CHINA: HANGZHOU – WUZHEN WEST TOWN: JIANGNAN’S WONDER

After breakfast, the tour guide takes the group to explore Shanghai – one of the most dynamic metropolises, known as the financial and cultural heart of China. With architecture ranging from old quarters to modern urban districts, the city shows a harmonious blend of past and future. The group visits:
Lujiazui is often described as the “modern heart” of Shanghai, where iconic skyscrapers converge. It is not only an economic hub but also an architectural showcase demonstrating China’s strength and speed of development.

(Exterior photo stop)

Guests have breakfast at the hotel, then check out and set off for Hangzhou – one of China’s major cities of culture, history and economy.
The group visits:
Cruise on West Lake – a wonderful experience to fully appreciate the poetic beauty of Hangzhou, the “jewel” of China. Sailing gently across the water, guests can admire the Three Pools Mirroring the Moon, emerald islets, and ancient pavilions reflected on the water, and fully feel the romantic, poetic atmosphere of the only lake in China recognized by UNESCO.

After breakfast at the hotel, the group checks out. The tour guide takes guests to Wuzhen – one of China’s most famous and beautiful ancient water towns, often called the “Number One Beauty of Jiangnan.”
Wuzhen West Water Town is famous for its more than 70 small bridges, especially the Tongji and Renji bridges, which cross at right angles to create its distinctive poetic scenery. The beauty of its waterways changes with every moment: crystal clear and peaceful by day, and sparkling beneath red lanterns at night. Walking along wooden corridors with upturned eaves, listening to the gentle sound of oars on the water, visitors feel as if they have entered an ancient Ming–Qing world where every house and stone bridge bears the traces of time. While strolling the old town, guests may visit the Wuzhen Post Office, Qiaoliqiao Teahouse (a famous photo spot), the White Lotus Pagoda, or the Caomu Bense dye workshop, or simply take a boat trip drifting slowly along the canal to fully appreciate the beauty of Wuzhen. (Only the entrance ticket is included; attractions within the town are at own expense)

Guests have breakfast at the hotel, then check out. Continuing the journey, the tour guide takes the group to explore Suzhou – praised as a place of “scenic beauty and poetic charm,” with exquisite classical gardens, poetic canal networks and graceful stone bridges. The group visits:
Hanshan Temple: The classical and serene beauty of this place has inspired many literary masterpieces in Chinese history. Guests have the chance to ring the three sacred bells in the wooden tower, stand on the stone bridge and gaze at the tranquil riverbank. In addition, couples who visit may pray at the altar of the two monks Hanshan and Shide for a long and happy life together. (Cost of prayer offerings at own expense)