Itinerary
Day 1: Shanghai to Suzhou
Morning/Afternoon:
Pick-up at Suzhou Railway Station and transfer to the city center. Begin with a visit to Lingering Garden, one of China’s four most famous classical gardens, representing Qing dynasty aesthetics. Next, explore the Panmen Scenic Area, home to the only remaining water-land gate in China, celebrated as "The Elegance of Panmen in the South, The Grandeur of the Great Wall in the North."
Conclude with a visit to Tiger Hill, a site with over 2,500 years of history. Its iconic Tiger Hill Pagoda is often regarded as the symbol of Suzhou, with the saying: “First see the Tiger Hill Pagoda, then see Suzhou.”
Evening:
After dinner, transfer to the hotel for check-in.
(Guide and vehicle service: up to 10 hours for the day.)
Day 2: Suzhou
Morning/Afternoon:
Continue exploring Suzhou’s attractions. Start with a visit to the Master of the Nets Garden, a representative medium-sized classical residential garden known for its intricate design, cultural depth, and elegant atmosphere. Then, head to Lion Grove Garden, one of Suzhou’s four great gardens, featuring China’s largest and most intricate ancient rockery. The garden is renowned as the "Kingdom of Rockeries."
Next, stroll through Shantang Street, also known as “Seven-Li Shantang.” This historic street, showcasing Ming and Qing architectural styles, runs parallel to a canal and features seven ancient stone bridges. It is part of China’s first batch of “Historical and Cultural Streets.”
Finally, enjoy a boat ride on the Grand Canal, drifting under small bridges and experiencing the serene life of canal-side communities, unique to the Jiangnan region.
Evening:
After the day’s tour, one guest will leave independently. The remaining four will be transferred for dinner and then back to the hotel.
(Guide and vehicle service: up to 12 hours for the day.)
Day 3: Suzhou to Shanghai
Morning/Afternoon:
Enjoy a relaxed morning at the hotel. Later, drive approximately one hour to Zhouzhuang Ancient Town, celebrated worldwide as “China’s First Water Town.” It is a national historic and cultural town and was listed by CNN as one of the “World’s Top 10 Most Beautiful Towns.” Stroll through the town’s quaint streets, lined with traditional architecture, stone arch bridges, and canals. The well-preserved ancient layout includes 14 stone bridges built during the Yuan, Ming, and Qing dynasties. Over 60% of the town’s houses remain in their original Ming and Qing architectural styles.
Evening:
After exploring Zhouzhuang, transfer to Shanghai Pudong International Airport for a 9:00 PM departure. End of the journey.
