Nestled in the historic Shen’ao Village, Eight Blessings Inn offers a tranquil retreat just three hours from Shanghai. This meticulously restored 200-year-old Qing Dynasty mansion blends rustic charm with modern comforts, inviting guests to unwind amid ancient architecture and lush countryside. With curated cultural activities, scenic hikes, and farm-to-table dining, it’s an ideal getaway for those seeking slow living and authentic heritage.
About Eight Blessings Inn
Tucked away in the 800-year-old Shen’ao Village, Eight Blessings Inn is a lovingly restored 200-year-old Qing Dynasty mansion that offers a peaceful retreat from city life. Located in Tonglu County (under Hangzhou’s jurisdiction), the inn sits within a National Historic Village known for its well-preserved Ming-Qing architecture and an ancient, still-functioning Song Dynasty drainage system. Just a 20-minute drive from Tonglu Station (or 3 hours from Shanghai), the village feels worlds away—surrounded by misty mountains, lily ponds, and winding stone pathways that whisper of China’s rural past.
Managed with a philosophy of "simple, natural living," Eight Blessings encourages guests to slow down, whether sipping tea in its open-air atrium, joining a traditional rubbing workshop, or exploring nearby artisan studios in Shen’ao’s revived "Cultural Artists Village." With no TVs or disposable amenities, the focus here is on reconnection—to history, nature, and the rhythms of village life.
Rooms at Eight Blessings Inn
The inn's nine rooms—each named after virtues like Joy, Peace, and Kindness—blend minimalist elegance with heritage touches, from exposed wooden beams to heated stone floors. Ranging from doubles (1.8m beds) to twins (1.35m beds), all feature ensuite bathrooms with heated floors, air-conditioning, ceiling fans, and Bluetooth speakers, offering modern comfort in a serene 25-30 sqm space.
All rooms come equipped with the following amenities:
- Bedding & Linens
- Bathroom: Ensuite bathroom, toiletries, towels (Bottled water, disposable slippers/toothbrushes NOT provided)
- Comfort & Convenience: Air-conditioning and heated floors in bathroom, ceiling fans, Bluetooth music players, drinking water
Staycation Packages
2-Night Stay for 2 Adults
Weekday: Check-in from Sun-Thu
Weekend: Check-in from Fri-Sat
Inclusions:
- Tea Set x1
- Dinner x1
- Rubbing: A traditional Chinese ink rubbing of characters on rice paper (appointment required, optional activity)
- Car pickup from Tonglu Station
Activities
Cultural Experiences:
- Traditional Rubbing (RMB 78/pax) or Gourd Etching (RMB 128/pax).
- Incense Making, Tea Ceremony, Dumpling Classes (RMB 60–200/pax, book ahead).
Outdoor Exploration:
- Hike Daqi Shan Forest Park (2 hours, RMB 46/pax entry).
- Shishe Village & Ma Ling Pass trails.
- Fuchun River Slow Living Area (bookstores, cafes, boat cruises).
Day Trips:
- Yanzi Ling Pier (2–3hr scenic cruise).
- Qinglongwu Village (art studios, lunch at Hua Lu).
Dining
- Breakfast: Included (local Zhejiang & Western fare).
- Dinner: Home-cooked meals or hotpot (RMB 120–150/pax, advance booking).
- Bar: Limited wine/drinks available.
How to Book
- After purchasing your staycation package on SmartShanghai, guests should contact SmartShanghai to confirm preferred dates.
- At least 1 week’s advance notice is required to check availability.
- SmartShanghai will assist in coordinating with Eight Blessings Inn to secure the booking and ensure a smooth experience for the guest.
Contact SmartShanghai:
Directions
•By Train: A direct train from Shanghai Hongqiao Station to Tonglu Station takes 1.5 hours (20min taxi to inn, RMB 80).
•By Car: A drive from Shanghai takes approximately 3.5 hours, depending on the departure location within the city (navigate to Shen’ao Village Cultural Hall, input "深澳村文化礼堂" on Baidu Maps).
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