Classic Jiangnan Gardens & Water Town Tour

Itinerary:
Morning: Start your day with a visit to Xixi National Wetland Park, a tranquil natural oasis nestled within the city. Explore Yanshui Fish Village, where traditional fishing and farming lifestyles are preserved. Stroll through the charming Jiangnan-style streets of Xixi Paradise, and soak in the quiet elegance of Meizhu Villa, surrounded by serene gardens and winding waterways. Take in the calm beauty of Shentankou, known for its still waters and ancient camphor trees. Walk along Hezhu Ancient Street, where you can experience the rustic atmosphere and cultural heritage of the area.
Afternoon: In the afternoon, head to Songcheng Theme Park, a vibrant recreation of a prosperous Song Dynasty town. Explore the quirky architecture of the Strangest Street in Jiangnan, discover the spiritual artistry of ancient China at the Mystic Grotto, and experience riverside life along Songhe West Street. As the sun sets, enjoy the acclaimed live performance "The Romance of Song Dynasty" —a dazzling blend of dance, music, and visual storytelling that brings ancient legends to life.

Attractions:
Xixi National Wetland Park (Ticket included): Located in western Hangzhou, Xixi is China's first national wetland park combining urban, agricultural, and cultural landscapes.
Yanshui Yuzhuang（烟水渔庄）(Free entry): This lakeside complex features Jiangnan-style courtyards, showcases local fishing culture and traditional fish-farming life. You can sample local freshwater fish dishes, stroll along the long dike, or visit the Folk Life Exhibition Hall to explore the region's rural heritage.
Zhoujia Village (Free entry): A main entrance to Xixi Wetland, Zhoujia Village serves as both an information hub and a cultural stop, featuring the tranquil "Xixi Tea Room" where visitors can relax over a cup of tea.
Xixi Paradise (Free entry): A scenic zone at the southeast corner of the wetland park, Xixi Paradise combines natural landscapes with traditional architecture, vibrant markets, and cultural performances, offering a vivid taste of Hangzhou's historic charm.
Meizhu Villa (Free entry): A refined garden courtyard inspired by Song Dynasty aesthetics, Meizhu Villa is designed for quiet leisure and poetic reflection—complete with pavilions, flowing water, and lush bamboo groves.
Shentankou (Free entry): This serene spot is a waterway crossroads famous for its deep pools and ancient trees, offering an ideal place for nature lovers to unwind.
Hezhu Ancient Street (Free entry): Lined with vintage-style teahouses, taverns, and local craft shops, this historic street in northeast Xixi showcases the area's traditional lifestyle and folk culture.
Song Dynasty Town (Hangzhou Songcheng) (Ticket included): A lively cultural park recreating the daily life and atmosphere of the Song Dynasty. With themed streets, market scenes, immersive architecture, and live performances, it's a step back in time to one of ancient China's most prosperous eras.
Strangest Street in Jiangnan (Free entry): Based on a dream of Emperor Gaozong of the Song Dynasty, this eccentric street is full of unusual structures and illusions—fun, weird, and mind-bending.
Mystic Grotto (Ticket included): A cavernous installation that showcases the essence of ancient Buddhist cave art. Wandering through its passageways reveals intricate carvings of bodhisattvas, celestial maidens, and spiritual scenes.
Songhe West Street (Ticket included): Built along the riverbank inside Songcheng, this street showcases the lifestyle of Jiangnan water towns with local snacks and handmade crafts.

Dining:
Breakfast: Local specialties (own expense)
Lunch: Local specialties (own expense)
Dinner: Local specialties (own expense)

Hotel: Cheeinn Hangzhou (Hangzhou Xihu Lakeside Yintai In77), CityNote Hotel (Hangzhou Xihu Lakeside Yintai Branch), Hangzhou Sniff Hotel (Lingyin Temple area), Fillmore Hotel (Hangzhou West Lake Lakeside Jiefang Road), Hangzhou Parca Rezen Hotel, Pagoda Hotel West Lake Wulin Hangzhou or similar

Itinerary:
Morning: Begin your day with a peaceful visit to Lingyin Temple and the Feilai Peak Scenic Area. Stroll through tranquil forest trails, take in the spiritual atmosphere and marvel at statues of Buddhas and monks carved into the cliffs
Afternoon: In the afternoon, cruise across West Lake, soaking in its serene beauty—graceful willows, stone bridges, and mist-covered hills mirrored on the water's surface. Stop at Viewing Fish at Flower Pond to watch vibrant koi swim beneath blooming branches, then continue to Three Pools Mirroring the Moon, a charming island known for its poetic scenery. End the day at Leifeng Pagoda, where panoramic lake views and golden hour light create an unforgettable sunset moment.

Attractions:
Lingyin Temple (Ticket included): Also called the "Cloud Forest Temple," Lingyin is one of Hangzhou's oldest and most venerated Buddhist temples. Set at the base of Lingyin Mountain and facing Feilai Peak, it's known for its peaceful ambiance and an impressive collection of historical relics from various Chinese dynasties.
Feilai Peak Scenic Area (Ticket included): Part of the broader Lingyin complex, Feilai Peak features hundreds of ancient Buddhist carvings etched into its limestone cliffs. These detailed sculptures, created over centuries, showcase a remarkable fusion of religion and artistic mastery.
West Lake Cruise (Ticket included): West Lake Cruise is the quintessential way to experience West Lake. As your boat glides across the water, take in ever-changing views of willow-lined banks, traditional pavilions, and distant mountain silhouettes, embodying the timeless elegance described in the famous phrase: "West Lake in light or heavy makeup is always charming."
Viewing Fish at Flower Pond (Huagang Guanyu) (Free entry): Situated near the Su Causeway, this garden area is famed for its seasonal blossoms, koi-filled ponds, and gentle streams, making it one of West Lake's top ten scenic spots and a delightful place for a leisurely walk.
Three Pools Mirroring the Moon (Ticket included): Also known as Xiaoying Island, this is the largest and only accessible island on West Lake. Explore its elegant pavilions, winding bridges, and historical monuments. The three iconic stone pagodas rising from the water are especially enchanting under the moonlight.
Leifeng Pagoda (Ticket included): Standing atop Sunset Hill, Leifeng Pagoda is a landmark rich with folklore, especially the legend of the White Snake. The newly reconstructed structure houses cultural exhibits on each level. Climb to the top for breathtaking views of West Lake and a sweeping vista that includes the nearby Jingci Temple.

Dining:
Breakfast: Local specialties (own expense)
Lunch: Local specialties (own expense)
Dinner: Local specialties (own expense)

Hotel: Cheeinn Hangzhou (Hangzhou Xihu Lakeside Yintai In77), CityNote Hotel (Hangzhou Xihu Lakeside Yintai Branch), Hangzhou Sniff Hotel (Lingyin Temple area), Fillmore Hotel (Hangzhou West Lake Lakeside Jiefang Road), Hangzhou Parca Rezen Hotel, Pagoda Hotel West Lake Wulin Hangzhou or similar

Itinerary:
Morning: Leave Hangzhou in the morning and enjoy a comfortable drive to Suzhou, a city known for its classical gardens and waterways.
Afternoon: Begin your exploration with a visit to Lion Grove Garden. Nicknamed the "Kingdom of Rockeries," it offers a playful yet artistic experience in a serene setting. Next, head to the Humble Administrator's Garden. Meander through shaded corridors, around lotus ponds, and past intricately designed pavilions, all thoughtfully arranged to reflect the grace and harmony of traditional Jiangnan garden design.

Attractions:
Lion Grove Garden (Ticket included): One of the Four Famous Gardens of Suzhou, Lion Grove Garden stands out for its striking rock formations. At its heart is a central pond surrounded by a complex network of stone peaks, archways, and grottoes. Pavilions like the Pavilion for Zhenqu Pavilion (真趣亭) and the Xiuzhu Pavilion (修竹亭) add elegance to this artistically rich and maze-like garden.
Humble Administrator's Garden (Ticket included): A UNESCO World Heritage Site, this garden is a masterpiece of southern Chinese landscaping. Centered around water, it features tranquil ponds, decorative bridges, sculpted rockeries, and lush vegetation. It is considered the pinnacle of Jiangnan-style garden artistry.

Dining:
Breakfast: Local specialties (own expense)
Lunch: Local specialties (own expense)
Dinner: Local specialties (own expense)

Hotel: Shangri-La Hotel Suzhou, Pan Pacific Suzhou, Hilton Garden Inn Suzhou Jinji Lake, Scholars Hotel· Select Collection Hotel (Shilu Sanxiang Road Subway Station), Atour Hotel (Guanqian Street), Crowne Plaza Suzhou Jinji Lake or similar

Itinerary:
Morning: Start your day with a visit to Tiger Hill, a renowned cultural and historical landmark in Suzhou. Admire the wonder of the leaning Tiger Hill Pagoda. Discover the legendary Sword Pool, believed to be the resting place of King Helü of Wu, and enjoy a quiet walk through the elegant pavilions and gardens of Xixi Huan Cui.
Next, head to Shantang Street, a historic canal-side district. Take a traditional boat for a scenic ride along the ancient waterway, passing stone bridges, traditional houses, and bustling riverbanks that reflect the charm of old Suzhou.
Afternoon: In the afternoon, visit Hanshan Temple, a tranquil Buddhist temple with over 1,400 years of history. You can ring its bell, offer prayers, and experience the peaceful ambiance of this spiritual sanctuary.

Attractions:
Tiger Hill Scenic Area (Ticket included): Tiger Hill is packed with natural beauty and historical significance. Its cliffs, pathways, and ancient structures are steeped in legend. This site blends the aesthetic elegance of Jiangnan gardens with stories from the Spring and Autumn period.
Tiger Hill Pagoda (Yunyan Pagoda) (Free entry): Perched on Tiger Hill, this Song Dynasty pagoda has leaned for centuries. It's a defining symbol of Suzhou's ancient architecture and enduring legacy.
Sword Pool (Free entry): The Sword Pool is 45 meters wide and 6 meters deep, with water that remains crystal clear all year round. It holds a special place in Suzhou's rich historical lore.
Xixi Huan Cui (Free entry): Part of Tiger Hill's "Ten Views," Xixi Huan Cui features classic Suzhou garden elements—pavilions, flowing water, and layered greenery. Originally a Tang Dynasty scholar's retreat, it's now a peaceful haven of natural beauty.
Shantang Academy (Free entry): Nestled along the canal, this restored academy showcases refined wooden interiors and classical charm. It's a perfect spot to sip tea and enjoy live Suzhou Pingtan—a traditional mix of storytelling and music.
Hanshan Temple (Ticket included): Located on Suzhou's western outskirts, Hanshan Temple is a spiritual and cultural landmark. Known worldwide thanks to the poem A Night Mooring by Maple Bridge, it draws visitors seeking peace and blessings.

Included Activity:
Shantang Street & Canal Boat Ride: Shantang Street is a 1,200-year-old canal-side street lined with traditional homes, shops, and teahouses. A boat ride along the Shantang Canal offers picturesque views and a glimpse into local life in the old town.
Note: The boat ride includes transfer to Hanshan Temple.

Dining:
Breakfast: Local specialties (own expense)
Lunch: Local specialties (own expense)
Dinner: Local specialties (own expense)

Hotel: Shangri-La Hotel Suzhou, Pan Pacific Suzhou, Hilton Garden Inn Suzhou Jinji Lake, Scholars Hotel· Select Collection Hotel (Shilu Sanxiang Road Subway Station), Atour Hotel (Guanqian Street), Crowne Plaza Suzhou Jinji Lake or similar

Itinerary:
Morning: Start your day with a visit to the acclaimed Suzhou Museum, where modern architecture meets classical garden design.Inside, you'll find a diverse collection of artifacts—from ancient ceramics and jade to traditional Chinese paintings—that reflect Suzhou's rich cultural heritage.
Afternoon: In the afternoon, head to Wuzhen, one of China's most scenic and historic water towns. Begin in Dongzha (East Gate), where quiet canals, aged stone houses, and narrow alleyways offer a glimpse into traditional riverfront life. Then move on to Xizha (West Gate), famous for its winding waterways, charming bridges, and beautifully preserved buildings. It's a perfect place to unwind and experience the charm of Jiangnan.

Attractions:
Suzhou Museum (Free entry): The museum features two parts: a contemporary wing designed by I. M. Pei, and a historic wing located in the former Prince Zhong's Mansion of the Taiping Heavenly Kingdom. The layout referres traditional Suzhou courtyards, combining clean modern lines with heritage architecture. Highlights include ancient pottery, jade artifacts, classical paintings, and the refined "Suzhou-style" frescoes in the old mansion.
Wuzhen East Gate (Dongzha) (Ticket included): Dongzha retains the authentic feel of a lived-in water town. Riverside homes are still occupied by locals, and the area exudes daily life and historic charm.
Wuzhen West Gate (Xizha) (Ticket included): Xizha is the cultural heart of Wuzhen. Crisscrossed by canals and linked by ancient stone bridges, it features restored waterfront homes, boutique shops, cafés, and teahouses, offering a peaceful place of the beauty of Jiangnan's water town lifestyle.

Dining:
Breakfast: Local specialties (own expense)
Lunch: Local specialties (own expense)
Dinner: Local specialties (own expense)

Hotel: Crowne Plaza Wuzhen, Wuzhen Maison New Century Grand Hotel, Hilton Garden Inn Wuzhen, Yinhe Villa (South Gate of Xizha) · Atour Hotel Wuzhen, Wu Town Mingli Hotel or similar

Itinerary:
Morning: This morning, head to Lu Xun's Hometown, where you'll step into the formative world of one of China's greatest literary figures. Wander through his Former Residence, the charming Baicao Garden, and the traditional Sanwei Study Room, each space carefully preserved to reflect its original form. Together, they showcase Lu Xun's youth and the environment that shaped his early thinking.
Afternoon: In the afternoon, explore Shenyuan Garden. Visit the Phoenix Hairpin Stele, where poet Lu You wrote his most heartfelt verses after a chance reunion with his former wife Tang Wan. Then, gain deeper insight into his life and legacy at the Lu You Memorial Hall, and stroll through Shuanggui Hall and Guhe Pavilion, where ancient architecture and poetic symbolism come together in timeless harmony.

Attractions:
Lu Xun Native Place (Free entry): This historic district in the heart of Shaoxing is where Lu Xun was born and spent his childhood. It preserves many original structures and cultural sites tied to the author's life.
Sanwei Study Room (Free entry): Located within Lu Xun's Hometown Scenic Area, this late Qing dynasty private school was where Lu Xun studied from ages 12 to 17. It stands as an important window into traditional Chinese education and the early development of Lu Xun.
Baicao Garden (Free entry): Once the Zhou family's vegetable garden behind Lu Xun's home, this garden became famous through Lu Xun's nostalgic essay "From Baicao Garden to Sanwei Study Room." It's a shared symbol of childhood imagination and joy.
Former Residence of Lu Xun (Free entry): This is the house where Lu Xun was born and spent his formative years. The residence still contains many original furnishings and personal items, offering a rare and intimate glimpse into his early life.
Shenyuan Garden (Ticket included): A classic Jiangnan-style garden known as much for its elegance as for its tragic love story. Poet Lu You wrote his famous poem "Phoenix Hairpin" here after a chance encounter with his former wife Tang Wan.
Phoenix Hairpin Stele (Free entry): Located inside Shenyuan Garden, this stone tablet marks the spot where Lu You, overcome with emotion after seeing Tang Wan again, composed Phoenix Hairpin. The poem stands as one of the most iconic and poignant expressions of love and heartbreak in Chinese literature.
Lu You Memorial Hall (Free entry): This memorial honors the legacy of Lu You with three themed exhibitions: Patriotic Aspiration, Devotion to Homeland, and Tragic Love. The hall showcases the achievements of Lu You's literary and personal.
Shuanggui Hall (Free entry): Situated in the southeast corner of Shen Garden, this refined courtyard is named after the two osmanthus trees (golden and silver) planted in its central patio. It's not only an architectural gem but also a venue for Shen Garden's evening cultural performances.
Guhe Pavilion (Free entry): Also called the "Crying Crane Pavilion," this structure lies at the heart of Shenyuan Garden and symbolizes Lu You's lifelong sorrow over unfulfilled dreams and lost love. The imagery of the solitary crane reflects the poet's grief and determination in a time of political and personal struggle.

Dining:
Breakfast: Local specialties (own expense)
Lunch: Local specialties (own expense)
Dinner: Local specialties (own expense)

Hotel: New Century Grand Hotel Hangzhou, Shaoxing International Hotel (Lu Xun Hometown Branch), Crowne Plaza Shaoxing, CityNote Hotel (Shaoxing Lu Xun Hometown Yintai City Branch), Atour Hotel Shangxing Lu Xun s Hometown, M Hotel Lanou International, Lu Xun's hometown of Shaoxing or similar

Itinerary:
Morning: Start your day in the Hometown of the Sage of Calligraphy, a charming riverside district that embodies the elegance of Jiangnan's water towns. Meander through its narrow alleys and stone-paved paths as you trace the legacy of Wang Xizhi and Cai Yuanpei.
Noon: Head to Bazi Bridge, a remarkable Y-shaped stone bridge. Admire its clever design and take in the peaceful views of Shaoxing's ancient canal system.
Afternoon: Continue to the Orchid Pavilion Scenic Area. Explore landmarks such as the E'chi Pavilion and Qushui Liushang, and delve into the evolution of calligraphy at the Lanting Calligraphy Museum. Wrap up the experience at the Pavilion of Imperial Tablet, home to inscriptions by two Qing emperors.

Attractions:
Hometown of the Sage of Calligraphy (Free entry): Located at the foot of Jishan Hill, this culturally rich district was once home to Wang Xizhi and Cai Yuanpei. It also served as an educational hub for scholars like Liu Zongzhou and Huang Zongxi. This area offers an authentic snapshot of Jiangnan's traditional charm and scholarly atmosphere.
Bazi Bridge (Free entry): At the eastern end of Baziqiao Street, this Y-shaped bridge connects three converging rivers and three roadways. It channels water from Jianhu Lake in the south to the Grand Canal in the north, and was once a key artery in ancient Shaoxing.
Orchid Pavilion Scenic Area (Ticket included): The Orchid Pavilion (Lanting) is famous for hosting the legendary calligraphy gathering led by Wang Xizhi during the Eastern Jin dynasty. The site perfectly blends landscaped gardens and historic pavilions, offering a serene and poetic retreat.
E'chi Pavilion (Free entry): This triangular pavilion houses a stele inscribed with the characters "E'chi" (Goose Pond) in sweeping cursive script. According to legend, the calligraphy was collaboratively penned by Wang Xizhi and his son Wang Xianzhi—each contributing one character—resulting in a contrast of different styles.
Lanting Calligraphy Museum (Free entry): Centered around the legacy of the Orchid Pavilion Preface, the museum's layout respects the architectural traditions of Shaoxing while incorporating modern design. As China's largest museum dedicated to calligraphy, this museum offers a deep dive into the art form's origins and evolution.
Qushui Liushang (Winding Stream party) (Free entry): This spot recreates the setting of the legendary calligraphy gathering hosted by Wang Xizhi.
Pavilion of Imperial Tablet (Free entry): Also known as the "Stele of Grandfather and Grandson," this monumental stone bears Emperor Kangxi's calligraphic rendition of the Orchid Pavilion Preface on the front, and a poem written by Emperor Qianlong during visit on the back. Towering 6.8 meters high and weighing 18 tons, it stands as one of Lanting's most treasured cultural icons.

Dining:
Breakfast: Local specialties (own expense)
Lunch: Local specialties (own expense)
Dinner: Local specialties (own expense)

Hotel: New Century Grand Hotel Hangzhou, Shaoxing International Hotel (Lu Xun Hometown Branch), Crowne Plaza Shaoxing, CityNote Hotel (Shaoxing Lu Xun Hometown Yintai City Branch), Atour Hotel Shangxing Lu Xun s Hometown, M Hotel Lanou International, Lu Xun's hometown of Shaoxing or similar

Itinerary:
Morning: Enjoy free time in the morning to relax or explore at your own pace. Depending on your flight or train schedule, your private driver will escort you to the airport or railway station for your return journey.

Dining:
Breakfast: Local specialties (own expense)
Lunch: Local specialties (own expense)