8 Days Shanghai Hangzhou Suzhou Nanjing Tour

Summary

Day 1 Arrive in Shanghai
Day 2 Shanghai: Yuyuan Garden, The Bund, Tianzifang, Old French Concession, Nanjing Road
Day 3 Shanghai -- Hangzhou by bullet train: West Lake Boat Cruise, Lingyin Temple, Meijiawu Tea Plantation, Hefang Street
Day 4 Hangzhou--Suzhou by bullet train: Lingering Garden, Hanshan Temple, Panmen Gate, Shantang Street
Day 5 Suzhou: Tongli Water Town, Take Train to Nanjing
Day 6 Nanjing: Nanjing Massacre Museum, Ming Xiaoling Mausoleum, Presidential Palace, Confucius Temple
Day 7 Nanjing: Dr.Sun Yat-Sen’s Mausoleum, Linggu temple, Nanjing Ming City Wall, take train to Shanghai
Day 8 Shanghai Departure

Day 1 Shanghai Arrival

Welcome to Shanghai! Upon your arrival in Shanghai, our Shanghai local tour guide will pick up you at the exit of Shanghai international airport holding with a welcome sign "Your Way Holiday" and escort you to your hotel directly. The rest of the day is free on your own to explore Shanghai, which is one of the biggest city in China.

Day 2 Shanghai

Your day begins as our professional English-speaking guide greets you in the lobby of your Shanghai hotel, holding a “Your Way Holiday” sign. After a warm welcome, you will set off in the comfort of a private vehicle to explore the highlights of this dynamic metropolis.

Your tour begins at Yuyuan Garden, one of Shanghai’s most treasured classical Chinese gardens, located in the heart of the Old Town. Originally built in the 16th century by a government official as a peaceful retreat for his parents, the garden showcases the essence of Jiangnan garden design — with artfully arranged rockeries, koi-filled ponds, delicate pavilions, and century-old trees. Every stone and corridor in the garden tells a story, and the intricate details in the wood carvings and lattice windows reflect the refined aesthetics of Ming Dynasty architecture. Surrounded by the bustling bazaars and snack vendors of the old city, this serene garden offers a striking contrast and a gentle entry into Shanghai’s deep cultural roots. Your guide will walk you through the symbolic design, pointing out hidden meanings and stories behind the garden’s layout.

Next, head to The Bund, Shanghai’s most iconic waterfront promenade, stretching along the western bank of the Huangpu River. Once the heart of colonial-era Shanghai, The Bund is lined with majestic buildings showcasing a wide range of European architectural styles, including Gothic, Baroque, Romanesque, and Art Deco. On the opposite bank, you’ll be greeted by the soaring skyline of Lujiazui — with futuristic landmarks like the Oriental Pearl Tower, Shanghai Tower, and Jin Mao Tower rising above the clouds. This dramatic contrast captures the essence of Shanghai: a city that embraces both history and modernity. Your guide will share fascinating stories about the foreign concessions, trading houses, and how The Bund became the symbol of Shanghai’s international legacy.

After The Bund, venture into the artsy and atmospheric alleyways of Tianzifang, a creative enclave hidden within a preserved shikumen neighborhood. Once an unassuming residential quarter, Tianzifang has evolved into a vibrant hub of art studios, design boutiques, coffee houses, and galleries — all while retaining its original lane-house charm. As you weave through its narrow stone-paved lanes, you’ll see local residents hanging laundry next to contemporary sculptures, and traditional noodle shops beside stylish cocktail bars. It’s a place where tradition and trend coexist in delightful tension. Your guide will help you navigate this lively maze, highlighting notable shops, studios, and cultural curiosities along the way.

Around midday, take a relaxing break and enjoy a delicious lunch at a carefully selected local restaurant, offering a cozy atmosphere and a taste of authentic Shanghainese cuisine. Known for its subtle sweetness, refined techniques, and seasonal ingredients, Shanghai’s food reflects the elegance of the Jiangnan region. Signature dishes may include braised pork belly (hongshao rou), stir-fried river shrimp, Shanghai-style spring rolls, and the famous xiaolongbao (soup dumplings) freshly steamed to perfection.

Then take a stroll through the Old French Concession, a peaceful and leafy district once governed by the French between the mid-1800s and 1940s. This part of the city is famous for its plane tree-lined boulevards, European-style villas, and quiet charm — a favorite among locals and expatriates alike. It’s a side of Shanghai that feels almost Parisian, with its elegant cafés, tucked-away galleries, and stylish boutiques set inside restored colonial buildings. Your guide will share stories of Shanghai’s cosmopolitan golden age, point out historical residences, and guide you through the district’s graceful streets with insider insights.

Wrap up your sightseeing at Nanjing Road, the beating heart of Shanghai’s shopping and entertainment scene. Stretching over 5 kilometers, Nanjing Road is home to a mix of heritage department stores, luxury brands, tech retailers, snack stalls, and street performers. The eastern section near the Bund has retained much of its old-school charm, while the western end near Jing’an Temple bursts with modern malls and flagship stores. As night falls, the road comes alive with neon lights and bustling energy, making it the perfect place to feel the pulse of the city. Your guide will offer recommendations for local snacks or souvenirs, help you navigate the crowds, and ensure a smooth wrap-up to your urban adventure.

After a full day of cultural discovery, your guide and driver will escort you back to your hotel, leaving you with a deeper appreciation for the many layers of Shanghai — where ancient traditions, colonial charm, and futuristic ambition coexist in perfect harmony.

Day 3 Hangzhou

Your day begins with breakfast at your hotel in Shanghai. Afterward, your private driver will be waiting in the hotel lobby, holding a “Your Way Holiday” sign, ready to escort you to the Shanghai train station. There, you’ll board a comfortable high-speed train bound for Hangzhou, a city long celebrated as “heaven on earth” for its natural beauty and cultural richness. Upon arrival, your local English-speaking guide will greet you at the station exit with the same “Your Way Holiday” sign, ready to begin your exploration of this historic lakeside city.

Begin your visit in Hangzhou with a tranquil boat ride on West Lake, the soul of the city and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Known for its poetic beauty and historical significance, West Lake has inspired countless Chinese poems, paintings, and legends. As you glide across the still waters, you’ll pass by some of its most famous scenic spots — including the Broken Bridge, the elegant Su Causeway, and the mystical Three Pools Mirroring the Moon, which is featured on the back of the one-yuan note. The lake’s willow-lined shores, distant pagodas, and charming pavilions form a living painting in motion. Your guide will share the rich history and cultural stories behind each landmark, helping you appreciate why West Lake is considered the crown jewel of classical Chinese landscape aesthetics.

Next, travel to the peaceful foothills of Feilai Peak to visit Lingyin Temple, also known as the Temple of the Soul’s Retreat. One of the oldest and most important Buddhist temples in China, Lingyin was founded in 328 AD and has served as a major pilgrimage site for over 1,600 years. Surrounded by lush forest and limestone cliffs, the temple complex includes grand halls, incense-filled courtyards, and a towering statue of Sakyamuni Buddha.
Just outside the temple lies the famous Feilai Feng Grottoes, where over 300 intricate Buddhist statues from the Tang and Song dynasties are carved directly into the rock. These carvings are spiritual, artistic, and historic treasures. As you explore the sacred grounds, your guide will explain Buddhist customs, temple rituals, and the deep spiritual significance that makes Lingyin one of Hangzhou’s most revered sites.

Around midday, you’ll be welcomed to Meijiawu Tea Village, a peaceful and picturesque hillside community nestled on the outskirts of Hangzhou. Renowned for its production of Longjing (Dragon Well) tea, this historic village is surrounded by rolling tea terraces, bamboo groves, and misty hills that offer a serene escape from the bustling city. Upon arrival, you’ll enjoy a farm-to-table lunch at a local countryside restaurant run by tea farmers. The menu features traditional Hangzhou-style cuisine, with dishes often infused with fresh tea leaves. Signature options may include Longjing tea shrimp, tea-scented chicken, and seasonal vegetables prepared with delicate local flavors. The setting is rustic yet charming, with sweeping views of the surrounding tea fields adding to the relaxed atmosphere.

After lunch, take a leisurely stroll through the beautifully maintained tea plantations of Meijiawu, where rows of neatly trimmed Longjing (Dragon Well) tea bushes stretch across the terraced hillsides. With a centuries-old reputation for producing top-grade green tea, this peaceful village offers a rare opportunity to witness traditional tea-making up close. At a local tea house, experienced artisans will demonstrate the time-honored process of hand-picking, sun-drying, and pan-roasting the delicate leaves—all done manually to preserve the tea’s signature fragrance and smooth taste. You may even try rolling the leaves yourself under the guidance of a local tea master. Afterward, settle into a quiet pavilion with sweeping views of the emerald hills and enjoy a freshly brewed cup of Longjing tea as your guide shares the rich history of tea in Hangzhou, the cultural significance of Longjing, and how tea continues to shape daily life in the region. Your guide will be by your side throughout the visit to interpret, explain each step of the process, and ensure a truly immersive and relaxing experience.

After your full day of exploration, your guide and driver will escort you to your hotel in Hangzhou, ensuring a smooth and comfortable check-in. You’ll end the day with a deeper appreciation for the cultural richness, natural beauty, and timeless elegance that make Hangzhou one of China’s most beloved destinations.

Day 4 Suzhou

In the morning, oue driver will pick you up at your hotel and drive you to Hangzhou train station for your train to Suzhou. Once you arrived, our Suzhou local tour guide will pick you up at the exit of train station with a welcome signage "Your Way Holiday". And start your tour directly.

Your first destination is the Lingering Garden, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of Suzhou’s most exquisite classical gardens. Recognized as one of China’s four most famous gardens—alongside the Humble Administrator’s Garden, the Summer Palace, and Chengde’s Mountain Resort—this masterpiece is celebrated for its intricate landscape design. The garden's layout showcases a harmonious blend of traditional Chinese architecture and natural beauty, employing masterful spatial techniques that have earned global acclaim. As you stroll through its serene paths and elegant pavilions, your guide will share fascinating insights into its history, architectural significance, and cultural importance, ensuring a deeper appreciation of this iconic site. Your guide will also point out hidden design elements and photo spots often missed by casual visitors.

Next, head to Hanshan Temple, one of the most legendary Buddhist temples in China. First constructed during the Liang Dynasty, this tranquil temple became famous thanks to a Tang Dynasty poem by Zhang Ji, which describes the midnight tolling of its bell. As you explore the serene courtyards and intricate halls, you'll discover ancient scriptures, stone carvings, and a peaceful atmosphere ideal for reflection. Don’t miss the opportunity to ring the massive bell, a symbol of peace and good fortune that continues to resonate through centuries of Chinese spiritual tradition. Your guide will share the poem's meaning and show you the best way to experience the temple’s tranquil charm.

Enjoy a delightful meal at a local Suzhou Chinese restaurant, renowned for its authentic and flavorful Suzhou cuisine. Indulge in a variety of traditional dishes that showcase the unique culinary heritage of the region, such as sweet and savory squirrel-shaped mandarin fish, tender braised pork, and seasonal delicacies made with fresh, locally-sourced ingredients. The warm and inviting atmosphere of the restaurant enhances your dining experience, offering a perfect blend of comfort and tradition.

Then, visit Panmen Gate, the oldest city gate in Suzhou and a remarkable relic of ancient Chinese city defense. The site features a rare combination of water and land gates, as well as a towering pagoda and fortified walls, showcasing the city’s historical role as a military stronghold. As you walk along the old stone paths, admire the ingenious ancient engineering and learn about the strategic importance of Panmen in Suzhou’s long history. The peaceful surroundings, with waterways, bridges, and classical gardens, also offer beautiful photo opportunities. Your guide will provide historical context and guide you through the best viewpoints within the complex.

Afterwards, enjoy a relaxing stroll along Shantang Street, a historic canal-side walkway dating back over a thousand years. Known as “the first street of Suzhou,” Shantang Street is lined with charming whitewashed buildings, traditional shops, tea houses, and local residences. This scenic area offers a perfect blend of cultural atmosphere and local lifestyle. As you wander beside the water and cross arched stone bridges, your guide will share tales of ancient merchants, scholars, and the evolution of life in Suzhou’s old quarters. You can also browse for Suzhou handicrafts and sample local snacks along the way. Your guide will help you discover authentic local snacks and recommend reputable souvenir shops.

After the tour, your driver will escort you back to your hotel in Suzhou, concluding a full day of cultural exploration and discovery.

Day 5 Tongli Weter Town

Today, you will travel to Tongli Ancient Town, a picturesque water town just 30 minutes from Suzhou, known for its interlacing canals, ancient bridges, and whitewashed homes. With a history of over a thousand years, Tongli has preserved its traditional charm and layout, offering visitors a rare glimpse into the cultural heritage of the Jiangnan region. Your private driver and English-speaking guide will meet you at your hotel in Suzhou and accompany you on this full-day journey into a timeless town.

Your first destination is the Retreat and Reflection Garden, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the finest examples of private classical gardens in China. Built during the late Qing Dynasty by a retired official seeking peace away from court life, the garden embodies the philosophy of spiritual retreat and inner reflection. Its design is a masterful combination of water features, airy pavilions, zigzagging corridors, and intricately carved windows. As you wander through its poetic spaces, you’ll notice how nature, architecture, and symbolism blend harmoniously to create a sense of tranquility and rhythm. Your guide will walk you through the key architectural elements and hidden meanings embedded in the garden’s layout, offering cultural insights and storytelling that bring the garden’s history vividly to life.

Next, explore the iconic Three Bridges Area—Taiping (Peace), Jili (Good Luck), and Changqing (Everlasting Celebration)—which form a triangle over the town’s main waterways. These three bridges are not only functional but also deeply symbolic in local tradition. They are often walked by couples during weddings or festivals to bring blessings of peace, prosperity, and longevity. The views from each bridge reveal postcard-worthy scenes of narrow canals framed by traditional homes, red lanterns, and gently arching willows. As you walk across each one, your guide will explain their historical significance and share folk stories about Tongli’s customs, making your visit not just visual, but richly cultural.

Continue your exploration through Songshi Street, one of the best-preserved residential lanes in Tongli, lined with Qing and Ming Dynasty buildings, ancestral halls, and hidden courtyards. You’ll also visit Chongben Hall, a traditional merchant’s residence that showcases old furniture, carved beams, and daily life artifacts from centuries past. These sites offer a window into Tongli’s once-prosperous trading culture and the lifestyles of its elite families. Your guide will provide historical background and point out artistic details in the architecture and household items, enriching your understanding of local traditions and social life in ancient Tongli.

For those who wish, an optional boat ride is available along the ancient canals of Tongli. Riding in a wooden, hand-rowed boat, you’ll pass under small stone bridges, beside riverside homes with hanging red lanterns, and along narrow alleyways that echo with centuries of history. The boat ride offers a slow, immersive way to see the town’s waterborne charm from a unique angle. If you choose this experience, your guide will help arrange the boat and accompany you on board, sharing historical anecdotes and pointing out features often missed on foot.

At midday, enjoy a relaxing lunch at a local restaurant overlooking the canal. Suzhou-style cuisine is known for its delicately balanced sweet and savory flavors, and you’ll be treated to dishes such as squirrel-shaped mandarin fish, braised pork belly, and fresh seasonal vegetables. The tranquil setting, combined with warm hospitality, makes for a pleasant and authentic dining experience. Your guide will assist you in ordering, explain the stories behind signature dishes, and ensure your meal reflects the local culinary heritage.

After lunch, you’ll have some free time to explore the town at your own pace. You may wish to browse for souvenirs such as silk fans, embroidered sachets, or hand-carved woodworks, or simply enjoy a cup of tea by the canal. Your guide will be nearby to offer recommendations, assist with purchases, or provide translation support, helping you make the most of your final moments in Tongli.

In the late afternoon, your driver will escort you to the Suzhou high-speed railway station, where you will board a bullet train to Nanjing. Upon arrival in Nanjing, your local driver will be waiting for you at the station exit, holding a sign that reads “Your Way Holiday.” This seamless transition ensures a smooth and comfortable journey as you continue your adventure in one of China’s most historically significant cities.

Day 6 Nanjing

Your guide will greet you either in the lobby of your hotel, holding a personalized welcome sign with “Your Way Holiday”. From there, your immersive day tour through Nanjing’s historic and cultural highlights begins directly.

Begin your journey with a powerful and thought-provoking visit to the Nanjing Massacre Memorial Hall, a site that solemnly honors the memory of the victims of the 1937 atrocities. The museum offers a hauntingly vivid portrayal through original footage, survivor testimonies, photographs, and war relics. Carefully designed spaces guide visitors from stark concrete sculptures to quiet reflection areas, creating an emotional and educational experience. As you move through the memorial, your guide will help interpret the historical context, share background on the international response, and offer space for reflection. This visit sets a tone of deep respect and remembrance.

Next, you’ll head to the peaceful slopes of Purple Mountain to explore the Ming Xiaoling Mausoleum, the final resting place of Emperor Zhu Yuanzhang, the founder of the Ming Dynasty. The vast tomb complex is surrounded by ancient pine trees and guarded by the famed Sacred Way, lined with life-sized stone animals and officials carved over 600 years ago. The site showcases imperial grandeur through its ceremonial archways, intricate stonework, and spiritual symbolism. Your guide will lead you along the processional path, highlighting key elements of Ming burial rituals, feng shui design, and the emperor’s historical legacy. You’ll also gain insight into the cultural significance of the mountain itself in Chinese tradition.

Enjoy a delicious lunch at a well-loved local restaurant, where you’ll sample traditional Nanjing cuisine, known for its elegant flavors and emphasis on seasonal ingredients. Signature dishes such as Nanjing Salted Duck, with its tender texture and subtle aroma, and Duck Blood Vermicelli Soup, a bold local favorite, will be featured alongside light fare like crystal shrimp dumplings or lotus root stuffed with sticky rice.

After lunch, continue to the Presidential Palace, a historical complex that has witnessed the rise and fall of dynasties and the birth of modern China. Once the seat of government during the Republic of China, the palace’s architecture reflects a fascinating blend of Qing-era elegance and early 20th-century modernism. Stroll through courtyards, meeting halls, and gardens once walked by Sun Yat-sen and other revolutionary figures. Your guide will recount the palace’s transformation from imperial administrative center to modern political landmark, helping you connect architectural details to pivotal events in Chinese history.

End your tour at the Confucius Temple, a cultural gem nestled along the scenic Qinhuai River. Originally built during the Song Dynasty, the temple was once a hub of classical learning and imperial examination. Today, it remains a spiritual and cultural heart of Nanjing, surrounded by vibrant streets and traditional markets. Explore its ornate architecture, tranquil courtyards, and ceremonial halls dedicated to the great sage. Your guide will explain the philosophy of Confucianism and its role in shaping Chinese education, governance, and values. Afterward, take time to wander the lively surrounding area, where historic charm meets modern-day street life, ideal for last-minute souvenirs or people-watching by the river.

After a fulfilling day of historical discovery and cultural immersion, your guide and driver will escort you back to your hotel in Nanjing, ensuring a comfortable and seamless end to your journey.

Day 7 Nanjing

Your first destination is the majestic Sun Yat-sen Mausoleum, nestled at the foot of Zijin (Purple) Mountain. Often referred to as the “Father of Modern China,” Dr. Sun Yat-sen played a pivotal role in overthrowing imperial rule and establishing the Republic of China. The mausoleum complex was constructed in the 1920s to honor his life and ideals, blending traditional Chinese design with modern symmetry. A grand stone staircase of 392 steps ascends toward a dignified memorial hall, where the spirit of Sun Yat-sen continues to inspire generations. The entire layout, from the main gate to the memorial archway and sacrificial hall, is aligned along a central axis, symbolizing balance, order, and national unity. As you ascend, your guide will share stories of Sun Yat-sen’s revolutionary vision, his connections to Nanjing, and the symbolic design choices that reflect the hopes of a new China.

Continue your journey into tranquility at Linggu Temple, hidden within a forested sanctuary near Purple Mountain. Originally established over 1,500 years ago, the temple is a renowned Buddhist site rich in serenity and tradition. Though it has undergone multiple reconstructions, Linggu still maintains its historical essence, with solemn halls, ancient bells, and a sacred aura felt in every corner. A highlight of the temple grounds is the towering Linggu Pagoda, rising high above the treetops and offering panoramic views of the lush mountain surroundings. The temple complex also includes memorials dedicated to soldiers who died in the Northern Expedition, adding a layer of patriotic reverence to the spiritual atmosphere. Your guide will walk you through both the spiritual and historical layers of the site, interpreting carvings, rituals, and memorials that together paint a picture of Linggu’s enduring cultural importance.

In the afternoon, explore one of China’s most ambitious ancient defense projects—the Nanjing Ming City Wall. Commissioned by Emperor Zhu Yuanzhang in the 14th century, this massive structure once encircled the entire city and stands today as a remarkable feat of early urban planning and military engineering. Unlike many city walls of its time, Nanjing’s wall was shaped to follow the contours of the natural landscape, demonstrating both strategic genius and environmental harmony. Portions of the original wall remain impressively intact, particularly near Zhonghua Gate and Jiefang Gate, where massive stone blocks and brickwork showcase the architectural strength of the Ming Dynasty. As you walk along the restored sections, your guide will explain the techniques used in its construction, the strategic roles of its watchtowers and gates, and the wall’s significance in defending a capital that once ruled over a vast empire.

After a day immersed in historical landmarks and scenic surroundings, your driver will escort you to the Nanjing high-speed railway station, where you will board a bullet train back to Shanghai. Upon arrival in Shanghai, your local driver will be waiting for you at the station exit, holding a sign that reads “Your Way Holiday,” ready to transfer you comfortably to your hotel. This seamless journey marks the end of your enriching exploration of Nanjing’s cultural and historical treasures.

Day 8 Shanghai Departure

Today, your Shanghai driver will transfer you to the airport at a suitable time according to your flight schedule, marking the end of your 8-day journey through China. We hope this trip has brought you not only unforgettable memories of breathtaking sights and rich culture but also a deeper connection with the stories, people, and traditions that make each destination unique. Thank you for traveling with Your Way Holiday — we wish you a smooth journey home and look forward to welcoming you again in the future!

Price Per Person in US Dollars

Price Includes 1. Cozy Ride: Enjoy the comfort and spaciousness of our air-conditioned car, offering scenic views. 2. Bilingual Expert Guide: Benefit from a personalized experience with a guide fluent in your language, catering to your needs. 3. Entrance Fees: Access all attractions and activities mentioned in the itinerary without worrying about additional entrance fees. 4. Seamless Transfer: Enhance your experience with convenient hotel or train station pickup and drop-off service. 5. Connect Seamlessly: Stay connected with complimentary onboard WiFi, allowing you to share your experiences in real-time. 6. City-to-City Train Tickets: Include the cost of train or flight tickets between the cities listed in the itinerary, ensuring a smooth and efficient travel experience. 7. Selected Hotels and Daily Breakfast: Experience a comfortable stay in handpicked hotels, each chosen for its quality and amenities. Enjoy a daily breakfast at the hotel, starting your day on a delicious note. 8. Complimentary Water: Receive a complimentary bottle of water for each person, keeping you refreshed throughout your journey. 9. Travel Agency Liability Insurance: Benefit from coverage under our travel agency liability insurance, providing added protection and peace of mind during your trip.

Price Excludes 1. Personal Expenses: This includes phone bills, laundry, additional tours, postage, and any entertainment fees not covered in the itinerary. 2. Meals: While meals are not included, our guide will recommend the best local food spots, giving you the chance to explore and choose based on your preferences. (Average cost per person for a regular meal at local eateries: 40RMB/6USD-80RMB/12USD) 3. Tips: Tips are not mandatory but are recommended for excellent service. If you feel satisfied with the service, you may consider leaving a tip. 4. Insurance: Insurance coverage for personal loss, illness, or damages incurred during your trip is not included. 5. Optional Activities: Any optional activities listed in the itinerary are not included in the tour fees, allowing you to choose and participate based on your preferences.