Imagine sitting in a traditional Chinese wooden pavilion, embraced by lush green mountains, and sipping on a cup of tea – a perfect moment for relaxation, don't you think?

Tea culture holds a significant place in China, acting as an iconic representation of the country. It seamlessly intertwines with the essence of China whenever we discuss its rich culture.

China boasts a diverse array of teas, with each region cultivating its special varieties. The flavour of tea is influenced by a myriad of factors, including climate, soil, tradition, and even local drinking habits.

Our tea tour is meticulously designed to immerse you in the fascinating world of tea culture. As you explore, you'll also have the opportunity to revel in breathtaking natural landscapes and experience the rich architectural traditions of the local communities.

Participants: Max. 8

Duration: 14 Days and 13 Nights

Tour in 2024:  20th of Oct - 2nd of Nov

Tour in 2025:  19th of Oct - 1st of Nov

Tea

Longjing Tea:

The name “Longjing” literally means “Dragon Well” and is unsurprisingly named after the Dragon Well in Longjing Village, which rests just outside of Hangzhou in Zhejiang province. According to legend, this well was used as a tunnel by a local dragon to move freely between the lakes of Hangzhou and the East China Sea. Nowadays Longjing is heralded as one of the finest teas in China and is renowned for its “four wonders”: its emerald green colour, its strong and sumptuous aroma, its subtly sweet flavour, and the pleasing appearance of its delicate, flat leaves. 

How highly a tea is graded depends on where it is from and when it was picked. The best quality Longjing tea is picked right before the Qingming Festival, which takes place on the 15th day after the Spring Equinox (usually April 4th or 5th), and is thus referred to as Mingqian or “Pre-Qingming” Longjing. High quality tea will produce this yellowish colour, while low quality tea tends to be more bluish or deep green in hue. Local legend states that the best Longjing is made using water from the Running Tiger Spring just outside of Hangzhou, as the water is deliciously pure and enhances the subtle flavours of the tea perfectly. Read More about Longjing Tea.

Tea

Huangshan Maofeng:

At 700 to 800 metres above sea level, the area around and on Huangshan Mountain, is the perfect place and main area of production for the superfine Huangshan Maofeng tea leaves. The shape of top grade Huangshan Maofeng is like a sparrow’s tongue and has thick leaves with white fluff on them. It is yellowish green, nearing ivory white, in colour and golden pieces grow below the tea leaves. It smells fragrant and tastes mellow and luscious.

Huangshan Maofeng is produced throughout the whole Huizhou District. This region boasts a temperate climate and receives plenty of rainfall. The soil is deeply layered and made up of the yellow earth typically found in mountainous regions. This type of soil is loose in texture and has good water permeability. It contains an abundance of organic matter and phosphorus potassium, and it has an acidity level of between ph 4.5 and 5.5 which makes it suitable for the growth of tea trees. Read more about Huangshan Maofeng.

Other tea we will taste during the trip: Qimen black tea, Wuyi rock tea, local fruit tea and flower tea, etc.

Highlights

The Mount Huang

In ancient times people believed that Huang Di (a King in Chinese legend) had come here to refine his Pills of Immortality. During the Qin Dynasty (221-206 BC), it was known as Mount Yi, but was renamed Mount Huang in 747 AD in honor of the Yellow Emperor. Evidently it wasn’t enough to just make himself immortal, his name had to be immortalized too!

Although it is not classed as one of the Five Great Mountains of China, a famous Ming Dynasty (1368-1644) geographer named Xu Xiake once wrote: “It is not worth seeing other mountains if you have been to the Five Great Mountains; and it is not worth seeing the Five Great Mountains if you have been to Mount Huang”. It incorporates almost all of the finest features found in the famous mountains of China: the majesty of Mount Tai, the precipitous shape of Mount Hua, the cloud and mist of Mount Heng, the flying waterfalls of Mount Lu, the fantastic rocks of Mount Yandang and the quietness and coolness of Mount Ermei. Its fascinating appearance has drawn many distinguished travellers, including poets, writers, and painters, to travel to Anhui and contemplate its majesty. Read more about Mount Huang.

Highlights

Hui Architecture 

Traders from the ancient region of Huizhou began to thrive financially during the Song Dynasty (960-1279) and swiftly found themselves with more money than you could shake an ink stick at! Unfortunately the size and majesty of residential buildings was largely dictated not by wealth but by social status and, since merchants were considered of a low social standing, they were not permitted to own the kind of grand dwellings that were afforded to government officials or aristocratic families.

Yet the wily Hui merchants weren’t about to let this stop them, so they found a way to show off their immense wealth without breaking social etiquette. Instead of focusing on size, they turned their attention to decoration and adorned their mansions with the finest brick-sculptures, woodcuttings, and stone carvings money could buy. From the doors to the roofs, Hui mansions are a true work of art. Many of these ancient buildings date back to the Ming (1368-1644) and Qing (1644-1912) dynasties and are still in excellent condition, serving as proof that money doesn’t just talk, it speaks beautifully! Read more about Hui Architecture.

Highlights

Jingdezhen

Since the Han Dynasty, Jingdezhen was renowned throughout China as its “Porcelain Capital” and it has been producing stunning works of pottery for a staggering 1,700 years! During the Ming and Qing dynasties, it rose to fame as one of the four great towns for commerce in China and, during this time, there were over 9,000 pottery kilns operating in this quaint town. It is perhaps most well-known internationally for its characteristic blue and white porcelain wares.

Nowadays, the town is renowned for its plethora of flea markets and professional ceramist workshops, where visitors can catch a glimpse of the skill that made Jingdezhen one of the most successful commercial towns in China. As a tea fan, you may also be intreated in beautiful tea sets, now it is an opportunity to get them. Read more about Jingdezhen.

Highlights

The Wuyi Mountains

The Wuyi Mountains are a mountain range located in southeast of China. The range is characterised by rushing waters, deep river valleys, columnar cliffs, and complex cave systems. In the western portion, the peaks typically consist of volcanic rock, while in the eastern area they are mainly made up of red sandstone with steep slopes and flat tops. This creates a myriad of landscapes, from sheer white cliffs to rusty red plinths. The mountains form a protective barrier against the northwesterly winds and, as a result, the climate within the range is humid with a high level of rainfall and plenty of condensation. Watching the peaks rise mistily out of the fog is truly breath-taking, that is if you can see through all the sweat on your face! 

The range also represents some of the finest examples of both Chinese subtropical forests and South Chinese rainforests. These habitats support a rich ecology and biodiversity that has thrived since the Ice Age over 3 million years ago. 

Nowadays, the incredible history of these mountains can be witnessed in the 18 wooden boat coffins sheltered on its steep cliffs that date back to the Shang Dynasty (c. 1600-1046 BC); the remains of 35 ancient academies that were built from the Song to the Qing (1644-1912) dynasties; and the 60 Taoist temples and monasteries that are littered throughout the range in varying degrees of ruin. Read more about the Wuyi Mountains.

Highlights

The Unique Earthen Fortresses -- Tulou

You may never have heard of the Tulou of Fujian province, but there is a famous story about them that you may find hard to believe! In 1986, during the Cold War period, US satellites found many strange circular and square shaped structures resembling a group of nuclear bases hidden in the valleys of southern China, near Taiwan. Fearing an impending nuclear attack from Communist China, the US sent a unit of CIA spies to China to investigate, and eventually they were embarrassed to find that the “nuclear bases” were just simple Tulou.

The Fujian Tulou or Fujian Earthen Structure is a type of dwelling built by the Hakka and Hoklo people in the mountainous regions of southern Fujian. A Tulou is a large, enclosed structure that is typically circular or rectangular in shape and is used to house multiple families. They are usually between 2 to 5 storeys high and the largest Tulou can hold up to a hundred families! Every family in the Tulou community enjoys perfect equality because every room in a Tulou is the same size and has exactly the same design.

The history of the Tulou is intimately connected to the Hakka people, who were once newcomers to the region and needed a way to protect themselves. The design for the Tulou was developed from the 14th century right through to the 16th century, and reached its peak between the late Ming Dynasty and the late Qing Dynasty (17th – 18th centuries), because robbers and thieves were running rampant throughout the southern Chinese countryside. The Hakka and Hoklo people improved their homes gradually so that they eventually became a perfect defense against attackers and trespassers. Read more about Fujian Tulou

Itinerary

Day 1  Hello Hangzhou

We recommend flying directly into Shanghai if possible, as it is the largest city in China and thus benefits from several direct flights from Europe. You can, however, choose to fly into Beijing or Guangzhou instead, and take a connecting flight to Shanghai. 

There are three direct flights from London (LHR) to Shanghai (PVG)  :

British Airline: 12:30PM - 9:10AM

Virgin Atlantic: 11:40PM - 8:30AM

Air China: 11:40PM - 6:45AM

We will come to the airport at 9:10AM to arrange a pick-up service.

Then we will take the high-speed train to Hangzhou.

After checking in the hotel, you can either take a good rest, or come with us to enjoy a walk along the ancient Hefang Street.

Read more about Hangzhou.

Accommodation: 4-star hotel in Hangzhou

Itinerary

Day 2  Pagoda and Longjing Green Tea

Although Hangzhou is one of the richest and most modern cities in China, you can find some really quiet places with traditional beauty, such as Liuhe Pagoda and Lingyin Temple. In the afternoon, we will have a cruise tour on West Lake, visit an interesting museum - Hu Qing Yu Tang, which was one of the oldest significant Chinese pharmaceutical companies.

Finally, let’s come to the Longjing tea hills and taste the fresh "Dragon Well" green tea. We will have a special dinner featuring Longjing tea-flavored local cuisine.

What’s Included: Entrance ticket to Liuhe Pagoda, Lingyin Temple, Hu Qing Yu Tang, West Lake cruise and Longjing Village

Accommodation: 4-star hotel in Hangzhou

Day 3  What a Nature

We will drive to the Huangshan Mountain area. We'll ascend the mountains using modern technology - the cable car. The highlight of our journey is our hotel, situated on the mountains, allowing us to immerse ourselves in the natural beauty that surrounds us.

What’s Included: Entrance ticket to Mount Huang Park, the cable car.

Accommodation: 4-star hotel on Huangshan mountains

Itinerary

Day 4  Good Old Days

Don't miss the most amazing moment of Huangshan - the sunrise. Afterward, let’s explore the other beauties the mountains have to offer.

On our way to Huangshan city, we will make a stop at the ancient village of Xidi, a place that transports you back to old Chinese history. Xidi boasts more than 300 buildings, primarily constructed during the Ming (1368-1644) and Qing (1644-1911) Dynasties. Among them are 124 residential houses and three ancestral halls that have been preserved in their original state. Stepping into any of these houses, you will discover art at every turn. Stone carvings of flowers, birds, and beasts typically adorn the doorframes, while brick carvings and woodcuts embellish the windows. Learn more about Xidi.

What’s Included: Entrance ticket to Xidi Village, the cable car

Accommodation: 4-star hotel in Huangshan

Itinerary

Day 5  Huangshan Maofeng Green Tea

Throughout the day, we will savour the renowned tea of the Hui district - Huangshan Maofeng. Our journey will take us to the tea fields, where we'll engage in the hands-on experience of picking and making tea. A visit to the tea museum will deepen our understanding of the rich histories and cultures surrounding Huangshan Maofeng.

Next, we'll explore the ancient capital of Huizhou, where an old street once served as the bustling exchange market for tea business centuries ago.

Upon our return to Huangshan City, we will stroll through Tunxi Old Street. Here, you'll find not only shops offering teas and local specialties like traditional paper, ink, and pens but also charming bars where you can enjoy a refreshing moment with bottles of beer.

What’s Included: Entrance ticket to Yuliangba

Accommodation: 4-star hotel in Huangshan

Itinerary

Day 6  Qimen Black Tea

Qimen Tea holds the distinction of being the most famous black tea in China. Our itinerary includes a visit to the Qimen Tea Museum before we proceed to Jingdezhen, renowned as the ceramic city of China.

In the afternoon, we will explore the Royal Kiln Museum, featuring a collection of old ceramics. Later, we'll immerse ourselves in the vibrant night atmosphere of Tao Xi Chuan district, where numerous workshops of young ceramists can be found.

What’s Included: Entrance ticket to Qimen Tea museum, Royal Kiln Museum

Accommodation: 3 or 4-star hotel in Jingdezhen.

Day 7: Traditional Art and Technique

In the afternoon, our itinerary includes a visit to the Jingdezhen Ceramic Folk Museum. Unlike other museums, this vast complex comprises ancient buildings and gardens dating back to both the Ming and Qing dynasties. In addition to housing ancient relics, the museum features several kiln-workshops that continue to manufacture ceramics using traditional methods. Visitors have the unique opportunity to witness the art of ceramic-making in action.

Later in the afternoon, we will board a high-speed train to Wuyi Mountains.

What’s Included: Entrance ticket to Ceramic Folk Museum

Accommodation: Traditional boutique guest house

Itinerary

Day 8  Relaxing in the Natural Beauty

It's time for a well-deserved break. Let's unwind by enjoying the nature. We'll embark on a sightseeing tour in Tianyou Peak Park, where we'll take on the adventure of bamboo rafting.

Following a delightful dinner, an extraordinary show awaits us – "Impression Dahongpao" crafted by the renowned Chinese director Zhang Yimou. This show promises to beautifully showcase the essence of Wuyi tea culture.

What’s Included: Entrance ticket to Tianyou Peak Park, bamboo rafting and "Impression Dahongpao” performance

Accommodation: Traditional boutique guest house

Day 9  The Rock Tea

Dahongpao holds the distinction of being the most expensive rock tea, yet it is not the sole variety. During our visit to Dahongpao Park and the ancient villages, we will delve into the rich history and culture of rock tea. This experience includes tasting various types of rock tea and savouring the local wild mushrooms.

What’s Included: Entrance ticket to Dahongpao Park

Accommodation:Traditional boutique guest house

Itinerary

Day 10  From Mountains to Fortress

In the morning, our exploration takes us to the "Tiger Roaring Rock" park, where we'll encounter not only unique natural landscapes but also a beautiful Buddhist temple.

Following a satisfying lunch, we will board a high-speed train to South Fujian, where our accommodation for the night will be at the Tulou hotel.

What’s Included: Entrance ticket to "Tiger Roaring Rock" Park

Accommodation: Tulou boutique hotel

Itinerary

Day 11  The world of Fujian Earthen Structures

After breakfast, our first destination is the village of Tianluokeng, known for the famous "Four Dishes and One Soup" Tulou cluster.

Our second stop takes us to the charming village of Xiabanliao, with its less than a hundred residents. Despite its small size, Xiabanliao boasts one of the most renowned Tulou in Fujian province, locally known as "the zigzag building”. The Tulou's unique wooden post structure on the 3rd and 4th floors, appearing to zigzag due to an unintentional error in measuring during construction, has weathered numerous natural disasters, wars, and sieges. Read more about Xiabanliao.

Following our exploration, we'll embark on a bike ride to the village of Taxia. This picturesque village, divided by a river and adorned with over 20 traditional Tulou, offers a glimpse into a peaceful rural life. Read more about Taxia.

Continuing our journey, we'll pass by the Hekeng Tulou cluster, arriving at Shiqiao village where we will transition to a car. Our next stop is the "King of Tulou" - Chengqi Lou, distinguished by its four rings. Upon reaching Hongkeng village, we'll indulge in a relaxing tea time, with local fruit tea and flower tea as delightful choices.

What’s Included: Entrance ticket to Tianluokeng, Xiabanliao, Chengqi Lou

Accommodation: Tulou boutique hotel

Itinerary

Day 12  Culture Heritage

I hope you haven't tired of exploring Tulou, as there are still two significant Tulou that deserve our attention. Following this, we'll have the pleasure of enjoying a traditional puppetry performance.

Post lunch, we'll embark on a short hike to relish the breathtaking view of terraced fields.

Then we will go to the airport for the flight back to Shanghai.

What’s Included: Entrance ticket to Zhencheng Lou, Rushing Lou

Accommodation: 4-star hotel in Shanghai.

Itinerary

Day 13  The Modern City

In the morning, we will pay a visit to the Shanghai Museum, widely regarded as one of the finest museums in China. Dedicated primarily to ancient Chinese art, the museum houses an impressive collection of over 120,000 pieces, including bronzes, ceramics, calligraphy, furniture, jade ornaments, paintings, sculptures, and art from China’s ethnic minorities. Among its treasures is one of only three “transparent” bronze mirrors dating back to the Han Dynasty (206 BC-220 AD).

Following our museum visit, we'll take a leisurely walk to the Bund. Undoubtedly one of Shanghai's must-see attractions, the Bund offers picturesque views and excellent photography opportunities. The area is adorned with stunning examples of colonial and art deco architecture, showcasing the city's rich history.

To cap off the day, we'll elevate our experience with a visit to the Shanghai Tower, standing tall at 632 meters (2,073 ft), providing a breathtaking panoramic view of the city.

What’s Included: Entrance ticket to Shanghai Tower

Accommodation: 4-star hotel in Shanghai.

Day 14 – Your Onward Journey

In the morning, we will escort you to the train station or airport with plenty of time for you to catch your train or flight.  If your flight isn’t until the afternoon, please let us know and we can arrange some extra sightseeing in Shanghai for you.

Prices and What’s Included 

Unlike other tours in China, we do not ask you to tip your tour guides and drivers each day. Instead, we pay our tour guides and drivers a fair wage, so they do not need to ask for tips.

Cost pp:  £2,650/6-8 people in one group;  £3,150/4-5 people in one group;  £3,850/2-3 people in one group

Single supp: £380 (Please be advised that, if you are the last person joining the tour or if there is no one in the group who you can share with, you may need to pay for the single supplement. We will advise you if this is the case when you enquire about the tour).

Including: 13 nights of accommodation; all entrance fees to the attractions mentioned in the itinerary; all breakfasts, lunches and dinners; private mini coach and high-speed trains during the designated tour times; the services of an English speaking guide; a pdf file with useful information about the Chinese tan and traditional architecture; and any further help or information we can provide if you decide to continue traveling in China after the tour.

What’s Not Included: International and domestic flights; visa; travel insurance.

If you like the look of this tour but would prefer to take it privately, we can tailor it to your specifications and design a bespoke tour for you or your group. Simply contact us on info@asiaculturaltravel.co.uk for a free email consultation with one of our travel experts.

How can I sign up to this tour?

Step 1 ⇒ Contact us directly to talk about the tour in more detail.

Step 2 ⇒ Book online and pay the £100 deposit. If you have an exclusive discount code, please enter it into the Enquiry box.

Step 3 ⇒ We will send you the invoice confirming you have been booked on the tour. Once you receive the invoice, you have 30 days to pay an additional £500, which will secure your place on the tour.

Step 4 ⇒ Please note that the final cost of the tour will be based on the number of participants and will be split into two payments. The first payment must be made within 3 months of the tour’s start date and is based on the minimum price of the tour minus your £600 deposit. After that, you will need to pay the remaining balance one month before the tour is due to leave based on the tour subscription. In the meantime, we will advise you on how to apply for your visa and keep you updated on the subscription of the tour.

Step 5 ⇒ Once you have made the final payment, we will send you our exclusive tour e-book, which contains a detailed itinerary of the tour and in-depth information on the areas we’ll be visiting.

Step 6 ⇒ Prepare yourself for an unforgettable adventure!

We are happy to answer any questions you may have and we will always keep you up to date on the progress of the tour subscription.