8-Day Xiamen and Chaoshan Dual City Adventure

Welcome to Xiamen! Your journey begins with a warm greeting from your knowledgeable tour guide at the airport, followed by a seamless city exploration. Discover the South Putuo Temple, a renowned Tang Dynasty Buddhist site, famous for its vibrant spiritual life, monastic layout and scenic views. Experience Xiamen from above on the Bell and Drum Cableway. This smooth, leisurely ride offers unparalleled panoramic views of the city and Gulangyu Island. Wander Zengcuo'an, a vibrant art and culture hub, evolved from a traditional settlement. Its charming alleys, filled with galleries, cafes, unique guesthouses, and local food, offer a distinct, laid-back experience before heading back to your hotel.

Breakfast Take a private transfer to the station for your high-speed train to Chaoshan, where a tour guide will be waiting to ensure a smooth exploration of Shantou. Discover the Chaoshan Historical and Cultural Expo Center to delve into the region's rich heritage, from its history and Teochew dialect to traditional crafts, local cuisine, and Teochew Opera. Inside, witness the vibrant 30-minute Chaoshan Yingge Dance, a dynamic performance with rhythmic hammer strikes staged across the hall. Uncover the cultural tapestry of Shantou Ancient Town as you wander through the serene Little Garden Park, the venerable Tianhou Palace, and the historically resonant Laoma Palace Stage, admire the Post Office Building's architecture and view the outside of the Opening Port Exhibition Hall.

Breakfast Experience spectacular panoramic views of the sea and coastline while journeying across the Nan'ao Bridge to Nan'ao Island. Explore the Zongbingfu, a Ming and Qing military headquarters (now a museum) that highlights the island's strategic coastal defense history. Explore the 'Gate of Nature' in Tropic of Cancer Square, the only Tropic of Cancer landmark tower on an island in China. Head to Qing'ao Bay, the 'Oriental Hawaii' of the region. There, you'll delight in walking along its sandy shores, gazing at the immense blue ocean and sky, and letting the cool sea breeze wash over you. Admire Sancongya Lighthouse, Nan'ao Island's picturesque landmark. Its distinctive red and white design offers breathtaking panoramic ocean views, perfect for photography.

Breakfast A comfortable drive from your hotel to Chaozhou awaits, during which you'll gain fascinating insights into the region from your guide. Discover both the Guangji (Xiangzi) Bridge and the Guangji Gate Tower. The bridge itself is known for its clever design, blending stone arches and a movable boat bridge for waterway access, complemented by lively pavilions that provide historical context and beautiful vistas. Explore Kaiyuan Temple, where centuries of architectural evolution and exquisite Buddhist artistry are on display, featuring intricate carvings and statues within prominent halls such as the Mahavira Hall. Immerse yourself in the cultural tapestry of Chaozhou at Zaiyang Tea House: experience the exquisite Gongfu Cha, the region's time-honored tea ceremony, while being captivated by the vibrant artistry of Teochew Opera, Teochew string music, or Teochew song singing. Experience the Chaoshan flavors on a Walking Foodie Expedition through the celebrated Paifang Street. Delight in the taste of Spring Rolls, the aromatic Braised Goose, the distinctive Kueh Chee, and the invigorating Orange juice(individual purchases apply), before your relaxing return to your hotel.

Breakfast Explore Longhu Ancient Village and immerse yourself in Chaoshan's traditional architecture and culture, showcased in its ancient Song-Qing dynasty buildings with elaborate carvings and porcelain paintings. Head to the train station, board a high-speed train to Xiamen. Your tour guide will be waiting there and will transfer you to the Xiamen hotel.

Breakfast Embark on an unforgettable one-day tour of Gulangyu Island with your guide. Take a ferry ride to Gulangyu, then stroll to its picturesque, film-famous "Most Beautiful Corner" for a photo. Afterwards, explore the Gulangyu Organ Art Center—China's largest and only organ museum. Take a non-stop tram to Shuzhuang Garden, enjoying views of Yanweishan Park, Neicuo'ao Wharf, Gulang Villa, and other attractions along the way. Explore Shuzhuang Garden, where the sea is cleverly integrated into its design, providing serene views from its winding paths and the renowned Forty-Four Bridge. Afterwards, head to Sunlight Rock for unparalleled 360-degree panoramic views of Xiamen city, Gulangyu Island, and the expansive sea. Stroll over to Longtou Road Snack Street and treat yourself to some delicious local snacks for lunch at your own expense. Explore Haitiantanggou and discover its beautiful blend of Southern Fujian and Western colonial architecture. It's a serene oasis, offering intricate designs, a glimpse into the island's prosperous past, and traditional South Fujian Puppet Shows before boarding the tram back to the pier. After a pleasant ferry ride, you'll be transferred to your Xiamen hotel.

Breakfast Experience a seamless and comfortable one-day trip to the Yunshuiyao and Hekeng Tulou Cluster in Nanjing. Stroll through Yunshuiyao Ancient Town, a picturesque and tranquil historical settlement where stunning natural beauty meets traditional Hakka life. Explore Hegui Building, a five-story square tulou that has stood remarkably stable for centuries thanks to ingenious Hakka engineering. Afterwards, discover the nearby Huaiyuan Building, considered the "Most Refined Tulou" for its exquisite craftsmanship, perfect internal symmetry. Witness the Hekeng Tulou Cluster, a remarkable UNESCO World Heritage site where 13 tulou (earthen buildings) are uniquely arranged in a "star and crescent moon" or "Big Dipper" pattern before heading back to your Xiamen hotel.

Breakfast Take advantage of your remaining free time for one more city exploration before your guide and driver pick you up for your flight.