous breakfast at your hotel, your friendly guide will be waiting for you in the hotel lobby. With a warm welcome, they will assist you with any last-minute preparations and ensure a smooth start to your day's exploration. Your guide will be with you throughout the day, providing insightful commentary and personalized assistance to enhance your experience.

Your first stop today is the Lingyin Temple. Lingyin Temple, often translated as the "Temple of the Soul's Retreat," stands as one of China's most important and historically rich Buddhist temples. Founded in ancient times, the temple has been rebuilt numerous times, reflecting its enduring significance. The temple complex is renowned for its grand architecture and extensive collection of Buddhist scriptures and relics. The highlight of the temple is its impressive array of over 470 stone carvings of Buddhist figures, created during the 10th to 14th centuries. These carvings are not just artistic masterpieces but also serve as historical records of Buddhist iconography and craftsmanship. As you stroll through the temple grounds, your guide will provide detailed explanations about the temple’s history, its architectural features, and the stories behind its artistic treasures.

Next, head to the Bamboo-Lined Path at Yunqi. This serene bamboo forest offers a truly enchanting experience. The bamboo grove, with its tall, slender stalks reaching high above, creates a peaceful and awe-inspiring atmosphere. As you walk along the bamboo-lined path, you’ll be surrounded by a lush green canopy that filters sunlight in a unique and refreshing way. The sound of the wind rustling through the bamboo adds to the tranquil ambiance. The forest's light and airy feel, combined with the impressive height of the bamboo, creates a sense of wonder and connection with nature. Your guide will share fascinating details about the ecological role of bamboo and its cultural significance in traditional Chinese life, offering a deeper appreciation of this natural wonder.

For lunch, enjoy a meal at a local restaurant that is a favorite among residents. This dining experience will offer you a taste of authentic regional cuisine, providing a welcome departure from typical tourist fare. Today’s menu features traditional dishes such as Lotus Root Powder and Dry Bamboo Shoot and Old Duck Stew. Lotus Root Powder, a sweet and comforting treat, is made from finely ground lotus root and is enjoyed for its delicate flavor and smooth texture. Dry Bamboo Shoot and Old Duck Stew is a hearty and flavorful dish that combines tender duck with aromatic bamboo shoots, creating a rich and satisfying meal. Your guide will ensure you have a truly local dining experience, recommending the best dishes and providing insights into their significance in regional cuisine.

After lunch, visit the Meijiawu Tea Plantation, a renowned site for Dragon Well Tea (Longjing tea). This prestigious green tea, celebrated for its exquisite quality and delicate flavor, is predominantly hand-produced in Hangzhou. The Meijiawu Tea Village, nestled in the scenic surroundings near West Lake, serves as a key production area for this famous tea. Here, you’ll have the opportunity to immerse yourself in the rich tea culture of Hangzhou. Enjoy the tranquil setting as you taste fragrant tea and learn about the traditional tea-making process. Your guide or a local tea expert will demonstrate the meticulous steps involved in picking, roasting, and brewing the tea, offering valuable insights into the art of tea preparation and its cultural significance.

Then, visit the Six Harmonies Pagoda, a historic and architecturally significant tower situated on Yuelun Mountain. Overlooking the Qiantang River, this pagoda is renowned for its elegant design and historical importance. Built as a classical pavilion-style tower, it offers panoramic views of the river and the surrounding landscape. The pagoda’s strategic location makes it one of the best vantage points for observing the Qiantang River Tide, a spectacular natural phenomenon characterized by dramatic tidal surges. Your guide will provide context about the pagoda’s historical background, its role in local culture, and the significance of the tidal changes observed from this vantage point.

The final stop of the day is the Southern Song Imperial Street, now known as Zhongshanlu Beiduan. This historic street, with its vibrant atmosphere, offers a glimpse into traditional Chinese commerce and culture. Stretching for several hundred meters, the street is lined with a variety of shops, snack bars, and stalls selling local delicacies, antiques, embroidered items, and silks. It provides a lively setting where you can explore and purchase unique souvenirs while enjoying the local ambiance. Your guide will assist you in navigating the street, offering recommendations and tips to ensure you have a memorable shopping experience. As you wander through the bustling market, you’ll feel the pulse of Hangzhou’s commercial heritage, blending seamlessly with its modern vibrancy.

After the tour, your guide and driver will escort you back to your hotel in Hangzhou. This day, rich with cultural and historical exploration, will leave you with lasting memories of Hangzhou's enchanting sites. Upon your return, take the time to relax and rejuvenate in the comfort of your hotel, preparing yourself for the delightful journey to the water towns awaiting you tomorrow.

Day3 Hangzhou - Wuzhen Water Town

Today, you will embark on a delightful journey with your guide to the charming Wuzhen Water Town. After enjoying a sumptuous breakfast at your hotel, your guide will meet you in the lobby and assist with boarding the comfortable vehicle. The drive through the picturesque countryside provides a glimpse into rural life and sets the tone for a day of cultural discovery. As you travel, enjoy the scenic beauty of lush landscapes, traditional architecture, and serene waterways, all of which add to the anticipation of exploring Wuzhen’s historical and cultural treasures.

Upon arrival in Wuzhen, your first stop is Jiangnan Hundred Beds Museum, China’s first museum dedicated to the ancient beds of the Jiangnan region. The museum’s extensive collection features beds from the Ming and Qing Dynasties, as well as traditional beds from more recent times. Admire the luxurious carvings and intricate designs that reflect the craftsmanship of ancient Chinese civilization. Your guide will provide detailed explanations of the exhibits, sharing fascinating stories about the significance of these beds in Chinese culture and how they represent the evolution of domestic life over centuries.

Next, visit the Folk Custom Museum, which vividly portrays local traditions and ceremonies. Explore exhibits showcasing ceremonial dresses and scenes from traditional weddings, birthday parties, and funerals. The museum’s displays offer a rich and comprehensive view of the cultural practices that have shaped life in Wuzhen. Your guide will enrich your visit with insightful commentary on the significance of these customs, explaining how they reflect the values and social structures of the local community.

Continue to the Sanbai Wine Workshop, the only remaining winery in Wuzhen from the Song Dynasty era. Here, you’ll observe traditional wine-making techniques that have been passed down through generations. The workshop provides a glimpse into the historical importance of brewing in Wuzhen, which was once a bustling center of wine production. Your guide will explain the intricate process of wine-making, from fermentation to aging, and discuss its impact on the local economy and culture. This detailed explanation will offer you a deeper understanding of the town’s rich heritage in brewing.

Afterwards, visit the Hongyuan Thai Dye House, renowned for its indigo-dyed printed calico. Wuzhen is a key source of this traditional blue cloth, and you’ll see how it is meticulously crafted by skilled artisans. The dyeing process is a time-honored art form, and your guide will provide insights into the techniques used and the cultural significance of this textile. Watch as the fabric is dyed and printed, and marvel at the beautiful embossed blue cloth that results from this intricate process. Your guide’s explanations will highlight the historical and cultural importance of this traditional craft.

For lunch, savor local specialties such as Radish Cake and Zongzi. Radish Cake, or Luobo Si Bing, is a savory, pan-fried dish made from finely grated radish and rice flour, offering a delightful texture and flavor. Zongzi, traditional sticky rice dumplings wrapped in bamboo leaves, is another regional favorite known for its rich fillings and unique preparation. Your guide will ensure you experience these authentic dishes in a traditional setting, providing recommendations and insights into the local cuisine.

Following lunch, enjoy a captivating shadow play show, a traditional Chinese performing art that uses handcrafted leather puppets to create silhouettes on a backlit screen. The performance, accompanied by traditional instruments such as the erhu and flute, provides a unique and enchanting storytelling experience. Your guide will offer context about the history and cultural significance of shadow play, enhancing your appreciation of this mesmerizing art form and explaining how it has evolved over time.

After the show, take some time to explore the charming streets of Wuzhen at your leisure. Stroll along the picturesque canals, browse local shops for unique souvenirs, or simply soak in the serene atmosphere of the water town. Wander through the cobbled lanes and ancient architecture, and perhaps enjoy a relaxing boat ride along the tranquil waterways. Your guide will be available to assist you with any last-minute needs, provide recommendations for further exploration, or help you capture the perfect photo memories of this enchanting place.

At the end of the day, your guide and driver will escort you back to Hangzhou Train Station. As you relax and unwind from a day rich in cultural and historical exploration, you’ll have the opportunity to reflect on the unforgettable experiences of Wuzhen. Your guide’s expert knowledge and attentive service throughout the day will have provided you with a deeper connection to the traditions and beauty of this historic water town, making for a memorable conclusion to your journey.

Price Per Person in US Dollars