Hangzhou and Mt Huanshan

One of my favourite places in China is Hangzhou
which is now only a 45 minute ride on the high speed train from Shanghai. Or you may want to go by road and visit one of the ancient water villages en route. I find it a nice break from the hassle of Shanghai and many Shanghai residents feel the same way as they like to escape here on the weekends, so best to go there mid week. I love the setting of West Lake where you can hop on the trolley that goes around the lake, enjoy a nice walk or go out for a boat ride. It is a great place for people watching and relaxing. Away from the lake you can walk in the old street , visit the Temples and the tree plantations.
It is good to spend 2 nights here, either as a side trip from Shanghai or continuing on by road to Huanshan Mountain, the inspiration for many artists. You will need another 2 nights, the first night you will spend at the base of the mountain and the next morning you take the cable car up and spend the night at the top. (You must pre-arrange this or you will never get up the mountain – there are thousands of local tourists also wanting to enjoy the sites.) The next morning get up early for the amazing sunrise before heading down later in the morning, or spend another day if you like lots of hiking.