Explore Hangzhou's Southern Song Dynasty Heritage on a One-Day Private Tour

Tour Itinerary

Your Hangzhou tour guide will welcome you at your hotel or the train station with a “YourWayHoliday” sign. Embark on a one-day journey that highlights Hangzhou's rich Southern Song Dynasty history. Venture into culturally rich areas to uncover the city's historical depth and cultural significance from this pivotal period. This well-planned tour offers an immersive experience into Hangzhou's Southern Song heritage, ensuring a day of quiet reflection and historical discovery.

Southern Song Imperial Street marks the beginning of your exploration into Hangzhou's Southern Song Dynasty heritage. This remarkable journey takes you deep into the heart of the city’s rich history. As you stroll along this historically significant avenue, you'll step back in time to when Hangzhou was the grand capital of the Southern Song Dynasty. The street is lined with beautifully preserved architecture that mirrors the grandeur and cultural sophistication of this pivotal period. Here, you can explore ancient buildings that have been meticulously restored to reflect the opulence of the Southern Song era. Traditional shops and historic sites provide a glimpse into the daily lives and vibrant commerce of the time. As you walk, your guide will offer detailed insights into the street’s role in the city’s development and its importance in Chinese history. Southern Song Imperial Street is not just a historical landmark but also a lively cultural hub where the legacy of the Southern Song Dynasty remains palpable. This area offers a deep immersion into Hangzhou’s historical ambiance and a chance to appreciate the enduring influence of its imperial past.

Your next adventure takes you to Hefang Street, a vibrant area that embodies Hangzhou’s rich cultural and historical depth. This traditional street, renowned for its well-preserved architecture and lively atmosphere, provides a fascinating window into the city’s storied past. As you wander through Hefang Street, you’ll encounter an array of historic buildings, charming teahouses, and unique artisan shops that have been integral to Hangzhou’s cultural life for centuries. The street’s traditional architecture and bustling markets offer a vivid glimpse into Hangzhou’s heritage. Explore the ancient shops that have been passed down through generations and sample local delicacies that have stood the test of time. Your guide will offer detailed insights into the street’s historical significance, sharing stories about its role in the city’s development and its influence on local culture. Hefang Street seamlessly blends historical elegance with modern vibrancy, making it a compelling destination that connects you deeply to Hangzhou’s past while immersing you in its lively present. This experience allows you to appreciate the enduring traditions and dynamic energy that define this iconic street.

Dongpo Pork and Pian'er Chuan are iconic dishes that reflect Hangzhou's rich culinary history. Dongpo Pork, named after the famous Song Dynasty poet Su Dongpo, is a classic Hangzhou dish renowned for its tender, flavorful pork belly braised in a savory mix of soy sauce, sugar, and spices. This dish has been enjoyed for centuries and is celebrated for its rich taste and historical connection to one of Hangzhou's most beloved figures. Pian'er Chuan, or "Pian'er Noodles," is another traditional favorite that dates back over a century. This noodle dish is known for its unique preparation method and flavorful broth, which combines elements of local ingredients and culinary techniques passed down through generations. The noodles are typically served with a hearty mix of vegetables and meat, reflecting the depth and variety of Hangzhou’s long-standing food culture. Both dishes not only offer a taste of Hangzhou's history but also showcase the city's dedication to preserving its culinary heritage.

Yue Fei Mausoleum is the next stop on your journey into Hangzhou’s deep Southern Song Dynasty history. This historic site is dedicated to Yue Fei, a revered general of the Southern Song Dynasty known for his patriotism and military prowess. As you visit the mausoleum, you'll be transported back to an era of intense national pride and historical significance. The mausoleum is set within a serene park that reflects the solemnity and respect given to this national hero. Here, you can explore the meticulously preserved tomb and memorial hall, which are adorned with inscriptions and relics that tell the story of Yue Fei's remarkable life and his enduring legacy. The peaceful surroundings and traditional architecture further enhance the historical ambiance of the site. Your guide will provide in-depth insights into Yue Fei’s contributions to Chinese history, explaining his role in defending the Southern Song Dynasty against invaders and his profound impact on Chinese culture. The Yue Fei Mausoleum offers a profound connection to Hangzhou’s past, showcasing the rich history and enduring values of the Southern Song period.

Your final destination is the Eight-Diagram Field, a captivating site that epitomizes the depth and complexity of Chinese cultural heritage. This remarkable location is intricately designed according to the principles of the Eight Trigrams, which are foundational to Daoist philosophy and the I Ching, one of China's oldest and most influential texts. The field's layout is a masterful representation of these ancient symbols, each one reflecting different aspects of cosmic harmony and balance. As you stroll through the Eight-Diagram Field, you’ll see how these trigrams are artistically integrated into the landscape, creating a space that seamlessly blends traditional Chinese philosophical concepts with natural beauty. The design reflects principles of harmony and equilibrium, showcasing how ancient wisdom continues to influence contemporary cultural practices. During your visit, your guide will provide detailed insights into the historical and philosophical significance of the Eight-Diagram Field. They will explain how the field’s layout embodies Daoist ideals and its role in Chinese geomancy, offering a window into the profound spiritual and cultural values that shape Chinese thought. This immersive experience not only highlights the intricacies of Chinese cosmology but also provides a serene and reflective conclusion to your cultural journey, allowing you to appreciate the rich tapestry of Chinese heritage in its most symbolic form.

After your enriching day exploring Hangzhou’s Southern Song Dynasty heritage, you’ll be comfortably transported back to either the Hangzhou train station or your hotel. As your tour concludes, take a moment to reflect on the profound cultural insights and historical treasures you’ve discovered throughout the day. From the serene beauty of Southern Song Imperial Street to the philosophical depth of the Eight-Diagram Field, your journey has provided a deep connection to Hangzhou’s rich past. We hope you leave with cherished memories and a newfound appreciation for the intricate history and culture of the Southern Song Dynasty. Thank you for being a part of this memorable exploration.

Price Per Person in US Dollars