Shanghai-Hangzhou-Suzhou-Shanghai 5‑Day Tour
The Bund, Humble Administrator’s Garden, Tiger Hill, Tongli Ancient Town, West Lake
Shanghai-Hangzhou-Suzhou-Shanghai 5‑Day Tour
There is a famous Chinese saying: “Above is heaven, below are Suzhou and Hangzhou.” The prosperity of Suzhou and Hangzhou dates back to Emperor Daizong’s Dali era of the Tang Dynasty (766–779). When the Southern Song established its capital in Lin’an, Hangzhou became the nation’s political and economic center. The famous “Ten Scenes of West Lake” took shape then, elevating Jiangnan’s poetic charm. Suzhou developed steadily from the Tang Dynasty and reached its peak during the Southern Song; the saying “When Suzhou and Huzhou are ripe, the whole nation has enough” reflects its abundance. Dense waterways, lakes, and fertile land nurtured a land of fish and rice, attracting scholars to build classical gardens—the foundation of Chinese garden art.
Welcome to our five‑day Jiangnan journey. Start from Shanghai and travel by high‑speed rail between modernity and tradition. Immerse yourself in the misty West Lake and Longjing tea culture of Hangzhou, as well as Suzhou’s classical gardens and water‑lane lifestyle, experiencing the beauty of East‑West cultural fusion.
As Bai Juyi wrote:
“Fair southern land, scenes once known.
At sunrise riverside flowers outshine fire; when spring arrives, the water is green as indigo.
How could one not recall Jiangnan?”
This spring, travel with Fenglin to a poetic wonderland. Amid dreamlike Jiangnan scenery, listen to gentle rain on the painted boats and begin a healing journey.
Through this tour, you can experience the 'must-see, must-do' highlights
Highlight 1: Stroll along the Bund waterfront and admire Lujiazui’s magnificent skyline, where century‑old buildings meet modern energy.
Highlight 2: Wander through Suzhou’s largest garden, the Humble Administrator’s Garden, where every turn reveals a new scene.
Highlight 3: Explore Pingjiang Road and experience Suzhou’s authentic slow life—white walls, black tiles, ballads, or a peaceful boat ride.
Highlight 4: Leisurely explore West Lake, learn about Su Shi’s poetry, and hear legends of the White Snake and Liang‑Zhu.
Highlight 5: Visit Meijiawu Tea Village—the largest Longjing tea area—and learn stories of Premier Zhou Enlai and Longjing tea.
Itinerary Overview
-
Shanghai (2 days)
Shanghai Museum, Yu Garden, the Bund, Nanjing Road, Shanghai Tower -
Hangzhou (1 day)
Xiangji Temple, China National Tea Museum, Meijiawu, West Lake, Hefang Street -
Suzhou (2 days)
Humble Administrator’s Garden, Suzhou Museum, Lion Grove Garden, Shantang Street, Tiger Hill, Tongli Ancient Town
Daily Itinerary
Day 1 Arrive in Shanghai | Private Pickup & Hotel Check‑in
Welcome to Shanghai, a charming international metropolis and a symbol of East‑West cultural fusion. Upon arrival, your private car will take you to your downtown hotel. The rest of the day is free to relax, stroll, or enjoy night views of Nanjing Road and the Bund.
Shanghai Transportation Tips:
Shanghai has an excellent transport network with two major airports, Pudong and Hongqiao, offering direct flights to major Chinese cities. High‑speed rail is also convenient, with direct routes to Beijing (4.5–6 hrs), Xi’an (6–7.5 hrs), Huangshan (2.5–3 hrs), Guangzhou (7–8.5 hrs), Suzhou (30 min), Hangzhou (45 min), Wuhan (3.5–4.5 hrs).
Welcome to Shanghai, China
The Bund, Shanghai
Day 2 Shanghai | Shanghai Tower, Shanghai Museum, Xintiandi, Nanjing Road & the Bund
Today you will explore the “Paris of the East,” appreciating its blend of East and West—museums, classical gardens, futuristic skyscrapers, and historic architecture.
Start by visiting the three major landmarks of Lujiazui. Shanghai Tower, China’s tallest and the world’s second tallest, stands at 632 meters with a 120‑degree spiral. Take the world’s fastest elevator to the 118th‑floor deck for a 360‑degree view of Jinmao Tower and the Shanghai World Financial Center.
Then visit the East Wing of Shanghai Museum, a top museum of ancient arts whose design was inspired by jade cong. Don’t miss the Great Ding of the Zhou Dynasty and the Sword of King Goujian.
Next, explore Xintiandi, strolling among shikumen buildings and modern fashion—a perfect blend of tradition and contemporary life.
In the evening, walk along Nanjing Road to the Bund, featuring 52 historic buildings known as the “Museum of International Architecture.” Enjoy the dazzling skyline of Pudong across the river.
Warm Reminder:
The East Wing of Shanghai Museum is closed on Mondays. If closed, the itinerary will be adjusted to the People’s Square Museum or another suitable site.
Shanghai Tower, Shanghai
The Bund, Shanghai
Day 3 Hangzhou–Shanghai (High‑speed rail) | Xiangji Temple, Tea Museum, Meijiawu, West Lake, Hefang Street
This morning, head to the train station for a one‑hour high‑speed train to Hangzhou. Welcome to Hangzhou, the “Heaven on Earth,” a city with over 5,000 years of culture.
Begin at Xiangji Temple near the Grand Canal. Built in 978 and dedicated to Akshobhya Buddha, it is famed for its tranquility. Visit the twin pagodas, Heavenly Kings Hall, and Mahavira Hall.
Next, visit the China National Tea Museum, the only national tea culture museum in China, with over 10,000 artifacts. It includes the Shuangfeng and Longjing exhibition halls, showcasing Chinese tea history, world tea culture, and ancient tea arts.
(Note: Closed on Tuesdays; will be replaced by the China National Silk Museum.)
Continue to Meijiawu Tea Village, the core production area of Longjing tea. Stroll through tea fields and Ming‑Qing style streets to learn traditional tea‑frying techniques.
In the afternoon, enjoy West Lake your way—on foot, by bike (first hour free), boat (self‑paid), or sightseeing shuttle. Its temples, gardens, pagodas, teahouses, and willow‑lined causeways define its charm.
Walk along Su Causeway and recall Su Shi’s verse:
“Bright water glitters in sunshine; mountains glow in rain…”
If you love legends, visit:
Wansong Academy — study place of Liang‑Zhu.
Changqiao — their parting site.
Leifeng Pagoda (self‑paid) — key scene of the Legend of the White Snake.
Finally, head to lively Hefang Street to explore traditional crafts and the historic Hu Qing Yu Tang pharmacy.
Xiangji Temple, Hangzhou
West Lake, Hangzhou
Day 4 Shanghai to Suzhou | Humble Administrator’s Garden, Lion Grove Garden, Suzhou Museum, Pingjiang River Boat, Shantang Street
After breakfast, drive to Suzhou—“City of Gardens” and the “Venice of the East.” Welcome to this city famed for elegance and classical culture.
First visit the Suzhou Garden Museum, then the Humble Administrator’s Garden, Suzhou’s largest classical garden built in 1509, themed around retreat, simplicity, and poetic charm. It consists of eastern, central, and western sections.
Garden Appreciation Tips:
Overall: Check the map to understand layout and symbolism.
Details: Observe borrowed views and framed scenes.
Architecture: Feel the harmony of pavilions, towers, water, and plants.
Poetry: Read plaques and couplets.
Seasons: Experience seasonal scenery.
Photography: Use doors, windows, and corridors for composition.
Then visit the Suzhou Museum designed by I.M. Pei, where minimalist geometry meets Jiangnan aesthetics. Exhibits include fine artifacts such as the sword of King Fuchai.
Afternoon
Continue to the Lion Grove Garden, famed for its rockeries. Its caves, peaks, and pavilions form a maze that inspired I.M. Pei’s work.
Then enjoy a 30–40 minute boat ride along Pingjiang River to experience Suzhou’s slow water‑town lifestyle.
After disembarking, stroll Shantang Street, a historic district famed since Bai Juyi’s time for culture, heritage, and food.
Suzhou Evening Tour (Optional)
Master of Nets Garden Night Show
At night, the small garden becomes a moving stage for Kunqu opera, silk music, and dance.
Humble Administrator’s Garden, Suzhou
Shantang Street, Suzhou
Day 5 Suzhou Water Town | Tiger Hill & Tongli Ancient Town
After breakfast, visit Tiger Hill, Suzhou’s top attraction, and see the oldest leaning brick pagoda in China—the Tiger Hill Pagoda. Explore legendary spots such as Sword Pond.Then drive 40 minutes to Tongli Ancient Town, the “Little Venice of the East,” with crisscrossing waterways, 49 ancient bridges, and seven islets. Visit the Retreat and Reflection Garden and historic residences.
After the tour, return to Shanghai or transfer to the airport/train station. Thank you for choosing Fenglin Travel. We look forward to seeing you again.
Tiger Hill Pagoda, Suzhou
Tongli Ancient Town, Suzhou
Price: What's Included & Excluded
What’s Included?
- Experienced Driver & Air-Conditioned Vehicle
- Professional Licensed English-Speaking Guide
- Hotel Accommodation with Breakfast
- Domestic Flights (Economy Class) or High-Speed Trains (Second Class) as per itinerary
- Entrance Fees, Activities, and Meals as per itinerary
- Accident Insurance
- We provide comprehensive services from itinerary planning and operational support to the end of your journey
What’s Not Included?
- International Airfare
- Visa Fees
- Personal Expenses
- Single Room Supplement
- Optional Tours
- Airport/Train Station Transfers on Day 1 and Departure Day
- Tips for Driver and Guide
Important Itinerary Notes for Booking a Private China Tour
Booking a private China tour is simple. Select the tour group you are interested in and click “Free Consultation.” Please state your requirements and preferences when submitting the form. You do not need to pay immediately during this process. After submitting your request, our professional travel experts will respond within 0.5 to 24 hours. You will only make a deposit after all information is confirmed. If you have any questions, feel free to contact our travel experts directly.
The itinerary above is a sample that most travelers choose. The tour can be customized according to your preferences, interests, and budget. Also, if you wish to extend your trip, just let us know your desired destinations and activities. Our professional travel experts will completely redesign the itinerary for you and your group at the best price. Tell us your ideas now >>
Private tours mean you will travel in a private vehicle to tourist attractions within a city. Our private vehicles are spacious, comfortable, and air-conditioned. Furthermore, our drivers are experienced. For travel between two destinations, we use domestic flights (economy class seats) or high-speed trains (second-class seats, usually less than 6 hours). Local guides and drivers will pick you up at the airport and train station and escort you to your hotel.
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- Travel Type: Private Customized Tour (flexible travel dates and group size)
- Travel Route: Shanghai - Hangzhou - Suzhou - Shanghai
- Route Highlights: History, Culture, Cultural Sites, Natural Wonders, Museums
Price: Inquire
(Based on a private trip for two. Prices vary depending on itinerary, travel dates, and number of travelers)
Free inquiry! You do not need to pay any fees for booking.
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