Start your trip in the beautiful coastal city of Xiamen. In the morning, visit Gulangyu Island, a UNESCO World Heritage site known for its colonial architecture and peaceful atmosphere. Take a leisurely stroll along the narrow streets and admire the stunning views of the sea. In the afternoon, explore Nanputuo Temple, a Buddhist temple nestled at the foot of Wulao Peak. As the evening sets in, head to Zhongshan Road, a bustling pedestrian street filled with local shops, cafes, and street food.
Nanputuo Temple: Entrance fee: Free, Time spent: 2 hours
Zhongshan Road: Cost of food and shopping (estimated), Time spent: 3 hours
Restaurants
Start your day at Yi's Breakfast House, a cozy cafe known for their delicious breakfast options. Enjoy their fluffy pancakes and freshly brewed coffee. Average cost for a meal is about 30 CNY per person.
For lunch, head to Nanbantei, a popular Japanese restaurant famous for their yakitori and sushi. Indulge in their flavorful grilled skewers and savor the freshness of their sushi rolls. Average cost for a meal is about 100 CNY per person.
For dinner, experience true Xiamen cuisine at Yuehua Restaurant. This local favorite offers a wide selection of seafood dishes from sautéed clams to steamed fish. Don't miss their famous Gulangyu crab. Average cost for a meal is about 150 CNY per person.
Sunday, December 17: Xiamen
On your second day in Xiamen, take a trip to the famous Hakka Tulou. These unique circular earthen buildings offer a glimpse into the rich Hakka culture. In the morning, explore Tianluokeng Tulou Cluster, one of the most well-preserved clusters with breathtaking views. In the afternoon, visit Chuxi Tulou Cluster, known for its ancient architecture and tranquil surroundings. Return to Xiamen in the evening and enjoy a seafood feast at a local restaurant.
Seafood Dinner: Cost of dinner (estimated), Time spent: 2 hours
Restaurants
For breakfast, head to Yong He Soy Milk for traditional Taiwanese breakfast items like soy milk, fried dough sticks, and steamed buns. A typical meal here costs around 20 RMB per person.
For lunch, try Lin's Tea House, a local favorite known for its authentic Xiamen cuisine. Don't miss their famous seafood hotpot! Expect to spend around 80 RMB per person for a satisfying meal.
For dinner, treat yourself to a feast at Shuai Jiao Ge Seafood Restaurant. Indulge in fresh seafood dishes like stir-fried clams, steamed fish, and garlic prawns. Prices here can range from 150-250 RMB per person depending on the seafood selection.
Monday, December 18: Xiamen
Spend your third day in Xiamen exploring the scenic Huandao Road. Rent a bicycle and ride along the coastline, passing by beautiful beaches, parks, and picturesque viewpoints. In the morning, visit Hulishan Fortress, a historic fortress with stunning sea views. In the afternoon, relax at Baicheng Beach or Sunlight Rock Park. In the evening, indulge in Xiamen's famous seafood at a local night market.
Bicycle Rental: Cost of rental (estimated), Time spent: 4 hours
Seafood Night Market: Cost of food (estimated), Time spent: 2 hours
Restaurants
Start your day off with a delicious breakfast at Xinjiang Renjia Restaurant, where you can enjoy traditional Xinjiang dishes such as lamb skewers and naan bread. Average cost for a meal is about 30 CNY per person.
For lunch, head to Peaceful Restaurant and try their famous hand-pulled noodles and dumplings. The cozy atmosphere and authentic Chinese flavors make it a local favorite. Average cost for a meal is about 40 CNY per person.
For dinner, indulge in a seafood feast at Zheng Lao Shifu Seafood Restaurant. Choose from a wide selection of fresh seafood dishes, including crab, prawns, and fish. Average cost for a meal is about 100 CNY per person.
Tuesday, December 19: Shanghai
Travel to Shanghai, the vibrant metropolis known for its modern skyline and rich history. In the morning, visit the famous Bund, a waterfront promenade lined with impressive colonial-era buildings. Enjoy panoramic views of the city from the Shanghai Tower or take a Huangpu River cruise. In the afternoon, explore the trendy Tianzifang area, which offers a unique blend of art galleries, boutiques, and traditional Shikumen-style houses. End your day with a delicious meal at a local restaurant.
Tianzifang: Cost of shopping (estimated), Time spent: 3 hours
Dinner: Cost of dinner (estimated), Time spent: 2 hours
Restaurants
A cozy cafe in Shanghai offering a variety of breakfast options including fluffy pancakes and omelettes. Average cost for a meal is about 40-60 RMB per person.
A bustling street food market known for its delicious dumplings and noodle dishes. Average cost for a meal is about 20-30 RMB per person.
A classy restaurant specializing in authentic Shanghai cuisine, with dishes such as braised pork belly and steamed crab. Average cost for a meal is about 80-120 RMB per person.
Wednesday, December 20: Shanghai
On your second day in Shanghai, immerse yourself in the city's cultural attractions. Start your morning with a visit to the Shanghai Museum, home to a vast collection of Chinese art and artifacts. In the afternoon, explore the Yu Garden and Old Town area, known for its traditional architecture, beautiful gardens, and bustling bazaars. In the evening, catch an acrobatic or traditional Chinese performance for a memorable cultural experience.
Shanghai Museum: Entrance fee: Free, Time spent: 3 hours
Evening Show: Ticket price (estimated), Time spent: 3 hours
Restaurants
Start your day with a delicious breakfast at The Commune Social, a trendy restaurant known for its modern European cuisine. Average cost for a meal is about 100 CNY per person.
For lunch, head to Lost Heaven on the Bund, a popular spot that serves delectable Yunnan cuisine in a stylish setting. Average cost for a meal is about 150 CNY per person.
In the evening, dine at Din Tai Fung, a renowned restaurant famous for its mouthwatering soup dumplings. Average cost for a meal is about 80 CNY per person.
Thursday, December 21: Shanghai
On your third day in Shanghai, explore the modern side of the city. Start your morning with a visit to the futuristic Pudong district, where you can marvel at iconic landmarks like the Oriental Pearl Tower and Jin Mao Tower. In the afternoon, shop till you drop at Nanjing Road, one of the world's busiest shopping streets. End your day with a visit to Xintiandi, a trendy entertainment and dining area housed in reconstructed traditional shikumen buildings.
Pudong District: Entrance fee: Free, Time spent: 3 hours
Nanjing Road: Cost of shopping (estimated), Time spent: 3 hours
Xintiandi: Cost of food and entertainment (estimated), Time spent: 3 hours
Restaurants
For breakfast, head to Egg, a cozy and hip cafe known for their delicious egg dishes and artisanal coffee. Average cost for a meal is about 80 RMB per person.
For lunch, try Din Tai Fung, a world-renowned dim sum restaurant famous for their flavorful soup dumplings. Average cost for a meal is about 120 RMB per person.
For dinner, indulge in the flavors of traditional Shanghai cuisine at Lost Heaven. This upscale restaurant offers a modern twist on classic dishes and has a stylish and intimate ambiance. Average cost for a meal is about 250 RMB per person.
Friday, December 22: Hangzhou
Spend your final day exploring the picturesque city of Hangzhou. Start your morning with a visit to the renowned West Lake, a UNESCO World Heritage site known for its stunning scenery. Take a relaxing boat ride on the lake and visit attractions such as the Lingyin Temple and Leifeng Pagoda. In the afternoon, explore the historic Hefang Street, which offers local snacks, souvenirs, and traditional handicrafts. End your day with a cup of Longjing tea at a traditional teahouse.
West Lake: Entrance fee: CNY 40 (estimated), Time spent: 4 hours
Hefang Street: Cost of shopping and snacks (estimated), Time spent: 3 hours
Teahouse: Cost of tea (estimated), Time spent: 1 hour
Restaurants
Start your morning with a delicious breakfast at Lakeside Cafe, located near West Lake. Indulge in a mouthwatering selection of freshly baked pastries and aromatic coffee. Average cost for a meal is about $10 per person.
For lunch, head to Grandma's Kitchen, a cozy eatery located in Hefang Street. Enjoy homemade Hangzhou specialties such as Dongpo Pork and Beggar's Chicken. Average cost for a meal is about $15 per person.
End your day with a memorable dinner at Zen Garden Restaurant, offering a serene dining experience amidst lush gardens. Savor delectable dishes inspired by Hangzhou's rich culinary heritage. Average cost for a meal is about $30 per person.
Hidden Gems and Local Favorites
For off the beaten path attractions, consider exploring the ancient water town of Wuzhen near Shanghai. This well-preserved town offers a glimpse into traditional Chinese architecture and culture. Another hidden gem is the Longjing Village near Hangzhou, famous for its tea plantations where you can learn about the tea-making process and indulge in tea tastings. Locals also love visiting Shengsi Islands, a group of islands off the coast of Shanghai, known for their pristine beaches and scenic landscapes.
Hotel and Flight Prices
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