Welcome to Suzhou, the city of gardens! On arrival, be welcomed by your local guide and take a private transfer to your centrally-located hotel for a peaceful night.

Spend the day delving into the endless charm of historic Suzhou. Stroll the celebrated Lingering Garden to appreciate its tranquil ponds, unique rock formations, and elegance. Visit the Suzhou Museum, an architectural gem blending traditional features and modern minimalism and housing a vast collection of ancient Chinese artistic masterpieces.

At Suzhou Embroidery Research Institute, marvel at intricate embroidery with precise and detailed stitches depicting lifelike images. In the evening, at the Master of Nets Garden, enjoy colorful live shows that are very popular among locals.

Driving about 1.5 hours south, you will arrive in Wuzhen, a famous ancient water town between Suzhou and Hangzhou. Explore its rustic charm by wandering its narrow cobblestone streets or gliding its peaceful waterways, passing by well-preserved wooden houses and stone bridges. Don’t miss the unsung ancient theaters, museums, and traditional handicrafts. Afterward, continue with another 1.5-hour drive to Hangzhou, the capital city of Zhejiang Province.

Naturally, your exploration of Hangzhou begins at the West Lake, the city’s cultural heart and poetic inspiration. Cruise its serene waters and spot the classic scenic spots, such as the Broken Bridge and Three Pools Mirroring the Moon.

Then, among forested hills near the urban center, visit an active Buddhist temple – the Lingyin Temple. Appreciate its grand architecture and observe or even join local worship rituals. Nearby, at the Feilai Peak, discover hundreds of Buddhist statues carved into the limestone cliffs.

Finish the day on the bustling Hefang Street, browsing local souvenirs and exploring the Museum of Hu Qing Yu Tang Traditional Chinese Medicine Drugstore, a microcosm of the traditional Chinese medical system.

Though both were significant economic hubs along the ancient Grand Canal, Suzhou thrived on silk and textile production, while Hangzhou was known for its tea culture. This morning, you will visit a tea plantation and engage in the plucking and processing craft of the famous Dragon Well Tea. Afterward, enjoy a cup of freshly brewed tea, savoring its delicate fragrance while immersing yourself in the rich tea traditions of Hangzhou. Afterward, be transferred to the airport or railway station for your next journey.