Discover Natural Beauty with Day Trips from Shanghai to Hangzhou: Tea Fields & West Lake

Tour Itinerary

In the morning, your journey begins as you arrive at Hangzhou High-Speed Train Station, where your friendly guide will be waiting at the exit, holding a recognizable "Your Way Holiday" sign. With a warm welcome, your guide will ensure a seamless transition from the station to your exciting day ahead. From there, you’ll embark on an immersive exploration of Hangzhou’s breathtaking landscapes and rich cultural heritage, with expert insights and personalized service guiding you every step of the way.

Firstly, you will be taken to the famous Hangzhou West Lake, one of the UNESCO World Heritage Sites. You'll enjoy a private rowing boat tour of the West Lake, skipping the line to appreciate its top ten scenic spots, including islands, causeways, temples, pagodas, and ornamental planting, while basking in the tranquil beauty. Our guide will provide professional commentary, offering insights into the history, culture, and legendary tales of the West Lake, enhancing your understanding of this scenic wonder. Additionally, the guide will ensure attentive service, ensuring a smooth and enjoyable journey, leaving you with unforgettable memories.

Afterward, you'll visit Guo's Villa (Guo Zhuang), renowned as the finest traditional private residence in Hangzhou. Constructed in the late Qing Dynasty, it boasts a picturesque setting with a mountain backdrop and the West Lake in the foreground. Revered as the "Number One Garden of the West Lake," its tranquil ambiance, impeccably preserved buildings, and aesthetically pleasing landscaping layout make it a must-see destination. Our guide will offer fascinating insights into the history and architectural significance of Guo's Villa, enriching your experience with captivating stories and ensuring you make the most of your visit to this historical gem.

Next on our itinerary is the China National Tea Museum, situated in the heart of Hangzhou, the birthplace of the renowned Dragon Well Tea. As the sole national museum dedicated to tea and its culture, it offers a captivating journey through the rich history and significance of tea. This modern museum comprises various sections, including cultural insights, scientific discoveries, academic exchanges, tea tasting experiences, and leisure activities. Our knowledgeable guide will lead you through the museum, shedding light on the intricate world of tea, from its cultural importance to its scientific aspects, ensuring you gain a deeper appreciation for this beloved beverage and its profound impact on Chinese culture.

After visiting the China National Tea Museum, your journey continues with a scenic drive to a charming tea village nestled in the mountains. Here, you’ll enjoy a delicious farm-to-table lunch at a local tea farmer’s home, a hidden gem favored by locals and untouched by mass tourism. The meal will feature authentic Hangzhou-style cuisine, prepared with fresh, locally sourced ingredients, including homegrown vegetables and dishes infused with the subtle flavors of freshly harvested tea leaves. Beyond savoring the delicious meal, you’ll have the unique opportunity to engage with the tea farmers, learning about their daily lives, traditional tea-making techniques, and the deep-rooted tea culture of the region. This intimate experience offers a rare glimpse into rural Hangzhou’s lifestyle, making your visit both culturally enriching and truly unforgettable.

After a delightful lunch, we'll take you to the charming Meijiawu Tea Culture Village, where you'll have the opportunity to savor an authentic cup of Longjing Green Tea. With a history spanning over 600 years, Meijiawu is a quaint and ancient village renowned as the premier production base of Longjing Tea in Hangzhou. Nestled amidst lush tea plantations, the village seamlessly blends traditional farmhouses with tea culture, offering a serene and rejuvenating atmosphere. Our experienced guide will accompany you through the village, providing insights into the tea-making process, the history of Longjing Tea, and the cultural significance of tea in Chinese society. Immerse yourself in the tranquil surroundings, indulge in the flavors of Longjing Tea, and discover the timeless charm of this idyllic tea village.

Embark on a picturesque hike from Meijiawu Tea Village to Longjing Village, a journey through some of Hangzhou’s most breathtaking tea fields and lush green landscapes. Led by your knowledgeable guide, this scenic trail takes you through rolling hills covered in Longjing (Dragon Well) tea plantations, offering stunning views and a peaceful escape from the city. As you walk along the well-preserved paths, your guide will share insights into the history of Longjing tea, traditional tea farming techniques, and the importance of tea culture in Hangzhou. Along the way, you may encounter local tea farmers tending to their crops, providing a rare opportunity to observe their craft up close.

Continue your picturesque hiking journey from Longjing Village to Jiuxi Yan Shu (Nine Creeks and Misty Trees), one of Hangzhou’s most tranquil and scenic trails. Your expert guide will lead you through lush tea plantations, bamboo forests, and meandering streams, offering fascinating insights into the history of Longjing tea and the natural beauty of the West Lake area. As you walk along the serene pathways, you’ll pass charming stone bridges, hidden waterfalls, and mist-covered streams, immersing yourself in the peaceful sounds of nature. Your guide will share stories about local legends, tea culture, and the significance of this historic route, making the journey both educational and relaxing.

As your memorable journey in Hangzhou comes to an end, your dedicated guide will accompany you to Hangzhou East Railway Station, ensuring a smooth and hassle-free transfer. Along the way, you’ll have time to reflect on the day’s highlights and ask any final questions about Hangzhou’s rich history and culture. Upon arrival at the station, your guide will assist you with the train ticket and boarding process, making sure you are comfortably settled before you board the high-speed train back to Shanghai. Sit back, relax, and enjoy a comfortable ride, taking with you unforgettable memories of your Hangzhou adventure.

Price Per Person in US Dollars