Day 1 Shanghai → She County → Tanjiaqiao Town → East Huangshan
All day
In the morning, we'll meet at the designated China-TravelNote location for check-in. We'll depart promptly at 7:30 AM
, with our guide providing an activity briefing, team member introductions, and interactive games, all filled with laughter and joy. Lunch will be served at the service area. We'll arrive at Tunxi Old Street around 1:30 PM. Known as a moving "Along the River During the Qingming Festival," it's the best-preserved pedestrian shopping street in China, showcasing architectural styles from the Song, Ming, and Qing dynasties. In the afternoon, we'll enjoy a leisurely stroll through the old street, discovering our favorite antiques. Enjoy snacks throughout the old street. (Recommended dishes include Huangshan Mao Tofu, Wang Yitiao Wonton, and Huangshan Stinky Salmon—they're a delight for foodies!) We'll meet again at 4:00 PM for a one-hour drive to Tanjiaqiao Town, known as "Little Shanghai." First-time hikers are surprised to discover such a charming, Shanghainese town nestled amidst the mountainous terrain of southern Anhui: straight mountain roads lined with Shanghai-style buildings and neatly arranged sycamore trees. During the Cultural Revolution, tens of thousands of Shanghai educated youth lived and worked here. Even today, the local police station is part of the Shanghai Jing'an Branch. Arriving here for the first time feels like time and space have been completely transformed. Upon arrival, we'll arrange our accommodations. If it's still early, we can explore the surrounding area. At 6:30 PM, after dinner, we'll chat about the local culture, play Werewolf, and have a blast. We'll then return to our rooms to rest and recharge for tomorrow's hike.
Day 2 East Huangshan → Huiqing Ancient Road → East Huangshan → Hongcun
All day
Early risers can enjoy a stroll through the nearby mountains, breathing in the fresh air and refreshing their lungs.
After breakfast, we departed at 8:00 AM and drove to the starting point of the Huiqing Ancient Trail. Embarking on this thousand-year-old trail, we wind our way along towering mountains, enjoying breathtaking scenery on both sides. We passed Ruoling Pass, an ancient pass that once controlled the northern route of She County and served as a barrier to the prefectural government. It stands at an altitude of 1,100 meters. In 1647, a pass was established at the top of the mountain, inscribed with the words "Natural Barrier Reopened." A creative group photo is a must here. We'll rest here for lunch and snacks, then descend along another trail at an appropriate time.
We arrived at the foot of the mountain around 2:30 PM, completing the approximately 13km highlight of the ancient trail. If you're still feeling unsatisfied, we'll meet up with the bus for the drive to Hongcun.
We arrived at the Hongcun Scenic Area an hour later. We purchased our tickets, entered the area, and were assigned our rooms for a short rest.
Around 5:00 PM, your tour leader will distribute Hongcun maps, information, and mysterious quests. You can then form your own teams. Afterward, let's explore freely, eyes open to discover beauty.
Around dusk, return to the inn or head to South Lake to quietly admire Hongcun at sunset. In the evening, you can form your own teams. Why not spend time by South Lake during the quietest hours, savoring the rare tranquility of the ancient village at night?
Take a well-deserved rest, basking in the enchanting beauty of the village at night.
Day 3 Hongcun → Shanghai
All day
Today, you can sleep in naturally. Those who enjoy morning views should get up early to enjoy the tranquil and beautiful morning.
After breakfast, you'll have free time in small groups. Hongcun is a masterpiece of Huizhou architecture, boasting an ox-shaped ancient village layout and surrounded by a marvelous water system designed by our ancestors. The Chengzhi Hall, a folk palace, is particularly magnificent and exquisite, a must-see. Countless people visit every year for photography and sketching!
The morning is free to explore or spend some quiet time at a bookshop or coffee shop.
Around 10:30 AM, once the area has become crowded with tourists, we'll pack up and depart. We'll
gather for lunch in Yixian County at noon.
After lunch, we'll drive back to Shanghai.
On the way back, share your experiences and reminisce about what you've seen, heard, and felt over the past two days.
Around 7:30 PM, we arrive back at our departure point in Shanghai. We're still full of excitement and share a tearful goodbye, promising to meet again on our next trip!
