5 Days Hangzhou Suzhou Heavenly Tour from Shanghai by High Speed Train

Summary

Itinerary Highlight
Day 1 Arrive in Shanghai
Day 2 Shanghai-Hangzhou by bullet train: Boat Ride on West Lake, Viewing Fish at Flower Park, Meijiawu Tea Village, Eighteen Imperial Street, Watch the sunset from City God Pavilion
Day 3 Hangzhou: Lingyin Temple, Bamboo Lined Path at Yunqi, Six Harmonies Pagoda, Qinghefang Street
Day 4 Hangzhou-Suzhou by bullet train: Lingering Garden, Private Boat on Grand Canal, Panen Gate
Day 5 Suzhou-Tongli-Shanghai: Suzhou mroing market, Tongli water town

Day 1 Shanghai Arrival

Welcome to the vibrant heart of China! Once you land in Shanghai, a friendly face from "Your Way Holiday" will be waiting just for you right outside the airport exit, holding a sign with your name for an easy, worry-free meet-up. No need to navigate the bustling crowds—our local Shanghai driver will whisk you away directly to your hotel, ensuring a smooth start to your adventure. As you settle in, the rest of your day is yours to relax, unwind, and adjust to the new time zone, getting ready to dive into the exciting experiences that await you in this dynamic city.

Day 2 Shanghai-Hangzhou

Kick off your day with a quick and comfy ride to the train station, where you’ll hop on the train to Hangzhou, a city where tradition and modernity dance gracefully by the serene West Lake. Your Hangzhou journey starts the moment you step off the train, greeted warmly by a guide with a "Your Way Holiday" sign, eager to show you the marvels of this city.

First up is the iconic West Lake, a UNESCO World Heritage site that's like stepping into a living, breathing Chinese scroll painting. Embarking on a leisurely boat cruise, you'll glide over the placid waters, encircled by lush hills, ancient pagodas, and willow-draped banks. This is more than just sightseeing; it's a serene voyage into the soul of classical China, seen through the eyes of poets and painters. Your guide, brimming with tales and trivia, will reveal the lake's secrets, from its inspiration on countless artists to its significance in Chinese culture, making every view and vignette come alive with history and heart.

Next, venture to Fish Viewing at the Flower Pond, a tranquil spot where nature’s artistry is on full display. Located where fresh streams meet West Lake, this verdant park blooms with color, from the delicate peonies of April to the darting goldfish that animate its ponds. It's a place where peace and beauty reign supreme, offering a moment to pause and revel in the simpler pleasures of life. As you wander with your guide, learn about the meticulous care that maintains this natural haven and the traditions that keep it vibrant year after year.

Then, discover the elegance of Guo's Villa, Hangzhou’s most preserved traditional private residence. Nestled between lush mountains and the serene lake, this estate is a masterclass in Qing Dynasty architecture and landscape design, dubbed the "Number One Garden of the West Lake" for its unrivaled tranquility and beauty. Explore its well-kept halls and gardens, where every pavilion, pond, and plant tells a story of refined leisure and artistic appreciation, with your guide providing insights into the life and times of its former inhabitants.

Lunch at local restaurant to try the local delicacies (Our local tour guide will give you the best recommendation)

Post-lunch, stroll through a verdant tea village, immersing yourself in the world of Longjing Green Tea. Here, the air is fragrant with the scent of tea leaves, and the landscapes are a tapestry of emerald green. Savor a cup of the finest Longjing tea, renowned for its health benefits and exquisite flavor, in the village where it's been cultivated for centuries. This experience isn't just about tasting tea; it's an intimate look at the tea-making process, from leaf to cup, guided by the knowledgeable insights of your guide.

Continue to the Longjing Imperial Tea Garden, home to the revered Eighteen Imperial Tea Bushes. Learn about the imperial history of Longjing tea, a favorite of emperors and the elite, and see the bushes that produce some of the world's most prized tea leaves. The auction of their leaves, more valuable than gold, is a testament to the tea's unparalleled quality.

End your day in Hangzhou with a visit to the City God Pavilion, where you'll catch one of the most stunning sunsets in the city. Standing on Wu Hill, this spot offers a mesmerizing view over West Lake and the bustling city below, painted in vibrant sunset hues. It's a perfect place to soak in the tranquil beauty of Hangzhou, making the pavilion more than just a viewing spot but a gateway to the city's heart and history. Your guide will sprinkle your visit with stories and insights, turning this moment into a vivid narrative of Hangzhou's past and present, and ensuring your experience is as enriching as it is beautiful.

As your day winds down, you’ll be escorted back to your hotel, carrying with you the rich tastes, sights, and stories of Hangzhou, thanks to the immersive experiences and expert guidance provided by "Your Way Holiday."

Day 3 Hangzhou

Kick off your day with a lively Morning Market & Breakfast Experience in Hangzhou, designed for those looking to immerse themselves in the authentic local lifestyle. Whether your hotel doesn't serve breakfast or you're simply a culinary explorer, this adventure is your gateway to experiencing the city's morning vibe. Wander the quaint streets, alleys, and vibrant markets as the city stirs to life. Led by our guide, you'll dive into Hangzhou's morning scene, sampling traditional breakfast delicacies in hidden spots you wouldn't find on your own. This experience is more than a meal; it's a deep dive into Hangzhou's everyday rhythm, offering a taste of the city's soul through its rich and varied breakfast culture.

After breakfast,Start your day immersed in the spiritual ambiance of Lingyin Temple, one of China's most significant Buddhist monasteries. Nestled amid lush greenery, this "Temple of the Soul's Retreat" stands as a serene sanctuary, its storied halls and pagodas wrapped in a tranquil air that belies its turbulent past. Despite the scars of history, Lingyin Temple has emerged as a vibrant center of Buddhist worship and culture, protected and preserved through turbulent times, thanks in part to Premier Zhou Enlai's intervention. Wander through its expansive grounds, where ancient artifacts and statues narrate tales of devotion and artistry. Our guide, enriching your visit with detailed narratives, unveils the temple's rich tapestry of history, spirituality, and architectural splendor, connecting you deeply with the essence of Chinese Buddhism.

Next, venture into the future at Bamboo Lined-Path at Yunqi, a serene escape from the city's hustle. Surrounded by whispering bamboo groves, this path offers a peaceful interlude, a stark contrast to the bustling city center. It's a glimpse into Hangzhou's harmonious blend of nature and modernity, with the Qiantang River flowing quietly nearby and the burgeoning CBD indicating the city's forward-looking vision. As you stroll along this verdant pathway, your guide will share insights into Hangzhou's development plans, painting a picture of a city that respects its past while boldly embracing the future.

Lunch is an authentic experience, away from the tourist trails. Our guide knows just the spot where locals dine, offering you a taste of genuine Hangzhou cuisine. It’s not just about avoiding the tourist spots; it’s about diving deep into the real flavors and culture of China. Enjoy dishes that tell stories of regional traditions and culinary expertise, a feast that’s as much about culture as it is about cuisine.

Afterward, immerse yourself in the serene world of Meijiawu Tea Village. Nestled amongst verdant hills, this village is not just a tea production site but a living museum of China's tea culture. Here, amidst the sprawling tea plantations, you'll learn about the intricate process of making Longjing, China's most renowned green tea. Savor a cup of this exquisite tea, its aroma and taste as refreshing as the village's tranquil setting. Our guide will make this experience even more enriching by sharing the nuances of tea culture and the significance of tea in Chinese society.

Conclude your day with a visit to the Six Harmonies Pagoda, an architectural marvel that stands testament to China's ancient engineering and artistic skills. Perched on Yuelun Mountain, this pagoda offers panoramic views of the Qiantang River and is a prime spot for witnessing the famed river tides. The guide will narrate the pagoda's historical and cultural significance, making your visit a journey through time.

The day ends with a stroll down The Song Dynasty Imperial Street, a vibrant artery of Hangzhou's historic heart. Here, the past comes alive amidst the buzz of modern life. Qinghefang Ancient Street, with its array of shops selling traditional crafts, teas, and local snacks, offers a vivid snapshot of Hangzhou's rich cultural heritage. As you wander through this historic street, our guide's insights into its storied past and present-day significance will deepen your connection to Hangzhou's cultural fabric.

After a day filled with profound cultural encounters and scenic beauty, our service ensures a smooth return to your hotel, reflecting on a day well spent exploring Hangzhou's treasures.

Day 4 Hangzhou-Suzhou

In the morning, we'll whisk you off to Hangzhou train station for your journey to Suzhou, where wonders await. Upon arrival, a friendly face, your Suzhou guide, will greet you with a "Your Way Holiday" sign, a prelude to the adventures ahead.

Dive into the serene elegance of Lingering Garden, a masterpiece of Chinese landscape. Part of the illustrious list of UNESCO World Cultural Heritage Sites, this garden embodies the profound philosophical essence of Chinese garden design. Wander through its harmonious ensemble of halls, pavilions, rockeries, and ponds, each meticulously arranged to capture the spirit of nature's splendor and the sophistication of Ming and Qing architectural elegance. Our guide will unravel the garden's lore, inviting you into a narrative that spans centuries, where every stone, waterway, and plant tells a part of Suzhou's soulful story.

Next, immerse yourself in the rhythm of local life along the Grand Canal. This isn't just a stroll; it's a journey into the heartbeats of Suzhou's community. Observe the lively interactions in public parks, from harmonious morning dances to casual, heartfelt conversations. The real magic begins as you glide through the waters of the Grand Canal on a boat. Stretching from Beijing to Hangzhou, this UNESCO World Heritage Site is not only an engineering marvel but a ribbon that binds the tale of China's northern and southern cultures. Feel the pulse of history beneath you as our guide shares tales of emperors, merchants, and the common folk who have traversed these waters through millennia.

Your exploration continues at Panmen Gate, a sentinel watching over Suzhou's history. This ancient gate is a portal back to 2,500 years ago, to the era of the Wu state during the Spring and Autumn period. Standing at the confluence of the city's moat, it is a testament to Suzhou's strategic importance and architectural ingenuity. The Ruiguang Pagoda nearby whispers stories of faith and time, while the Wu Gate Bridge arches gracefully over the water, a silent witness to the passage of countless generations. Our guide will enrich your understanding, connecting you to the essence of Panmen's historical and cultural significance.

As the day winds down, we ensure a smooth transition to your Suzhou accommodation, reflecting on a day steeped in beauty and history. This journey with us is not just about seeing; it's about experiencing, learning, and connecting with the heart of Suzhou, guided by our local expertise and personalized care every step of the way.

Day 5 Suzhou-Tongli-Shanghai

In the morning, we head to Suzhou's vibrant wet market to kick off an energetic day. This visit is a golden opportunity to dive deep into the locals' life, steering clear of the usual tourist trails and crowded spots. As we navigate through the bustling alleyways, you'll find yourself in the heart of local culture, amidst the din of vehicles and shouts of street vendors. Currently, the wet market scene in Suzhou retains much of its "old China" charm, pulsating with life and tradition.

After enjoying your breakfast, prepare for a day filled with discovery. Our guide will meet you in the hotel lobby, ready to escort you to Tongli Water Town. The journey to Tongli, a town as picturesque as a classical Chinese painting, takes just around 40 minutes, but transports you centuries back in time.Our guide will provide you with a detailed background of Tongli's history and culture, making your ride as informative as it is scenic.

Tongli Water Town, often heralded as a "museum of ancient architectures," offers a breathtaking glimpse into the life of China's Ming and Qing Dynasties. Strolling through the town, you'll find yourself mesmerized by the historical houses and temples that line the riverbanks. Each building, with its intricate carvings, porcelain furniture, and elegant gardens, tells its own unique story of the past. The waterside residences, with their tiny stairs descending directly into the water, provide a snapshot of the harmonious relationship between man and nature that defines Tongli.Throughout your walk, our guide will point out the architectural details and historical anecdotes that bring the town to life.

Retreat and Reflection Garden (Tuisi Garden) is a masterpiece of design, created by the retired official Ren Lansheng between 1885 and 1887. The garden's name reflects a contemplative life, away from the public eye, inviting visitors to ponder life's impermanence amidst its beauty. Spanning 700 square meters, Tuisi Garden masterfully integrates its structures with the natural landscape, offering a tranquil haven of ponds, pavilions, and lush greenery that changes with the seasons. Its layout—a clever interplay of indoor and outdoor spaces—exemplifies the sophisticated garden culture of southern China.Our guide will help you navigate the garden, sharing stories of its creation and the symbolism behind its design.

Tongli's Ancient Bridges serve as the town's historical emblem, with Taiping, Changqing, Siben, and Dubu bridges each telling a piece of Tongli's storied past. From the oldest, Siben Bridge, dating back to the Southern Song dynasty, to the petite Dubu Bridge, these structures are not merely crossings over water but markers of time, bearing witness to the town's rich heritage.As you cross each bridge, our guide will recount the legends and historical significance of these ancient structures, enriching your understanding of Tongli's heritage.

As your time in Tongli comes to a close, we'll ensure a smooth transition to the Suzhou train station, where you'll board a train back to Shanghai. Upon arrival, your Shanghai driver will be ready to escort you to Shanghai Airport for your next journey. This marks the end of our services, but the memories of Tongli's timeless charm and the personalized, insightful explorations facilitated by our guides will linger with you long after. Our commitment to providing an enriching, culturally deep experience is evident in every detail, ensuring your journey through China's water towns is as seamless as it is unforgettable.

Price Per Person in US Dollars