Trip 7: Lijiang & Guilin & Changsha & Hangzhou

 THE HIGHLIGHT OF THE ITINERARY

Discover China’s stunning landscapes and rich heritage on this immersive journey. Wander through Lijiang Old Town, cycle along Dali’s Erhai Lake, and explore Kunming’s Dounan Flower Market. Cruise the Li River in Yangshuo, marveling at its iconic karst peaks.

In Hangzhou, experience the beauty of West Lake, the ancient wonders of Liangzhu, and the dazzling Qianjiang Light Show. Escape to Qiandao Lake and shop at Wulin Night Market.

Step into history at Shaoxing, visiting Lu Xun’s Former Residence and the famed Orchid Pavilion. Conclude at Dayu Resort, home to China’s legendary water-control hero.

A perfect blend of culture, nature, and modern charm!

Day 1:

· Evening flight from Auckland to China, with a transfer to Lijiang (Air China).

Day 2: Lijiang

· Visit Lijiang Old Town, also known as Dayan Ancient Town, a UNESCO World Cultural Heritage site.

· The town reflects the architectural brilliance of the Naxi people and is considered a marvel in Chinese architectural history.

· Located at an altitude of 2,400 meters at the foot of Jade Dragon Snow Mountain, the town has a history spanning over 1,000 years and covers 3.8 square kilometers.

· Sifang Street is the heart of the ancient town, with four main roads extending outward like a web.

Day 3: Lijiang → Dali (High-speed train, 2 hours, ¥80)

· Visit Erhai Lake (altitude 1,970m, 250 sq km), the second-largest freshwater lake in Yunnan.

· The Erhai Eco-Corridor stretches 50 km—cycling is the best way to explore, offering stunning views of the lake and Cangshan Mountain.

· The Bai ethnic group worships village deities and follows Buddhism, with Zen Buddhism spreading to Dali during the Yuan and Ming dynasties.

Day 4: Dali → Kunming South (High-speed train, 2h20m, ¥155)

· Dounan Flower Market, the largest fresh-cut flower market in Asia, earning Kunming the title of "Flower City."

Day 5: Kunming South → Guilin West (High-speed train, ¥426) → Yangshuo

· West Street, the earliest place in Yangshuo where Chinese and Western cultures blended.

· The street is filled with handicraft shops, calligraphy stores, hostels, cafés, bars, and a Chinese martial arts center.

Day 6: Yangshuo

· Famous for its picturesque karst landscapes, Yangshuo is known as “the most beautiful scenery under heaven.”

· Guilin’s karst peaks were ranked among "China’s Top Five Most Beautiful Karst Formations" by Chinese National Geography.

· The Li River winds through thousands of karst peaks, creating breathtaking reflections in its emerald waters.

· Taking a Li River cruise feels like sailing through a living painting.

Day 7: Yangshuo → Changsha (High-speed train via Guilin North, ¥226)

Day 8: Changsha → Hangzhou (West Lake) (High-speed train, 5 hours, ¥446.70)

· West Lake Scenic Area, famous for its poetry, mythology, and rich cultural history.

· The area bears witness to the development of Buddhism, Taoism, and tea culture in China.

Day 9: Hangzhou

· China National Archives of Publications and Culture – a must-visit cultural hub integrating a museum, library, and art gallery.

· Exhibits include Hemudu Culture, Liangzhu Culture, and Oracle Bone Script, showcasing China's ancient civilization.

· Liangzhu Ancient City Ruins, known as "China’s First City," features the earliest large-scale water conservancy system in China.

· Song Dynasty Town, China’s most popular theme park, home to the world-renowned "Romance of the Song Dynasty" show.

Day 10: Qiandao Lake (Thousand Island Lake)

· One of the three Qiandao Lakes in the world, with 1,078 emerald islands and mesmerizing mountain reflections.

Day 11: Hangzhou

· Hu Xueyan’s Former Residence – an architectural gem blending traditional Chinese and Western styles, also known as "the grandest mansion in Jiangnan."

· Hefang Street, once a flourishing cultural and commercial center during the Southern Song Dynasty.

· Yunqi Bamboo Trail, known for its tranquil bamboo forests and as a major Longjing tea production site.

· Qianjiang New Town Light Show, featuring 700,000 LED lights across 30 skyscrapers, creating a breathtaking cityscape along the Qiantang River.

Day 12: Wulin Night Market

· Famous for its local delicacies, handicrafts, and vibrant shopping atmosphere, offering a mix of food, flowers, accessories, and cultural art pieces.

Day 13: Tangqi Ancient Town

· Rich in cultural heritage, featuring traditional architecture, performances, and handicrafts.

· Local delicacies are a highlight, offering an authentic taste of ancient China.

Day 14: Shaoxing

· Lu Xun’s Former Residence – Home of the celebrated writer, philosopher, and founder of modern Chinese literature.

· Lanting (Orchid Pavilion) – The retreat where the legendary calligrapher Wang Xizhi penned The Preface to the Orchid Pavilion.

· Cangqiao Straight Street – A picturesque 1.5-km historic street preserving Qing and early Republic-era architecture, winning UNESCO’s Asia-Pacific Heritage Conservation Award in 2003.

· Dayu Resort – A historic site where Emperor Yu, the ancient water-control hero, was buried over 4,000 years ago.

Day 15: End of the Journey

 

Fees Included:

• English-speaking tour guides
• Inland transportation (flights, high-speed train, bus, subway in China if needed)
• Admission tickets for all activities
• Standard travel insurance
• Accommodation: 13 nights
• Meals: 28 meals included

Fees Not Included:

• International transportation
• Tips for the bus driver & tour guide (waived)
• Optional tours
• Accommodation adjustments (¥500 per person per night)
• Meal upgrades or changes
• Additional fees due to transportation delays
• Health insurance
• Personal content insurance