Shanghai to Hangzhou: Culture, History, Architecture, & Tea

Highlights

• Discover the UNESCO World Heritage Site of West Lake in Hangzhou
• Visit Lingyin Temple and admire ancient Buddhist grotto carvings
• West lake boat ride, enjoy lunch, and taste authentic dishes
• Explore Longwu Tea Village, walk through tea fields, and learn about tea
• All transportation included, train ticket from Shanghai included (if applicable)

Description

We can start from your hotel in Shanghai or Hangzhou. If you are departing from Shanghai, your guide will meet you in the lobby and accompany you by high-speed train (China's iconic bullet train) to Hangzhou — round-trip train tickets are included. If you are departing from Hangzhou, your guide will meet you at your hotel and begin the local program right away. First, arrive at the renowned West Lake. Stroll part of the Su or Bai Causeway to enjoy willow-lined banks, stone bridges, and classic garden scenes. Then, board a covered boat for a gentle West Lake cruise (ticket included) and take in postcard views from the water. Next, continue to Lingyin Temple, one of China’s most important Buddhist sites. Wander past the ancient grotto carvings at Feilai Peak and through quiet courtyards that reflect more than a thousand years of history (temple entry included). Around midday, enjoy an included lunch at a restaurant (typical local food) near West Lake so you can maximize time by the lake instead of crossing the city. In the afternoon, travel to Longwu Tea Village. Due to time constraints, this is a short stop for visiting and photos only: walk among the tea terraces, learn about traditional processing from your guide, and capture the scenery — no tea-tasting is scheduled. Finally, your driver will drop you at your hotel in Hangzhou or the train station. If you started in Shanghai, your guide will escort you back by high-speed train — return tickets included — and arrange a smooth transfer to your hotel.

Includes

Bullet train return tickets (if departing from Shanghai, 1st or 2nd class seats depend on availability) Private transportation (premium level Uber or upgrade to private charter vehicle if you like) Professional English-speaking guide Entrance tickets to all listed attractions (West Lake and Lingyin Temple) West Lake boat ride (tickets included) Lunch (local style, about 50 RMB per person) Bottled water

Important Information

• Optional round-trip high-speed train tickets from Shanghai can be arranged if required. Leifeng Pagoda visit needs appointment made at least 3 days before tour

Easy cancellation

Cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund