6-Day Jiangnan Classic Tour Shanghai, Suzhou and Hangzhou Ancient Water Towns Discovery
Journey Overview
Discover the contrasts of Jiangnan, from Shanghai’s waterfront skyline and Suzhou’s classical gardens to Hangzhou’s West Lake and the ancient water towns of Zhouzhuang, Wuzhen and Nanxun. Experience traditional Pingtan storytelling and Nanxun’s distinctive Three-Course Tea while enjoying the region’s elegant, unhurried way of life.
Journey Highlights
- Explore Shanghai's waterfront landmarks, Suzhou's classical gardens and Hangzhou's West Lake.
- Discover the canals, stone bridges and historic houses of Zhouzhuang, Wuzhen and Nanxun.
- Experience traditional Pingtan storytelling and Nanxun's Three-Course Tea culture.
- Enjoy three regional meals featuring Shanghai, Suzhou and Hangzhou cuisine.
Detailed Itinerary
Here is a suggested itinerary. We are happy to customize every detail according to your interests and schedule.
Arrival in Shanghai
Meet your driver at the airport or railway station and transfer to the hotel for check-in. The rest of the day is free. If time permits, you may explore the Bund and Nanjing Road Pedestrian Street at your own pace.
Yu Garden, City God Temple, Oriental Pearl Tower, the Bund & Huangpu River Cruise
Morning: Visit Yu Garden and City God Temple, see the Oriental Pearl Tower from the outside and explore Nanjing Road Pedestrian Street.
Afternoon: Walk along the Bund and admire its historic waterfront architecture.
Evening: Enjoy an included Shanghai Benbang dinner, followed by a Huangpu River cruise with views of the illuminated skyline.
Suzhou Classical Gardens & Historic Streets
Morning: Travel from Shanghai to Suzhou and visit the Humble Administrator’s Garden, one of China’s most celebrated classical gardens.
Afternoon: Enjoy an included Suzhou-style lunch, stroll along Pingjiang Historic Street and visit Tiger Hill with its ancient leaning pagoda. Check in at your hotel in Suzhou after the tour.
Zhouzhuang Water Town
Spend the day exploring Zhouzhuang, one of China’s best-preserved ancient water towns. Walk beside peaceful canals, cross historic stone bridges and discover traditional residences dating from the Ming and Qing dynasties. Return to your hotel in Suzhou after the tour.
West Lake, Lingyin Temple & Xiaohe Historic Street
Morning: Travel from Suzhou to Hangzhou and explore West Lake, known for its peaceful scenery, historic causeways and lakeside gardens.
Afternoon: Enjoy an included Hangzhou-style lunch, then visit Lingyin Temple, one of the city’s best-known Buddhist temples.
Evening: Stroll along Xiaohe Historic Street before checking in at your hotel in Hangzhou.
Wuzhen, Nanxun, Pingtan & Three-Course Tea Experience
Morning: Travel to Wuzhen and explore the East Scenic Area, known for its canals, traditional houses and historic workshops.Afternoon: Continue to Nanxun Ancient Town and discover its riverside streets and distinctive blend of Chinese and Western architecture. Experience Nanxun’s Three-Course Tea tradition and enjoy a Pingtan storytelling performance.After the experience, take a private transfer to Hangzhou Xiaoshan International Airport for your departure.Please note: This itinerary is best suited to a late-evening flight. For an earlier departure, the sightseeing schedule will be adjusted accordingly.
Journey Inclusions & Exclusions
- Transportation: Private transfers and sightseeing transportation.
- Guide: English‑speaking guides on sightseeing days; driver‑only service on transfer‑only days.
- Entrance Fees & Activities: Tickets and activities listed in the itinerary, including the Huangpu River cruise, Pingtan performance and Nanxun Three‑Course Tea Experience.
- Accommodation: Five nights 3‑star in selected hotels—two nights in Shanghai, two nights in Suzhou and one night in Hangzhou—based on twin/double sharing.
- Meals: Shanghai Benbang dinner, Suzhou‑style lunch and Hangzhou‑style lunch.
- Fees & Taxes: Service fees and applicable taxes.
- Meals: Meals not specified as included.
- Optional Activities: Optional boat rides and in‑park transportation unless specified as included.
- Flights & Visas: International flights and Chinese visa fees.
- Personal Expenses: Personal purchases and other individual expenses.
- Single Room: Single‑room supplement.
- Travel Insurance: Travel insurance.
- Other Items: Anything not listed under Price Includes.