Hidden China Karst Landscapes and Ancient Villages Tour

Today you will fly to Guangyang. On arrival, your private guide will be ready to welcome you at the arrival hall, and transfer to your hotel with a private car and driver. Your guide will help you with luggage and hotel check-in, and ensure your arrival is worry-free.

Travel approximately 2 hours from Guiyang to Huangguoshu Waterfall, Asia's largest waterfall and one of China's most spectacular natural wonders. Standing 77.8 metres tall and 101 metres wide, this magnificent cascade thunders down in a powerful curtain of water, creating mist rainbows and a deafening roar that can be heard from miles away. Walk behind the falls through the unique Water Curtain Cave for an unforgettable perspective. A one-way escalator is included for convenient access. Continue to Tianlong Tunpu, a remarkable Ming Dynasty ancient fortress village where residents have preserved 600-year-old customs, architecture and dialect from China's early Ming period. Stone-built houses, narrow alleyways and traditional dress transport visitors back in time. Witness a captivating Dixi Opera performance, an ancient masked theatrical art form unique to this region, combining military drills, ritual and storytelling passed down through generations.

Depart with a scenic 3.5-hour drive to Xingyi City in southwestern Guizhou Province, renowned for its spectacular karst landscapes.

Explore Wanfenglin (Ten Thousand Peaks Forest), one of China's most magnificent karst peak forest landscapes and a UNESCO World Heritage Site component. Marvel at thousands of cone-shaped limestone peaks rising dramatically from the valley floor, creating an otherworldly panorama described as "a forest of peaks." The scenic area showcases classic karst topography with verdant mountains, terraced fields, traditional villages nestled among the peaks, and winding rivers. The peaks change appearance with shifting light and weather, creating an ever-changing natural masterpiece. Walk through charming Buyi ethnic minority villages to experience local culture and traditional architecture harmoniously integrated with the dramatic landscape.

Continue with a 40-minute drive to Wanfeng Lake, southwestern China's largest freshwater lake and the country's fifth-largest reservoir. Enjoy a lake cruise (approximately 50 minutes, included) across the pristine turquoise waters. The lake covers an area equivalent to 76 West Lakes of Hangzhou, with a shoreline stretching over 800 kilometers. Cruise among countless karst peaks rising directly from the water, creating a stunning landscape of peaks and reflections. The lake's clear waters, surrounded by forested mountains and limestone formations, offer spectacular photo opportunities and a peaceful natural experience. The cruise provides unique perspectives of the karst landscape from the water.

Depart with a short 25-minute drive to Maling River Canyon (马岭河峡谷), one of China's most spectacular karst canyon landscapes, often called "the most beautiful scar on Earth."

Experience approximately 1.5 hours of canyon hiking through this dramatic geological wonder. Descend into the narrow gorge carved deep into the karst plateau, where sheer cliff walls rise over 200 meters on both sides. Marvel at the unique landscape features including:Tianxian Difeng (Sky Crack Earth Seam) - the narrow canyon formation where the gorge appears as a giant crack in the earth;Cascading waterfalls suspended from the cliff walls, with dozens of waterfalls plunging into the canyon from various heights;Lush vegetation clinging to the canyon walls, creating a green corridor;Ancient rock formations and calcium carbonate deposits.

Walk along well-maintained pathways and bridges that wind through the canyon floor, passing behind waterfalls and offering close-up views of the rushing river below. The misty atmosphere created by the numerous waterfalls adds to the mystical ambiance. Experience the cool microclimate within the canyon, a refreshing contrast to the plateau above.

After the canyon exploration, embark on a 3.5-hour drive to Guiyang.

Enjoy your free time until your guide comes and escort you to the airport for your onward flight.

Today you will fly to Xiamen. On arrival, your private guide will be ready to welcome you at the arrival hall, and transfer to your hotel with a private car and driver. Your guide will help you with luggage and hotel check-in, and ensure your arrival is worry-free.

Explore Fujian's remarkable Nanjing Tulou heritage, beginning at the iconic Tianluokeng Tulou Cluster, famously nicknamed "Four Dishes and One Soup" for its unique aerial layout of four oval earthen buildings surrounding one square structure. This UNESCO World Heritage Site showcases the ingenious communal architecture of the Hakka people, with massive rammed-earth fortresses dating back centuries. The cluster's distinctive geometric arrangement creates one of China's most photographed rural landscapes. Continue to Yuchanglou, the oldest surviving tulou in the region, built over 700 years ago. Despite its visibly tilted wooden columns, this "leaning tower" has stood firm through earthquakes and typhoons, demonstrating remarkable ancient engineering. Conclude at Taxia Village, a picturesque Hakka settlement nestled along a mountain stream, featuring traditional stone bridges, ancestral halls and dozens of towering stone memorial archways honouring past scholars.

Explore the highlights of Xiamen City, a charming coastal destination blending culture, academia and seaside charm. Begin at Nanputuo Temple, one of southern China's most revered Buddhist temples nestled at the foot of Wulao Peak. This thousand-year-old temple complex features ornate halls, tranquil courtyards and fragrant incense, with pathways leading to hilltop viewpoints overlooking Xiamen's coastline. Continue to Xiamen University, consistently ranked among China's most beautiful campuses. Wander through its picturesque grounds featuring colonial-era architecture, lotus ponds, palm-lined avenues and the famous Furong Tunnel adorned with student artwork. The campus's unique location between mountain and sea creates a stunning academic sanctuary. Conclude at Zengcuo'an, a bohemian fishing village transformed into an artistic enclave. This charming neighbourhood blends traditional Minnan architecture with trendy cafés, art galleries, boutique shops and seafood restaurants, offering a perfect mix of old-world charm and contemporary coastal culture.

Discover Gulangyu Island, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and car-free island paradise renowned for its colonial architecture, musical heritage and coastal beauty. Accessible only by ferry from Xiamen, this pedestrian-only island offers a tranquil escape from urban life. Visit Shuzhuang Garden, an elegant seaside garden built in 1913 featuring classical Chinese landscaping, rocky grottos, pavilions and ocean views. Enjoy a convenient electric cart ride through the garden's scenic pathways. Continue to the Piano Museum, housed within Shuzhuang Garden, showcasing over 100 rare antique pianos collected from around the world. The collection reflects Gulangyu's nickname "Piano Island," earned from its extraordinary concentration of pianos and musicians. Ascend Sunlight Rock (Riguangyan), the island's highest point at 92 metres, offering panoramic 360-degree views of Gulangyu's red-tiled roofs, Xiamen's modern skyline across the strait, and the surrounding azure waters dotted with ships.

Enjoy your free time until your guide comes and escort you to the high-speed train station.

Today you will arrive in Yellow Mountain by high-speed train station. On arrival, your private guide will be ready to welcome you at the arrival hall, and transfer to your hotel with a private car and driver. Your guide will help you with luggage and hotel check-in, and ensure your arrival is worry-free.

Take a 3.5-hour bullet train ride from Xiamen to Huangshan.

Experience the breathtaking beauty of Huangshan (Yellow Mountain), a UNESCO World Heritage Site renowned for its iconic granite peaks, ancient pine trees and mystical sea of clouds. Ascend via Yungu Cable Car to efficiently access the mountain's spectacular eastern slopes. Explore Begin-to-Believe Peak (Shixin Peak), where visitors are said to finally believe Huangshan's legendary beauty upon witnessing its extraordinary rock formations, twisted pines clinging to cliff faces, and dramatic mountain vistas. Visit Stone Monkey Watching the Sea, one of Huangshan's most famous rock formations resembling a monkey perched on a peak gazing across the cloud-filled valleys below. Venture into the Grand Canyon of West Sea, a stunning gorge featuring sheer cliffs, deep valleys, elevated walkways and glass platforms suspended over dramatic drops. This challenging but rewarding route showcases Huangshan's most dramatic landscapes, with towering rock pillars emerging from swirling mists.

Immerse yourself in authentic Huizhou culture through hands-on experiences in ancient villages. Explore Hongcun Village, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and masterpiece of ancient Chinese village planning, featuring elegant Hui-style architecture reflected in tranquil waterways. Visit Southern Lake Academy, a historic Qing Dynasty school overlooking the picturesque South Lake, and stroll around Moon Pond, the village's iconic crescent-shaped pool surrounded by traditional white-walled, black-tiled residences. Participate in a Traditional Fish Lantern Making Experience in Hongcun, learning this centuries-old folk art form unique to the region. Craft your own decorative fish lantern using traditional materials and techniques passed down through generations. Continue to Nanping Village for an Authentic Huizhou Cooking Experience, where local families welcome you into their homes to prepare traditional Huizhou cuisine. Learn to cook regional specialties using time-honored recipes and techniques while gaining insights into local culinary culture and daily village life.

Discover Huangshan's traditional crafts and historic charm through hands-on cultural experiences. Participate in a Herbal Fragrance Plaque Making Workshop, learning the ancient art of creating aromatic medicinal sachets rooted in Traditional Chinese Medicine. Under expert guidance, grind medicinal herbs into fine powder using traditional tools, mix the powder with natural binding agents into a smooth paste, and press the mixture into decorative molds to create your own personalized fragrance plaque. This therapeutic craft combines aromatherapy, herbal medicine knowledge and artistic expression. Continue to Tunxi Ancient Street, a beautifully preserved Song Dynasty-style commercial street stretching over 1 kilometer. Stroll along cobblestone lanes lined with traditional Hui-style shopfronts selling local tea, ink stones, brushes, She inksticks, antiques and Huizhou specialties. The street's elegant architecture and vibrant atmosphere offer a glimpse into centuries of merchant culture.

Enjoy your free time until your guide comes and escort you to the high-speed train station.

Today you will arrive in Qiandao Lake by high-speed train station. On arrival, your private guide will be ready to welcome you at the arrival hall, and transfer to your hotel with a private car and driver. Your guide will help you with luggage and hotel check-in, and ensure your arrival is worry-free.

Take a 1-hour bullet train ride from Huangshan to Qiandao Lake.

Experience the breathtaking beauty of Qiandao Lake (Thousand Island Lake), one of China's most scenic man-made reservoirs featuring over 1,000 forested islands scattered across crystal-clear waters. Board a cruise through the Central Lake Area, where emerald islands of varying sizes create a stunning archipelago landscape. Disembark at Osmanthus Island (Guihua Island), known for its fragrant osmanthus trees and traditional architecture offering insights into local lake culture. Continue to Tianchi Island (Heavenly Pool Island), featuring scenic walking paths, lush vegetation and panoramic lake vistas. Ascend Huangshan Peak, one of the lake's highest points, where sweeping views reveal the full majesty of the island-dotted waters stretching to the horizon. Conclude at Qiandao Lake Viewing Platform, an ideal vantage point to capture the lake's signature vista of countless green islands emerging from the turquoise waters like jade pearls.

Explore the scenic Qiandao Lake area beyond its famous waters. Begin at Qilong Lane, a charming waterfront street featuring traditional architecture, local shops and lakeside views that capture the essence of the region's cultural heritage. The lane's blend of historic buildings and modern cafés creates a relaxed atmosphere perfect for leisurely exploration. Continue to the Qiandao Lake Beer Museum, where you'll discover the brewing heritage of this lakeside region. Learn about beer production processes, view vintage brewing equipment and understand the connection between Qiandao Lake's pure water and quality beer manufacturing. Conclude your day at Tianyu Mountain Viewing Platform, perched high above the lake offering spectacular panoramic vistas. From this elevated vantage point, witness the stunning sight of over 1,000 forested islands scattered across the turquoise waters of Qiandao Lake, creating one of China's most photographed landscapes.

Begin your day at Qiandao Lake Forest Oxygen Bar, a pristine natural reserve renowned for its exceptionally high negative ion concentration and pure air quality. Wander through dense subtropical forests filled with towering trees, bamboo groves and mountain streams. The area's lush vegetation and tranquil atmosphere create an ideal environment for forest bathing and relaxation. Scenic walking trails wind through the verdant landscape, offering peaceful views and the refreshing sensation of breathing some of China's cleanest air. After enjoying the natural serenity, travel approximately 4 hours to Ningbo, a historic port city blending ancient heritage with modern development.

Discover the historic and cultural treasures of Ningbo, one of China's oldest port cities. Begin at Tianyi Pavilion, China's oldest surviving private library, built in 1561 during the Ming Dynasty. This remarkable complex houses ancient books, classical gardens and traditional architecture, showcasing over 450 years of scholarly heritage and ingenious fire-prevention design. The pavilion's collection of rare texts and tranquil courtyards offer insights into Chinese literary culture. Continue to Old Bund (Lao Waitan), Ningbo's historic waterfront district along the Yong River, predating Shanghai's famous Bund by 20 years. Stroll along this revitalized area featuring colonial-era European architecture, trendy restaurants, cafés and cultural venues that blend Ningbo's trading port history with modern cosmopolitan flair. Conclude at Baoguo Temple, one of southern China's oldest and best-preserved wooden structures, dating back to the Northern Song Dynasty (1013 AD). This architectural masterpiece showcases ancient timber construction techniques, with its main hall built entirely without nails.

Enjoy your free time until your driver comes and escort you to the high-speed train station.

Take a 4.2-hour bullet train ride from Ningbo to Nanjing.

Upon arrival in Nanjing, meet your private driver and guide for a convenient pick-up service followed by a half-day city exploration. Visit Nanjing Presidential Palace, a sprawling complex that served as the seat of power for multiple Chinese governments. Originally a Ming Dynasty prince's mansion, it later housed the Taiping Heavenly Kingdom's administration, the provisional government of the Republic of China, and Chiang Kai-shek's Nationalist government. Explore preserved offices, grand reception halls, classical Chinese gardens and exhibits chronicling pivotal moments in modern Chinese history. Continue to Nanjing Yunjin Brocade Museum, dedicated to preserving the art of Yunjin (Cloud Brocade), a UNESCO Intangible Cultural Heritage. This exquisite silk weaving technique, dating back over 1,600 years, was once reserved exclusively for imperial robes. Watch skilled artisans operate traditional wooden looms and admire intricate brocade masterpieces featuring gold and silver threads woven into vibrant cloud-like patterns.

Experience Nanjing's most scenic urban landscapes blending natural beauty with cultural heritage. Begin at Yuejiang Tower (River-Viewing Tower), a magnificent Ming-style pavilion perched atop Lion Mountain overlooking the Yangtze River. Ascend its multiple storeys for panoramic views of the mighty Yangtze River, Nanjing Yangtze River Bridge and the city skyline. Continue to Xuanwu Lake Park, one of Nanjing's largest and most beloved urban parks. Stroll along willow-lined pathways, cross arched bridges connecting five scenic islands, and enjoy serene lake views framed by the ancient city wall and Purple Mountain backdrop. Visit Confucius Temple and Dacheng Hall in the historic Fuzimiao district, the main ceremonial hall dedicated to Confucius, showcasing classical Chinese architecture and Confucian philosophy. Conclude with a scenic Qinhuai River cruise, gliding past illuminated traditional buildings, ancient bridges and riverside pavilions along this historic waterway that has been the cultural heart of Nanjing for over 2,500 years.

Discover Nanjing's imperial heritage and cultural treasures set within beautiful natural landscapes. Begin at Sun Yat-sen Mausoleum (Zhongshan Ling), the grand resting place of Dr. Sun Yat-sen, founding father of modern China. Climb 392 steps through forested Purple Mountain to reach the impressive blue-tiled memorial hall offering sweeping views of the surrounding gardens and city. Continue to Ming Xiaoling Mausoleum, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and tomb of the Hongwu Emperor, founder of the Ming Dynasty. This 600-year-old complex features the famous Sacred Way lined with stone animals and officials, massive stone gates and serene forest surroundings that blend imperial architecture with natural beauty. Conclude at Nanjing Museum, one of China's largest and finest museums, housing over 400,000 artifacts spanning from prehistoric times to the present. The museum's six exhibition halls showcase jade carvings, bronze vessels, imperial porcelain, calligraphy, textiles and a recreated Republican-era street.

Enjoy your free time until your guide comes and escort you to the high-speed train station.

Your Shanghai adventure begins with a hassle-free private pickup service from either Shanghai Pudong/Hongqiao International Airport or any train station in the city. Your knowledgeable English-speaking guide will greet you with a personalized welcome sign and escort you to a comfortable private vehicle for a smooth transfer into the city.
Experience Shanghai like a local as you board the iconic Huangpu River Ferry, a budget-friendly yet incredibly scenic transportation option used by residents for decades. This short but memorable boat ride offers spectacular panoramic views of both the historic Bund and futuristic Pudong skyline as you cross one of Asia's busiest waterways.
Upon reaching Pudong, you'll explore the impressive Lujiazui Financial District, home to Shanghai's most recognizable skyscrapers. Look up to admire the magnificent "Three Giants"—the Shanghai Tower (China's tallest building), the bottle-opener-shaped World Financial Center, and the distinctive pearl-topped Oriental Pearl TV Tower. Your guide will share fascinating architectural insights and help you capture perfect photos from the best vantage points.
The culinary highlight of your tour is a memorable lunch or dinner at Shanghai Renhe Restaurant on Zhaojiabang Road, an affordable Michelin one-star establishment specializing in authentic Shanghai cuisine. This local favorite serves exquisite dishes that perfectly balance traditional flavors with modern presentation techniques. Sample signature specialties like braised pork in brown sauce, xiaolongbao (soup dumplings), and smoked fish—all prepared with premium ingredients following time-honored recipes that have earned this establishment its prestigious Michelin recognition.

You will take a 1.5-hour bullet train ride from Nanjing to Shanghai.

Enjoy your free time until your guide comes and escort you to the airport for your onward flight.