Splendid South China: Hong Kong, Xiamen, Tulou, Hangzhou

Itinerary

• Day 1: Hong Kong, Arrival

  Welcome to Hong Kong! Upon arrival, you'll be greeted by our guide and escorted to your hotel. After check-in, you have the evening free to explore the city's vibrant streets in search of Michelin-starred culinary delights.

  • Hong Kong

• Day 2: Hong Kong City Tour

  Embrace the day with a self-guided adventure in Hong Kong! We recommend taking a scenic urban journey on the Ding Ding Tram or getting your adrenaline pumping at Happy Valley Racecourse. Foodies, don't miss the chance to indulge in a morning dim sum feast and an afternoon tea at the Peninsula Hong Kong. Bon appétit and happy exploring!

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  • Hong Kong

• Day 3: Hong Kong - Xiamen, South Putuo Temple, Hulishan Fortress

  Today, make your way independently to the station for a 4-hour high-speed train journey to Xiamen. An electronic ticket will be emailed to you prior to the trip.

  Upon landing in Xiamen, a smooth transfer will whisk you off to your hotel. This afternoon, prepare to be captivated by a visit to the serene South Putuo Temple, the town's most renowned Buddhist sanctuary, followed by an intriguing exploration of the historic Hulishan Fortress. If time allows, pedal along the Island Ring Road for a stunning urban vista.

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  • Xiamen

• Day 4: Xiamen - Gulangyu Island - Xiamen

  Take a ferry ride to Gulangyu Island. Visit the Shuzhuang Garden. Wander through its winding corridors, admire the ancient halls with upturned eaves, and find tranquility in the poetic gardens and ponds that overlook the shimmering sea.

  For a taste of melodic heritage, visit the Piano Museum, home to an impressive array of nearly 100 rare antique pianos from across the globe, providing a treat for both the ears and the eyes. If you're interested in organ performances, we can pre-arrange tickets for you. Return to Xiamen for overnight.

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  • Xiamen

• Day 5: Xiamen - Nanjing, Tianluokeng Tulou Cluster

  Embark on a 3-hour drive to the picturesque Tianluokeng Tulou Cluster. Ascend for a panoramic view and admire the "4 dishes and 1 soup" formation of earthen buildings. Savor a Hakka lunch, then explore Xiaban Village, including the leaning Yuchang Lou and the picturesque Taxia Village. Visit the nationally-protected Zhang's clan ancestral hall. Check into a Tulou guesthouse in Taxia and conclude the day with a tranquil evening stroll.

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  • Nanjing

• Day 6: Nanjing - Yongding - Xiamen, Yongding Hakka Cultural Village

  After a morning check out, transfer to the enchanting Gaotou Village to marvel at the colossal Chengqi Lou, a circular fortress composed of four concentric circles.

  Then, embark on a scenic drive to the historic Yongding Hakka Cultural Village, and enjoy local lunch. Later, explore the architectural marvels: the Zhencheng Lou, a harmonious blend of Chinese and Western styles; the Kuiju Lou, a majestic palace-style residence; and the Rusheng Lou, a charming miniature circular treasure. As the day winds down, return to Xiamen.

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  • Xiamen

• Day 7: Xiamen - Hangzhou

  Set off on a high-speed rail adventure to Hangzhou, a journey that will whisk you away in just 4-5 hours. To further enrich your cultural experience, we've curated a selection of traditional craft experiences: seal engraving, traditional Chinese incense-making, and painting delicate oil-paper umbrellas (extra costs).

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  • Hangzhou

• Day 8: West Lake, Lingyin Temple, Feilai Peak, Longwu Tea Village

  This morning, you're in for a treat as you set sail across the tranquil waters of West Lake, renowned for its breathtaking beauty, with its mirrored reflections of the willow-lined banks and the serene mountains that grace the horizon.

  Then explore the ancient Lingyin Temple, a 1,700-year-old Buddhist retreat. Admire the statues, carvings, and Hall of Heavenly Kings. Then, visit the mystical Feilai Peak with centuries-old Buddhist sculptures.

  Proceed to Longwu Tea Village, wander amid the vibrant tea fields, taking in the natural fragrance and learning about the meticulous craft of Longjing tea cultivation. Interact with local farmers to grasp the age-old techniques of tea picking and processing.

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  • Hangzhou

• Day 9: Hangzhou - Wuzhen

  Embark on a 2-hour drive to the charming Wuzhen, a town known for its age-old canals and traditional water town charm. Explore the historic Dongzha and Xizha, with their well-preserved wooden houses, stone bridges, and tranquil waterways.

  If you're intrigued by Hanfu, the traditional Chinese attire, we can arrange a unique experience of dressing up and styling your hair in traditional ways, offering a cultural immersion like no other (extra costs).

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  • Wuzhen

• Day 10: Wuzhen - Hangzhou, Departure

  Today, bid farewell to Wuzhen as you drive back to Hangzhou. Upon arrival, transfer to the airport for your international flight departure. Safe travels!

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