DAY 1 - UK/Shanghai
Depart on your scheduled flight to Shanghai.
DAY 2 - Shanghai
On arrival transfer to your hotel for a two night stay. Shanghai, literally meaning ‘above the sea’, has a colourful history embedded in the late 19th and 20th centuries, but is also excitingly modern and is seen by many other Chinese cities as one to aspire to and offers a glimpse into the country’s future. This vibrant and dynamic city of contrasts has to be seen to be believed. At its heart is the Huangpu River with its constant and extraordinary stream of water traffic. The Bund, the city’s famous riverside boulevard, is lined with magnificent former colonial buildings which now stand as monuments to Shanghai’s one-time notoriety. Yet across the river in Pudong District, a new ‘Manhattan’ is rising from the former marshlands. The labyrinth of streets in the old town form a stark contrast with modern Nanjing Road – Shanghai truly is a shopper’s Mecca. By night the city is a culinary delight with all sorts of local and international foods and entertainment that just goes on and on. This afternoon we will visit Shanghai’s busy Nanjing Road, and The Bund, the city’s historic riverside boulevard.
DAY 3 - Shanghai
Today we take a peek at the traditional side of Shanghai. Our included sightseeing features a visit to the Yu Yuan Gardens, a classic Chinese garden and its ancient Wu CHINA Suzhou Tongli Shanghai Zhujiajiao Hangzhou Xing Ting Teahouse. Then it’s on to the amazing Jade Buddha Temple. This evening we include a trip to an acrobatic show.
DAY 4 - Suzhou
Today we drive to Zhujiajiao, a charming town of canals and bridges which dates back nearly 1700 years. The little fan shaped town, also known as the ‘Pearl Stream’, is the best preserved of the four ancient water towns in Shanghai province. Spanning the canals, thirty six ornate bridges were built in differing styles during the Ming and Qing dynasties. Fangsheng or ‘Setting-fish-free’ Bridge is the longest, largest and tallest. It bears a stone tablet engraved with 8 coiling dragons encircling a shining pearl and is topped by four lifelike lions. The Lang, Veranda or Huimin Bridge is the only wooden bridge and looks like a narrow corridor with up upturned eaves above bars on each side. Stroll through the narrow allies past ancient temples, craft shops and closely packed houses and wander around the imposing gardens. This afternoon we visit Tongli, situated on the shores of Lake Taihu. The town stands on a number of islands, connected by forty-nine stone bridges. The river banks are lined with wonderful traditional houses and gardens, offering a real flavour of ancient China. Continue to your hotel in Suzhou, situated on China’s historic Grand Canal for a three night stay.
DAY 5 - Suzhou
Ancient Suzhou is undoubtedly one of China’s most beautiful and cultural cities, renowned for its classic landscaped gardens, narrow canals and traditional Chinese architecture. Many of the gardens, dating as far back as the 10th century, have been restored to their former glory. This morning you will visit the Humble Administrator’s Garden and visit an embroidery factory. Suzhou has been famous for its silk products since the days of Marco Polo. This afternoon we spend some time at the lovely Lingering Garden.
DAY 6 - Suzhou
This morning we take a rickshaw ride to the local markets, where you can pick up some distinctive souvenirs. Then we will take a walk through the charming old streets of the city, where the people still live their lives steeped in the traditions of China. We continue to the Institute of Embroidery, whose museum contains examples of traditional silk robes and garments.
DAY 7 - Hangzhou
This morning we include a cruise along the Grand Canal to Pingwang. From here we transfer by coach to Hangzhou for a two night stay. Marco Polo described Hangzhou as one of the most beautiful cities in the world. Its legendary appeal has not diminished over the centuries, especially that of the famous West Lake.
DAY 8 - Hangzhou
Today you will enjoy a full sightseeing programme in Hangzhou including Lingyin Temple, a Buddhist monastry surrounded by hills and gardens, Six Harmonies Pagoda, the Tea Garden and, of course, a boat ride on the West Lake. This serene lake is surrounded by forests and gardens and contains a number of picturesque islands and beautiful sights.
DAY 9 - Shanghai
We drive back to Shanghai for your final overnight stay. This afternoon and evening are free for you to enjoy more of this lively city.
DAY 10 - Shanghai/UK
Transfer to the airport for your return flight to the UK.