Destinations: Hangzhou
A literary and artistic exploration of West Lake's poetic heritage and Southern Song Dynasty aesthetics, blending landscape appreciation with traditional art practices like calligraphy, tea ceremony, and poetry recital.
Suitable for: High School Students
Best Season: Autumn (September-October) – clear weather and osmanthus fragrance
Connection to Entry Cities: 40-minute flight from Shanghai; 3-hour high-speed train from Nanjing; 5-hour flight from Guangzhou
Day 1: Poetry in Landscape – Su Causeway & Artistic Beginnings
Morning: Arrive in Hangzhou; Check into lakeside hotel; "Walking Su Causeway" guided tour – learn about Su Shi's governance and poetic works related to West Lake.
Afternoon: Calligraphy workshop at Xiling Seal Engravers' Society – practice writing Chinese poems with brush and ink; Visit Lingyin Temple (understand Buddhist art and architecture).
Evening: Boat cruise on West Lake at dusk; Enjoy osmanthus-scented tea while listening to traditional guzheng music.
Day 2: Song Dynasty Life – Tea, Streets & Verse
Morning: Visit Southern Song Dynasty Imperial Street – explore ancient shops, try Song-style snacks; Learn about urban life in the 12th-13th centuries.
Afternoon: Tea ceremony class at Longjing Village – pick tea leaves, roast tea, and master the art of Gongfu tea; Lecture on "Tea Culture in Chinese Poetry".
Evening: Poetry recital night – students share translated Chinese poems or their own creations inspired by West Lake.
Day 3: East-Meets-West Art – Inspiration from West Lake
Morning: Tour Lin Fengmian Former Residence – appreciate fusion of Chinese and Western art; Art workshop (paint West Lake scenery with watercolors).
Afternoon: Departure from Hangzhou Xiaoshan International Airport.
