Eastern China

Eastern China is a region of contrasts, where Shanghai`s skyscrapers stand alongside Hangzhou`s tea plantations, and ancient temples hide among bamboo forests. This area combines rich history, stunning nature, and dynamic metropolises. From the water towns of the Yangtze Delta to sacred mountains and beaches—there`s something for everyone.

Great Cities of Eastern China

Shanghai – "Paris of the East". China`s financial and cultural hub dazzles with futuristic sights:   
- The Bund – Iconic waterfront with colonial buildings and views of Jinmao Tower.   
- Pudong District – Home to the 632m Shanghai Tower and the "Glass Bridge" observation deck.   
- Jade Buddha Temple – An active monastery with a rare white jade Buddha statue.   
- Tianzifang – A bohemian quarter with galleries and cafés in traditional “shikumen” houses.

Hangzhou – City of West Lake   
The former Song dynasty capital is famed for poetic landscapes:   
- West Lake (UNESCO) – Stroll among pagodas and bridges, especially magical at sunset.   
- Longjing Tea Plantations – Sample renowned green tea.   
- Lingyin Temple – An ancient Buddhist complex nestled in lush hills.

Qingdao - this coastal city is known for its beaches, beer culture, and architectural blend:   
- Badaguan Scenic Area – Picturesque district with German-style villas.   
- Golden Beach – The city`s best sandy shoreline.   
- Tsingtao Beer Museum – Birthplace of China’s famous beer.   
- Mount Lao – A sacred Taoist mountain with waterfalls and temples.

Nanjing – former Imperial Capital. A city of grand monuments and poignant history:   
- Sun Yat-sen Mausoleum – Memorial to the "Father of the Nation" at Purple Mountain`s base.   
- Confucius Temple (Fuzimiao) – A bustling night market in traditional architecture.   
- Ming City Wall – A preserved section of ancient fortifications.

Suzhou – "Venice of the East". Famed for classical gardens (UNESCO) and canals:   
- Humble Administrator’s Garden – Suzhou’s largest garden, with pavilions and artificial lakes.   
- Suzhou Silk Museum – Showcases the history of the Silk Road.   
- Pingjiang Road – Historic streets lined with artisan shops.

Natural Wonders of Eastern China

Mount Huangshan ("Yellow Mountain"). UNESCO-listed icon:   
- Cloud-Wrapped Peaks – Surreal landscapes immortalized in traditional *guohua* paintings.   
- Hongcun Village – Traditional Hui-style homes with intricate carvings.   
- Hot Springs – Soak in natural thermal pools.

Wuyishan National Park (Fujian). home of premium "Da Hong Pao" oolong tea:   
- Nine-Bend River Bamboo Rafting – Drift past terraced tea fields.   
- Caves & Taoist Temples – Including Tianyou Peak’s monastery.

Mount Putuo (Zhejiang). a sacred Buddhist Island:   
- Puji Temple – Dedicated to the Goddess of Mercy, Guanyin.   
- Pilgrim Trails – Wind through pine forests and cliffs.

Zhangjiajie National Park (Hunan). A jaw-dropping UNESCO site that inspired *Avatar*`s floating mountains:   
- Quartzite Sandstone Pillars – Towering up to 1,080m, draped in lush foliage.   
- "Avatar Hallelujah Mountain" (Yuanjiajie) – The real-life Pandora.   
- Glass Bridge – The world’s longest (430m) and highest (300m).

Eastern China is perfect for blending history (try Shanghai’s *xiaolongbao* or Nanjing’s Peking duck), mountain trekking, and seaside relaxation. Best seasons: spring (April–May) and autumn (September–October).