Pingtan Music Performance and Hangzhou History Afternoon Tea

The Pingtan Music Performance and Hangzhou History Afternoon Tea offers a unique opportunity to take in the rich cultural heritage of Hangzhou. This captivating event blends the enchanting melodies of traditional Suzhou Pingtan folk music with guided tours of historic neighborhoods and a relaxing afternoon tea experience. Attendees can expect to be transported back in time as they discover the vibrant history and traditions that have shaped this renowned Chinese city.

Key Points

• This 2-hour cultural experience offers a live Pingtan music performance, guided tour of a historic neighborhood, and a relaxing afternoon tea.
• The Pingtan music concert features traditional storytelling through delicate melodies and dramatic narratives using pipa and sanxian instruments.
• Guests will explore Hangzhou’s rich cultural heritage, from its roots in Taoism and Buddhism to its modern tech hub status.
• The afternoon tea break takes place in a classic Chinese tea house, providing a peaceful respite to enjoy local teas and snacks.
• This experience is designed to provide an authentic, immersive cultural discovery of Hangzhou for travelers, with a 20% savings offer available.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Event Overview

The Pingtan Music Performance and Hangzhou History experience offers visitors a unique opportunity to enjoy the rich cultural heritage of the region.

For 2 hours, guests can enjoy a live Pingtan music performance, explore an uncommercialized neighborhood, and indulge in a relaxing afternoon tea at a traditional Chinese tea garden.

The event is priced from $68.78 to $85.98 per person, with a 20% savings available.

Priced from $68.78 to $85.98 per person, with a 20% savings available for this immersive cultural experience.

Cancellation is free up to 24 hours in advance, and a reserve now, pay later option is offered.

With a focus on authentic cultural experiences, this tour is a must-do for travelers seeking to discover the essence of Hangzhou.

Itinerary and Highlights

Starting at 225 Jie Fang Lu, the 2-hour experience begins with a 20-minute guided tour, followed by a 35-minute live performance of traditional Suzhou Pingtan folk music.

Next, a 15-minute guided tour explores a nearby historic tea house.

After, there’s a 50-minute break for afternoon tea and local snacks.

The tour finishes at 4 Bi Sheng Miao Xiang.

Highlights include the Pingtan performance, a cultural history talk by local artists, authentic tea and snacks, and an off-the-beaten-path city walk to see traditional Chinese architecture away from commercialized areas.

Pingtan Music Performance

At the heart of this cultural experience is the mesmerizing Pingtan music performance.

Pingtan is a traditional form of storytelling through music, featuring the pipa and sanxian string instruments. Guests will be captivated as local artists bring this centuries-old art form to life.

The 35-minute concert showcases the delicate melodies and dramatic narratives that have enchanted Suzhou audiences for generations. Guests will gain a deeper appreciation for this living tradition and its role in Hangzhou’s rich cultural heritage.

The 35-minute concert showcases the delicate melodies and dramatic narratives that have enchanted Suzhou audiences for generations, providing a deeper appreciation for this living tradition.

The performance provides an immersive glimpse into China’s musical past.

Hangzhou’s Cultural History

Although Hangzhou is renowned as a modern technological and commercial hub, the city boasts a rich cultural heritage that spans over 8,000 years.

From its early beginnings as a center of Taoism and Buddhism, Hangzhou evolved into a prominent seat of imperial power and a hub of scholarly and artistic pursuits.

Today, the city seamlessly blends its historic legacy with cutting-edge advancements, exemplified by the rise of tech giants like Alibaba and pioneering AI companies like DeepSeek.

As your guide shares insights on Hangzhou’s fascinating history, you’ll gain a deeper appreciation for this dynamic city’s multifaceted identity.

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Afternoon Tea Experience

One of the highlights of the Pingtan Music Performance and Hangzhou History experience is the relaxing afternoon tea at a traditional Chinese tea house.

After the music concert and city walk, guests can enjoy a 50-minute break to savor local tea and light snacks.

The tea house features classic Chinese architecture, providing an authentic cultural atmosphere.

Visitors will sample various teas, such as green, black, and oolong, along with small bites like nuts and fresh fruits.

This tea break offers a peaceful respite and chance to reflect on the day’s immersive cultural discoveries.

Inclusions and Exclusions

The tour includes the ticket for the live Pingtan performance, tea and light snacks like nuts and fruits, as well as a guided city walk with an English-speaking host.

The tour excludes:

1. Transportation

2. Lunch (recommended to eat before the event)

3. Accommodations for dietary restrictions, which should be communicated in advance

4. Wheelchair accessibility, as the event isn’t suitable for individuals with mobility challenges

It’s important to note the event is mostly indoors and not weather-dependent.

Guests should dress comfortably and be aware of the venue’s policies regarding alcohol, drugs, and bare feet.

Important Considerations

Guests should keep a few important considerations in mind when booking this cultural experience.

When booking this cultural experience, guests should keep a few important considerations in mind.

The event isn’t suitable for wheelchair users or those with nut allergies. Children are welcome but must remain quiet during the performance.

As it’s mostly an indoor event, weather conditions aren’t a concern. The meeting point is at the first-floor entrance of Xinhua Bookstore in Hangzhou.

Comfortable shoes are recommended, and guests should avoid bringing alcohol, drugs, or going barefoot.

The tour guide speaks English and Mandarin, with additional language support available upon request.

Booking and Availability

How can travelers book this Pingtan music and Hangzhou history experience?

The experience can be easily booked online through the tour provider’s website or major booking platforms.

The options for booking include:

1. Reserve Now & Pay Later: Secure the booking with a small deposit, and pay the remaining balance closer to the tour date.

2. Full Prepayment: Pay the total amount upfront to lock in the tour.

3. Free Cancellation: Enjoy the flexibility to cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

4. Limited Availability: Book early as spots are limited, especially during peak seasons.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is This Event Suitable for Large Groups?

This event may not be suitable for large groups. The small-group format allows for a more intimate, personalized experience. However, the host may be able to accommodate slightly larger parties with advance notice.

What Is the Minimum Number of Participants Required?

The event doesn’t have a minimum number of participants. It’s available for individual bookings, and guests can reserve their spot without meeting a group size requirement. The experience can accommodate a wide range of group sizes.

Can I Request a Private or Customized Tour?

Yes, you can request a private or customized tour. The tour operator offers flexible options to accommodate individual needs and preferences upon request, subject to availability and additional fees.

Is Photography Allowed During the Performance?

Photography is allowed during the performance, but visitors should avoid using flash to avoid disturbing the artists. Discreet photography is permitted, but the tour guide may request visitors to refrain from recording certain segments of the show.

Do You Offer Any Discounts for Students or Seniors?

The experience offers discounts for students and seniors. They can save up to 20% on the regular price, which ranges from $85.98 to $68.78 per person. Advance booking is required to take advantage of the savings.

The Sum Up

The Pingtan Music Performance and Hangzhou History Afternoon Tea offers a unique culture, blending the enchanting sounds of traditional Suzhou Pingtan music with guided explorations of Hangzhou’s historic neighborhoods and a serene afternoon tea experience. This captivating two-hour event provides a delightful opportunity to appreciate the rich heritage and vibrant history of this captivating Chinese city.

You can check availability for your dates here: