China's Grand Adventure: Ancient Capitals & Avatar Peaks
10-Day Scenic Journey: Shanghai - Huangshan - Yixian - Tunxi - Wuyuan - Hangzhou
Day 1: International Departure to Shanghai
Flight Arrangements from Europe
Begin your photographic expedition with carefully selected flight options from European hubs including Paris, Amsterdam, and Istanbul. Choose from multiple carrier combinations with China Eastern Airlines, KLM Royal Dutch Airlines, or Turkish Airlines for optimal transit times and comfort.
Day 2: Shanghai Arrival & Acclimatization
Airport Welcome & Hotel Transfer
Meet your professional guide upon arrival at Shanghai airport. Transfer to Ocean Hotel Shanghai for check-in and enjoy free time to recover from your journey and prepare your photography equipment for the adventure ahead.
Day 3: Shanghai to Huangshan Transition
High-Speed Rail & Historic Tunxi
Experience China's modern infrastructure with a high-speed train to Huangshan. After hotel check-in at International Hotel, explore the century-old Tunxi Old Street - your first opportunity to capture traditional architecture and local commerce. Photography tip: Utilize wide-angle lenses and tripods for optimal architectural shots.
Day 4: Huangshan Mountain Majesty
Peaks, Canyons & Celestial Views
Ascend to Huangshan Scenic Area for a full day of mountain photography. Capture the dramatic rock formations at Xihai Grand Canyon, the panoramic views from Bright Summit, and the iconic Flying Stone. Weather permitting, photograph the breathtaking Sea of Clouds and conclude with sunset shots at Cloud Dispersing Pavilion. Safety reminder: Maintain awareness of your surroundings while focusing on compositions.
Day 5: Mountain Sunrise & Village Transition
Dawn Photography & Cultural Immersion
Early morning ascent to Lion Peak for sunrise photography (limited to first 10 photographers). Continue to Beginning-to-Believe Peak for surreal pine and rock formations. Descend via cable car and transfer to Yixian County for an authentic overnight stay at a local guesthouse.
Day 6: Ancient Villages Exploration
Hongcun & Nanping Architectural Heritage
Morning photography session at 900-year-old Hongcun Village, capturing the iconic Yuezhao Pond reflections and Jinxiu Hall architecture. Afternoon exploration of Nanping Village's Ming and Qing dynasty residences, focusing on ancestral temples and intricate alleyways. Return to Tunxi for overnight accommodation.
Day 7: Wuyuan Countryside Splendor
Rural Landscapes & Seasonal Highlights
Journey to Wuyuan, renowned as China's most beautiful countryside. Photograph Sixi and Yan villages' pastoral scenes, the historic Qinghua Rainbow Bridge, and the crescent-shaped Moon Bay. Seasonal enhancements include spring rape flower terraces at Jiangling (March-April) or autumn maple colors at Shicheng village. Equipment recommendation: Extra memory cards and batteries essential.
Day 8: Village Life & Hangzhou Transfer
Morning Photography & Scenic Drive
Final Wuyuan village photography at Likeng, Wangkou, and Xiaoqi during optimal morning light. After lunch, embark on a four-hour scenic drive to Hangzhou, celebrated as "Heaven on Earth" for its cultural and natural beauty.
Day 9: Hangzhou's West Lake Perfection
Iconic Landscapes & Cultural Sites
Full day capturing Hangzhou's treasures: morning shots of West Lake from Baochu Pagoda, the Three-Pools-Mirroring-the-Moon scene (featured on 1 RMB banknote), and architectural details at Lingyin Temple. Conclude with CNN-recommended sunset views from Twist Bridge featuring Leifeng Pagoda.
Day 10: Return Journey
High-Speed Transfer & International Departure
Morning high-speed train to Shanghai Pudong International Airport for your return flight to Europe. Multiple airline options available via Vienna or Frankfurt with Austrian Airlines or Lufthansa, ensuring comfortable connections back to Luxemburg.