8D7N Metropolis to Mountains Shanghai and Huangshan Uncovered
Journey from the vibrant metropolis of Shanghai to the tranquil peaks of Huangshan, where ancient traditions meet breathtaking natural beauty. This immersive 8-day itinerary invites you to experience China’s rich culture, serene landscapes, and architectural wonders—from the peaceful waters of West Lake to the iconic sunrise views over Huangshan. Indulge in luxurious stays and unforgettable experiences that blend the charm of bustling cities with the serenity of mountain escapes.
Detailed Itinerary
Day 1: Arrival in Shanghai
Depart from Singapore and arrive at Shanghai Pudong International Airport, where you will be greeted by your local guide. Enjoy a comfortable transfer to your hotel for check-in. Take the rest of the day to relax and recover from your flight, or explore the nearby surroundings at your leisure. Get ready to begin your exciting journey through Shanghai and beyond!
Activities & Services:
- Arrival Transfer
Day 2: Shanghai – Wuxi – Yixing
After breakfast, depart from Shanghai and enjoy a scenic drive to Wuxi (approximately 2 hours). Begin your day with a visit to Lingshan Town – Nianhuawan, a serene, culturally immersive themed village known for its harmonious blend of nature, mindfulness, and Buddhist-inspired architecture.
After lunch, continue your journey to Yixing (around 1.5 hours by coach). Visit Yaohu Town, where you’ll board the popular “Cloud Train” — a picturesque ride that winds through vibrant tea fields and mountain landscapes, offering breathtaking views perfect for photography.
In the evening, take time to soak in the charming townscape of Yaohu under the night lights. Free time for personal exploration or to enjoy local cuisine before returning to the hotel for a restful night.
Activities & Services:
- Lingshan Town – Nianhuawan Visit
- Cloud Train Ride
- Yaohu Town Exploration
Included: Breakfast
Day 3: Yixing – Jingxian – Tongling
Start your morning with free time to explore the serene beauty of Yaohu Scenic Area in Yixing. Enjoy a relaxing stroll, take in the mountain air, or capture scenic photos of the tranquil surroundings.
Next, travel approximately 2.5 hours to Jingxian, renowned as the birthplace of China’s traditional Xuan paper. Visit the China Xuan Paper Culture Park, where you’ll gain insight into the intricate craftsmanship behind this UNESCO-recognized intangible cultural heritage. Don’t miss the opportunity to try your hand at paper scooping, a traditional experience that offers a tactile connection to Chinese art and history.
In the late afternoon, continue about 1.5 hours to Tongling, where you’ll explore the charming Liqiao Water Town. As night falls, the town transforms into a dreamlike setting, with picturesque reflections, lantern-lit bridges, and traditional architecture bathed in warm light—perfect for a magical evening walk.
Activities & Services:
- Yaohu Scenic Area Exploration
- China Xuan Paper Culture Park Visit
- Liqiao Water Town Exploration
Included: Breakfast
Day 4: Tongling – Huangshan
Begin your day with free time to enjoy the peaceful ambiance of Liqiao Water Town in Tongling. Take a leisurely walk through the town, explore the picturesque lanes, and enjoy the tranquility before embarking on your journey to Huangshan.
Afterward, drive approximately 2 hours to Huangshan, a UNESCO World Heritage site famed for its spectacular mountain landscapes.
Upon arrival, take the Taiping Cable Car to the top of Huangshan Mountain, where you’ll be rewarded with breathtaking views of the majestic peaks. At the summit, explore the Paiyun Pavilion, a fantastic spot for panoramic views of the mountain range.
Continue your exploration with a visit to the West Sea Scenic Area, famous for its dramatic granite peaks, and Flying Stone, an awe-inspiring rock formation that seems to defy gravity. These highlights offer a perfect introduction to the natural beauty and iconic landscapes of Huangshan.
Activities & Services:
- Taiping Cable Car Ride
- Paiyun Pavilion Visit
- West Sea Scenic Area Exploration
- Flying Stone Visit
Included: Breakfast
Day 5: Huangshan – Xiuning – Tunxi
Start your day early with a sunrise viewing at Lion Peak and Shixin Peak (weather permitting). The sunrise at these peaks offers a stunning view of Huangshan's famous granite cliffs bathed in golden light, creating a magical and unforgettable moment.
Afterward, take the Yungu Cable Car down the mountain, enjoying the scenic descent as you bid farewell to the awe-inspiring peaks.
Next, head to Xiuning for a visit to the Xiuning World Observation Train Micro Park, a unique attraction offering a model train exhibit. Here, you can also enjoy a complimentary cup of coffee, taking a moment to relax and admire the surroundings.
Continue your journey with a 1-hour drive to Tunxi, the charming district of Huangshan. In Tunxi, explore the historical Liyang IN Alley, a well-preserved ancient street filled with traditional architecture, shops, and local culture. It's the perfect spot for strolling and soaking in the local atmosphere before the day comes to a close.
Activities & Services:
- Sunrise Viewing at Lion Peak and Shixin Peak
- Yungu Cable Car Ride
- Xiuning World Observation Train Micro Park Visit
- Liyang IN Alley Exploration
Included: Breakfast
Day 6: Tunxi – Hangzhou
Begin your morning in Tunxi with a visit to the Pastry Museum, where you’ll not only learn about the history of traditional Chinese pastries but also get hands-on with a DIY pastry-making experience—a fun and delicious activity suitable for all ages.
Next, take a leisurely walk through He Street and the Song Dynasty-style Tunxi Old Street, a charming blend of heritage architecture and local lifestyle. Lined with boutiques, tea shops, and street snacks, it’s the perfect place to soak up the local atmosphere.
In the afternoon, depart for Hangzhou with a drive of approximately 2.5 hours.
Upon arrival, explore the peaceful and picturesque Tangqi Ancient Town, known for its bridges, water alleys, and classical Jiangnan charm. As evening falls, admire the dazzling night view of Qianjiang New Town, where modern skyscrapers light up the skyline along the banks of the Qiantang River.
Activities & Services:
- Pastry Museum Visit
- Tunxi Old Street Walk
- Tangqi Ancient Town Exploration
- Qianjiang New Town Night View
Included: Breakfast
Day 7: Hangzhou – Shanghai
Start the day in Hangzhou with a scenic boat ride on West Lake, one of China’s most iconic and romantic destinations. Glide across the calm waters, surrounded by willow-lined banks, arched bridges, and classical Chinese gardens—a truly serene experience that captures the essence of Hangzhou.
After the cruise, depart for Shanghai with a drive of approximately 2.5 hours.
Upon arrival, visit the Exhibition of World Architecture along the Bund, where you’ll see a collection of historic buildings that reflect a blend of European and modern architectural styles. Take a leisurely stroll along the iconic Shanghai Bund, enjoying panoramic views of the Huangpu River and the futuristic skyline of Pudong.
End the day with a visit to the vibrant City God Temple area, a bustling enclave filled with traditional shops, local snacks, and historic temples—perfect for soaking in the culture and energy of Shanghai.
Activities & Services:
- West Lake Boat Ride
- Exhibition of World Architecture
- Shanghai Bund Stroll
- City God Temple Visit
Included: Breakfast
Day 8: Depart from Shanghai
Enjoy free time in Shanghai this morning—perfect for some last-minute shopping, sightseeing, or simply relaxing at your hotel. Soak in the final moments of this vibrant city at your own pace.
At the appropriate time, transfer to Shanghai Pudong International Airport for your return flight to Singapore.
Wishing you a pleasant and safe journey home, filled with sweet memories of your trip!
Activities & Services:
- Transfer to Airport
Included: Breakfast
Please note: This itinerary is designed to give you an idea of what to expect on the tour but is not set in stone. What we actually do on a given day is flexible and can be tailored based on the interests of the group.
TOUR PRICE INCLUDES:
- Meet & Greet by our representative upon arrival.
- Breakfast as defined in the itinerary.
- All transfers as indicated in the itinerary.
- Tours as described in the itinerary with a fully qualified Chinese-speaking local guide (unless otherwise stated).
- Accommodation in double/twin bedded rooms in hotels stated in the itinerary, or similar.
- Should the hotel/lodge quoted, not be available we will endeavour to book an alternative property based on the same/similar rate and grading as the quoted property.
- Entrance Fee where applicable in the itinerary, unless otherwise stated.
TOUR PRICE EXCLUDES:
- All Airfares (International / Domestic) & airport taxes.
- Costs associated with obtaining visas/entry requirements.
- Items of a personal nature, such as laundry, telephone calls, room service, alcoholic beverages, minibar charges, etc.
- Any tours not specified within the above itinerary.
- Early check-in / Late Check-out.
- Excess baggage.
- Gratuities for Tour Guide and Driver.
- Other items not mentioned in the Tour Price INCLUDES list.
This itinerary and its package inclusions might be changed later in time, subject to availability.