• Hangzhou - Meet the tour guide in the lobby of the Hangzhou hotel or at Hangzhou Railway Station. Board a private vehicle and set off on an unforgettable journey through the captivating city of Hangzhou, with the flexibility to adjust the schedule to suit personal preferences at any point during the tour.
• West Lake (Xi Hu) - Start the adventure at the famous West Lake, a UNESCO World Heritage site that embodies the charm of Hangzhou. Often described as “paradise on earth,” this timeless landscape has inspired poets, artists, and travelers for over a millennium, serving as the muse for numerous classical Chinese poems and paintings.

The lake is divided into five sections by three causeways, the most renowned being the Suxin Causeway, built by the esteemed poet-scholar Su Dongpo during the Song Dynasty. Enjoy a 30-minute boat ride on the serene waters, offering a chance to see some of West Lake’s most iconic sights. The Three Pools Mirroring the Moon, depicted on China’s one Yuan Bill, is a must-see. These three small pagodas rise from the water, and on a clear night, candles placed inside create a magical sight as their light reflects on the surface.

• Lingyin Temple - Next: Lingyin Temple & Feilai Peak (Expanded)
  Continue the exploration at Lingyin Temple (Temple of Soul’s Retreat), a Buddhist sanctuary with a history dating back to 326 AD, making it one of China’s oldest and most significant monasteries. Spanning an expansive 12 acres, the temple complex is a testament to traditional Chinese architecture. Its golden-roofed halls house magnificent statues, including a towering 24.8-meter-high Maitreya Buddha carved from 24 blocks of camphor wood, a sight that leaves visitors in awe. As a center for Chan (Zen) Buddhism, Lingyin Temple offers a serene atmosphere for spiritual reflection. Ancient scripture halls and tranquil courtyards invite visitors to delve into the teachings and history of Buddhism.

• 飞来峰灵隐寺 - Adjacent to the temple, Feilai Peak (Flying Peak) is a geological wonder. Its limestone cliffs are adorned with over 470 Buddhist rock carvings, dating from the Five Dynasties to the Ming Dynasty. Among these, the laughing Buddha carving is particularly famous, symbolizing happiness and good fortune. The peak also offers panoramic views of the surrounding lush greenery and the temple below, providing a perfect vantage point for photography and soaking in the natural beauty.

• Amanfayun - Amanfayun Village Stroll (Expanded)
  Follow the guide along a meandering cobblestone path to Amanfayun Village, a hidden gem nestled amidst tea fields. This tranquil hamlet is a living museum of traditional Chinese rural architecture. The village is dotted with restored Ming and Qing Dynasty dwellings, each featuring classic Chinese design elements like sloping tile roofs, wooden lattice windows, and courtyard gardens. As visitors wander through the narrow alleys, they can peek into local homes, observing the daily lives of villagers. The air is filled with the fresh scent of tea plants, and visitors might even see farmers plucking the tender leaves, a process that has been passed down through generations. Take a moment to sit in a traditional teahouse, where a cup of freshly brewed local tea can be enjoyed while listening to stories about the village’s history and culture.

• Hefangjie Street - Afternoon Activities (Customizable and Expanded)
  After a delicious lunch at a local restaurant, the afternoon itinerary can be tailored to individual interests. Choose between:
  Hefang Street Exploration: Immerse in the rich history of Hefang Street, which traces its origins back to the illustrious Southern Song Dynasty (1127–1279) when Hangzhou served as China’s capital and a bustling center of commerce and culture. This ancient street has been carefully preserved, with its traditional architecture, transporting visitors back in time. With the guide’s assistance, explore the vibrant street food stalls, where local delicacies like dragon beard candy and osmanthus cakes can be sampled. Browse through shops selling exquisite arts, handicrafts, trinkets, and traditional Chinese medicine. Don’t miss the chance to visit the Hu Qingyu Chinese Pharmacy, a century-old establishment that showcases the wisdom of traditional Chinese medicine through its antique interiors and herbal displays.

• Meijiawu - Meijiawu Tea Village Visit: Head to Meijiawu Tea Village, nestled in the rural foothills of the West Lake district. This idyllic village is renowned for its production of Xihu Longjing (West Lake Dragon Well) tea, one of China’s most prestigious green teas. Upon arrival, visit a local tea plantation and learn about the entire tea-making process, from the delicate art of plucking the young tea leaves to the meticulous steps of frying, rolling, and drying them. Then, step into a traditional tea house, where a tea master will perform a tea ceremony, demonstrating the proper way to brew and appreciate Longjing tea. As the fragrant, emerald-green tea is sipped, surrounded by the lush greenery of tea bushes, a deep appreciation for the cultural significance of tea in Chinese life is gained.

The tour concludes with a comfortable drop-off at the Hangzhou hotel or railway station, leaving visitors with memories of Hangzhou’s timeless beauty, rich culture, and warm hospitality.

• Professional English-speaking guide
• Hotel pickup and drop-off
• Entrance fee
• Lunch
• Transport by air-conditioned private vehicle

• Accommodation
• Gratuities

Forget the guidebooks and set off on an unforgettable Hangzhou adventure with your own private local expert! With a dedicated driver at your disposal, you can avoid the hassle of public transport and enjoy a smooth exploration. Sail across the enchanting West Lake, where every ripple has a story to tell, and soak in the spiritual atmosphere of Lingyin Temple. At Meijiawu Tea Village, treat your senses to traditional tea, enriched by the deep insights only a local can provide. Discover hidden gems and secret alleyways, and let our experts design a journey just for you. This is more than a tour—it’s a personalized escape into the heart of Hangzhou!

For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.