Covering cultural and natural wonders of Hangzhou, Ningbo, and Putuoshan, this 6-day tour promises a memorable journey through the diverse and captivating landscapes of eastern China.
You’ll follow our professional guide to discover the ancient water town of Wuzhen, showcasing Ming and Qing dynasty architecture and traditions. Experience the UNESCO World Heritage Site of West Lake, with its classical gardens, bridges, and pagodas. Delve into unique museums in Qiaoxi Conservation Area, including the China Museum of Knives, Scissors & Swords, and the China Umbrella Museum. Uncover Ningbo’s cultural heritage at landmarks such as the Former Residence of Chiang Kai Shek, Ningbo Museum, Tianyi Pavilion, and the Old Bund. Witness the Buddhist culture and scenic beauty of Putuoshan, one of China’s Four Sacred Mountains, exploring temples, statues, and natural attractions.
2. Visit the unique museums in Qiaoxi Conservation Area, such as the China Museum of Knives, Scissors & Swords, and the China Umbrella Museum, and learn about the history and craftsmanship of these items.
3. Enjoy the scenic beauty of West Lake, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, by taking a leisure cruise, a stroll, or a sightseeing bus, and admire the classical gardens, bridges, pagodas, and islands.
4. Explore the rich cultural heritage of Ningbo, a major port city, by visiting the Former Residence of Chiang Kai Shek, the Ningbo Museum, the Tianyi Pavilion, and the Old Bund.
5. Discover the sacred Buddhist island of Putuoshan, one of the Four Sacred Mountains of Buddhism in China, and visit the temples, statues, and natural attractions.
6. Hike to the top of Huiji Temple, the highest point of Putuoshan, and enjoy the panoramic view of the island and the sea from the Sky Lamp Stage.
- Day 1: Arrival in Hangzhou
Upon your arrival, our local guide and driver will warmly greet you at the airport or train station. They will then accompany you to your hotel located in the heart of Hangzhou. Enjoy the rest of the day to explore the city or relax in your hotel.
Accommodation: Stay overnight in Hangzhou
- Day 2: Hangzhou - Wuzhen - Hangzhou (B, L)Wuzhen Water Town, West Scenic Area of Wuzhen, Qiaoxi Conservation Area
Start your day with a delightful breakfast before embarking on a journey to Wuzhen Water Town, one of the six famous ancient water towns south of the Yangtze River. With a history spanning over six thousand years, Wuzhen has preserved the traditional charm of a water town with its distinctive black bricks, gray tiles, and stone bridges.
Explore the West Scenic Area of Wuzhen, where ancient workshops, residences, temples, and museums await. Dive into the local culture and history, with a visit to the Chinese Foot Binding Culture Museum, shedding light on the evolution of ancient Chinese shoes and the practice of foot binding.
For an additional fee, you can indulge in an optional activity in Wuzhen—take a sculling boat to admire the town's beauty from a different perspective, enjoying a leisurely ride on the water.
After the Wuzhen visit, return to Hangzhou and head to the Qiaoxi Conservation Area, a historical and cultural block along the Grand Canal. Explore the unique China Museum of Knives, Scissors & Swords, showcasing the traditional craftsmanship and culture of metal wares. Next, visit the China Umbrella Museum, an intriguing exhibit on the history and development of umbrellas in China and beyond. Conclude your day by witnessing a show featuring the art of painting on oiled paper umbrellas, a folk art originating in Hangzhou with a history of over 1,000 years.
After the day's exploration, return to your hotel for a comfortable overnight stay.
Accommodation: Stay overnight in Hangzhou
- Day 3: Explore Hangzhou (B, L)West Lake, Meijiawu Tea Village, Hefang Street, Hu Qing Yu Tang
Start your day with a hearty breakfast before embarking on an exploration of the iconic West Lake, a UNESCO World Heritage Site celebrated for its natural beauty and cultural significance. Immerse yourself in the serene surroundings as you embark on a leisurely cruise, taking in the picturesque islands, charming bridges, pagodas, and temples that dot the landscape. Following the cruise, choose between a leisurely lakeside stroll or a sightseeing bus ride to discover more scenic spots around the lake.
Continue your day with a visit to the Meijiawu Tea Village, a major production hub for the renowned Longjing tea. Delve into the history and culture of tea in China, witness the traditional tea-making process, and savor the fresh and aromatic brew. Optionally, you can also visit a local family to see the process of making tea (with extra payment).
Next on the agenda is Hefang Street, a well-preserved ancient thoroughfare that mirrors the Ming and Qing dynasties' style and charm in Hangzhou. Explore a variety of shops, restaurants, teahouses, and snack stalls along the street, including cultural gems like Hu Qing Yu Tang—the oldest pharmacy in China. Here, discover traditional Chinese medicine exhibits and have the opportunity to purchase herbal products.
Conclude your day's adventures by returning to your hotel, where you can enjoy the rest of the day at your leisure.
Recommended Evening Activities:
For those interested, an enchanting option is to witness "Enduring Memories of Hangzhou," a spectacular outdoor show performed on the West Lake's water surface. Directed by the renowned Chinese director Zhang Yimou, the show combines music, dance, light, and sound to create a visually and auditorily stunning experience. The performance narrates the stories and legends of Hangzhou, offering a captivating glimpse into the local culture and customs.
Accommodation: Stay overnight in Hangzhou
- Day 4: Hangzhou to Ningbo (B, L)Former Residence of Chiang Kai Shek, Ningbo Museum, Tianyi Pavilion, the Old Bund
Following a delightful breakfast, embark on a journey to Ningbo, a coastal city steeped in rich history and culture. Upon arrival, explore the Former Residence of Chiang Kai Shek, the two-story western-style building and garden that once belonged to the late president of the Republic of China. Delve into Chiang's personal belongings and photos, gaining insight into this historical figure who fled to Taiwan after losing the civil war.
Next, visit the modern and distinctive Ningbo Museum, showcasing the history, culture, and art of Ningbo and its surrounding areas. Explore a diverse collection of bronze, porcelain, jade, calligraphy, painting, and folk items, as well as engaging interactive exhibits and multimedia presentations.
Continue your exploration with a visit to Tianyi Pavilion, the oldest private library in China and one of the world's three largest family libraries. Founded in 1561 by high-ranking official Fan Qin, the library houses over 300,000 volumes of ancient books, including rare and precious editions. Wander through the library's beautiful garden, featuring pavilions, ponds, and rockeries.
Conclude your day with a leisurely stroll at the Old Bund, a waterfront area steeped in history as the former port of Ningbo and site of foreign concessions. Admire historical buildings with diverse architectural styles, including the British Consulate, the Catholic Church, and the Chamber of Commerce. Enjoy scenic views of the Yong River and Ningbo's modern skyline.
After the exploration, you'll be escorted to check into your hotel in downtown Ningbo.
Accommodation: Stay overnight in Ningbo
- Day 5: Ningbo to Putuoshan (B, L)Putuoshan: Puji Temple, One Thousand-Step Beach, Unwilling-to-leave Temple, Goddess of Mercy Statue
Following a satisfying breakfast, your guide and driver will pick you up from your hotel, marking the start of your journey to Putuoshan, one of China's four sacred Buddhist mountains. Your drive will take you to Zhu Sha Jian, a small island linked to the mainland by a bridge. From there, you'll board a ferry to Putuoshan, enjoying a scenic 20-minute ride with captivating views of the sea and surrounding islands. Upon arrival, settle into your hotel and take some time to unwind.
In the afternoon, visit Puji Temple, the island's largest and oldest temple, built in the 10th century to honor Guanyin, the goddess of mercy. Marvel at the temple's architecture and statues while gaining insights into its rich history and culture from your guide. Puji Temple is renowned for Buddhist ceremonies and festivals, particularly on the 19th day of the second, sixth, and ninth lunar months, drawing millions of pilgrims to worship Guanyin.
Next, embark on a sightseeing bus journey to One Thousand-Step Beach, the longest and most picturesque beach on the island, boasting golden sand and clear waters. Enjoy a leisurely stroll along the shoreline, bask in the breeze, and admire the waves. Explore Chaoyang Cave, a small cliffside grotto that faces the sunrise.
Continue the sightseeing bus tour to Unwilling-to-leave Temple, a small hillside temple with a fascinating legend. According to the tale, a Japanese monk named Hui’e attempted to take a statue of Guanyin to Japan, but the statue returned to Putuoshan on its own. Hui’e then decided to leave the statue on the island and built a temple named Unwilling-to-leave Temple. Near the temple, discover the Purple Bamboo Forest, believed to be the original ashram of Guanyin.
Proceed to the Goddess of Mercy Statue, a 33-meter-high bronze statue standing proudly on the southern tip of the island. This landmark, with three faces symbolizing wisdom, peace, and compassion, offers stunning views of the sea and sky. Capture memorable photos with the statue before returning to your hotel for a well-deserved rest.
Accommodation: Stay overnight in Putuoshan
- Day 6: Putuoshan Exploration & Departure (B, L)Fayu Temple, Huiji Temple, Sky Lamp Stage
After a hearty breakfast, venture to Fayu Temple, the second-largest temple on the island, boasting a unique stone structure. Built in 1580, the temple houses a collection of ancient Buddhist scriptures, paintings, and sculptures. In the temple courtyard, encounter a giant ginkgo tree that has stood for over 400 years.
Following this, embark on a hike to Huiji Temple, the highest temple on the island, located atop Foding Mountain, also known as Buddha’s Summit Peak. The hour-long hike presents scenic spots such as Shancai Cave and the Longevity Stone. Alternatively, save time and energy by taking the park bus and cableway to Huiji Temple. Revel in the tranquility of Huiji Temple, offering a panoramic view of Putuoshan and the surrounding islands.
From Huiji Temple, stroll to Sky Lamp Stage, a platform overlooking the sea and sky—a perfect spot to witness the sunset and stars. Observe the Sky Lamp, a large lantern symbolizing peace and harmony, as it lights up the night sky.
After enjoying the breathtaking views, either hike or take the cableway down from Huiji Temple. Board the ferry back to Zhu Jia Jian, where your guide and driver will escort you to Zhoushan City's airport or train station for your departure. Bid farewell to Putuoshan, concluding your unforgettable journey.