A 2-Day Escape for Food & History Lovers from Shanghai to Yangzhou

Length: 2 Days / 1 Nights

Max Group Size: 6 People

Start: Shanghai

End: Shanghai/Yangzhou/Other Cities 

Features: Food/History/Culture

Day 1: Shanghai to Yangzhou – Slender West Lake, A First Taste of Huaiyang Cuisine&Night Cruise

• Travel in Style: Take a high-speed train from Shanghai to Yangzhou (1.5 hours, ticket included).

• Check-In: Settle into the prestigious Yangzhou State Guesthouse, a luxurious retreat that has welcomed diplomats and dignitaries. Experience the elegance of traditional Jiangnan architecture, koi-filled ponds, and serene Chinese gardens.

Brunch at Fu Chun Teahouse

Savor a legendary Huaiyang morning tea banquet, featuring:

• San Ding Bao: A fluffy bun stuffed with diced pork, chicken, and bamboo shoots.

• Shredded Tofu in Superior Broth: Delicate strands of tofu, sliced with Huaiyang cuisine’s signature knife skills, in a clear, umami-rich broth.

Afternoon at Slender West Lake

Wander through the poetic beauty of Slender West Lake, where willows sway over tranquil waters. Don’t miss:

• Five Pavilion Bridge: Yangzhou’s iconic bridge, a stunning architectural gem.

• White Pagoda: A lakeside pagoda inspired by Beijing’s Bai Ta, offering picture-perfect views.

Dinner at Lvyang Spring Restaurant

Enjoy a state banquet–level Huaiyang feast, including:

• Braised Lion’s Head Meatballs: A tender, melt-in-your-mouth dish served in a light broth.

• Yangzhou Fried Rice: A refined classic with hand-cut ingredients for a perfect balance of flavors.

• Steamed Mandarin Fish: A delicate river fish known for its sweetness and silky texture.

Evening: Grand Canal Night Cruise

Sail along the Grand Canal, the world’s longest and oldest canal, illuminated by glowing lanterns and ancient bridges. Glide past centuries of history on this magical waterway.

Day 2: Classical Gardens, Ancient Alleys &Qing Dynasty Charm

Breakfast at Yechun Teahouse

Enjoy a tranquil breakfast surrounded by the elegance of a classical Chinese garden.

Morning:

Visit Daming Temple, a serene Buddhist sanctuary adorned with cherry blossoms. Highlights include:

Jianzhen Memorial Hall: Honoring the revered monk who brought Buddhism to Japan.

Ancient Bell Tower: Ring the great bell for blessings and good fortune.

Then visit one of the two classic Chinese gardens:

• Ge Garden: Known for its four-season rockeries, this hidden gem blooms with bamboo and plum blossoms in spring.

• Heyuan Garden: A masterpiece of landscape design, featuring intricate rockeries and cascading wisteria.

Afternoon: Qing Dynasty Charm

Stroll along Dongguan Street, a historic lane with preserved Qing Dynasty architecture. Discover artisan shops and savor local snacks like:

• Yangzhou Shortbread: Flaky pastries with sweet or savory fillings.

• Five-Spice Tea Eggs: Slow-braised and infused with fragrant tea.

• Osmanthus Rice Cakes: Delicate and floral, a quintessential Yangzhou treat.

Evening Departure:

Return to Shanghai by high-speed train (ticket included). Prefer to arrange your own return? We’ll refund the ticket price difference.

If you wish to continue your adventure in China, come explore other destinations with us, like Chengdu, Yunnan, Beijing, and beyond.

• Luxury Stay at a Historic Landmark: Relax in the elegant Yangzhou State Guesthouse, where world leaders have experienced unparalleled hospitality.

• Exquisite Huaiyang Cuisine: Indulge in over six authentic dining experiences, savoring the delicate flavors of China’s most refined culinary tradition, with all dietary restrictions accommodated if informed at booking.

• 2,500 Years of Chinese Heritage: Immerse yourself in the rich history and culture of Yangzhou, a city of ancient canals, classical gardens, and timeless elegance, where you can experience the most authentic, traditional China. 

Yangzhou State Guesthouse (subject to availability; if unavailable, we will substitute with an equivalent five-star hotel)

Inclusions:

• Luxury accommodation at the Yangzhou State Guesthouse (subject to availability; if unavailable, we will substitute with an equivalent five-star hotel)

• High-speed train tickets (round-trip from Shanghai to Yangzhou)

• Daily breakfast, authentic Huaiyang cuisine dining experiences, and select beverages

• Private guided tours with English-speaking experts

• Entrance fees to all attractions and cultural sites mentioned in the itinerary

• Complimentary foot therapy or spa treatment

• Night cruise on the Grand Canal

• Private transportation within Yangzhou

• 24/7 concierge support during your trip

• All dietary restrictions accommodated with advance notice

• Basic travel insurance

Exclusions:

• International and domestic flights to/from Shanghai or other cities

• Personal expenses, additional spa treatments, and optional activities not listed in the itinerary

• Gratuities for guides and drivers (optional)

• Visa fees (if applicable)

Day 0 Service
If you’re arriving in a different city than where the tour begins, we can arrange a pickup as soon as you land in China and accompany you to your flight or train to the tour’s starting city.

Extended Itineraries
Customize your trip by adding destinations like Beijing, Shanghai, Yunnan, and more after your tour ends.

VIP Photography Package
Capture unforgettable moments with professional photos, drone footage, and cinematic videos—a lifetime of memories.

Contact our travel advisors for pricing and further details.