Tailor-made Tour Package Refundable Quick Response 3,580+ comments
  •  
(1,800+ reviews)
Contact Us Form Email us: info@chinadiscovery.com Call us: +86-28-85227275 / 85223672
Breaking News! 1) 15 days visa free newly available for France, Germany, Italy, the Netherlands, Spain, and Malaysia; 2) All types of visas can be issued; 3) Health Declaration is not required for entry/exit China from 1st November, 2023. Read more »
You are here: Home » China Tours » China Speed Train Tours » 12 Days China Xiapu Mudflats Xiamen Tulou Coastal Tour by Bullet Train

12 Days China Xiapu Mudflats Xiamen Tulou Coastal Tour by Bullet Train

Shanghai - Hangzhou - Putuoshan - Xiapu - Xiamen - HK

The 1,623 kilometers long high speed railway along the southeastern China's beautiful coastline make it possible for you to get from Shanghai to Hong Kong within 9 hours by the modern, fast and comfortable CRH bullet trains. But we suggest you break the train journey into a 12 days' trip with stops at the beautiful destinations, such as Hangzhou, Putuoshan, Xiapu, Xiamen, as this tour package does. It’s quite relaxing, interesting and scenic. You will visit colossal Shanghai first, then take a bullet train to Hangzhou, known for its beautiful West Lake, then visit Putuoshan, the holy land for Buddhist pilgrims as well as a wonderful place to enjoy beautiful island and see views. The train journey then take you into Fujian Province where you will first spend two days at Xiapu to do some photography of the incredible mudflats, stunning sunrise and sunset, picturesque fishing villages, then move on to Xiamen to see the spectacular Tulou homes - the earth buildings of local Hakka people. You will finish your tour at Hong Kong, the electric megacity of Asia.

  • Type : Private Tour
  • Tour Code : CD-SHXT-12
  • Price : Request
  • Trip Length : 12D/11N
  • Theme : Train / Landscape

HIGHLIGHTS OF THIS TOUR

  • Using high speed bullet train as the major transportation which is fast (average speed over 250km/h), comfortable and punctual;
  • Visit the poetic West Lake, original plantation of Dragon Well Tea, ancient Streets of Ming and Qing Dynasties in Hangzhou;
  • Get amazed by the amazing masterpieces of nature at Xiapu Mudflats, the most beautiful mudflat in China as well as one of the “Top 10 Domestic Photography Bases” in China.
  • Walk into the villages of Tulous, the vast, packed-earth and round buildings, and explore the unique living styles of local Hakka people.
  • Day 1 ~ 3 Shanghai Arrival & Tour
    After arrival at Shanghai, you will have one full day to explore the most recommended attractions in the city, including the beautiful Yu Garden, 492 meters high Shanghai World Financial Center, the Bund, Shanghai Museum, and spend great leisure time around the historical Wukang Road and Tianzifang maze.
  • Day 4 ~ 7 Visit Hangzhou and Putuoshan
    Spend two full days in Hangzhou - one day to visit West Lake, Longji Tea Plantation and other attractions in the city, and another half day to Wuzhen Water Town, the most beautiful water town in China. Then drive to Zhoushan to visit Putuoshan where you will stay an one and a half days, then take a bullet train to Xiapu.
  • Day 8 ~ 12 Visit Xiapu and Xiamen
    In Xiapu, you will take a two days' photography tour to take photos its beautiful mudflats, fishing villages, sunrise, sunset. Then use a bullet train to transfer to Xiamen for a half day exploration of Gulangyu Island. After that, take a day excursion to Nanjing and Yongding to see the spectacular earth buildings. Lastly, take a train directly to HK.
Make an Inquiry
Itinerary Day by Day (Can Be Customized)
Expand all

Day 1 Shanghai Arrival

Shanghai airport / railway station pick up, and check in hotel.

Ni Hao! Welcome to Shanghai, the biggest metropolis in China!

Upon arrival, you will be met by a local tour guide at the arrival hall of the airport/train station/port and escorted to check in your hotel in downtown by a private comfortable vehicle. The rest of today is on your own to relax. If you want to explore nearby, feel free to get some practical suggestions from your tour guide.

Optional Activity - Attend an entertaining Acrobatic Show, including breathtaking “balls of death” acts, chair balancing, hula hoops, juggling of benches, walking in the air, and other breathtaking performances (usually performed during 19:30~21:00).

Arrival Ideas: At present, there are many international and many domestic flights to and from Shanghai. Also, you can arrive in Shanghai city by taking a high speed train from Beijing (5-6hrs), Xian (6-7hrs), Hangzhou (1hrs), Suzhou (30mins), Huangshan (4hrs), and so on.

  • Shanghai Night Splendid Shanghai Night View

Day 2 Shanghai ( B, L )

Today's highlights: Shanghai Museum, Yu Garden, Shanghai World Financial Center, the Bund, Nanjing Road

After breakfast, you will visit Shanghai Museum, one of the Four Best Museums in China. There are over one billion cultural relics related to Chinese ancient history and art are exhibited inside, including precious bronzes, paintings, calligraphy, ceramics, jade, sculptures, traditional furniture, seals and old coins from more than 5,000 years ago to the Qing Dynasty. Da Ke Ding(bronze food vessel in over 3000 years ago), Bianzhong of Marquis Su of Jin (ancient musical instruments) are the top treasures to visit. An Audio Explanation Device will help you better learn the facts and knowledge of the exhibitions.

Then, transfer to Shanghai old town to visit Yu Garden (Yuyuan), a famous Southern China classical garden which was originally built about 450 years ago. Walk around to view the ancient pavilions, halls, towers with jagged carved cornices and decorations, grotesque rockeries, glittering ponds filled with swimming kois and many old plants. These buildings, laid out in an asymmetry, fully embody impressive Chinese architectural style, art and skills, from which you can imagine an ancient living scene and find a magic harmony between human and nature. Yuyuan Bazaar outside the garden is an interesting place for shopping traditional Chinese handicrafts and artworks and tasting a variety of local snacks.

Next, visit the Shanghai World Financial Center (SWFC), “the Eye of Shanghai”, one of the most incredible skyscrapers in Lujiazui. With a height of 492 meters (1,614 ft), the tower is the second tallest building after the nearby Shanghai Tower (632 meter/2,073 ft). Ascend up to the 474 meter-high 100th floor observation deck, try a thrilling skywalk on the transparent glass walkway and enjoy a breathtaking bird’s eye view of the entire city, including the Bund, neighboring Shanghai Tower, Jinmao Tower and many surrounding attractions. Feel Shanghai lying under your feet and blue sky hanging above your head.

Later, get to Nanjing Road, Shanghai’s earliest commercial street and one of the most popular current landmarks. Lots of big name brands, restaurants, cafés, souvenir shops and towering buildings can be seen when you stroll around this busy pedestrian mall. Continue your walk to the Bund, the No. 1 attraction in Shanghai. Stretching along the west bank of the Huangpu River, this 1.5km-long road was a simple towpath for transporting good but developed to the early “East Wall Street” in the late 19th century, as a perfect blend of the East meeting the West. The Bund mainly features 52 various European-style architectures praised to the Exhibition of World’s Architecture. Make a pleasant walk to see those western classical and modern style buildings and amazing skyscrapers of Lujiazui across the river.

After the tour, drive back to your hotel. (If you want to spend free time at the Bund, Nanjing Road or somewhere else please let your tour guide know.)

  • Shanghai Museum - One of the Best Four Museums in China Shanghai Museum - One of the Best Four Museums in China
  • Tourists Took Photo at The Bund with Backdrop of Lujiazui Tourists Took Photo at The Bund with Backdrop of Lujiazui
  • Yuyuan Bazaar Shot by Our Customer Paul Yuyuan Bazaar Shot by Our Customer Paul
  • 474 M High Glass Walkway in World Financial Center 474 M High Glass Walkway in World Financial Center
  • The Bund: Famous “Exhibition of the World's Architecture” The Bund: Famous “Exhibition of the World's Architecture”

Day 3 Shanghai - Hangzhou (B, L)

Today's highlights: Tianzifang, Wukang Road City Walk

After breakfast, you will be transferred to Tianzifang and Wukang Road to make a delightful contrast walking tour of local traditional houses and western style architectures. First, visit Tianzifang, a unique popular tourist enclave remolded from a traditional residential block of Shanghai. Intertwined narrow alleys are filled with small creative shops selling lovely souvenirs and plenty of cafés, bars and restaurants. It’s great fun to ramble through the maze-like area to appreciate the well-preserved traditional Shanghainese Shikumen (Stone Warehouse Gate) houses, see interesting novel art and handicrafts, savor a lazy open-air coffee time and try some local street food and feel the original Shanghai life vibe.

Finally, you will take a leisurely walk in the charming Wukang Road which was a special premier living quarter and retail district for expats in early Shanghai (from 1849 AD until 1943 AD). You will browse hundreds of beautiful old French and European style buildings, apartments, villas, boutique shops, restaurants of a wide range of culinary styles sitting among the ultra-modern architecture complex. It is a heritage treasury, a significant window into the city’s up-and-down history and an excellent witness of the culture fusion of the East and Europe.

In the afternoon, go to take a high speed train to Hangzhou (1hr). Upon your arrival, your private tour guide and driver will pick you up at the railway station, and transfer you to check in your hotel in Hangzhou downtown.

  • Wukang Road City Walk Wukang Road City Walk
  • Spend  Leisure Time at the Mazy Lanes of Tianzifang Spend Leisure Time at the Mazy Lanes of Tianzifang

Day 4 Hangzhou - Wuzhen - Hangzhou (B, L)

Today's highlights: Wuzhen Water Town (West Scenic Area), Qiaoxi Conservation Area

Good morning! After your breakfast, your guide and driver will meet you at your hotel and escort you to discover Wuzhen Water Town with about 1.5 hours’ driving. Wuzhen with over 6,000 years old is one of the four great water towns at the region south of the Yangtze River and one of the ten most charming famous towns in China. Praised as the “last town resting on water in China” and a land flowing with milk and honey, Wuzhen is the top popular place to see the typical look of water towns in south China.

Upon your arrival, take your time to discover the West Scenic Area of Wuzhen, which is most popular among international visitors with over 20 scenic spots telling the culture, history and folk custom of Wuzhen and terrific night lights sightseeing. Stroll leisurely along the well-preserved streets and lanes to visit the remained dyeing workshop with herbs and hanging cloths, “three-inch “golden lotuses” with over 800 pairs of various foot binding shoes, old post office operating for more than 110 years, etc. Of course, you will not miss the Bailian Pagoda, Tongji Bridge and Renji Bridge, large classic garden, ancient academy, soy sauce workshop, plentiful of old constructions from Ming and Qing era, and various shops and stores selling local handicrafts and snacks. (Optional activity: you can get on a sculling boat to admire the water town sightseeing from a different angle along the little river, which needs extra payment.)

After that, drive back to Hangzhou and enjoy an interesting cultural visit to Qiaoxi Conservation Area which was called “Little Shanghai” for its prosperity in Ming and Qing era due to the convenient linking by the Grand Canal. Now, this cultural street block preserves lots of old folk dwellings and industrial sites and has a series of themed museums and exhibitions to introduce the culture and history of the Grand Canal, Hangzhou and China. Go to China Museum of Knives, Scissors & Swords to admire various scissors used in daily life and learn the developing story of Zhang Xiao Quan. It is a nationally renowned brand of knives and scissors of nearly 400 years old and still favored by lots of domestic consumers. Besides, have a great look at plentiful of swords for military defense and knives from ancient to now! Walk to the adjacent China Umbrella Museum. You will know how the world first umbrella was inspired from lotus leaves, their special status in Chinese literature, irreplaceable meanings in the wedding and marriage in China, detailed processing, etc. with displays of rich types and colors of umbrellas of different materials in China and the world. Then, go to the nearby Workmanship Demonstration Pavilion to watch the live demonstration of painting on oiled paper umbrellas and various handicrafts, such as making potteries, embroideries, bamboo weaving, etc. (Optional activities: You can experience one of the handcrafting activities if you are interested and time permits, which needs extra payment.)

After today’s visiting, be escorted back to your hotel in Hangzhou downtown. Have a good sleep!

  • China Umbrella Museum China Umbrella Museum
  • China Museum of Knives, Scissors & Swords China Museum of Knives, Scissors & Swords
  • Workmanship Demonstration Pavilion Workmanship Demonstration Pavilion
  • Wuzhen Water Town - Last Town Resting on Water in China Wuzhen Water Town - Last Town Resting on Water in China
  • Wuzhen Water Town West - Bailian Pagoda Wuzhen Water Town West - Bailian Pagoda

Day 5 Hangzhou (B, L)

Today’s highlights: West Lake, Meijia Dock Dragon Well Tea Village, Hefang Street, Hu Qing Yu Tang

Today, after breakfast, you’ll first make the symbolic visit to the picturesque West Lake, which is the iconic site of Hangzhou and a pretty UNESCO World Heritage. Just as the famous traveler Marco Polo did and wrote: “A voyage on this lake offers more refreshment and pleasure than any other experience on earth”, you will start with a 45-minute leisure cruise to enjoy the tranquil lake views as well as the ancient pagodas, traditional arched bridges, tree-lined walkways, beautiful hills, green islands and lush gardens including visit to the beautiful Three Ponds Mirroring the Moon. After the cruise, stroll or take a sightseeing vehicle leisurely around to pass the famous Su Causeway, Bai Causeway, Broken Bridge, Gushan Hill, parks of Fish Viewing at the Flower Pond, Lotus Swaying in the Breeze, Orioles Singing in the Willows, etc. (As the lake is too large, you can take the sightseeing vehicle at any place on the route to save energy. The fee is included.)

Then, leave the lake and drive uphill to Meijiawu Tea Village, a refreshing wonderland surrounded by mountains with a large area of emerald Dragon Well tea plantations in neat lines and curves. Walk among the tea plantations with fun and take beautiful photos (Optional activity: you can pay a visit to the local tea grower’s family and experience picking tea leaves, watching stir-drying tea leaves, enjoying tea ceremony, tasting Dragon Well tea, etc., which needs extra payment.).

After that, enjoy a nice historical walk at Hefang Street, a unique pedestrian street to see the typical old and prosperous Hangzhou in South Song era. Stroll to admire the ornate old styled Chinese architectures, interesting local handicrafts, delicious snacks, etc. Then, walk to the century-old Chinese pharmacy on the street - Hu Qing Yu Tang, which is also known as Traditional Chinese Medicine Museum and was built by Xueyan Hu, a famous merchant in late Qing dynasty. Many locals still visit senior doctors there for treatment today. Marvel at the magic of traditional Chinese medicine by looking at the countless traditional Chinese medicines and herbs, various traditional tools and watch the live processing of medicines.

After today’s visiting, be escorted back to your hotel in downtown. Have a good sleep!

Evening Ideas: 1) watch a magnificent night show - Enduring Memories of Hangzhou, a live performance by Yimou Zhang with changing lights, music and dancing on the West Lake, which usually starts at 7pm, needs extra payment; 2) feast your eyes with an amazing Music Fountain Show at Third Park, near the eastern lakeside of West Lake, free charged.

  • West Lake Spring West Lake Spring
  • West Lake Boating Experience West Lake Boating Experience
  • Relax at Dragon Well Tea Plantation Relax at Dragon Well Tea Plantation
  • Hefang Street Hefang Street
  • Hu Qing Yu Tang Traditional Chinese Medicine Museum Hu Qing Yu Tang Traditional Chinese Medicine Museum

Day 6 Hangzhou - Putuoshan (B,L)

Today's highlights: Puji Temple, One Thousand Step Beach, Unwilling to Leave Temple, Purple Bamboo Forest, Goddess of Mercy Statue

You will be picked up by your guide and driver in your hotel lobby, then set off on the trip to Putuoshan which is about 3.5 hours' driving away from Hangzhou downtown. After arrival at Zhu Sha Jian of Zhoushan City, embark a ferry to Putuoshan, which will take about 15 minutes to get to Putuoshan Dock. Disembark the ferry to check in your hotel.

Start your visit with a short walk from the dock to Puji Temple. Built in 916, this magnificent temple is the oldest as well as the largest temple on Putuoshan Mountain. Every big Buddhist event or ceremony is usually held in the temple. In front of the temple is a beautiful pond for lotus. The Duobao Pagoda near the Puji Temple, built to store Buddhist sculptures, is one of the "Three Great Precious of Putuoshan", and still remains the original face as in Yuan Dynasty(1271~1368).

Then take a sightseeing bus to One Thousand-Step Beach on the eastern side of Putuoshan Island. Walk leisurely on this over 2000-meter long white beach, let the waves kiss your toes and enjoy the clean sky and sea sceneries. Next, transfer by sightseeing bus to next attraction - Unwilling-to-leave Temple. In the year 858, the Japanese Buddhist Hui'e received a precious statue of Avalokitesvara. While on his way back to Japan, he was detained by a storm, which was seen by Hui'e as a sign that the Avalokitesvara was unwilling to leave. Then Hui'e decided to leave the statue on Putuoshan, and built a temple to place the statue which was named Unwilling-to-leave Temple. Near the temple locates the famous Purple Bamboo Forest which is believed to the original ashram of Avalokitesvara (the Goddess of Mercy). Walk several minutes down the bamboo forest, you will reach the landmark site of Putuoshan - the Goddess of Mercy Statue which is 33 meters (108 feet) tall and made of copper.

Lastly, get back to your hotel. The rest time of today is free for you to have dinner and walk around.

  • Puji Temple Puji Temple
  • The Mercy of Goddness The Mercy of Goddness
  • Putuoshan Sunset Putuoshan Sunset
  • One Thousand Step Beach One Thousand Step Beach

Day 7 Putuoshan - Xiapu (B, L)

Today's highlights: Nine-dragon Screen, Hiking to Huiji Temple

After breakfast, take a park bus to Fayu Temple, 2.8km from Puji Temple. The Nine-dragon Caisson on the ceiling of the Nine Dragons Hall, together with some glazed tiles used on the temple, was relocated from the imperial palaces of Ming Empire in Nanjing in Qing Dynasty(1636~1912). There is also a Nine-dragon Screen which is aged, giant and tall but can see any crevice though it was jointed by flagstones. Apart from the grandiose halls, the temple is also full of huge, rare and old trees scattering in the yards or along the yellow-walled paths, which make it easy for people to find the peace in mind.

After visiting Fayu Temple, you will go to take the fast cable car which takes only several minutes to the Huiji Temple on the top area of Putuoshan. The temple is covered by colorful glazed tiles. Its halls and yards were constructed in traditional Garden-Architecture Style in Zhejiang and Jiangsu. Not so far away from the temple is the Sky Lamp Stage where you can get clear panoramic views of Putuoshan, white beaches and blue seas in the far distance. After that, descend the mountain by walking (about 2088 stone steps) about 30mins.

Take park bus to the dock to catch a ferry to Zhu Jia Jian. Then be transferred to the railway station in Ningbo to catch your high speed train to Xiapu. Enjoy the beautiful coastal landscape along the ride. You will arrive at Xiapu about 3 hours later, then be picked up by your tour guide, and transferred to check in your hotel.

  • Fayu Temple Sacred Fayu Temple in Putuoshan
  • Buddha Summit Mountain Buddha Summit Mountain

Day 8 Xiapu Mudflats Photography (B, L)

Today's highlights: Weijiang Village Sunrise, Dong'an Island Fishing Village, Yantian Village

On this day, get up early in the morning and head to Weijiang Village for sunrise. Also called Mantou (Steamed Bun) Hill, it is treated as a sacred place for shooting sunrise, hanging oysters, sunning kelp, working fishermen…You’ll see the sky changes suddenly - dark blue, green blue, light blue, blue white, bright red, golden…seize the rare moment to shoot the beautiful scene. With the flying egrets in the charming sky and the steamed-bund shaped hill, the whole scene is really a tranquil landscape of “Master Nature”.

Later, you’ll be driven to Dong'an Island which is called “Venice on the Sea”. Composed of thousands of fish tanks and hundreds of wooden houses, this village is the most concentrated fish farm with magnificent view. When looking down on the nearby hill, you’ll be enchanted by the harmonious, vibrant, tranquil, idyllic scene. Enjoy a boat trip to sail into the village.

Later, drive to Xiaohao Village (about 35 mins’ driving), which is a famous place for shooting sandiness mudflat and sunset. When the sun is falling down, the shining golden glory paints the whole mudflat, and this is the best moment to record this splendid landscape of the setting sun and the mudflat. The east of Xiaohao is great for photographing with back lighting and the color of its beach changing with light, offering photographers hidden surprises. The west of Xiaohao is great for shooting with front lighting, photographing super large-scale scene of kelp harvest - fishing boats like mighty forces shuttling among the bamboo poles on the sea, which is like a grand movement composed by many dancing musical notes.

  • Charming Sunrise at Weijiang Mudflat Charming Sunrise at Weijiang Mudflat
  • Sunset at Xiapu Xiaohao Village Sunset at Xiapu Xiaohao Village

Day 9 Xiapu Mudflats Photography (B, L)

Today's highlights: Beiqi Village Sunrise, Huazhu Village, Dongbi Village Sunset

Today, try to get up early and head to Beiqi Village for the beautiful sunrise. The morning golden sunshine spurting down on the sea, changes the mudflat into a dreamy colorful world. The most famous tiger-skin-like stripes of the mudflat, shadows of fishermen, fishing boats, poles, etc. compose a very harmonious painting, from which you will admire the “Magician Nature” who makes the extraordinarily common point, line, light and shadow full of magic.

Next, drive to Huazhu Villagea great site to take beautiful pictures of mirage-like views and overlook the tranquil village on the sea. During the porphyra harvest season, when the sun rises gently, the sunglow shines on the sea and the fishermen work on the farmlands, it depicts the most gorgeous sea painting scroll. Next, be followed a trip to Bachimen where is a good place to shoot purse seine to cultivate crabs on the mudflat.

Lastly, follow the trip to Dongbi Village for sunset. The golden color of the falling sun presents a golden silk dress for the mudflat and the soft lines of the sinuate water ways vary as the waves, some even performing “S” shapes, and this is super magnificent and rare. Furthermore, as some fishermen hang their fishing nets here on the mudflat, it is very lucky to shoot some pictures of the ordinary tools to increase your amounts of cultural themed photographic works of Xiapu.

After the tour, drive back to your hotel for a good rest.

  • Kelp Farms on the Mudflats of Beiqi Village Kelp Farms on the Mudflats of Beiqi Village
  • Dongbi Village Dongbi Village - Local Fishermen Hanging Fishing Nets
  • Huazhu Village in the Mist Huazhu Village in the Mist

Day 10 Xiapu - Xiamen (B, L)

Today's highlights: High Speed Train to Xiamen, Gulangyu Island, South Putuo Temple

On this day, you will take a high speed train along the coastal railway to Xiamen, the most popular tourist city in Fujiang Province. After arriving at the railway station, your tour guide and driver will pick up you and take you to enjoy a brief Xiamen city tour.

First, take a 20-minutes’ ferry to Gulangyu Island from Xiamen downtown. It is the No.1 attraction in Xiamen and also a UNESCO World Cultural Heritage with dozens of precious historical architectures built by people from the UK, Italy, France, Spain, Japan, etc. during the Second Opium War, thus, this little island of 1.88 s.q.m wide is regarded as “International Architecture Museum” with relic sites of 13 embassies from 18th-19th centuries. Roam along the old alleys to appreciate those left sites of churches, mansions, villas, banks and museums telling the historical stories of Gulangyu. Walk up to the most famous Sunlight Rock and catch the wonderful panorama of the large group of red and pink Western styled architectures with dotted emerald trees. Then, go to discover the must-see Shuzhuang Garden that is the classic model of traditional Chinese garden on the sea. Take a leisure stroll amongst the twisty corridors, ancient halls with flying eaves and blue tiles, delicate pavilions, poetic gardens and ponds, etc. facing the shimmering sea and feel its traditional Chinese literal beauty contrasting to the western charm surrounding. Step into the outstanding Piano Museum which boasts an awesome collection of nearly 100 precious old pianos from all over the world for your worthy musical inspiration. Enjoy your architectural savory and then take the ferry back to Xiamen downtown.

Then, go to visit Nanputuo Temple (South Putuo Temple) of more than 1,000 years old. Enter the temple to admire a grand cluster of Buddhist halls with flying eaves and yellow tiles standing layer by layer under century-old trees and against the emerald mountain and pray in front of the holy Buddhas. Meanwhile, immerse into the peaceful atmosphere with locals taking a break around the large lotus pond, traditional Chinese pavilions, corridors, etc.. Later, walk about 20 minutes up to Wulao Peak to have a terrific bird’s eye view of the beautiful Xiamen University, Xiamen Port and the nearby islets on the blue sea!

After the sightseeing, go to check in your hotel and have a good rest.

  • Beautiful Gulangyu Island Beautiful Gulangyu Island
  • Amazing Beach of Gulangyu Island Amazing Beach of Gulangyu Island
  • Nanputuo Temple Panorama Nanputuo Temple Panorama
  • Xiamen University View from Wulao Peak Xiamen University View from Wulao Peak

Day 11 Xiamen - Nanjing Tulou - Yongding Tulou - Xiamen (B, L)

Today's highlights: Tianluokeng Tulou Cluster, Yuchanglou, Taxia Village, Chengqilou

After breakfast, your guide and driver will meet you at your hotels and then escort you to see the earthen buildings (Tulou) in Nanjing County with a 3-hour scenic drive. Nanjing Tulou is a key part of Fujian Tulou that are the traditional dwelling houses of Chinese Hakka people with round, square or rectangular appearance for living in family groups and have been listed as UNESCO World Cultural Heritage site in 2008.

First, walk up to the viewing platform to have a bird’s eye view of the must-see Tianluokeng Tulou Cluster from the best angle, which is the most famous earthen building cluster known as “Four Dishes and a Soup” with 3 round, 1 oval and 1 rectangular well preserved earthen building looking really like a set of meal on the natural tablecloth of the lush mountain an graceful rice terraces surrounding.

Next, go to discover Yuchang Building that was built during 1308-1338. It is the present oldest Tulou and the largest and highest round Tulou with highest floor height in Nanjing region. Also, it is famous as “Zigzag Building” because it looks about to totter with a maximum inclination of 15 degrees due to weather beats and earthquakes, however, it stands quite still till nowadays. Walk into this Tulou and closely look at the zigzag wooden pillars which have well supported such huge building for over 600 years.

Then, visit Taxia Village. With an “S” shaped stream floating across the entire village, two earthen buildings located just right on the two curves, and multiple big and small Tulou built along the banks, this village is reputed as a “Water Town of Taichi” with rich Tulou flavor. You will not miss Yude Building known as “Apron Building”, Deyuan Hall with outstanding sculptures of birds, beasts and flowers and also the 24 Hakka stone flagpoles beside the semilunar pond.

Then, drive to Gaobei Tulou Cluster in Yongding to explore Chengqi Building, which has been constructed for around half a century and is now more than 300 years old. Being the largest round Tulou with most circles in Yongding, it is reputed as the “King of Tulou” and has been printed on the national stamps in China in 1986. Walk in the huge earthen building with a diameter of 72 meters to admire its amazing design of 4 circles and 4 floors with circle in circle, which was in accordance to Bagua and reaches the highest level of Tulou construction.

After the visiting, your guide and driver will escort you to your hotel in Xiamen. Have a good sleep!

  • Tianluokeng Tulou Cluster Tianluokeng Tulou Cluster
  • Yuchanglou (Zigzag Building) Yuchanglou (Zigzag Building)
  • Taxia Village Taxia Village
  • Chengqilou (King of Tulou) Chengqilou (King of Tulou)
  • Chengqilou Interior Design Chengqilou Interior Design

Day 12 Xiamen - Hong Kong (B)

Take high speed train directly to Hong Kong

Today is free for you to transfer to Hong Kong. You will take a high speed train directly from Xiamen to Hong Kong West Kowloon Station. The railway distance from Xiamen to Hong Kong is around 553 kilometers, with durations from 4 to 4.5 hours. After your arrival, you can spend 2 to 3 days to explore the charming culture, history, fashion, food, skyline and shopping paradise of this attractive megacity by your own or board your flight home or your next tourist country.

The quotation for this trip is from Request Per Person

1. This price is for one person, based on a group of 2 adults sharing one standard double-bed room in 4-star hotel and traveling with our private tour in low seasons.
2. This price is subject to change according your traveling season, group size, hotel class, change of activities in your itinerary and possible fluctuation of currency exchange rate. If you want a lower price, you can get more people to join you, or use economy class hotels.
3. This price is only valid to March 31, 2025.
4. Reference exchange rate of USD 1=RMB 6.85. The final quote is based on current exchange rate. It may change according to the currency fluctuation, while the RMB quotation will be remained the same.

What's included?

  • Professional licensed English-speaking guide;
  • Admission tickets for all attractions listed in the itinerary;
  • Accommodation as listed in the itinerary (4-star standard);
  • Necessary vehicle transfers as listed in the itinerary;
  • Domestic flights (economy class) and high-speed trains (second class) as listed in the itinerary;
  • Airport (and train station) pick up and drop off;
  • Luggage Transfers: between airports (railway station) and hotels;
  • All meals as listed( “B” for Chinese and Western breakfast buffet in your hotel; “L” for Chinese Lunch in local restaurant; “D” for Chinese dinner in local restaurant.);
  • Accident insurance;
  • Our service charge, including tour planning, handling, operational and communication charges.

What's excluded?

  • China visa;
  • Personal expenses;
  • Accommodation not listed in the itinerary;
  • Single Room Supplement;
  • Tourist sites which are not listed in the itinerary;
  • Recommended optional activities;
  • Flights or trains not listed in the itinerary;
  • Excess Baggage Charges;
  • Optional tips to guides, drivers, etc.

Check What our delighted customers are saying about our services

Hi Mr Wang,

Thanks! I had a weekend away to Xi’an, China to celebrate my birthday. It was an exciting weekend and it was certainly something off the beaten trail for most of my friends. The itinerary you have suggested provided good coverage of the city’s rich history. From the fascinating Terracotta Army to the City Walls to the sacred Mount Hua, to the Muslim Quarter to the Drum & Bell Towers, there’s an interesting story from every historical era in Xi’an. I managed to hike up Mount Hua from North Peak to West Peak, but I didn’t get to do the dangerous plank walk as it was closed.

The hotel Eastern House was very accessible too with food places within steps and its proximity to the Drum Tower is a plus. The room was very clean and comfortable.

At this point, I have to quickly mention our amazing tour guide Betty Jiao Yan who was assigned to us as part of our private tour package. She made our time feel so very special and I wonder if Xi'an would have been as awesome without her. She had such a positive and caring nature and when we had to say goodbye, we felt very sad. It was strange to miss a guide after only knowing her for 5 days! Luckily we still keep in touch on WeChat. Our driver Mr Ma was very polite, punctual and accommodating, making our travel a pleasant experience

Anne

Anne‚ Singapore, January 25, 2024

Hi Jack,

Thanks. The Harbin and Snow Town trip was excellent and very enjoyable. We are now in Japan skiing, and will send our feedback upon our return on 31st Jan.

Best wishes

Leong

Leong‚ Singapore, January 24, 2024

Hi Rita,

From my end, everything is remarkable! Jane is amazing! She really make us feel welcome.

All the hotels were amazing too! My parents also very impressed.

I will definitely reaching out again, next time when I visit China. There’s many more places I want to visit.

Best regards,

Jefry

Jefry‚ Indonesia, January 21, 2024

Dear Rita,

We are home. Thanks for arranging this nice trip. Everything worked out nicely except the smoking room problem in Chengde.

Thanks again.

John

John‚ USA, January 19, 2024

Hi Rita,

In response to your enquiries, we had a wonderful experience with the tour arrangements in both Guilin and Yangshuo. Both the tour guide and driver were very professional and handled the arrangements well.

I am surely recommending any friends or relatives who are interested in travelling to China in future to use China Discovery. Also, will be looking at other destinations for ourselves too.

Thanks once again for the wonderful experience.

Kwan

Kwan‚ Malaysia, January 18, 2024
Read all reviews(3,580+)

Check What our customers are saying about us on Tripadvisor.com

We are one of the few China travel agencies who have kept active and received lots of feedbacks and reviews during pandemic years

avatar
Thitikorn C
"China Discovery is very professional agent in China...last January 2024, I contacted Vivien again to Huangshan and she has shown her professional as an agent with quick response and keep contacting me..." read more »
Reviewed on February 17, 2024
avatar
Thitikorn C
"China Discovery is very professional agent in China...last January 2024, I contacted Vivien again to Huangshan and she has shown her professional as an agent with quick response and keep contacting me..." read more »
Reviewed on February 17, 2024
Read all reviews(1,800+)

How Our Teams Serve you at China Discovery

"Highest Standards of Quality and Honesty" is the core value of each specialized team at China Discovery.

Eveyone in our company is working hard for only one goal, which is to ensure the highest level of service, luxury, and attention to detail from the minute you begin planning your trip, to the day you return home.

1-on-1 Travel Consultant

China Tour

Our travel consultants are professional, experienced and responsible, helping you from the very beginning to the end of your China trip!

After sending us an inquiry, one of our travel consultants will get back to you within 0.5~23.5 hrs. In the next few days, he/she will be working closely with you to formulate a customized tour plan, as well as providing professional suggestions based on your travel interests, time, and budget.

Beside, he/she will keep in contact with you during your entire tour in China, continually checking if everything is going well as planned.

We're working at Chengdu Bamboo International Tours, local based in Chengdu.

Local Tour Guides

China Tour

Our local guide in every destination is not only very friendly, enthusiastic but also very informative and knowledgeable.

Once you arrive in the destination, the patient and punctual guides will pick you up and take you to get under skin of the city at your own pace. By in-depth discovery and explanation, they’ll show you more about the history, culture, customs and authentic local life. Throughout the journey, they're not only expert guides who take care of all the details but also fellow travelers who are dedicated to help you explore in comfort and style.

Our guides are passionate about what they do, and it shows all the way!

Local Drivers & Vehicle

Using our private transfer service makes you comfortable, relaxed and worry free all the way!

Our private service includes licensed drivers with many years’ driving experience and air-conditioned, non-smoking, clean and well-maintained cars/vans. Drivers are local, polite, friendly and helpful, taking you to your tourist sites, hotels, airport/train stations in safety. All kinds of vehicle are offered, and yours depends on the size of your group. Usually, we offer sedan cars, SUVs, business vans (MPV) and different types of buses, all with extra space for your luggage.

Our private transfer service guarantees you the highest comfort!

Comfortable & Homelike Hotels

China Tour

In each destination, you’ll enjoy a comfortable stay in a great location!

The hotels we choose are based on star rating, great locations, well-equipped facilities, cozy bed, high quality service and guests’ feedbacks. Choices are a lot ranging from luxury 5 star, comfortable 4 star to budget 3 star. You could decide where to stay to best suit for your budget and likes. Generally, the hotels have both Western and Chinese breakfast with a wide choices.

If you have already got an ideal hotel, please feel free to tell our travel consultants and they'll book the hotel for you.

Have good sleep in our well-selected hotels in all the destinations of China.

Meals & Dining

China Tour

We can satisfy all the dietary requirements no matter you want Chinese local food, western food, vegetarian food or muslin food.

The restaurants we will take you for lunch or dinner are all designated tourist restaurants approved by local tourist administration bureau. They have very good sanitary conditions and the food is prepared fresh and clean.

There will be some meals excluded in your itinerary as you like, and your private guide will be delighted to give you some suggestions and take you to the local restaurants to taste like Beijing Roast Duck, Xian Dumpling Dinner, Sichuan Hotpot, etc., if you are interested in local food tasting.

All the dining options will satisfy your stomach!

Photo gallery of this trip

  • Shanghai Night Shanghai Night
  • Shanghai Museum - One of the Best Four Museums in China Shanghai Museum - One of the Best Four Museums in China
  • Tourists Took Photo at The Bund with Backdrop of Lujiazui Tourists Took Photo at The Bund with Backdrop of Lujiazui
  • Yuyuan Bazaar Shot by Our Customer Paul Yuyuan Bazaar Shot by Our Customer Paul
  • 474 M High Glass Walkway in World Financial Center 474 M High Glass Walkway in World Financial Center
  • The Bund: Famous “Exhibition of the World's Architecture” The Bund: Famous “Exhibition of the World's Architecture”
  • Wukang Road City Walk Wukang Road City Walk
  • Spend  Leisure Time at the Mazy Lanes of Tianzifang Spend Leisure Time at the Mazy Lanes of Tianzifang
  • China Umbrella Museum China Umbrella Museum
  • China Museum of Knives, Scissors & Swords China Museum of Knives, Scissors & Swords
  • Workmanship Demonstration Pavilion Workmanship Demonstration Pavilion
  • Wuzhen Water Town - Last Town Resting on Water in China Wuzhen Water Town - Last Town Resting on Water in China
  • Wuzhen Water Town West - Bailian Pagoda Wuzhen Water Town West - Bailian Pagoda
  • West Lake Spring West Lake Spring
  • West Lake Boating Experience West Lake Boating Experience
  • Relax at Dragon Well Tea Plantation Relax at Dragon Well Tea Plantation
  • Hefang Street Hefang Street
  • Hu Qing Yu Tang Traditional Chinese Medicine Museum Hu Qing Yu Tang Traditional Chinese Medicine Museum
  • Puji Temple Puji Temple
  • The Mercy of Goddness The Mercy of Goddness
  • Putuoshan Sunset Putuoshan Sunset
  • One Thousand Step Beach One Thousand Step Beach
  • Fayu Temple Fayu Temple
  • Buddha Summit Mountain Buddha Summit Mountain
  • Charming Sunrise at Weijiang Mudflat Charming Sunrise at Weijiang Mudflat
  • Sunset at Xiapu Xiaohao Village Sunset at Xiapu Xiaohao Village
  • Kelp Farms on the Mudflats of Beiqi Village Kelp Farms on the Mudflats of Beiqi Village
  • Dongbi Village Dongbi Village
  • Huazhu Village in the Mist Huazhu Village in the Mist
  • Beautiful Gulangyu Island Beautiful Gulangyu Island
  • Amazing Beach of Gulangyu Island Amazing Beach of Gulangyu Island
  • Nanputuo Temple Panorama Nanputuo Temple Panorama
  • Xiamen University View from Wulao Peak Xiamen University View from Wulao Peak
  • Tianluokeng Tulou Cluster Tianluokeng Tulou Cluster
  • Yuchanglou (Zigzag Building) Yuchanglou (Zigzag Building)
  • Taxia Village Taxia Village
  • Chengqilou (King of Tulou) Chengqilou (King of Tulou)
  • Chengqilou Interior Design Chengqilou Interior Design

Most Important Trip Notes

Below are some important things to know regarding of train travel tips, traveling documents, hotels and food, weather, booking guide. Traveling with China Discovery, you only need to focus on enjoying your holiday time. We will take care of all the details. Our travel consultants are always ready to help you if have any questions about the trip.

1. How to travel by high speed trains in China?
Understanding China Train Designations
China trains are divided into two kinds: High Speed Trains and Normal Trains with different speeds, facilities and names. There are three kinds of High Speed Trains in China, differed by the letters G/D/C plus several digits. Generally speaking, G trains are faster and with better amenities. Normal trians are not recommended.
Facilities and Services in China’s High Speed Trains
All China high speed trains are fully air-conditioned and non-smoking. Western toliets are provided. There are also luggage racks, dining car, power plugs, water-dispenser and some other user-friendly facilities equipped on the train.
Which Class of Seat to Take
Second Class Seats, First Class Seats, Business Class Seats are three common seats you can find on most China high speed trains. First Class Seats are strongly recommended. They are larger and less-crowded.
How to Book China Train Tickets
Currently, you can only book China train tickets 30 days in advance. You can book on China Railway’s official website or some online travel agencies, or go to purchase tickets at any of China’s railway station. Passport is always required no matter you book online or at railway stations. If you book ticket online, you can collect ticket at the ticket counters in any railway station in China any time.
Security Check & Luggage Check
After arriving at railway station, firstly get your ticket and passport prepared and represent to the staff, and then pass Security Check & Luggage Check, and find the right boarding gate. It's easy and simple.
How to Handle Your Luggage
Travelling with luggages on China train is not a problem. If you take high speed trains, it will be easier to handle your luggage because there are plenty of spaces to place your luggage, and there are also many ways to deliver your luggages.
Related Tips about this tour
When is the best time to take this trip?
Both the railway and destinations in this tour are located along the southeastern coastline of China where the weather is usually warm and moist. So you can take this tour all year aournd, since you will take some photography at Xiapu Mudflats where the landscapes differ along in different seasons, you are suggested to visit Xiapu during late April to early early June when is the harvest time of kelp, and late October to early February when is the planting season of kelp and harvest season of nori. Better avoid China's holidays, such as May Days, National Days, Middle Autumn Festival
Vehicle and Road Condition
In this tour, the driving hour is less 2 hours each day. Most of the roads are in good condition. There may be traffic jams in rush hours and holidays. We usually choose the suitable time to start your trip to avoid large traffic. Our drivers are licensed drivers with many years’ driving experience. All our vehicles are air-conditioned, non-smoking, clean and well-maintained.
Hotels and Dining
The choices for accommodation are flexible in this tour. The standards of hotels range from local 3-star to some international 5-star but amenities and services may differ in different cities. Putuoshan and Xiapu are smaller destinations where the hotels are not as good as those in Shanghai, Hangzhou and Xiamen. The hotels we choose are usually based on star rating, great locations, well-equipped facilities, cozy bed, high quality service and guests’ feedbacks. Air conditioning and Wi-Fi are usually available. Chinese food is mainly provided in this trip. In Shanghai, Hangzhou and Xiamen, western food can be arranged if you want.
Payment and Booking Guide
1. What kind of payment method do you accept?
PayPal, Wire Transfer/Bank Transfer, Western Union are acceptable before your arrival, and after your arrival, CASH is required.
2. How soon before our trip do you need payment?
Early booking is always better than being rushed, and we would suggest booking to be 2-3 month earlier than your arrival so as to guarantee the booking items. If you are interested in any of our tours, you can pay a deposit first and balance to be paid 30 days prior to your arrival. You can also choose to pay the full amount so as to avoid small loss caused by currency exchange rate fluctuation.
3. When should we pay the deposit and the balance?
Certain deposit will be paid if you decide to book, and balance is required to be paid 30 days prior to your arrival. If booking is less than 30 days, full payment is required.

Recommended or Similar Tour Packages You May Also Like

Chona's Group  from Philippines visited Longji Rice Terraces (Jinkeng) in September, 2018
9 Days Guilin Guizhou Minority Culture and Landscape Exploration by High Speed Train

Guangzhou / Guilin / Yangshuo / Longji / Zhaoxing / Rongjiang / Kaili

Louis from Singapore visited Lijiang Old Town in 2021
14 Days Wild China Tours from Shanghai to Yunnan on Expresses

Shanghai / Zhangjiajie / Kaili / Kunming / Lijiang / Shangri-la / Kunming

Potala Palace
15 Days China Tour with Tibet Discovery & Panda Visit

Shanghai / Guilin / Yangshuo / Guilin / Chengdu / Lhasa / Xian / Beijing

Customize your own China Tour

China DIY Travel
We are here to help you design your own travel experience in China which suits your specific needs best.
Start Now

Start planning your tailor-made holiday to China by contacting one of our specialists. Once inquired, you’ll get a response within 0.5~23.5 hours.

Customize a Trip
Why Book with China Discovery
Contact