8-Day Shanghai Hangzhou Suzhou Wuxi Tour

Summary

Day 1 Shanghai Arrival 
Day 2 Shanghai: Yuyuan Garden, The Bund, Jade Buddha Temple, Huangpu River Cruise
Day 3 Shanghai-Suhzou by bullet train: Humble Administrator’s Garden, Tiger Hill, Shantang Street, Pingjiang Road
Day 4 Suzhou: Tongli Water Town
Day 5 Suzhou-Wuxi by car: Three Kindoms City, Yuantouzhu Park
Day 6 Wuxi: Nanchan Temple, Nanchan Street, Jichang Garden, Wuxi-Hangzhou by train
Day 7 Hangzhou: West Lake Boat Ride, Viewing fish at the flower pond, Lingyin Temple, Meijiawu Tea Plantation, Hefang Street, Hangzhou-Shanghai by train
Day 8 Shanghai Departure

Day 1 Shanghai Arrival

Upon your arrival at Shanghai airport, your personal driver will be waiting at the arrival hall, holding a welcome sign with “Your Way Holiday.” Enjoy a comfortable private transfer to your hotel in the city. On the way, your driver will offer brief tips about the local area and answer any immediate questions. Take the rest of the day to rest or explore at your own pace as you prepare for the exciting journey ahead.

Day 2 Shanghai

Your private day tour begins as your professional English-speaking guide and driver meet you in the lobby of your Shanghai hotel. Today’s journey will take you through the city’s rich blend of ancient charm, colonial history, spiritual heritage, and modern skyline.

Your first stop is the Yuyuan Garden, one of the most exquisite classical gardens in southern China. Originally built during the Ming Dynasty over 400 years ago, the garden is a masterpiece of traditional Chinese landscaping, complete with elegant pavilions, zigzagging bridges, koi-filled ponds, and intricately carved rockeries. As you wander through this tranquil oasis, your guide will explain the symbolic meanings behind the garden’s design and share stories about the wealthy Pan family who commissioned it. Your guide will highlight how the garden’s architecture reflects Confucian ideals, Daoist harmony, and the refined tastes of ancient Shanghai’s elite.

Next, head to The Bund, Shanghai’s most iconic waterfront promenade. Lined with early 20th-century buildings in Baroque, Gothic, and Neoclassical styles, The Bund offers sweeping views of the Huangpu River and the futuristic skyline of Pudong across the water. This area once formed the heart of the city’s foreign concessions and financial hub. As you walk along the riverfront, your guide will point out the history behind each grand facade and explain how Shanghai transformed from a colonial treaty port into a modern global metropolis.

At midday, take a break to enjoy a delightful lunch at a well-recommended local restaurant, where you’ll sample the unique flavors of Shanghai cuisine, known for its delicate balance of sweetness and umami. Dishes may include Xiaolongbao (steamed soup dumplings), red-braised pork belly, stir-fried river shrimp, and seasonal vegetable specialties.

Continue to the peaceful Jade Buddha Temple, a serene sanctuary nestled amidst the city’s urban bustle. This active Buddhist temple is famous for its two jade Buddha statues, carved from single pieces of Burmese jade and brought to Shanghai in the late 19th century. The seated Buddha, in particular, is revered for its tranquil expression and symbolic hand gestures. Your guide will share insights into Buddhist traditions, temple rituals, and the history of how this spiritual haven became a vital part of local religious life.

As evening approaches, embark on a relaxing Huangpu River Cruise to take in Shanghai’s most stunning views from the water. Glide past the illuminated skyline of Pudong’s modern skyscrapers—including the Oriental Pearl Tower, Jin Mao Tower, and Shanghai Tower—contrasted by the colonial buildings of The Bund. Your guide will accompany you on board and point out architectural highlights, historical context, and stories behind Shanghai’s dazzling transformation.

After the cruise, your driver will take you back to your hotel, ending a full day of discovery in one of China’s most dynamic and diverse cities.

Day 3 Suzhou

This morning, your private driver will pick you up from your Shanghai hotel and escort you to the train station, where you will board a high-speed train bound for Suzhou. The journey takes approximately 30 minutes, offering a fast and comfortable start to your day. Upon arrival in Suzhou, your local guide will greet you at the station exit with a “Your Way Holiday” sign, ready to begin your exploration of this charming city renowned for its classical gardens, rich history, and picturesque canals.

Begin your Suzhou exploration with a visit to the city’s most famous classical garden—the Humble Administrator’s Garden, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and a shining example of Ming Dynasty garden design. Spanning over 50,000 square meters, the garden is famed for its poetic layout, featuring lotus-filled ponds, delicately arched bridges, ancient trees, and elegant pavilions that appear to float on water. Each section of the garden reveals a different view, creating the feeling of walking through a living landscape painting. It is not only a peaceful retreat but also a deeply symbolic space, representing the ideal life of a retired scholar living in harmony with nature. Your guide will lead you through the winding corridors and tranquil courtyards, explaining the intricate aesthetics of classical garden design and sharing stories of the scholars, officials, and artists who once found inspiration here.

Next, ascend the gentle slopes of Tiger Hill, one of Suzhou’s most legendary historic sites. With over 2,500 years of history, this scenic hill has been a popular destination since ancient times, praised by poets as “the most beautiful hill in Wu.” At the summit stands the Leaning Pagoda of Yunyan Temple, which leans more than two meters off center and is often compared to the Leaning Tower of Pisa. The area is rich with fascinating relics, including the Sword Pool—believed to be the burial place of King He Lü—and various ancient inscriptions carved into rocks. The landscape, dotted with pine trees, hidden pavilions, and moss-covered paths, creates an atmosphere of timeless mystique. Your guide will delve into the myths and legends associated with Tiger Hill, offering insights into its political, military, and spiritual past, and helping you understand why this site has captured the imagination of so many for centuries.

Enjoy a traditional Suzhou-style lunch at a well-known local restaurant. Suzhou cuisine is renowned for its light, fresh flavors and delicate presentation. You may sample dishes such as Squirrel-shaped Mandarin Fish, known for its crispy texture and sweet-and-sour sauce; Steamed White Fish with Soy Sauce; Lotus Root Stuffed with Glutinous Rice; and seasonal vegetable dishes sourced from local farms.

After lunch, stroll along Shantang Street, a lively and culturally rich canal-side street that dates back to the Tang Dynasty. Stretching for seven ancient li (3.5 kilometers), it was once an important corridor between the city and Tiger Hill. Today, it is lined with Ming- and Qing-era architecture, traditional teahouses, folk craft shops, and street snacks stalls. The canal itself runs quietly alongside, with small wooden boats gliding past stone arch bridges. The blend of history and daily life creates a vivid sense of old Suzhou in motion. Your guide will walk you through the historic street, pointing out former residences of notable figures, old guild halls, and hidden alleys, while also offering the chance to sample local snacks or browse handmade souvenirs.

End your tour with a peaceful walk down Pingjiang Road, one of Suzhou’s best-preserved historical streets and a true reflection of the city’s ancient water town charm. This narrow, stone-paved lane follows a quiet canal and is lined with whitewashed homes, wooden storefronts, calligraphy studios, and quaint cafes. Historically, Pingjiang Road was part of Suzhou’s scholarly district and once home to prominent literati. Today, it retains that quiet, bookish atmosphere, where time seems to slow down. Your guide will share stories of the scholars and poets who once lived here, and point out architectural details and cultural markers that connect this humble street to Suzhou’s rich literary and artistic legacy.

After your exploration, your driver will escort you comfortably to your hotel in Suzhou, marking the end of a beautiful and enriching day discovering the elegance, history, and soul of this classic Jiangnan city.

Day 4 Tongli Water Town

Today, embark on a cultural escape to Tongli, an enchanting water town nestled in the heart of the Yangtze River Delta. Renowned for its picturesque waterways, centuries-old bridges, and timeless charm, Tongli offers a perfect snapshot of traditional river town life. The town is woven together by a network of rivers, forming several small islands joined by nearly 50 historic stone bridges, each with its own story. Among the most famous are the Taiping, Jili, and Changqing bridges, which collectively represent wishes for peace, fortune, and longevity.

Our first stop is the Retreat and Reflection Garden (Tuisi Garden), a peaceful haven designed in the classic Suzhou garden style. This UNESCO-listed site is celebrated for its harmonious layout—delicate pavilions, winding paths, lotus ponds, and carefully placed rocks create a space meant for quiet thought and connection with nature. Here, you’ll hear the stories of the garden's origin and how scholars once used it as a retreat from the busyness of official life.

Next, we’ll visit Chongben Hall, a residence that offers a rare glimpse into the architectural elegance of ancient Suzhou homes. With its elaborately carved beams, antique furniture, and beautiful symmetry, the hall reflects the refined tastes of past generations. As we walk through, we’ll discuss how such homes represented both social status and artistic sensibility during the Ming and Qing dynasties.

We then continue to the Pearl Tower (Zhenzhu Ta), an iconic site layered with legends and literary associations. More than just a beautiful tower, this structure has long been a symbol of loyalty and love in classical Chinese tales. Your guide will share the fascinating folklore that surrounds it, alongside explanations of its architectural style and symbolic design.

A delicious lunch awaits at a traditional local eatery. Suzhou’s cuisine is known for its delicate balance of sweet and savory flavors. You'll enjoy regional specialties such as Sweet and Sour Mandarin Fish, Braised Pork Belly, and seasonal dishes featuring local produce. It's a perfect opportunity to sample the culinary traditions that complement Tongli’s rich heritage.

After lunch, we’ll cross the Three Bridges, a triad of historic structures that together create a scenic walking route beloved by locals and visitors alike. These bridges are not only practical crossings but are also integral to many traditional ceremonies. Walking here is said to bring good luck, particularly during weddings and festivals.

To conclude the tour, we’ll explore Jiayin Hall, another preserved residential gem that reveals how well-to-do families once lived in Tongli. The home's tranquil courtyards, ornate wooden screens, and graceful layout tell stories of domestic life and Confucian values. Here, we’ll take a final moment to appreciate the artistry and cultural continuity that make Tongli a living museum of Jiangnan history.

After the visit, your driver will escort you comfortably back to the high-speed railway station, wrapping up a serene and insightful journey through one of China’s most treasured water towns.

Day 5 Wuxi

Your journey from Suzhou to Wuxi begins in the morning as your private guide and driver pick you up from your hotel and set off on a comfortable drive to this lakeside city known for its deep historical roots and picturesque landscapes.

Your first stop is Three Kingdoms City, a large-scale film and television set constructed to recreate the glory of ancient China during the Three Kingdoms era. Originally built as a shooting location for the classic Chinese drama Romance of the Three Kingdoms, the site has since become one of Wuxi’s most popular cultural attractions. Wander through palatial gates, towering watchtowers, and grand courtyards designed in authentic Han Dynasty style. As you explore the site, your guide will bring the legends and battles of the era to life, giving you insight into the characters and real events that inspired one of China’s greatest historical epics. If time permits, you may enjoy a peaceful boat ride on the nearby Taihu Lake while being treated to live performances of traditional Kunqu Opera or storytelling through Pingtan, offering a vivid glimpse into local performing arts.

For lunch, we’ll take you to a well-regarded local restaurant to indulge in the signature dishes of Wuxi cuisine, which is known for its subtly sweet flavors and artistic presentation. Sample specialties like glazed Wuxi pork ribs, delicately seasoned freshwater fish, and handmade rice desserts. The setting is warm and inviting, offering a chance to rest and savor the region’s culinary richness. Special dietary requirements can be accommodated with advance notice—just let your guide know.

After your meal, continue to Yuantouzhu Park, a peaceful retreat perched on a peninsula stretching into Taihu Lake. This area is famous for its breathtaking lake views, seasonal cherry blossoms, and garden landscapes that have inspired poets and painters for centuries. The park’s name, which means “Turtle Head Isle,” comes from its distinctive shape, and the setting offers countless opportunities for scenic walks and quiet reflection. Classical Chinese pavilions and hidden trails are scattered throughout the park, making it a favorite among both tourists and locals seeking tranquility. As you stroll through its winding paths, your guide will share the poetic history of this site and explain its importance as a cultural and natural landmark in Jiangnan.

At the end of the tour, your driver will escort you to your hotel, wrapping up a memorable day immersed in the beauty and history of Wuxi.

Day 6 Wuxi

Your cultural exploration in Wuxi begins with a visit to Nan Chan Temple, one of the city’s most venerated Buddhist sanctuaries. With origins tracing back to the Tang Dynasty, this ancient temple has served as a spiritual haven for generations. The temple complex is a harmonious blend of historic architecture and tranquil courtyards, where the scent of incense lingers in the air and the sound of chanting adds to the meditative ambiance. Marvel at the graceful design of wooden halls, intricate carvings, and sacred statues that embody centuries of religious devotion. As you wander through the grounds, your guide will illuminate the spiritual traditions and cultural legacy that make Nan Chan Temple a revered landmark in Wuxi.

Afterward, continue to the nearby Nan Chang Street, a charming historical quarter that offers a window into Wuxi’s traditional urban life. This lively street, lined with restored heritage buildings, features quaint teahouses, artisan boutiques, and local eateries tucked among narrow lanes. The traditional Jiangnan-style architecture—with its whitewashed walls, dark tiled roofs, and ornamental details—creates a vivid backdrop for both cultural immersion and relaxed exploration. It’s a perfect place to enjoy the local atmosphere, try regional snacks, or shop for hand-crafted souvenirs. Along the way, your guide will share stories about the street’s transformation through the centuries and its enduring role in the social fabric of the city.

In the afternoon, you’ll make your way to Jichang Garden, a masterpiece of classical Chinese landscaping that dates back to the Ming Dynasty. This garden is a tranquil retreat, carefully composed to reflect harmony between man and nature. Meandering stone paths lead you through groves of bamboo, past koi-filled ponds, and under arched bridges, while elegant pavilions offer restful spots for contemplation. Designed with great attention to aesthetic principles, Jichang Garden embodies the essence of traditional garden artistry—where each turn reveals a carefully framed scene. As you explore, your guide will delve into the philosophies behind the garden’s design and explain how it influenced later gardens, both in Suzhou and beyond.

At the end of your enriching day, your driver will drop you off at the Wuxi high-speed train station, where you will board the train to Hangzhou on your own. Upon arrival in Hangzhou, your local driver will be waiting for you at the exit of the train station, holding a welcome sign with "Your Way Holiday," and will transfer you directly to your hotel.

Day 7 Hangzhou

Upon your arrival in Hangzhou, your journey begins with a tranquil cruise across the famed West Lake, a place that has long captured the hearts of poets and painters with its timeless charm. As your boat glides across the gentle waters, you’ll enjoy panoramic views of willow-lined shores, misty hills, and graceful pagodas. Along the way, your guide will highlight some of the lake’s most beloved landmarks, such as the Broken Bridge, the shimmering islets of Three Pools Mirroring the Moon, and the storied Leifeng Pagoda. These sites are steeped in myth and tradition, and your guide will share the cultural stories and legends that have elevated West Lake to its status as a symbol of Chinese natural harmony and poetic beauty.

Next, you'll visit Viewing Fish at the Flower Pond, a peaceful garden space known for its vibrant koi fish and colorful blossoms. Here, you’ll wander shaded pathways that encircle the pond, where brightly colored fish swim beneath delicate lotus leaves. This spot is particularly valued for its symbolism—koi fish in Chinese culture represent perseverance and luck, while lotus flowers are linked to purity and enlightenment. Your guide will explain how these natural elements reflect deeper philosophical meanings and play a role in traditional Chinese garden aesthetics.

From there, you’ll head to Lingyin Temple, one of China’s most revered Buddhist sanctuaries, nestled in a tranquil valley at the foot of verdant mountains. Founded over 1,600 years ago, the temple complex is home to grand halls, serene courtyards, and ancient incense-scented paths. As you explore the temple’s key structures—such as the Hall of the Heavenly Kings and the magnificent Mahavira Hall—your guide will share insights into Buddhist beliefs and rituals. Just beyond the temple lies Feilai Peak, where hundreds of stone carvings of Buddhas and bodhisattvas grace the cliffs, offering a glimpse into centuries of devotion and artistry.

For lunch, you’ll get a taste of Hangzhou’s celebrated local cuisine. Among the regional specialties, don’t miss Dongpo Pork, a dish known for its rich, caramelized sauce and tender texture, named after the Song Dynasty poet Su Dongpo. You may also sample Dingsheng Cake, a traditional glutinous rice dessert often associated with victory and celebration. Your guide will help you choose from seasonal dishes and explain the culinary history behind these Hangzhou favorites.

After lunch, head to the scenic hills outside the city to explore the Meijiawu Tea Plantation, a quiet village dedicated to the art of tea growing. This region is famed for its Longjing (Dragon Well) Tea, a green tea highly prized for its delicate taste and health benefits. You’ll stroll through terraced tea fields, observe the meticulous hand-picking of tea leaves, and watch a demonstration of the traditional pan-firing process. Your guide will offer a deeper look into how Longjing Tea is produced and its role in both everyday life and ceremonial tradition. A tasting session will follow, allowing you to enjoy the subtle, refreshing flavor of freshly brewed tea in a serene environment.

Your final stop is Hefang Street, a lively pedestrian zone that blends old-world charm with modern vibrancy. This historical street, dating back to the Southern Song Dynasty, is lined with traditional storefronts, teahouses, and artisan workshops. As you walk through the bustling lanes, you’ll discover a variety of local snacks—such as sweet osmanthus pastries, preserved fruits, and beggar’s chicken—alongside handcrafts like embroidered fans and traditional medicine shops. Your guide will offer cultural insights and help you uncover the stories behind the shops and the history of commerce in ancient Hangzhou.

After a full day of cultural immersion and scenic beauty, your guide and driver will escort you to Hangzhou high-speed train station, where you will board the train to Shanghai on your own. Upon arrival in Shanghai, your local driver will be waiting for you at the station exit with a sign bearing "Your Way Holiday" and will transfer you directly to your hotel.

Day 8 Shanghai Departure

Today, you will depart from Shanghai. Your private driver will pick you up from your hotel at the scheduled time and provide a comfortable transfer to the airport. Please ensure your belongings are packed and ready. We suggest leaving with enough time to arrive at the airport at least two hours before your flight. Your driver will assist with your luggage and make sure you reach the airport smoothly, concluding your wonderful journey in China.

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.