China is a whole universe where you can cross the boundary of epochs in an instant.
A labyrinth of skyscrapers, mirrored roads, and waves of glowing advertisements — Shanghai fascinates with its scale and speed, yet the alleys of the old city still carry the scent of roasted chestnuts. In Suzhou, wander through the shady paths of exquisite gardens and cross stone bridges over canals that reflect the moonlight. Witness Huangshan, where mountains are wrapped in a veil of clouds and ancient pines cling to sheer cliffs, their forms sculpted by the relentless wind. In Hangzhou, discover the magic of the shores of West Lake, the rustle of tea leaves, and the silhouettes of ancient pagodas as if lifted from the canvases of old masters.
Let Scenario Travel be your guide to the Celestial Empire, and you will see Huangshan from the finest viewpoints, gain access to the hidden pavilions of Suzhou’s gardens, walk along the most picturesque trails near West Lake (Xi Hu), and venture where standard tourist groups never reach.
On this trip
Shanghai
Experience the rhythm of the metropolis: futuristic skyscrapers, the narrow lanes of the Old City, and the Bund with its panoramic view of Pudong
Suzhou
Stroll through the shady alleys of classical gardens and take a boat ride along picturesque canals
Huangshan
Ascend the peaks of the “Yellow Mountains,” where centuries-old pines cling to cliffs, and witness the sunrise over a sea of clouds
West Lake
Explore Hangzhou’s iconic landmark, surrounded by ancient pagodas, stone bridges, and tea plantations
Tongli
Discover the charm of an ancient water town with narrow streets, arched bridges, and stilted houses
Tour details
17 — 24 May 2025
8 days/7 nights
- English-speaking guide;
- Entrance tickets;
- Private transfers between airports, railway stations, hotels, and attractions (unless otherwise specified);
- Trains and flights specified in the itinerary;
- Meals as per the programme (breakfast and lunch, worth 80–100 CNY per person);
- Accommodation in the listed hotels;
- Taxes and fees (except for EU countries).
- International flights;
- Visa fees;
- Surcharge for excess baggage;
- Personal expenses;
- Tips for guides and drivers;
- Insurance.
Travel scenario
Day 1. Arrival in Shanghai
After arriving in Shanghai, you will be met for a transfer to a hotel opposite the picturesque Vitan embankment, which offers views of the Pudong area.
The hotel provides convenient access to the city's main attractions. It offers various services to help you unwind after your flight, including an indoor pool, a wellness spa, and a fitness centre. There are eight restaurants on-site where you can enjoy Chinese and international cuisine.
Day 2. Shanghai – Suzhou
After breakfast, you will have the opportunity to explore Shanghai at your own pace. Stroll along the Bund, admire the futuristic skyscrapers of Pudong, and visit the charming Yuyuan Garden. If you wish to see the city from above, head to the observation deck of the Shanghai Tower or visit the Oriental Pearl Tower. Here, you can step onto a glass-floored platform, dine in the revolving restaurant, explore the Shanghai History Museum, and experience a traditional tea ceremony with a breathtaking metropolis view. For a more atmospheric walk, the French Concession offers quaint streets, historic mansions, and stylish cafés.
In the afternoon, you will travel to Suzhou. The journey takes approximately two hours, allowing you to enjoy the picturesque landscapes of the Chinese countryside.
Upon arrival in Suzhou, you will check into a hotel in the historic Gusu district, just a short walk from renowned landmarks such as the Canglang Pavilion and the Humble Administrator’s Garden.
Day 3. Suzhou
Today, you will visit Tongli, one of China's most picturesque water towns. Narrow streets, ancient stone bridges, and houses with carved shutters are reflected in the mirror-like surface of the canals. A boat trip will allow you to see Tongli in its traditional form — with the centuries-old walls mirrored in the water and the unhurried life of its ancient quarters.
Next, visit an expansive garden, a traditional Chinese garden design masterpiece. Pavilions, winding paths, artificial hills, and tranquil ponds create perfect harmony here.
The day concludes with a visit to Tiger Hill, home to the famous Yunyan Pagoda, often called the "Chinese Leaning Tower of Pisa" due to its noticeable tilt.
Day 4. Suzhou — Huangshan
In the morning, transfer to the station and board a high-speed train to Huangshan. In less than two hours, you will arrive in another province, where a completely different rhythm of life awaits.
After checking into a modern hotel, walk along the historic Tunxi Ancient Street. Paved with smooth stones, this street has been the heart of the city for centuries. You can immerse yourself in the charm of a bygone era among old houses, tea shops, and traditional workshops. The scent of freshly brewed tea blends with the aromas of local sweets, while behind massive wooden doors, shops sell rare varieties of inksticks and brushes for calligraphy. The atmosphere of ancient China comes to life here, like an old engraving brought to reality.
Day 5. Huangshan
This day offers one of the most fascinating landscapes in China.
In the morning — ascent to Mount Huangshan via the Yungu cableway. The cabin slowly rises, disappearing into the clouds, while beneath your feet, granite peaks emerge from the mist, accompanied by centuries-old pines growing from the rocks. These vistas inspired Song dynasty artists and became a vivid embodiment of traditional Chinese painting.
Upon arrival, walk along the Western Canyon. The trail begins with steep steps and gradually descends into the gorge, where towering cliffs close in overhead and stone ledges take on the shapes of people and animals.
After exploring the mountain trails, visit Hongcun, a village listed as a UNESCO World Heritage site. Here, whitewashed houses with dark-tiled roofs reflect in the still waters of the pond, while narrow streets echo with the footsteps of Imperial Academy scholars, as noble families of the Ming era once lived here. This picturesque setting was so enchanting that its landscapes inspired the movie “Crouching Tiger, Hidden Dragon.”
Accommodation in a hotel nestled in the mountains — an ideal place to unwind after a busy day and admire the breathtaking views.
Day 6. Huangshan – Hangzhou
The morning begins with a walk in the North Sea district, where you can witness the sunrise from a refreshing terrace — one of the best spots to admire the morning colours of Huangshan.
After breakfast, enjoy a walk to Lion Peak, where breathtaking views of Dawn Pavilion and the Stone Monkey Watching the Sea rock formation unfold. Among winding paths and ancient pines lies the Beginning-to-Believe Peak, from which you can admire the panoramic mountain scenery and spot the Mushroom Pavilion.
The journey through Huangshan will conclude with a descent by the Yungu cable car, offering a final farewell to the iconic mountain landscapes.
Afterwards, a transfer will take you to the station for a high-speed train to Hangzhou. Upon arrival, you will be met and escorted to your hotel, where you can relax after a busy day.
Day 7. Hangzhou
The introduction to Hangzhou will begin at the Lingyin Temple — one of China’s wealthiest and most significant Buddhist temples. Its centuries-old pagodas, intricately carved grottoes, and ancient scrolls preserve the history of Buddhism’s spread in the Middle Kingdom. Above the temple is Feilai Feng (Flying Peak), a massive rock covered with thousands of Buddha images. According to legend, the peak flew here from India in a single night, symbolising the omnipotence of Buddhist law. Other iconic sites worth visiting include the Hall of Heavenly Kings, the Hall of the Great Sage, the Hall of the Medicine Buddha, the Sutra Library, and the Hall of Five Hundred Arhats.
The journey continues to Mount Wu and the Chenghuang Pavilion, one of the Four Great Pavilions of Southern China. From its terraces, a breathtaking panorama of Hangzhou unfolds. Visitors can sample an unusual delicacy in one of the halls — a lotus root powder.
Next, the route leads to the tea plantations of Meijiawu, famed for producing the prestigious Longjing tea. Here, tea bushes grow on terraced hillsides, filling the air with the fresh aroma of foliage. Visitors can stroll through the plantations, observe the tea-picking process, and taste Longjing tea, considered one of China’s finest green teas.
The day concludes with a leisurely walk along West Lake, the symbol of Hangzhou and a timeless source of inspiration for artists and poets. In summer, emerald-green lotuses bloom on the water, while Chinese pagodas, arched bridges, and verdant islands enhance the scenery’s picturesque charm. A boat will take visitors to Xiaoying Island (Fairy Island), where one of West Lake’s most famous sights awaits — Three Pools Mirroring the Moon.
Day 8. Hangzhou — Shanghai
After breakfast, transfer to Shanghai. Along the way, enjoy the changing landscapes — from the tea plantations of Hangzhou to the modern skyscrapers of one of China’s largest megacities.
Before departure, lunch at a local restaurant.
Transfer to Shanghai Airport for the flight home.
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