Starting from
Per person
East China Garden Tour with Suzhou & Hangzhou
Travel from Shanghai to Suzhou and Hangzhou, experiencing some of China's most picturesque gardens and historic water towns. Begin with a stroll along the Bund, taking in the contrast of historic architecture against Shanghai's modern skyline, and then enjoy a panoramic view from the observation deck of Shanghai Tower. In Suzhou, explore the UNESCO-listed Lingering Garden, and take a relaxing cruise along the 2,400-year-old Grand Canal. Visit the charming Tongli Water Town, famous for its canals, stone bridges, and traditional houses. Conclude the day in Hangzhou with a serene boat ride on the iconic West Lake, surrounded by willows, pagodas, and the gentle reflections of the water.
A travel experience like no other
Travel from Shanghai to Suzhou and Hangzhou, experiencing some of China's most picturesque gardens and historic water towns. Begin with a stroll along the Bund, taking in the contrast of historic architecture against Shanghai's modern skyline, and then enjoy a panoramic view from the observation deck of Shanghai Tower. In Suzhou, explore the UNESCO-listed Lingering Garden, and take a relaxing cruise along the 2,400-year-old Grand Canal. Visit the charming Tongli Water Town, famous for its canals, stone bridges, and traditional houses. Conclude the day in Hangzhou with a serene boat ride on the iconic West Lake, surrounded by willows, pagodas, and the gentle reflections of the water.
Itineraries
Day 1
Shanghai, Arrival
Day 2
Shanghai City Tour
Day 3
Shanghai - Suzhou, Chinese Garden & Grand Canal
Day 4
Suzhou - Hangzhou, Tongli
Day 5
Tea Experience and Departure
Day 6
Hangzhou, Departure
Arrival and Relax
Upon your arrival in Shanghai, China’s most cosmopolitan city, your personal guide will meet and escort you to your hotel.
The rest of the day is yours to relax or step out to explore this amazing metropolis on your own.
The Bund, Shanghai Museum, Nanjing Road, Bourgogne Lane, Shanghai Tower
After breakfast, take a leisurely stroll along the Bund, admiring the historic waterfront buildings and the shimmering skyline across the Huangpu River. Continue to explore the charming streets of Bourgogne Lane (Bugaoli), with its blend of old Shanghai architecture and modern cafés.
Visit the Shanghai Museum to discover exquisite collections of ancient Chinese art, from bronzes and ceramics to calligraphy and paintings. End the day with a trip to the observation deck of Shanghai Tower, where sweeping panoramic views reveal the bustling energy and modern grandeur of the city below.
Lingering Garden, Old Town Tour with Rickshaw, Grand Canal, Pingjiang Old Street
After breakfast, you will be met and transferred to the railway station for the high-speed train to Suzhou (about 30 minutes, no guide service on the train).
Upon arrival, visit the Lingering Garden, a classical masterpiece known for its winding corridors, elegant pavilions, and artfully arranged rockeries that create ever-changing scenic views. Take a rickshaw ride through the old city streets, soaking in the charm of traditional architecture and bustling local life. Enjoy a relaxing cruise along the 2,400-year-old Grand Canal, passing stone bridges, riverside homes, and riverside vendors going about their daily routines. Finally, stroll along the historic Pingjiang Old Street, lined with quaint shops, teahouses, and centuries-old lanes that offer a glimpse into Suzhou’s timeless culture.
Tongli Water Town, Garden of Seclusion and Meditations, Pearl Pagoda, Triple Bridge, Ming and Qing Dynasty Street
In the morning, drive to Tongli Water Town (about 20 minutes’ drive from Suzhou). In there, you will pay a visit to the Garden of Seclusion and Meditations, Pearl Pagoda, Triple Bridge, Ming and Qing Dynasty Street.
Drive back to Suzhou railway station for the train to Hangzhou. Upon your arrival at Hangzhou railway station, your personal guide will meet you and escort you to your hotel. The rest of the day is yours to relax or step out into this beautiful city for an adventure on your own.
West Lake, Lingyin Temple, Feilai Peak
Today, start with a leisurely boat ride on the iconic West Lake, taking in its tranquil waters, willow-lined shores, and the scenic spots steeped in local legends. Next, visit the centuries-old Lingyin Temple, where you can admire exquisitely carved Buddha statues and observe the quiet devotion of worshippers.
Continue to Feilai Peak, a serene limestone formation dotted with ancient carvings and religious inscriptions that reflect centuries of spiritual significance. Later, explore the Hu Qing Yu Tang Traditional Chinese Medicine Museum, where you can see rows of medicinal herbs, touch dried roots and leaves, and breathe in the rich aroma of centuries-old healing traditions.
Departure
Be free at leisure until your personal guide and private transfer escort you to the airport for your departure flight back home.
Shanghai, Arrival
Shanghai City Tour
Suzhou, Chinese Garden & Grand Canal
Hangzhou, Tongli
Tea Experience and Departure
Hangzhou, Departure
What’s included
- A fully customized itinerary based on your interests and schedule
- 24/7 in-destination support from our local office
- All accommodation stays, tours and transfers for scheduled activities are covered, unless otherwise listed in the itinerary
- A private driver for tours and transfers (in some countries our local private guides also act as your driver - your Destination Expert will discuss with you if applicable)
- Local private guides or shared tours that take you through your itinerary highlights and experiences, your final itinerary will confirm the type of tour
- A greeting at the airport or at your accommodation from one of our representatives – your expert will confirm your meet and greet location with you
- Breakfast each morning at your hotel, plus any meals indicated in the itinerary
- One suitcase and one carry-on per person for trip transfers
What’s not included
- Your international airfare – please do let your expert know if you’d like to receive pricing from our Air Team
- Travel insurance, which we offer and can be purchased after you’ve booked your tour
- Visas (unless noted)
- Tips for services and experiences
- Lunches, dinners and drinks (alcoholic and non-alcoholic), unless specified in the itinerary
- Excess baggage charges, and where applicable, baggage not included in your fare
- Personal charges such as laundry, phone calls, SIM cards or room service
- Early check-in or late check-out from hotels (unless otherwise specified)
- Additional sightseeing, activities and experiences outside of your itinerary
- Optional enhancements like room or flight upgrades, or local camera or video fees
- Passport fees, immunization costs, and local departure taxes (when applicable)
About this trip
Travel from Shanghai to Suzhou and Hangzhou, experiencing some of China's most picturesque gardens and historic water towns. Begin with a stroll along the Bund, taking in the contrast of historic architecture against Shanghai's modern skyline, and then enjoy a panoramic view from the observation deck of Shanghai Tower. In Suzhou, explore the UNESCO-listed Lingering Garden, and take a relaxing cruise along the 2,400-year-old Grand Canal. Visit the charming Tongli Water Town, famous for its canals, stone bridges, and traditional houses. Conclude the day in Hangzhou with a serene boat ride on the iconic West Lake, surrounded by willows, pagodas, and the gentle reflections of the water.


