Trouble-Free Day Trip: Guided Suzhou Gardens and Tongli Ancient Town from Shanghai

Tour Itinerary

Welcome to “Your Way Holiday,” where your journey begins with a warm welcome from our expert guide and professional driver at your hotel in Shanghai. After a brief introduction, you’ll be comfortably escorted to our private vehicle for a scenic drive to Suzhou, the “Venice of the East.” This seamless transfer ensures a smooth and relaxing start to your adventure, allowing you to sit back and enjoy the picturesque countryside along the way. Get ready to explore Suzhou’s classical gardens, ancient canals, and historic silk industry, as we delve into the city’s rich history and cultural heritage.

Our first stop is the Master of the Nets Garden, a UNESCO World Heritage site celebrated for its exquisite design and meticulous landscaping. Originally built during the Song Dynasty, this garden is a testament to Suzhou's mastery of garden artistry, cleverly utilizing limited space to create a tranquil haven. Wander through pavilions, bridges, and corridors surrounded by ponds and lush greenery. Our knowledgeable guide will share captivating stories and historical insights, offering a deeper appreciation of its architectural features and symbolic significance.

Next, immerse yourself in the historical ambiance of Shantang Street, dating back over 1,100 years to the Tang Dynasty. This canal-side street is lined with traditional architecture, quaint shops, and teahouses, providing a glimpse into Suzhou's rich cultural heritage. Stroll along cobblestone streets where merchants and poets once walked, exploring boutiques offering local crafts, silk products, and delectable Suzhou pastries. Our guide will narrate tales of the street's past, enriching your understanding of its historical importance.

Indulge in a delightful lunch featuring authentic Suzhou cuisine at a carefully selected local restaurant renowned for its regional specialties. Your guide will accompany you, offering insights into the history and cultural significance of each dish, ensuring you gain a deeper appreciation of Suzhou’s rich culinary heritage. Prepare your taste buds for a symphony of flavors as you savor dishes such as the signature "Mao Dou Shao Liu Yue Huang," showcasing seasonal delights like delicate hairy crabs and fresh green soybeans. Your guide will explain the best ways to enjoy these seasonal treasures, from traditional eating techniques to their symbolic meanings in local culture. Experience another Suzhou delicacy, "Xiang You Shan Hu," where fresh eels are transformed into a delectable paste topped with spicy oil, enhancing its rich aroma and distinctive taste. As you indulge, your guide will share fascinating stories behind this dish, including its origins and the meticulous preparation methods that make it a standout in Suzhou cuisine.

In the afternoon, explore Tongli Ancient Town, a beautifully preserved water town with a history spanning over 1,000 years. Begin at Retreat & Reflection Garden ——Tuisi Yuan, a Qing Dynasty masterpiece and UNESCO World Heritage site. Admire its serene ponds, intricate pavilions, and traditional architecture that embody Chinese garden philosophy. Wander through narrow alleyways lined with Ming and Qing Dynasty residences, artisan workshops, and ancestral halls, offering glimpses into ancient daily life and craftsmanship.

Visit Three Bridges, a Ming Dynasty stone bridge spanning Tongli's canal. Adorned with stone carvings and pavilions, this architectural gem offers panoramic views of Tongli's bustling waterways. As you stroll across the bridge, your guide will share fascinating anecdotes and legends, unveiling its deep cultural significance as a symbol of prosperity and a historic gathering place in ancient China. Capture the perfect photo, immerse yourself in local traditions, and experience the charm of Tongli’s timeless beauty.

Explore Chongben Hall and Jiayin Hall, two prominent ancestral halls in Tongli showcasing rich cultural heritage and ancestral worship traditions. Marvel at intricate woodwork, stone carvings, and artifacts reflecting past generations' craftsmanship and reverence for ancestors. Gain insights into rituals and ceremonies honoring familial lineage, deepening your appreciation for Tongli's cultural tapestry. As we walk through these historic halls, you’ll marvel at the intricate woodwork, detailed stone carvings, and well-preserved artifacts, each telling a story of devotion and legacy. Your guide will guide you through the rituals and ceremonies once performed here, helping you understand their significance in honoring familial lineage.

As the day draws to a peaceful close, take a moment to appreciate the timeless charm and cultural richness of Suzhou’s classical gardens and ancient canals. Your guide will accompany you back to our private vehicle, ensuring a smooth and comfortable journey as we make our way back to Shanghai. Whether you are a seasoned traveler or visiting for the first time, our dedicated team strives to provide exceptional service and unforgettable experiences. Sit back, relax, and take in the picturesque scenery as we return to your hotel or designated drop-off location in Shanghai.

Price Per Person in US Dollars