3-Day China Study Tour from Shanghai to Hangzhou: Discover Ancient Culture and Natural Beauty

Day 1 Shanghai-Hangzhou

Begin your educational study tour to Hangzhou from Shanghai train station, where you will board a high-speed train to Hangzhou, ensuring a smooth and efficient journey. Upon arrival, your expert guide will meet you at the station with "Your Way Holiday" welcome sign, ready to lead an insightful exploration of Hangzhou’s rich cultural and natural heritage. This carefully curated itinerary focuses on interactive learning experiences, taking you through historical landmarks, traditional craftsmanship, and the serene beauty of Hangzhou’s landscapes. Prepare for a day of discovery, where history, nature, and hands-on activities come together to create an engaging and unforgettable study tour!

First, students will gather for an opening ceremony, marking the official start of their immersive study tour. Our dedicated educational guide will introduce the learning objectives of the program and distribute study task books, providing an engaging framework for the day's exploration. The journey begins with a visit to Southern Song Imperial Street, a historical marketplace that once thrived as the commercial hub of the Southern Song Dynasty (1127–1279). As students stroll through the lively street, our guide will share insightful stories about Hangzhou’s role as the capital of the dynasty, highlighting its prosperous trade, merchant culture, and daily life in ancient times.

Next, at the China Scissors, Knives, and Swords Museum, students will delve into the traditional craftsmanship of metal forging. Here, they will witness master blacksmiths demonstrating traditional forging techniques, showcasing the artistry behind sword-making, blade craftsmanship, and metal engraving. With expert guidance, they will witness blacksmithing demonstrations and learn how ancient artisans crafted fine blades and tools, an essential trade that shaped Hangzhou’s industry. Follow the study tasks which are : Observe the craftsmanship of traditional blacksmiths and document the key techniques used in forging blades; Identify how Southern Song Dynasty commerce influenced metalworking and local industries; Compare the historical and modern uses of swords, knives, and scissors in Chinese culture. By the end of this session, students will gain a deep appreciation for the artisan spirit that shaped Hangzhou’s history, linking craftsmanship to cultural and economic development.

Later, you will head to either the Hangzhou Fan Museum or the Hangzhou Umbrella Museum, both of which celebrate Hangzhou’s centuries-old reputation for fine craftsmanship. The guide will explain the history and cultural significance of these objects, which have been integral to Chinese daily life and artistic expression. At the Fan Museum: Learn about the intricate process of fan-making, from bamboo frame construction to delicate silk painting. Students will design and paint their own traditional folding fan, incorporating elements of Hangzhou’s landscapes and culture. At the Umbrella Museum: Discover the artistry behind oil-paper umbrella making and its role in traditional Chinese aesthetics. Under expert guidance, students will hand-paint their own Hangzhou-style oil-paper umbrella, blending creativity with cultural heritage. By participating in this hands-on activity, students will gain a deeper understanding of traditional Chinese craftsmanship and develop an appreciation for the skill required to create these beautiful, functional art pieces.

At lunch, enjoy a delightful lunch at a local restaurant known for its authentic Hangzhou cuisine. Your guide will take you to a carefully selected spot where you can savor seasonal specialties made with fresh, locally sourced ingredients. Some signature dishes you may try include Dongpo Pork, a slow-braised, tender pork dish rich in flavor; West Lake Vinegar Fish, a sweet and tangy fish dish famous in Hangzhou; and Longjing Shrimp, fresh river shrimp stir-fried with Hangzhou’s renowned Longjing tea leaves. For those who prefer lighter options, the restaurant also offers a variety of vegetable and tofu dishes that highlight the delicate flavors of traditional Jiangnan cuisine. Your guide will provide insights into the history and cultural significance of each dish, ensuring a deeper appreciation of Hangzhou’s rich culinary heritage. 

In the afternoon, you will visit the Hangzhou Museum, where you will engage with interactive AR (Augmented Reality) technology to explore the fascinating stories behind the Three Legends of West Lake. The museum offers a dynamic, hands-on learning experience that will bring these ancient tales to life, allowing you to connect with the culture and history of Hangzhou in an innovative way. As part of this educational experience, your guide—who is also your study mentor—will guide you through the exhibits and provide detailed insights into the historical and cultural significance of the legends. 

Afterward, you'll continue your exploration with a visit to the iconic Leifeng Pagoda, a landmark steeped in history and local mythology. Here, your guide will explain the story of the White Snake, one of the three major legends of West Lake, which is closely tied to the pagoda. Through this visit, you'll gain a deeper understanding of how local folklore and architecture intertwine. As part of your study tour, your guide will assign a study task: the "Southern Song Dynasty Cultural Quiz". This task is designed to test your knowledge of the cultural heritage of the Southern Song period, including historical facts, traditions, and influential figures. The quiz will challenge your understanding of the dynasty’s impact on art, architecture, and literature, specifically how it influenced the development of Hangzhou during that time. Your guide will provide guidance on how to approach the task, offering hints and discussing relevant details during the tour. Upon completion, you will have a chance to review your answers and reflect on what you've learned.

At the end of today's itinerary, your guide will ensure a smooth and comfortable return to your hotel. They will accompany you back, ensuring all details are taken care of, and will ensure you are safely dropped off at your accommodation. This marks the end of an enriching day of exploration, with your guide offering any final insights or assistance before you rest and prepare for the next day's adventure.

Day 2 Hangzhou

After a hearty breakfast, embark on an immersive Ecological Study Tour at Xixi Wetland, where you will have the opportunity to explore one of China’s most unique and protected ecosystems. Accompanied by your expert guide, who will also serve as your study mentor, you will experience the wetland from a traditional rowing boat, gliding through the peaceful waterways while observing the thriving water ecosystem. Your guide will explain the importance of preserving this delicate habitat and the diversity of wildlife it supports, including various species of birds and aquatic plants. During the boat ride, you will be tasked with completing a “Wetland Ecological Observation Log”. This log will require you to carefully document the different species of wetland plants, birds, and other wildlife you encounter, as well as noting the interactions between species and their environment. Your guide will provide in-depth explanations about the local flora and fauna, guiding you through the different ecosystems present in the wetland. The goal of this task is to develop a deeper understanding of wetland ecology, the role of these environments in maintaining biodiversity, and the importance of conservation efforts.

Later, enjoy a delightful lunch in Hangzhou, where you'll have the chance to taste some of the region's most renowned dishes. Known for its rich culinary heritage, Hangzhou offers a variety of traditional flavors influenced by its natural surroundings. For your meal, you’ll enjoy local specialties such as West Lake Fish in Vinegar Gravy, a tender fish dish cooked in a tangy and savory sauce, and Longjing Shrimp, featuring fresh shrimp sautéed with the region's famous Longjing tea leaves. Your guide will provide insights into the cultural significance of the dishes and their connection to Hangzhou’s history and environment, making this a perfect opportunity to enjoy both the flavors and the stories behind the food. Whether you choose a traditional tea house or a local restaurant, this lunch promises to be a memorable part of your journey through Hangzhou.

In the afternoon, your study tour with a visit to the renowned Dragon Well Tea Plantation in Hangzhou. As you explore the lush tea fields, you’ll learn about the tea cultivation process, from planting to harvesting, and gain insights into the traditional methods of tea production. Your guide, who also serves as your educational mentor, will explain the meticulous process of hand-picking tea leaves and share the art of tea production, including the ancient method of pan-frying tea. Your study task at the plantation will focus on tasting different varieties of Dragon Well tea, where you’ll compare their flavor profiles, aromas, and brewing techniques. You will also have the opportunity to delve into tea culture by learning the Chinese tea ceremony, an important aspect of Hangzhou’s rich cultural heritage. After the experience, you’ll be able to understand the historical significance of tea in Chinese society and how it plays a role in modern cultural practices. Your guide will assess your understanding by asking you to share your observations on the flavors, brewing methods, and the history of the tea you’ve tasted.

Next, your study journey takes you to Alibaba’s headquarters in the Hangzhou Future Science and Technology City. Here, you'll have the opportunity to explore one of the world's most influential technology companies, learning firsthand about artificial intelligence (AI) and big data applications. Your guide, as your study mentor, will give you an overview of how Alibaba uses advanced technologies to drive innovation, from AI-driven e-commerce systems to data analytics and cloud computing. Your team’s study task will be to engage in a “Future City Design” challenge, where you’ll use the concepts of artificial intelligence and big data to create a futuristic city. The task will focus on the practical application of these technologies in urban planning and sustainable development. You will work in groups, brainstorming ideas for smart cities that are efficient, environmentally friendly, and socially inclusive. Your guide will assess your teamwork and innovation, ensuring that you understand how AI and big data are shaping the future of urban living and technology’s role in societal development.

After your enriching day, return to your hotel for a study reflection session. This final segment is a dedicated time to review what you have learned throughout the day and apply it to your ongoing studies. Your guide, also serving as your study mentor, will lead a group discussion where you will reflect on the tea culture you experienced, as well as the technological advancements explored.

Day 3 Hangzhou-Shanghai

After a warm breakfast, your study tour will offer a unique hands-on experience where you'll immerse yourself in the lifestyle of Song Dynasty scholars. As part of the itinerary, your guide, who will also serve as your study mentor, will lead you through a Song Dynasty tea ceremony experience. You will learn about the meticulous process of tea preparation in the Southern Song period, from the delicate tea-making steps to the traditional methods of serving tea. Each participant will have the opportunity to engage in a tea preparation competition, simulating the scholars' tea-drinking rituals and competing to make the finest tea, judged on taste, presentation, and authenticity. During the experience, your guide/mentor will explain the significance of tea in Song Dynasty culture, exploring how tea was intertwined with intellectual and social life in ancient China. The study task will emphasize the importance of attention to detail and cultural appreciation, allowing you to gain a deeper understanding of historical practices and the role of tea in Chinese history.

In addition to the tea ceremony, you will participate in an ancient Guqin gathering, where you will learn about this traditional Chinese instrument and its significance to the intellectual elite of the Song Dynasty. Through a guided demonstration, your mentor will explain how the Guqin was used to enhance cultural expression and meditation, followed by an opportunity to experience playing or listening to this soulful instrument. After completing your study tasks, you will gather as a group to present your study findings and share your insights. Each group will discuss their experiences, what they learned from the tea ceremony and Guqin session, and how it relates to the broader cultural context of the Song Dynasty. This is an opportunity to practice presentation skills and engage in discussions about the deeper cultural meanings behind these traditional practices.

At the end of this enriching day, your group will have a chance to take a group photo, preserving memories of this engaging educational experience. You will then enjoy a comfortable high-speed train journey back to Shanghai, where the tour will conclude, and you will return with not only new knowledge but also lasting memories of your study journey into ancient Chinese culture. Then, You will be escorted back to Hangzhou Train Station, where your guide will assist you in getting settled for your high-speed train journey back to Shanghai. This ensures that your return trip is seamless and stress-free.

Price Per Person in US Dollars