Guyan Huaxiang – Ancient Dam and Painting Town
Guyan Huaxiang (古堰画乡) is a unique historical and artistic district in Lishui City, Zhejiang Province. The name translates as "Ancient Dam and Painting Town". Here, the ancient Tongjiyan irrigation system (over 1500 years old) harmoniously combines with the vibrant artistic center of Huaxiang, where creative life thrives.
What awaits you: a two-day journey from Shanghai by high-speed train. You will see the ancient dam, stroll along the old artists' street, visit galleries and studios, take a boat ride on the Oujiang River, and enjoy the evening atmosphere.
Sights
What awaits you
- Morning departure from Shanghai — meeting at Hongqiao station, high-speed train to Lishui (2.5 h).
- Arrival in Lishui — guide meets you, transfer to Guyan Huaxiang (40 min).
- Check-in at a hotel in Huaxiang — cozy hotel in the artistic district.
- Visit the ancient Tongjiyan Dam — unique 6th-century hydraulic structure.
- Walk among ancient camphor trees — some over 1000 years old.
- Traditional painting workshop — under the guidance of a local artist.
- Lunch with local cuisine — dishes of fresh fish and bamboo shoots.
- Boat ride on the Oujiang River — scenic views of both banks.
- Evening walk through Huaxiang — galleries, shops, illuminations.
- Second day: free time for photos and souvenirs — best shots in the morning.
- Return to Shanghai in the evening of the second day.
Sample two-day itinerary
*Times and program may be adjusted depending on weather and group pace.
| Day / Time | Program stage | Details and transport |
|---|---|---|
| Day 1, 08:00 | Meeting at Hongqiao station (Shanghai) | Meeting with the guide, boarding the train (recommended G7341, 08:30). |
| 11:00 | Arrival at Lishui Station (丽水站) | Exit train, meeting with driver (pre-arranged). |
| 11:00–12:00 | Transfer to Guyan Huaxiang | Taxi or minivan (about 100¥). Road ~40 km, 40 minutes. |
| 12:00–13:00 | Lunch at a local restaurant | Recommended: fish from the Oujiang River and bamboo shoots. |
| 13:00–14:00 | Hotel check-in | Hotel in the Huaxiang area (booked in advance). Short rest. |
| 14:00–17:00 | Tour of Guyan (ancient dam) | Entrance ticket 50¥ (includes ferry). Visit Tongjiyan, camphor trees, old street. |
| 17:00–18:00 | Ferry ride to Huaxiang | Crossing the Oujiang River (included in ticket). Scenic views. |
| 18:00–19:30 | Dinner and evening walk in Huaxiang | Galleries, shops with paintings, street musicians. Night lighting. |
| Day 2, 09:00 | Breakfast at the hotel | Buffet or Chinese breakfast. |
| 09:30–11:30 | Painting or calligraphy workshop | In one of the galleries (optional, cost ~80¥ per person). Or just wander. |
| 11:30–12:30 | Free time / souvenirs | Purchase of paintings, ceramics, tea. Bargaining is acceptable. |
| 12:30–13:30 | Lunch in Huaxiang | Café on the waterfront. |
| 13:30–14:30 | Farewell walk and packing | Last photos, departure from hotel. |
| 14:30–15:30 | Transfer to Lishui station | Taxi or bus. |
| 15:30–16:30 | Buffer time at the station | You can have a snack or buy tea. |
| 16:30–19:30 | Train departure to Shanghai | Recommended G7344 at 16:50, arrival at Hongqiao at 19:20. |
💡 Important notes:
- Train tickets need to be purchased at least 3 days in advance, especially on weekends.
- Hotels in Huaxiang are in high demand, book in advance.
- Insect repellent is a must (lots of greenery and water).
- Comfortable shoes – the area is large, many walking paths.
Price and conditions
Tour cost
Guide services, help with tickets, hotel booking, itinerary planning, accompaniment for both days.
Guide services + sedan (1–3 people) for the entire tour, including round-trip transfer from Shanghai and local travel.
Estimated expenses per person
Duration
Additional services
What else to visit nearby
Ready for a journey into art and antiquity?
Book your Guyan Huaxiang tour right now
⏱️ We recommend booking 2-3 weeks in advance to guarantee hotel availability.
💳 Payment: 50% deposit upon booking, 50% on the first day of the tour.
Frequently Asked Questions
Important information
The indicated prices are valid at the time of offer for private individuals. The cost and availability of train tickets, hotels, and guide services may change.
Booking is made only after receiving a prepayment. The conversion rate is calculated according to the current central bank rate on the payment date.
Cancellation less than 7 days before the start of the event is non-refundable.
In the event of force majeure that makes the execution of the tour program completely or partially impossible (train cancellations, weather conditions, official events), the organizer reserves the right to make changes to the program and its duration.
The basic service cost does not include and is paid additionally: transport, accommodation, meals, entrance tickets, and personal expenses.
