11 Days Best China Tea Tour to Shanghai, Hangzhou, Huangshan, Fujian
Tour Overview
This 11-day immersive journey through China’s most famous tea regions is a dream tour for tea enthusiasts. From the world-renowned Longjing tea plantations in Hangzhou to the ancient tea...
Code of Tour: CDT0000091204
Length of Travel: 11 Day
Destinations of Tour: Shanghai-Hangzhou-Huangshan-Wuyishan-Anxi-Xiamen
Departure City: Shanghai
Price of Tour: Request
Type of Tour: Private
Features of Tour:
This 11-day immersive journey through China’s most famous tea regions is a dream tour for tea enthusiasts. From the world-renowned Longjing tea plantations in Hangzhou to the ancient tea trees of Wuyishan and Anxi, this tour offers an in-depth exploration of China’s rich tea culture, breathtaking landscapes, and vibrant local traditions.
Tour Highlights:
Hangzhou:
- Tea: Longjing (Dragon Well) Tea
- Activities: Begin your journey in Hangzhou, famous for its picturesque West Lake. Visit tea plantations nestled among lush green hills and learn about the meticulous process of Longjing tea production. Experience the tranquil beauty of the area, often described as “Heaven on Earth.”
Huangshan:
- Tea: Huangshan Maofeng Tea
- Activities: Discover the breathtaking vistas of Yellow Mountain (Huangshan) and explore nearby ancient villages. Huangshan is known for its high-quality Maofeng tea, a green tea with a fresh, floral aroma. The region’s natural beauty and cultural heritage make it a perfect stop for tea lovers.
Fujian Province:
- Teas: Tieguanyin Oolong, Dahongpao Oolong
- Anxi: Visit the historic tea-growing region of Anxi, where you’ll witness the production of Tieguanyin, a famous Oolong tea known for its floral aroma and refreshing taste.
- Wuyishan: Journey to the Wuyi Mountains, home to the legendary Dahongpao tea, one of China’s most prized teas. Explore ancient tea bushes, some of which are over 350 years old, and learn about the unique “rock tea” produced in this region.
Yunnan Province:
- Teas: Pu’er Tea, Dianhong Black Tea, Wulong Tea, White Tea
- Lincang: Explore the tea gardens of Lincang, a region known for its Pu’er and Dianhong black teas. Participate in tea ceremonies led by local tea masters, offering insights into the art of tea preparation and appreciation.
- Puer: Visit the city of Puer, which gives its name to the famous Pu’er tea. Learn about the unique fermentation process that gives Pu’er its distinctive earthy flavor.
- Xishuangbanna: Conclude your tour in Xishuangbanna, a region with a vibrant tea culture. Experience the rich biodiversity of the area and explore tea plantations that produce a variety of teas, including Oolong and delicate white teas.
Unique Experiences:
- Tea-Making Process: Engage in the tea-making process alongside experts in various regions. Learn about the cultivation, harvesting, and processing methods that make each tea unique.
- Bamboo Rafting in Wuyishan: Glide along tranquil waters on a bamboo raft in Wuyishan, soaking in the stunning mountain scenery and understanding the connection between the region’s geography and its tea.
- Cultural Immersion: Wander through bustling local markets, visit ancient villages, and interact with local tea farmers to gain a deeper understanding of Chinese culture and its inseparable link to tea.
Culinary Delights:
Throughout the tour, you’ll have the chance to taste a wide range of premium teas:
- Longjing Tea: Delicate sweetness with a fresh, vegetal flavor.
- Tieguanyin Oolong: Floral aroma with a complex, refreshing taste.
- Dahongpao Oolong: Robust and rich with a mineral undertone.
- Pu’er Tea: Earthy, robust, and often aged for a deeper flavor.
- Dianhong Black Tea: Bold, malty flavor with hints of sweetness.
- White Tea: Light, subtle, with a delicate sweetness.
Why This Tour?
- Comprehensive Exploration: Covers all major tea regions in China, providing a full spectrum of China’s tea culture.
- Expert-Led Experiences: Tea experts and local masters guide you through the nuances of each tea type.
- Cultural Insights: Deep dive into the local culture, history, and traditions associated with tea production.
This 11-day tour is ideal for anyone looking to experience the essence of Chinese tea culture and explore the beautiful landscapes that have shaped these centuries-old traditions. Whether you’re a seasoned tea connoisseur or a curious novice, this journey offers an unforgettable adventure into the world of Chinese tea.
Brief Itinerary
- Day 1: Shanghai Arrival
- Day 2: Shanghai
- Day 3: Shanghai-Hangzhou
- Day 4: Hangzhou
- Day 5: Hangzhou-Huangshan
- Day 6: Huangshan
- Day 7: Huangshan-Wuyishan
- Day 8: Wuyishan
- Day 9: Xiamen-Anxi-Xiamen
- Day 10: Departure from Xiamen
Detailed Itinerary
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Day 1 Arrive in Shanghai
- Hotels: Four Seasons Hotel Pudong Shanghai, JW Marriott Hotel Shanghai at Tomorrow Square, Hotel Indigo Shanghai on The Bund
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Day 2 Shanghai
- Fuxing Park: Start your day by immersing yourself in the vibrant local life at Fuxing Park. Take in the sights and sounds of this popular gathering spot.
- Shanghai City God Temple: Next, visit the Shanghai City God Temple, an important Taoist temple steeped in history and culture. Explore its intricate architecture and immerse yourself in the spiritual ambiance.
- Yuyuan Garden: Step into the enchanting world of Yuyuan Garden, a classic Chinese garden renowned for its beauty and tranquility. Lose yourself in the lush greenery and timeless architecture.
- Jade Buddha Temple: After a delicious local lunch, continue your journey to the Jade Buddha Temple, home to two exquisite jade Buddha statues. Experience a moment of peace and reflection in this serene sanctuary amidst the bustling city.
- Shanghai Tower: Prepare to be amazed as you ascend Shanghai’s tallest building, the Shanghai Tower. Enjoy panoramic views of the entire city from its observation deck, gaining a new perspective on Shanghai’s dynamic skyline.
- The Bund: Conclude your day with a leisurely stroll along the Bund, Shanghai’s iconic waterfront promenade. Marvel at the blend of historic architecture and modern skyscrapers as you soak in the beauty of the cityscape.
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Day 3 Shanghai-Hangzhou
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Day 4 Hangzhou
- Tea Culture Experience: Begin your day by delving into the ancient art of tea-making at a local tea plantation. Join a tea farmer in picking fresh tea leaves, immersing yourself in the serene surroundings of the plantation. Afterward, learn the intricate rituals of a traditional Chinese tea ceremony and try your hand at brewing your own tea. Savor a special lunch nearby, sampling local delicacies infused with the flavors of Hangzhou.
- Peak Flown From Afar and Lingyin Temple: After lunch, continue your journey with a visit to Peak Flown From Afar, an iconic natural landmark in Hangzhou. Discover the mystical allure of this picturesque peak before proceeding to Lingyin Temple, a revered Buddhist temple with a history spanning over 1,700 years. Marvel at the intricate architecture and immerse yourself in the spiritual ambiance of this sacred site.
- West Lake Cruise: Conclude your day with a leisurely boat cruise on West Lake, a UNESCO World Heritage Site renowned for its breathtaking beauty. Admire the tranquil waters and scenic landscapes as you glide along the lake, soaking in the serene atmosphere and timeless charm of Hangzhou.
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Day 5 Hangzhou-Huangshan
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Day 6 Huangshan
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Day 7 Huangshan-Wuyishan
Day 8 Wuyishan
Be escorted to the train station for your train to Wuyi Mountain. Your friendly guide will wait with your name sign to pick you up and guide you to tour Wuyi Mountain Scenic Area. Dahongpao Oolong Tea is considered to be the best tea from Wuyi Mountain. Visit Dahongpao Scenic Spot to know more about this tea. Tour followed with a visit to Shuilian Cave and Tianxin Yongle Temple. Tea is one of the mediums of Buddhist practice and enlightenment. Tea culture and Zen culture have something in common, both seek to enhance the spiritual realm and the pursuit of a pure heart. The name of Dahongpao Tea was originated from Harmonious Temple. Pay a visit here to find out more with your guide.
Optional evening activity: Impression Da Hong Pao
Day 9 Wuyishan-Anxi
Today, keep up to discover Mount. Wuyi. It is one of the most spectacularly beautiful areas of southeastern China. Climb the 828 steep stone steps up to the top of the Tianyou Peak. Have a bird’s-eye view of the surrounding hills that are made up of red sandstone with very steep slopes but flat tops, including the 6th bend of the Nine Bend River below. Embark on a boat raft to drift down the Nine-bend River. Then, wander through the Street of Song Dynasty and Wuyi Palace which is an over 1,000 year old temple used to hold ceremony by Chinese emperors and kings. Return to your hotel afterwards.
Take the speed train from Wuyishan to Anxi in the late afternoon.
Day 10 Anxi – Xiamen
Visit the verdant beauty of Anxi Tea Garden. Take a leisurely stroll through the lush tea bushes, breathing in the fragrant aroma of freshly grown tea leaves. Engage in a tasting session, sampling a variety of exquisite Oolong teas while learning about the intricate production process. If you’re visiting during the tea-picking season, seize the opportunity to participate in the age-old tradition of tea picking and production alongside local experts.
After working up an appetite, indulge in a delicious local lunch, savoring the flavors of Anxi cuisine.
Next, venture to Tea Capital, the largest wholesale market of Tieguanyin (Oolong Tea) in China. Here, tea farmers from across the region gather to showcase their prized specialty teas to prospective wholesalers and retailers. Witness the lively negotiations as buyers seek out the finest teas, with tasting sessions conducted in the traditional “gung fu” style to ensure the quality and flavor of the brew. Experience the hustle and bustle of the market as teas are selected, processed, and prepared for delivery to their new owners.
Conclude your day of exploration with a visit to Anxi Chenghuangmiao (Old City God Temple), the oldest and most influential Taoist temple in the area. Marvel at the intricate architecture and immerse yourself in the spiritual ambiance of this sacred site, gaining insight into the rich cultural heritage of Anxi.
After a day filled with tea-tasting, cultural immersion, and exploration, you’ll be transferred back to your hotel in Xiamen, where you can unwind and reflect on the unique experiences of the day.
Day 11 Departure from Xiamen
You can explore Xiamen by your own.
See off.
Service Included:
- Admission fees for all of the sightseeing spots listed in the itinerary;
- Meals as listed in the itinerary;
- Accommodation with breakfast as listed in the itinerary;
- Private English-speaking tour guide and vehicle for transfers & sightseeing;
- Service charge & government taxes;
- Luggage transfers between airports and hotels;
- Two bottles of mineral water each day.
Service Excluded:
- Any arrival and departure international airfares or train tickets;
- Chinese visa fees;
- Excess baggage charged by Airlines;Single room supplement;
- Tips to guides and drivers;
- Personal expenses and gratuities to service staff;
- Personal travel insurance;
- All optional programs;
- Domestic flight/train not listed in the itinerary. (We can provide you the domestic flight/train ticket booking service at the BEST discount price; please contact us our travel experts for the details.)