Moganshan: bamboo forests and the villas of emperors
Moganshan (莫干山) is a scenic mountain resort in Zhejiang Province, just 200 km from Shanghai. The place is famous for its endless bamboo forests, crystal‑clear air and ancient stone villas built by Europeans and the Chinese elite in the early 20th century.
Here you can walk along shaded bamboo trails, climb to the Eagle Rock observation deck, see the former residence of Chiang Kai-shek and taste the famous Moganshan green tea. An ideal place for those who want to escape the city bustle and enjoy nature.
Attractions along the route
What awaits you
- Departure from Shanghai (08:00) — meeting at Xinzhuang metro station, comfortable car with a Russian guide. The drive to Moganshan takes about 2.5–3 hours.
- Arrival at the mountain park (~11:00) — ticket purchase, short briefing, restroom.
- Walk through the bamboo forest — you will see bamboo up to 20 meters high, hear its rustling in the wind. Perfect spots for photos.
- White Cloud Cave Villa — former residence of Chiang Kai-shek and American missionaries. Now a museum with furniture and photographs from the early 20th century.
- Eagle Rock Observation Deck — a 15‑minute climb up stairs to a rock offering a panoramic view of the valley and mountain peaks.
- Lunch at a traditional restaurant — Zhejiang cuisine: bamboo shoots, river fish, local tofu.
- Tea ceremony on the plantation — you will be shown how tea leaves are collected and processed, and offered freshly brewed green tea.
- Vintage Car Museum and free time — a collection of retro cars from the 1930s, souvenir shop (bamboo crafts, tea).
- Return to Shanghai (~18:30–19:30) — transfer to Xinzhuang metro station.
Approximate tour program (1 day)
*A high‑speed train option Shanghai–Deqing (德清) + taxi to the mountains (~40 minutes) is also available.
| Time | Program stage | Details |
|---|---|---|
| 08:00 | Departure from Shanghai (Xinzhuang metro) | Drive to Moganshan ~2.5–3 hours with a stop. |
| 11:00 | Arrival at the mountain park | Ticket purchase, route map. |
| 11:15–13:00 | Walk through the bamboo forest and villas | Shady trails, historic buildings, observation deck. |
| 13:00–14:00 | Lunch | Restaurant at the foot with mountain views. |
| 14:00–15:30 | Tea plantation and museum | Tea brewing workshop, car collection. |
| 15:30–16:30 | Free time / souvenirs | Buy tea, bamboo products, take photos. |
| 16:30–19:30 | Return to Shanghai | Estimated arrival at Xinzhuang metro station at 19:30. |
💡 Important notes:
- It is 5–7 degrees cooler in the mountains than in Shanghai — bring a sweater or windbreaker.
- Comfortable trekking shoes are a must (there are stairs and dirt trails).
- Bring: water, passport, cash, camera.
- Best time: April–June (bamboo flowering) and September–November (golden autumn).
Cost and conditions
Tour cost
Train + taxi
EconomyGuide meets at the park, assistance with tickets. Transfer to the station on your own.
By car
ComfortGuide services, transfer from Shanghai by sedan.
Additional expenses per person
- Entrance ticket to Moganshan mountain park100¥ (~14$)
- Lunch (local cuisine)70–90¥ (~10–13$)
- Tea ceremony with tasting40¥ (~6$)
- Train ticket Shanghai–Deqing (round trip, 2nd class)~200¥ (~29$)
- Taxi from station to mountains (round trip, per group)~150¥ (~21$)
Duration
Additional services
Frequently asked questions
Important information
Prices are valid for 2026. Booking requires a 50% prepayment (PayPal, card). Cancellation 48 hours before – full refund, less than 48 hours – 50% refund (train tickets purchased in advance). The organizer reserves the right to change the program due to weather or force majeure. The park is open daily from 08:00 to 17:30.
