Highlights
- Take in the night views of Shanghai's skyline on a river cruise
- Walk between traditional UNESCO-listed villages on the Xihong Green Trail
- Catch the sunrise from the Refreshing Terrace atop Huangshan Mountain
- Wander the historic Bund waterfront promenade in Shanghai
Brief Itinerary
| Day | Highlights | Overnight |
|---|---|---|
| Day 1 | Arrive in Shanghai, Huangpu River Night Cruise & the Bund Night View | Shanghai |
| Day 2 | Train to Huangshan, Tour the Historic Villages near Hongcun | Hongcun |
| Day 3 | Train to Huangshan Scenic Area, Discover Huangshan Mountain | Huangshan District |
| Day 4 | See the Sunrise at Huangshan Mountain, Train to Shanghai | Shanghai |
| Day 5 | Shanghai Highlights Tour | Shanghai |
| Day 6 | Depart Shanghai |
Detailed Itinerary
Day 1: Arrive in Shanghai, Huangpu River Night Cruise & the Bund Night View
Welcome to China! Meet your guide in the arrivals hall of Shanghai International Airport for a transfer to your hotel in the center of Shanghai, China's largest city and the "Paris of the East." Shanghai is a global economic powerhouse and historic port city on the Yangtze River Delta that offers great food, historic sights, and plenty of high-end shopping. After check-in, settle into your room, then step outside to explore Shanghai at your own pace.
Walk to the section of the waterfront known as the French Concession, controlled by the French from 1849 to 1943 CE. Nowadays, its wide, leafy boulevards are lined with boutiques, wine bars, breweries, cafés, and trendy restaurants. Another option you might like to explore is the artsy area of Tianzifang, which comprises maze-like alleyways full of cool bars, restaurants, galleries, artisanal craft shops, and cafés.
This evening, head to the Bund, a waterfront promenade in central Shanghai with a long and storied history as a trading center for the British, Americans, and French in the 19th century and as one of Asia's major financial centers by the 1940s. End your day with a memorable evening cruise along the Huangpu River, where you'll witness the iconic Shanghai skyline lit up in all its glory and spot landmarks such as the Oriental Pearl Tower.
Chat with a local specialist who can help organize your trip.
Day 2: Train to Huangshan, Tour the Historic Villages near Hongcun
This morning, hop on a 2.5-hour bullet train from Shanghai to Huangshan City. Your driver will meet you there for a one-hour transfer to Hongcun. After you check into your hotel, embark on a half-day tour of two UNESCO-listed villages, beginning in Hongcun Village. This charming 600-year-old hamlet is known for its ancient, ornate architectural style and original features. As you walk along the quaint streets and pass over picturesque bridges, notice every beautiful detail, from elaborately carved wooden beams to intricate stone carvings.
Next, travel with your guide to Xidi Village, known for its well-preserved Huizhou architecture, characterized by painted beams, carved details, and design incorporating the surrounding mountains. Explore the town, then follow your guide to the Xihong Green Trail for a five-mile (8.2 km) trek that connects the two historic villages. For three hours, walk along the beautiful riverside path, enjoy the peaceful countryside, and watch for local wildlife, such as hawks, before returning to your hotel in Hongcun.Day 3: Train to Huangshan Scenic Area, Discover Huangshan Mountain
Say farewell to Hongcun and transfer on a 1.5-hour drive to the magnificent Huangshan National Scenic Area, a mountainous park known for its craggy rock formations, hot springs, extensive pine forest, and spectacular views. Once you arrive, prepare to ascend Huangshan Mountain (Yellow Mountain), where you'll spend the night in one of the hotels at the top. You can ride one of the picturesque cable cars up the mountain or leave your luggage to be transported and climb up on foot.
Once you reach the summit, check into your hotel, then take a short hike to the beautiful Xihai (West Sea) Grand Canyon, stopping at the Dispelling Cloud Pavilion for some of the most arresting views. Descend the stone steps leading to the bottom of the canyon to immerse yourself in the otherworldly landscape. Hike back up or take the monorail, then head to the Sky Sea Scenic Area at sunset. Watch the sun go down over the mountains from Bright Summit, with amazing views of Flying-Over Rock, then head back for a much-needed rest at your hotel.
Day 4: See the Sunrise at Huangshan Mountain, Train to Shanghai
Wake up before dawn to watch the sunrise over the mountains at Refreshing Terrace, a short walk from the hotel. Marvel at the mountain peaks floating above the sea of white clouds as the sun slowly lightens the misty mountains, then return to your hotel for breakfast. After you eat, explore the North Sea Scenic Area, discovering renowned scenic spots like Shixin Peak, Monkey Gazing at the Sea, and Dawn Pavilion.
If you have the energy, climb Lion Peak for more spectacular views, then walk the wooded trail back to the cable car and descend the mountain. Meet your driver at the bottom for a two-hour trip to Huangshanbei North Station, where you'll board a 2.5-hour bullet train back to Shanghai and check into your hotel.
Day 5: Shanghai Highlights Tour
Meet your guide after breakfast to discover some of Shanghai's best sights, beginning at the Bund. Wander the renowned promenade, exploring the colonial and contemporary architecture that showcases Shanghai's beginnings as a humble fishing village and its current status as a financial powerhouse. See dozens of historic buildings here, including the 1920s landmark Shanghai Bank Building and Customs House.
Your next stop is the Yu Garden. "Yu" translates to "pleasing and satisfying," and the five acres of this historic green space perfectly embody those traits. Dating back to the Ming Dynasty (1368 to 1644 CE), the landscaping features a ginkgo tree as old as the garden, pavilions, ponds, tea houses, rockeries, cloisters, and covered bridges. Then, explore the adjoining Yuyuan Market, filled with stalls selling everything from souvenirs to local delicacies. While there, sample specialties like xiaolongbao (steamed dumplings) or tangyuan (sweet rice balls).
Later in the day, visit several narrow alleyways lined with some of Shanghai's most iconic symbols, the Shikumen (Stone Gate Houses), most of which date back 150 years. These stone buildings blend European and traditional styles and remain some of the last vestiges of Shanghai's past. Wander through and appreciate the beautiful and thoughtful details, then visit the Shikumen Residence Museum to gain more insight into the history and lifestyle of the period.
Day 6: Depart Shanghai
It's time to say goodbye! Spend some free time in the morning finishing up last-minute shopping or sightseeing, then meet your driver for your transfer to the airport. Safe travels, whether you're going home or elsewhere!
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