Ink & Mountain
A deeply immersive cultural journey designed for international art lovers
11 Days · Huangshan · Four Treasures of the Study · Landscape Painting · Traditional Craftsmanship
📅 Date: April 15 – April 25, 2026
Meet Our Team
At the heart of our cultural tour is a passionate, dedicated team with one goal: to share the richness of Chinese traditional arts and culture in the most authentic, enjoyable, and inspiring way possible.
Every element of this journey has been carefully curated—from the destinations we visit to the experiences we offer—to bring you closer to the spirit of China. With deep knowledge of local traditions and a true love for cultural exchange, our team is here not only to guide, but to accompany you through every moment.
You’ll explore ancient art forms, take part in hands-on workshops, visit heritage craft studios, and witness daily life in historic towns. Along the way, we’ll share stories, insights, and laughter, and of course—savor some truly delicious local dishes.
We’re not just leading a tour. We’re creating a journey full of creativity, discovery, and connection—and we can’t wait to share it with you.
Fiona Sheng
Your Painting Guide & Program Host
Fiona Sheng, instructor of the Oriental arts, whose journey began in China and has since taken her talents to Belgium. From the age of five, Fiona has immersed herself in the intricate world of traditional Chinese painting and calligraphy—a dedication that has earned her hundreds of awards both nationally and internationally.
Beyond her artistry, Fiona has years of experience organizing cultural activities for international audiences, including students, adults, and MBA participants. Her programs have brought people from around the world closer to the beauty and philosophy of Chinese traditions.
Fiona is deeply committed to sharing the rich tapestry of her cultural heritage with a global audience.
Gloria Wu
Your Tour Coordinator & Cultural Companion
Gloria Wu plays a key role in keeping everything running smoothly throughout our journey. With a background in biology and a sharp mind for logistics and numbers, she brings structure and clarity to the experience—managing schedules, assisting with translations, and supporting participants throughout the trip.
Gloria’s connection to traditional Chinese painting and calligraphy runs deep. Trained from a young age alongside Fiona, she shares not only a lifelong friendship but also a cultural foundation that enriches the atmosphere of our program. Her calm presence, attention to detail, and understanding of both East and West make her an invaluable part of the team.
Master Sun
Your Martial Arts Guide & Cultural Mentor
We are honored to welcome Master Sun, the 8th-generation inheritor of San Huang Pao Chui (三皇炮锤), a legendary style of Chinese martial arts known for its powerful, fluid strikes and deep cultural heritage. With decades of dedicated practice, Master Sun embodies the discipline, grace, and spirit of traditional martial arts.
In addition to his lineage in San Huang Pao Chui, Master Sun is also a skilled practitioner of Tai Chi, Shaolin Fist, and Eight Trigram Palm — each reflecting a unique philosophy and movement language within Chinese martial tradition.
Under his guidance, participants will experience martial arts not only as a physical discipline, but also as a living expression of balance, mindfulness, and inner strength — values that echo throughout Chinese art and culture.
Program Highlights
This is not just a trip — it’s a deep, hands-on experience of Chinese traditional culture.
🌱 Small Group, Deep Connection
This all-inclusive journey is limited to a maximum of 18 participants total, ensuring a personal and enriching experience. Travel, accommodations, meals — and plenty of joyful moments — are all thoughtfully arranged, so you can focus entirely on learning, creating, and connecting.
🖐️ Immersive Craft Workshops
Our workshops are centered around the Four Treasures of the Study — rice paper, inkstick, inkstone, and brush. You’ll visit carefully selected traditional manufacturers for each, and experience hands-on the making of paper, brushes, and inksticks, as well as the carving of inkstones.
🎨 Ink & Mountains: Painting Classes
Throughout the journey, you’ll take part in multiple live sketching and ink painting sessions, held in some of the most inspiring natural and cultural settings — from ancient villages with whitewashed walls and stone bridges to the breathtaking vistas of Mount Huang. Guided step by step, you’ll explore traditional brush techniques, composition, and the philosophy behind Chinese landscape painting. As the days unfold, you’ll develop your own piece, culminating in the creation of a personalized scroll, a meaningful work of art that captures both your learning and the spirit of the places you've traveled through.
🏮 Cultural Treasures Beyond the Brush
Beyond painting and martial arts, you’ll take part in a series of enriching cultural experiences — from tea picking and tasting in the mountains, to seal carving, herbal recognition, and the crafting of fragrant sachets (xiangnang) and stone rubbing.
Wander through ancient villages, try on traditional Hanfu, and connect with the beauty of everyday life in southern Anhui. Each experience is a quiet doorway into China’s living heritage.
🍲 A Taste of Anhui
Food is an essential part of culture, and during this journey, you'll enjoy the rich and diverse flavors of Anhui cuisine — one of China’s renowned regional culinary traditions. From delicate stews to earthy, mountain-inspired dishes, we’ll explore local specialties that reflect the landscape and soul of the region. Thoughtfully selected meals throughout the trip will introduce you to a variety of tastes, textures, and ingredients — with delicious options available for both meat-eaters and vegetarians.
☯️ Martial Arts & Mindfulness
As part of this immersive cultural journey, you’ll also experience the meditative flow of traditional Chinese martial arts. Through guided Tai Chi and Kung Fu sessions, you’ll explore the harmony of movement, breath, and intention — an art form that, like ink painting, reflects the rhythm of nature and the balance within. It’s a moment to ground yourself, reconnect with your body, and understand the philosophy that underlies so much of Chinese artistic and spiritual life.
Program Schedule*
Day 1
April 15 – Arrival – Jing County
• Morning: High-speed train journey to Jing County
• Afternoon: Visit to the Xuan Paper Culture Park – Discover the secrets of traditional handmade rice paper
• Evening: Check-in to Hotel & Welcome Gathering
Day 2
April 16 – Jing County & Jingde County
• Morning: Explore the Three Rabbit Brush Factory – Witness the delicate art of brush-making
• Afternoon:
- Traditional Rubbing & Ink Imprint Workshop
-Introduction to Chinese Landscape Painting
Day 3
April 17 – Jingde County
• Morning: Sachet Craft Workshop – Scented tradition and embroidery
• Afternoon: Seal Carving Experience – Engrave your personal mark in stone
Day 4
April 18 – Jingde to Zhaji Village
• Morning: Visit the Xuan Ink Museum and Heritage Studio
• Midday: Visit to Raw Inkstone Quarry
• Afternoon: Design & Carve Your Own Inkstone Workshop
Day 5
April 19 – Zhaji Ancient Village
• Daytime: Cultural Immersion in Zhaji – Ancient village walk, sketching, and inspiration gathering
• Afternoon-Evening: Evening Landscape Painting Class
Day 6
April 20 – Huangshan (Yellow Mountain/Mount Huang)
• Morning & Afternoon: Hiking & Cable Car Tour through Huangshan Scenic Area
• Evening: Relaxation at a resort and enjoy Hot Spring
Day 7
April 21 – Huangshan
• Morning: Explore further into the breathtaking Huangshan mountain range
• Afternoon: Landscape Painting Session
• Evening: Hot Spring Soak & Overnight at Resort
Day 8
April 22 – She County
• Morning: Tea Picking & Hanfu Experience – Wear traditional Chinese attire
• Afternoon: Stroll through the ancient streets of Huizhou Old Town
Day 9
April 23 – Huangshan
• Morning: Visit to the Renowned Hu Kaiwen Ink Factory
• Afternoon: Final Painting Class & Check-in at Resort Hotel
Day 10
April 24 – Huangshan
• Daytime: Tai Chi & Kungfu Session – Movement & Meditation
• Evening: Farewell Banquet
Day 11
April 25 – Departure
• Morning: Slow breakfast
• Noon: Return to Shanghai
*Like a landscape painting, this journey follows a thoughtful composition, with room for natural flow and quiet adjustments. A full itinerary will be shared after your reservation is confirmed, allowing you to prepare with clarity and peace of mind.
What You’ll Gain
Paint in the Footsteps of Ancient Masters
Explore the landscapes that inspired centuries of Chinese art — from misty mountains to quiet village paths. Let the natural beauty of Huangshan and Anhui’s ancient towns guide your brush as you create in the very heart of traditional China.
Immerse Yourself in Living Traditions
Beyond painting, you’ll dive into the heart of Chinese culture — from crafting Fragrant Sachets, Stone Rubbing and Carving Seals to sipping mountain-grown Tea and practicing Tai Chi. Visit artisan studios to experience the making of Xuan paper, inksticks, and brushes, and discover how these timeless traditions still thrive today.
Join a Community of Culture Lovers
Connect with a small group of like-minded individuals from around the world. Share stories, inspiration, and a deep appreciation for art and tradition in a warm, inclusive setting.
Pricing
🐦 Early Bird Offer
€100 OFF
€100 OFF
Reserve your spot early and enjoy a €100 discount on any pricing option! This offer is available for all participants — whether you're traveling solo or with a friend. Each participant qualifies for the discount individually — meaning €100 off per person.
- Applies to all pricing tiers, including solo travelers, friends sharing a room, and companion participants, etc.
- To secure the early bird rate, a €1,000 deposit must be made by September 30, 2025
- Remaining balance will be due closer to the trip date, with full details shared after registration
🏡 Shared Journey – 2 Travelers, Shared Room
€2380 / person
€2380 / person
- One shared room for two participants
- Full access to all workshops and classes
- All accommodations, meals, insurance, local transport, and materials included
- Ideal for close companions who want to travel light and connect deeply
👯♀️ Journey Together – 2 Travelers, Private Rooms
€2780 / person
€2780 / person
- Two participants, each with a private room
- Full access to all workshops and classes
- All accommodations, meals, insurance, local transport, and materials included
- Enjoy the journey side by side, with personal space to unwind
💼 Solo Explorer
€2880
or €2480 if open to sharing
€2880
or €2480 if open to sharing
This option is designed for solo travelers who value flexibility. You'll have your own private room by default, but if you're open to sharing and we are able to pair you with a suitable roommate, you will receive a €400 discount on the full price.
- Private single room throughout the trip — unless a shared room match is confirmed
- €400 discount applied if sharing is possible (final rate: €2480)
- Includes all workshops, accommodations, meals, insurance, local transport, and cultural experiences
🌟 Group Sign-Up Option
Special Rate for 5+ Participants
Special Rate for 5+ Participants
If you’re planning to join this journey with a group of friends, colleagues, or fellow art lovers, we’re happy to offer a special group rate for parties of five or more. This is a wonderful way to share the experience while enjoying additional savings.
- Available for groups of 5 or more participants registering together
- Includes all program offerings: workshops, accommodations, insurance, meals, and cultural experiences
- Ideal for clubs, associations, or close-knit creative communities
- To inquire about group pricing, please contact us directly at: fiona.s@inkdifferentstudio.com
👨👩👧 Cultural Companion Rate
€1980
€1980
A special option for adult companions — partners, spouses, or friends — who wish to join the journey without participating in the painting workshops.
- Includes all meals, insurance, accommodations (shared room with the full participant), local transportation, and guided excursions
- Also includes cultural experiences such as tea tasting, village tours, and martial arts sessions
- Excludes all painting workshops, art materials, and instruction sessions
- Open to adults only
- During workshop hours, companions are free to explore or relax, but must agree to rejoin the group at scheduled meeting points and times
Frequently Asked Questions
Q1: I have no experience in painting or calligraphy. Can I still join?
Absolutely! This program is designed for beginners and enthusiasts alike. Each painting session is guided step by step, with plenty of personal support — no prior experience needed.
Q2: What does the price include?
The price covers all accommodation, transportation within China, workshop materials and fees, entrance tickets, most meals, insurance, and bilingual guidance throughout the trip. It does not include international airfare or personal expenses.
Q3: Do I need a visa to join the program in China?
Visa requirements vary depending on your nationality, so we recommend checking with your local Chinese consulate for the most accurate and up-to-date information.
That said, the recent trend is promising — many European passport holders (including those from France, Germany, Italy, the Netherlands, Spain, and several others) can now travel to China visa-free for up to 15 days for tourism.
If you’re unsure, feel free to reach out to us and we’ll do our best to point you in the right direction.
Q5: What kind of physical activity is involved?
Q4: Do I need to bring art supplies?
All painting materials — including paper, ink, and mounting supplies — will be provided for you.
You’re welcome to bring your own tools if you prefer, but it’s entirely optional. We want you to feel comfortable and at ease during each session.
If you’d like to use your own brushes, feel free to bring them along. If not, just let us know in advance — we’re happy to provide brushes as well. Please note that the feel of traditional Chinese brushes may be different from what you’re used to, so having your own can offer a sense of familiarity.
This journey involves a moderate level of physical activity. Participants can expect some walking during village explorations, cultural site visits, and scenic hikes — especially during our time on Mount Huang. In addition, the program includes gentle Tai Chi and martial arts sessions that focus on balance, breathing, and body awareness. While the pace is not strenuous, a general level of comfort with movement and walking is recommended.
For those who may need extra support during the mountain portion, we now offer the option to rent a lightweight wearable exoskeleton to assist with uphill walking and stability. If you have any mobility concerns or accessibility needs, please feel free to contact us — we’ll do our best to ensure you’re well supported throughout the journey.
Q6: Is the program suitable for vegetarians or those with dietary needs?
Yes! We do our best to offer a balanced and flavorful variety of local dishes, with vegetarian options available. Please let us know any specific dietary requirements in advance.
🏦 Payment Information
To make your payment experience as smooth and efficient as possible, all program fees will be paid directly to our team in China. This approach allows us to manage local arrangements more effectively and avoid unnecessary third-party fees — helping us keep the journey personal, streamlined, and thoughtfully curated.
Once you’ve completed your registration form, you’ll receive a confirmation email with the next steps. To secure your spot, simply follow the bank transfer instructions provided and submit your deposit by the indicated deadline.
We appreciate your understanding and support in helping us keep this experience small, authentic, and community-driven.
For full details such as deposit deadlines, refund options, and coverage, please refer to the
👉 [Program Terms: Payment, Cancellation & Refund Policy – Cultural Journey 2026].
📋 What You'll Need After Registration
Once your spot is confirmed, we’ll be in touch to collect a few important details to help us prepare for your journey. These include:
A copy of your passport (for hotel and travel bookings)
Your dietary preferences or restrictions (if not already submitted)
Emergency contact information
A detailed welcome pack and next steps will be sent to you after registration.
A Glimpse into the Experience
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