2-Day Hangzhou & Qiandao Lake Tour

After breakfast, you’ll be collected from your hotel to commence today’s exploration. First stop is the Hangzhou’s famous landmark, West Lake. There will be a stop here to observe Red Carp Pond, one of top ten famous views of the West Lake. So named for the thousands of red carp that inhabit the waters there, Red Carp Pond is a definite photo opportunity.

West Lake is ideal for a leisurely boat cruise that affords a different perspective of the serenity provided by the natural scenery, historic pagodas, and stunning pavilions. Scenes that conjure up images portrayed by scholars and philosophers are inspired by spots along the way: the Three Pools Mirroring the Moon and Su Causeway.

From West Lake, enjoy a relaxed drive to Feilai Peak. Wonder at the persistence of many who’ve created the hundreds of ancient Buddhist rock carvings over various different time periods. A visit to Lingyin Temple will impress. As one of the most famous Buddhist temples in China, it is impressive in size and design. Marvel at ornately painted halls and ceilings in the smell of incense. Your guide will share the compelling historical legends behind the temple.

The final stop on today’s adventure offers picturesque views of an operating tea plantation surrounded by verdant tea fields. Get a close look at how tea grows on the rolling terraces and even pick some leaves if your visit coincides with the harvest season. Learn about how integral tea is to Chinese culture and custom at the China National Tea Museum where collections of tea varieties, tea sets and machines for making tea can be found.

From Hangzhou, you’ll travel two hours by road to Qiandao Lake, located in Chun’an. Your guide will assist with hotel check in.

Meals included: None

Note: Our guide will contact you in advance to confirm the pickup time.

After breakfast, you will be treated to a wonderful day at Qiandao Lake. Here you’ll take a boat and cruise the man-made lake, then climb Meifeng Peak, considered the ideal location for taking in the ‘thousand island’ view that encompasses the lake itself and 1,078 ‘islands’ found in the lake.

A stop at Dragon Mountain Island and a number of ancient historical temples and academies built in Ming dynasty rounds out today’s activities. Your guide will return you to your hotel in Hangzhou to conclude the tour.

Meals included: Breakfast 

Note: If you would like to depart from Qiandao Lake and transfer to Huangshan, please let us know. We can assist with any travel arrangements within China, including the purchase of train tickets and other tours such as in Huangshan.