Blossoms on Mountains and Terraces
This spring journey traces China's most enchanting landscapes as blossoms awaken in full color. It begins among the misty, majestic peaks of Huangshan, then drifts through the golden rapeseed fields of Wuyuan. Continue on to the refined beauty of Suzhou's classical gardens, before arriving at Shanghai's dazzling skyline and the tranquil waterways of Zhujiajiao.
Have ideas for adding more blooming destinations? We'd be delighted to hear them and create a personalized vacation just for you.
Suggested 9-Day Itinerary
Day | Highlights |
---|---|
1 Shanghai |
Arrival |
2-4 Huangshan |
West Sea Grand Canyon, Beginning-to-Believe Peak, Hongcun Village |
5-6 Wuyuan |
Hunagling, Jiangling, Rapeseed Terrace Fields |
7 Suzhou |
Lingering Garden, Tiger Hill, Pingjiang Road |
8-9 Shanghai |
Zhujiajiao Watertown, the North Bund, Shanghai Tower, Tian'an 1000 Trees, Nanjing Road |
Tour 'Wow' Points
Witness the Renowned Sea of Clouds on Huangshan Weaving an Ethereal Scene.
With frequent mist, clouds, and blooming flowers, spring provides an exceptional opportunity for nature photography.


Explore Wuyuan's Finest Rapeseed Fields with Varied Perspectives.
Capture the best blossoms at every scale—from aerial overlooks to hillside terraces and village paths.


Wander an Ancient Garden Brought to Life by Lush Greenery.
The Lingering Garden is particularly enchanting during Spring, with lush greenery, ponds filled with lotuses, and beautiful rockeries.


Escape to the Picturesque Watertown with Traditional Stone Bridges and Serene Canals.
Zhujiajiao Watertown is a different world with Shanghai. You can observe a slower pace of life, see locals going about their daily routines, and explore traditional tea houses and craft shops.


Capture Stunning Photographs of Shanghai's Skyline Blending Historic Charm and Modern Grandeur.
Experience a harmonious blend of nature and modern architecture at Tian'an 1000 Trees and enjoy stunning riverside views of the North Bund.


Discover real reviews of Highlights Travel Family's best-rated service across trusted platforms.

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Wonderful experience at the Yellow Mountains
![]() We had an outstanding experience for our stay in Huangshan and in particular with our tour guide Terry. He is a special person and has clear a passion to share his experience and love for the Yellow Mountains. He has a deep knowledge of the place and he was able to manage our two days stay on the mountains accordingly to my wife needs and my photography needs. Terry was always available for help and suggestions. Can’t think anything that could be better. We highly recommend Terry and China Highlights for this experience. more
Jul 2025, Michele B
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Huangshan's Majestic Peaks & Charming Villages: An Unforgettable Journey!
![]() Huangshan was amazing! Highly recommend. The ancient villages, with their unique charm, were a true highlight. Our guide April and driver Zhang were both excellent, making the entire trip seamless and thoroughly enjoyable. more
Jul 2025, ANNIE WONG HAW BING
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Atemberaubende Natur
![]() Wir haben im Rahmen einer 3-w?chigen Chinarundreise auch das Huangshan Gebirge besucht, das zum UNESCO Naturkulturerbe z?hlt. Wir waren zwei Tage dort und sind mit unserem Guide Tony von China Highlights gewandert. Das Gebiet ist mit seinen bizarren Felsformationen, den Kieferw?ldern und Wolkenformationen, die st?ndig wechselnd zwischen den Felsen wabern wirklich einzigartig und eine Reise wert.Abends sind wir vom Hotel auf einen ?Peak“ geklettert und haben einen sensationellen Sonnenuntergang erlebt. Es gibt in der Gegend mehrere Berghotels-die Versorgung der Hotels wird immer noch durch Tr?ger sichergestellt, die die schweren Lasten auf ihren Schultern nach oben schleppen. Wenn man das einmal gesehen hat ist man dankbar für das gute Essen, dass man im Hotel bekommt. Also: Daumen hoch- das Ziel lohnt sich auf jeden Fall! more
Jun 2025, Dierk 1961
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Itinerary Quick Look
Here is a suggested itinerary. We are happy to customize a tour according to your interests.
Welcome to China! To ensure your arrival is stress-free, your private tour guide will meet you in the arrivals hall and transfer you to your hotel in a private car. Your luggage and hotel check-in will be taken care of.
Hop on a high speed train from Shanghai to Huangshan within 3 hours.
After arrival, head to Hongcun, a UNESCO World Heritage-listed village that offers a captivating glimpse into traditional Chinese rural life. Its nickname, "a village in a Chinese painting," explains its attraction.
Hongcun 's most distinctive feature is its brilliant and meticulous design based on Feng Shui principles. The entire village is laid out in the shape of a water buffalo. And the most iconic and photographed spot in the village is the Moon Pond, which is surrounded by traditional Hui-style houses with their white walls and black tile roofs.
Spring is the best time to visit Huangshan with mild temperatures. It brings the mountains to life with a vibrant array of colors. And the increased rainfall makes it a prime time to witness the spectacular "sea of clouds" phenomenon.
You will take a cable car to the top of the Yellow Mountain. The blooming flowers and lush greenery are the highlights. You will see the flowers like rhododendrons, witch hazel, and magnolia throughout the trails.
The West Sea Grand Canyon is known for its dramatic and challenging hiking trails built into the sheer cliffs. The trails are particularly beautiful in spring, as the views of deep gorges, unique stone forests, and the surrounding peaks are enhanced by the misty atmosphere.
Witnessing the sunrise over Huangshan is a truly magical experience. As the first light breaks the horizon, the granite peaks gradually emerge from the shadows, bathed in a stunning interplay of light and mist.
After enjoying this breathtaking view, have a hearty breakfast before setting off on a hike to the Beginning-to-Believe Peak, famed for its uniquely shaped pines and panoramic scenery.
You may also wish to explore Lion Peak and other remarkable spots that offer breathtaking views. Your guide will make arrangements according to your request and physical ability.
Driving for an hour, you will arrive at Huangling village in Wuyuan, whose landscape transforms into a stunning spectacle of colors in spring.
With its stunning combination of ancient villages, misty mountains, and vibrant flower fields, Huangling is a paradise for photographers.
The village is perched on a mountaintop, and the terraced fields that cascade down the slopes are blanketed in vibrant yellow blooms. With a scenic cable car ride, you will fully appreciate the magnificent panoramic view.
Set out early in the morning for Jiangling, the "ace spot" in Wuyuan to admire the golden seas of rape flowers. From one of the viewing platforms, you'll enjoy sweeping panoramas of terraced fields, ancient Hui-style villages with their signature white walls and black-tiled roofs, and distant misty mountains.
After lunch, board a high-speed train bound for Shanghai. Your dedicated tour guide will pick you up to the hotel.
Today's travel to Suzhou takes just one hour by car.
Suzhou is renowned for its classical gardens, which embody the quiet strength of ancient Chinese culture. The Lingering Garden is especially noted for having the most buildings, displaying superb craftsmanship and a seamless integration of space.
A stroll down Pingjiang Road feels like a step back in time. The stone-paved lanes and canals reflect the charm of the old city. You will ride a three-wheeled rickshaw to navigate the narrow streets, passing ancient bridges, teahouses, and street food stalls.
Visiting Tiger Hill is like walking through a living scroll of history. The path winds gently upward, shaded by ancient trees, leading to the summit where the leaning Tiger Hill Pagoda stands proudly.
After the day trip, return to Shanghai for accommodation.
Zhujiajiao's tranquil scenery and rich heritage offer a charming escape outside Shanghai. You will stroll in this picturesque water town with canals, stone bridges, and traditional architecture.
You will be back downtown before lunch. The afternoon journey begins with the world's fastest elevator whisking you to the top of Shanghai Tower, the tallest building in China. Enjoy the panoramic views that stretch across Shanghai's dynamic skyline.
Then, you will be led to the North Bund, which is packed with iconic backdrops and hidden gems. Capture old-world elegance at the Shanghai Postal Museum. Shift from history to modernity at the World Living Room. Take in panoramic city views from the "Little Dome" observation deck.
Stop by Tian'an 1000 Trees, a pioneering mixed-use building that is often likened to a modern-day Hanging Gardens of Babylon.
Arrive at Nanjing Road to capture the dynamic spirit of Shanghai. The area is filled with shops and stalls, making it a true haven for anyone who loves shopping.
As your journey draws to an end, your dedicated guide and driver will escort you to the airport. We look forward to welcoming you again for another unforgettable adventure in China.
Hotel Selection
—the Icing on the Cake
Boutique hotels are recommended to enrich your travel experience.



Price includes:
- Private air-conditioned business car with big windows and ample space
- English speaking local guide
- Activities, hotels, and meals listed in the itinerary
- 24/7 helpline for while you are traveling
Tour code: hs-9