Leave Shanghai for a refreshingly cool day in the ancient land of Yuyao on this easygoing private day tour, designed around gentle walking, stream scenery and seasonal fruit rather than strenuous hiking. Your English-speaking guide and private driver collect you from your hotel for the scenic drive into the Siming Mountains, a region famed as the cradle of the prehistoric Hemudu culture.
After a relaxed lunch, you'll begin at a serene old temple founded around 1,800 years ago, then follow a beautiful stream valley where water threads between bamboo groves and whispering pines.
From there the route joins a centuries-old Ming-dynasty stone path, its well-laid steps and flagstones making for an easy, comfortable climb. At the top the valley opens onto sweeping hillside tea fields, a peaceful, panoramic reward, and the gentle stone path makes the descent just as effortless.
The sweet finale is a visit to a local bayberry orchard, where you can wander in, pick and eat the plump, juicy fruit to your heart's content, and take some home. With a relaxed pace, an included lunch and a fully private, flexible itinerary, the whole day is yours to enjoy before your car returns you to Shanghai.
Morning
Meet at the designated location between 07:15 and 07:30. Depart on time by private vehicle. During the drive, your guide will introduce the itinerary and share stories about the destination, making the journey relaxed and enjoyable.
Morning
Arrive in Yuyao, Ningbo. After lunch and a short warm-up, begin the hike.
The route starts near Chanyue Ancient Temple, which was built during the Chiwu period of the Three Kingdoms era and has a history of more than 2,000 years.
Continue into Shili Hanxi, a mountain valley on the northern side of Siming Mountain. The trail follows a clear stream through lush forests, with waterfalls, bamboo groves, pine trees, and rich natural scenery along the way. As the route runs through the valley beside the water, it remains cool and pleasant even in hot weather.
Afternoon
The highlight of Hanxi is its waterfalls. Water pours down from the mountain, creating white splashes, while the clear pools below reflect a peaceful green colour.
After completing the Hanxi section, continue to Hongling Ancient Trail. Walk uphill along the old stone path until the view suddenly opens up to a large tea field at the mountaintop. Hongling, also known as Hongchi Ridge, was built with mountain stones. Surrounded by dense bamboo forests and tall trees, the trail has a strong sense of history. The upper section is mainly stone steps, while the lower section is paved with stone slabs, making the downhill walk relatively easy.
After the hike, visit a local bayberry orchard. You can enter the orchard and enjoy fresh bayberries. The bayberries here are large, juicy, and sweet.
Evening
Arrive back in Shanghai, where the private tour ends.
