Bustling City to Jiangnan Water Towns Tour

Itinerary:
Morning: Begin your day at the City God Temple area, a lively district of traditional architecture and narrow lanes that reflect the charm of old Shanghai. It's also a food lover's paradise, with plenty of opportunities to try classic local snacks like soup dumplings and pan-fried buns.
Then visit the peaceful Yu Garden, a beautifully preserved classical Chinese garden known for its pavilions, rockeries, and tranquil paths—a hidden sanctuary in the heart of the city.
Afternoon: In the afternoon, choose one museum to visit based on your interests—whether you're drawn to ancient art, science and technology, natural history, or maritime exploration, each offers a unique perspective on Shanghai's heritage and innovation.

Attractions:
City God Temple Area (Free entry): Located in Shanghai's historic Old Town in Huangpu District, the City God Temple area includes both Yu Garden and the temple itself. A favorite among first-time visitors, this lively quarter is perfect fo soaking in local culture, savoring authentic Shanghainese snacks, and admiring traditional architecture—especially magical when lit up at night.
Yu Garden (Ticket included): Nestled beside the City God Temple, Yu Garden is a classic example of Jiangnan-style landscaping, featuring elegant halls, stone bridges, koi ponds, and winding walkways. A perfect escape from the city's bustle.
Shanghai Science & Technology Museum (Ticket included): Located in Pudong, this large-scale museum is one of the city's largest science education centers, offering interactive exhibits on science, technology, aerospace, robotics, and more. The museum also features a state-of-the-art science theater with stunning audio-visual effects.
Shanghai Natural History Museum (Ticket included): Located in Jing'an Sculpture Park, this modern, shell-shaped museum showcases over 10,000 natural specimens. Highlights include a 26-meter Mamenchisaurus skeleton and exhibits on evolution, ecosystems, and biodiversity. The museum offers an in-depth look at Earth's biodiversity and evolutionary history.
China Maritime Museum (Ticket included): Located in Nanhui New City, the China Maritime Museum is one of the most comprehensive maritime-themed museums in the country. It exhibits on shipbuilding, navigation, seafaring history, and naval defense, brought to life with detailed ship models and authentic instruments. Through detailed ship models, informative panels, and authentic navigational instruments, visitors gain a thorough understanding of China's shipbuilding heritage and the evolution of seafaring technology.
Shanghai Museum (Free entry): As one of China's top museums, Shanghai Museum features more than 120,000 ancient artifacts. Its standout collections include bronzes, ceramics, calligraphy, and traditional paintings, including several national treasures.

Dining:
Breakfast: Included at your hotel
Lunch: Local specialties (own expense)
Dinner: Local specialties (own expense)

Hotel: Oriental Riverside Bund View Hotel (Shanghai International Convention Center), The Bund Puyan Hotel, Shanghai, Blossom House Shanghai On The Bund or similar

Itinerary:
Morning: Head to Wuzhen, one of the most authentic and picturesque ancient water towns in the Jiangnan region. Begin your visit in the East Scenic Zone, where narrow alleys, serene canals, and well-preserved traditional homes evoke the charm of a bygone era. This area is filled with traditional workshops and artisan stores that showcase age-old crafts. As you wander through the town, you can sample local delicacies and soak up the rich cultural atmosphere of Jiangnan life.
Afternoon: In the afternoon, continue exploring the West Scenic Zone, known for its tranquil atmosphere and artistic flair. With quaint riverside cafés, charming boutiques, and slower-paced surroundings, this part of Wuzhen offers a more poetic and leisurely experience.
Evening: As evening falls, enjoy a tranquil rowboat ride along the West Market River. Lanterns light up the canals, casting shimmering reflections and transforming the water town into a dreamlike scene. After the boat ride, you can unwind with a classic outdoor movie at the town's open-air theater, or watch a traditional storytelling or opera performance in the town square—an immersive cultural experience wrapped in the quiet beauty of the old town.

Attractions:
Wuzhen Water Town (Ticket included): Located in the northern part of Tongxiang, Wuzhen is one of the six most renowned ancient towns in Jiangnan. It preserves the historical layout and style of a typical water town from the late Qing and Republican periods. The town is divided into East and West Scenic Zones, offering a variety of experiences including riverboat rides, folk shows, and illuminated night views. A stroll through its cobbled lanes reveals a way of life that feels both timeless and deeply rooted in tradition.
East Scenic Zone (Ticket included): The East Zone retains strong cultural traditions and the rustic charm of old residential quarters. Life here continues much as it has for generations, with locals living amidst the town's historic buildings. The area is home to a wide range of traditional craft workshops and specialty stores that highlight local skills and commercial heritage. Visitors can enjoy the scenic charm while sampling snacks and browsing unique souvenirs.
West Scenic Zone (Ticket included): The West Zone represents the essence of Wuzhen. Compared to the bustling East, it's more serene and thoughtfully restored.  Its tree-lined alleys and waterfront cafés exude a calm, artistic atmosphere.

Included Activity: Rowboat ride along the West Market River
West Zone at night is an entirely different world. Gentle lighting bathes the town in a soft glow, and the reflections in the water create a scene of surreal beauty. A rowboat ride on the West Market River becomes an unforgettable moment, especially with the background of softly lit bridges and ancient waterfront houses.

Dining:
Breakfast: Included at your hotel
Lunch: Local specialties in the East Scenic Zone (own expense)
Dinner: Local specialties (own expense)

Hotel: Wuzhen Tong'an Inn or similar

Itinerary:
Morning: Begin your day at the Feilai Peak Scenic Area, where hundreds of Buddhist statues from different dynasties are carved into the cliffs. The ancient rock art and lush mountain setting create a deeply spiritual atmosphere. Then, step into the tranquil grounds of Lingyin Temple, one of Hangzhou's oldest and most revered temples. Wander among shaded halls, listen to the resonant temple bells, and light incense as you experience the peaceful rhythms of Chinese Buddhist tradition.
Afternoon: In the afternoon, discover the poetic charm of West Lake. Enjoy a leisurely boat cruise across the calm waters, passing iconic sights like Three Pools Mirroring the Moon and the classical gardens of Xiaoyingzhou Island. Climb Leifeng Pagoda for sweeping views of the lake and learn about the legend of the White Snake. Continue with a scenic walk along Bai Causeway and Su Causeway, shaded by willows and flowering trees, and don't miss the romantic setting of Broken Bridge—especially enchanting in winter.

Attractions:
Feilai Peak Scenic Area (Ticket included): West of West Lake, this site features striking cliffside carvings of Buddhas and monks from various dynasties. Feilai Peak is home to hundreds of stone carvings of Buddhas and monks from different dynasties, creating a harmonious blend of art and spirituality. The adjacent Lingyin Temple, a renowned ancient monastery, draws visitors seeking blessings and serenity.
Lingyin Temple (Ticket not included): Also known as Yunlin Temple, Lingyin is a serene retreat nestled at the foot of Lingyin Mountain. It exudes tranquility and is home to precious relics from various dynasties. As the legendary home temple of Ji Gong, it attracts a steady stream of worshippers who come to pray and light incense.
Note: incense donation ticket required for entry.
West Lake Scenic Area (Free entry): West Lake is the heart of Hangzhou, famous for its "Ten Classic Scenes." The lake blends natural beauty and cultural elegance, making it the centerpiece of any Hangzhou visit. Whether you wander along the shores or take in the scenery from a boat, it’s a place to unwind and soak in the poetic ambiance.
Leifeng Pagoda (Ticket included): Perched on Sunset Hill at the southern edge of West Lake, Leifeng Pagoda is steeped in folklore, most famously the tale of the White Snake. Though the original tower collapsed in 1924, it was rebuilt and stands where the original pagoda once did.
Three Pools Mirroring the Moon (Xiaoyingzhou Island) (Ticket included): This island in the southern part of West Lake features traditional Jiangnan garden design. Its layout resembles a Chinese character for “field(田),” with four mini-lakes divided by pathways and bridges. The island is especially known for its tranquil scenery and the three small pagodas that reflect moonlight on the water, giving the spot its poetic name.
Broken Bridge (Free entry): At the northern end of Bai Causeway, Broken Bridge is famed for the reunion scene in the legend of the White Snake. It's especially picturesque after a snowfall, when melting snow creates the illusion of a broken span.
Bai Causeway (Free entry): Connecting Broken Bridge to Solitary Hill, this scenic path is lined with peach and willow trees and offers stunning lakeside views—perfect for a slow, relaxed stroll.
Su Causeway (Free entry): Built by the poet Su Dongpo, this nearly 3-kilometer stretch crosses the lake from north to south. Known for its lush springtime views, it's a highlight among West Lake's seasonal landscapes.

Included Experience: West Lake Boat Cruise
Drift across West Lake on a traditional boat and take in the tranquil reflections of trees, pavilions, and distant hills. Whether under morning mist or sunset light, the scenery captures the timeless grace of Hangzhou.

Dining:
Breakfast: Included at your hotel
Lunch: Local specialties (own expense)
· Recommended Restaurant: Green Tea Restaurant (Longjing Road)
A Jiangnan-style eatery set amid lotus ponds and antique boats, known for its charcoal-roasted pork and immersive atmosphere with live guzheng performances.
Dinner: Local specialties (own expense)

Hotel: Grand Hyatt Hangzhou, Huajiashan Resort, Hangzhou Grand Metropark Hotel or similar

Itinerary:
Today: After breakfast, head to Song Dynasty Town, a themed cultural park that brings the culture and charm of ancient Hangzhou. Wander through streets styled after the Song Dynasty, where traditional architecture, folk performances, and bustling marketplaces bring the charm of a bygone era to life. It's an immersive journey back to one of China's most vibrant historical periods.
In the afternoon or evening, enjoy Romance of the Song Dynasty. Combining cutting-edge visual effects with powerful performances, this immersive show features the mystical origins of Liangzhu culture, the grandeur of the Southern Song court, the bravery of General Yue Fei, and the timeless love stories of Liang Shanbo & Zhu Yingtai and the Legend of the White Snake. After the show, stroll through the lantern-lit streets and take in the magical atmosphere of the park by night.

Attractions:
Song Dynasty Town (Ticket included): A vibrant cultural theme park celebrating Song-era Hangzhou, Song Dynasty Town features traditional streets, pavilions, and markets that vividly recreate life in the past.
Its signature performance, Romance of the Song Dynasty, is a large-scale stage production praised as one of the "Top Three Live Shows in the World." Through dazzling visuals, music, and dance, the show brings to life Hangzhou's deep cultural heritage and timeless legends.

Dining:
Breakfast: Included at your hotel
Lunch: Local specialties (own expense)
Dinner: Local specialties (own expense)

Hotel: Grand Hyatt Hangzhou, Huajiashan Resort, Hangzhou Grand Metropark Hotel or similar

Itinerary:
Morning: After breakfast, begin your day with a visit to Tiger Hill, one of Suzhou's most iconic landmarks. This scenic spot offers a striking combination of natural landscapes and cultural relics. Wander through beautifully manicured gardens, admire age-old trees and cliffside paths, and take in views of the leaning Yunyan Pagoda—all set within the elegant aesthetics of a classic Jiangnan-style garden.
Afternoon: Continue your journey with a tour of the Humble Administrator's Garden, a UNESCO-listed masterpiece of traditional Chinese garden design. Discover its seamless harmony of water features, pavilions, rockeries, and lush greenery—a vivid reflection of Suzhou's artistic heritage.
Later, head to the historic Pingjiang Road district. Stroll along stone-paved alleys beside gentle canals, browse artisan shops, admire traditional homes, and soak in the quiet beauty of everyday life in this ancient water town.

Attractions:
Tiger Hill Scenic Area (Ticket included): Despite its modest height, Tiger Hill is packed with scenic beauty and cultural history. From dramatic cliffs and winding paths to ancient architectural remains, the site blends nature and heritage effortlessly. Highlights include the Yunyan Pagoda, often referred to as Suzhou's "leaning tower," and legends dating back to the Spring and Autumn period.
Humble Administrator's Garden (Ticket included): Renowned as one of China's "Four Great Gardens," the Humble Administrator's Garden is the largest and most famous classical garden in Suzhou. With its elegant layout of ponds, rockeries, bridges, and pavilions surrounded by flourishing plants, it is a living example of refined Jiangnan landscape artistry. The garden is also recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Pingjiang Road Historic District (Free entry): Located south of the Humble Administrator's Garden, Pingjiang Road is one of the best-preserved historic neighborhoods in Suzhou, dating back over 2,500 years. Unlike the busy commercial streets nearby, this area is serene and full of old-world charm. Cobblestone alleys run alongside narrow canals, connected by stone bridges and lined with traditional homes, offering a picturesque look at Jiangnan water town life.

Dining:
Breakfast: Included at your hotel
Lunch: Local specialties (own expense)
Dinner: Local specialties (own expense)

Hotel: Crowne Plaza Suzhou, Grand Rezen Hotel New City Garden (Suzhou Sports Center Branch), Jinling Aster Hotel or similar

Itinerary:
Morning: After breakfast, head to the scenic Yangcheng Lake, a tranquil spot known for its clear waters and scenic countryside views. Take a relaxing walk along the lakeside and enjoy the peaceful ambiance. Then continue to Lotus Island, famous as the birthplace of the Yangcheng Lake hairy crab. Explore the island's rustic charm and learn about the traditional lake-based lifestyle passed down through generations. Stroll past wetlands, temples, and gardens, and try fun local activities like waterwheel stepping and ox-powered well drawing—a hands-on way to experience Suzhou's water-town culture.
Afternoon: In the afternoon, head to Shantang Street, one of Suzhou's oldest and most picturesque historic districts. Wander along cobbled paths that run beside quiet canals, framed by whitewashed walls, black-tiled roofs, and arched stone bridges. Lined with heritage homes and artisan shops, this charming street captures the timeless spirit of Jiangnan life.

Attractions:
Yangcheng Lake (Free entry): Located between Suzhou and Kunshan, Yangcheng Lake is hailed as one of Jiangsu's most beautiful freshwater lakes. Its broad, crystal-clear waters and scenic surroundings make it a peaceful escape into nature. Yangcheng Lake is best known for its prized hairy crabs. Outside crab season, the lake offers a peaceful escape with beautiful waterside scenery and fresh local lake food.
Lotus Island (Free entry): Situated northeast of Suzhou, Lotus Island is named for its lotus-like shape and surrounded on three sides by water. Home to over 300 families, the island is renowned as the true origin of Yangcheng Lake's famous hairy crabs. It features gardens, temples, wetlands, and family-run crab farms, as well as interactive spots like Yiyuan Garden, Yaoshi Temple, and traditional waterwheel demonstrations.
Shantang Street (Free entry): Extending from Tiger Hill to Changmen Gate, Shantang Street offers classic Jiangnan scenery. The street parallels a narrow canal, with old stone bridges and traditional buildings along the way. It's a peaceful place to enjoy Suzhou's heritage and browse local teahouses, craft stores, and historic homes.

Dining:
Breakfast: Included at your hotel
Lunch: Local specialties (own expense)
Dinner: Local specialties (own expense)

Hotel: Crowne Plaza Suzhou, Scholars Boutique Hotel Pingjiangfu, Jinling Aster Hotel or similar

Itinerary:
Morning: Begin your day at the Suzhou Museum, an architectural masterpiece designed by the legendary I.M. Pei. The museum seamlessly fuses modern design with traditional Jiangnan garden aesthetics. Inside, explore an impressive collection of ancient pottery, jade artifacts, calligraphy, and paintings that reflect Suzhou's rich cultural heritage. Don't miss the adjacent Prince Zhong's Mansion from the Taiping Rebellion period, where you can admire refined Suzhou-style murals and immerse yourself in the historical charm of the city.
Afternoon: In the afternoon, head to Nanjing to explore the Nanjing Confucian Temple & Qin Huai Scenic Spot, the cultural soul of the city. Wander along the river's edge, passing ancient alleyways, traditional courtyards, and iconic arched bridges. Visit the Confucius Temple—one of China's four great Confucian temples—where classical architecture meets a vibrant local atmosphere. Nearby, indulge in traditional Qinhuai snacks that showcase Nanjing's culinary traditions. Continue to the Laomendong Historic District, a beautifully restored area lined with classic wooden facades and distinctive horse-head roofs that bring the city's past to life.
Evening: As night falls, board a traditional painted boat for a tranquil cruise along the Qinhuai River. Glide past glowing lanterns, old bridges, and riverside pavilions, soaking up the romantic ambiance of Nanjing's most iconic waterway.

Attractions:
Suzhou Museum (Free entry): A cultural landmark in Suzhou, the museum comprises a striking modern wing by I.M. Pei and the historic Prince Zhong's Mansion. The exhibits span from prehistoric artifacts to Ming and Qing dynasty artworks. The elegant setting, combining innovative architecture and serene garden design, makes it a unique window into Jiangnan culture.
Nanjing Confucian Temple & Qin Huai Scenic Spot (Free entry): Centered on the Confucius Temple, this lively riverside area is a historic and cultural heart of Nanjing. With its preserved architecture, traditional markets, and scenic canal views, it's a great place to explore the local lifestyle, taste classic street food, and enjoy the beauty of the old capital.
Confucius Temple (Fuzimiao) (Free entry): Originally built in the Song Dynasty, the temple honors Confucius and stands as one of China's most significant Confucian sites. Despite multiple reconstructions over time, it remains a major landmark in Nanjing and a key highlight along the Qinhuai River.
Laomendong Historic District (Free entry): This restored neighborhood south of the Confucius Temple recreates the charm of old Nanjing with traditional wooden homes, horse-head walls, artisan shops, and teahouses. A walk here offers an authentic glimpse into the architectural and cultural essence of the city's southern old town.

Included Activity: Qinhuai River Boat Ride
Enjoy a serene cruise on a traditional painted boat. As you drift beneath ancient bridges and past illuminated lanterns, experience the poetic allure of Nanjing's most storied river.

Dining:
Breakfast: Included at your hotel
Lunch: Local specialties (own expense)
Dinner: Local specialties (own expense)

Hotel: G Hotel Nanjing, inling Mandarin Garden Hotel Nanjing, Yebo Qinhuai SSAW Hotel·Grand Theater or similar

Itinerary:
Morning: Begin your day at Niushou Mountain Cultural Tourism Zone, named for its distinctive twin peaks shaped like ox horns. Stroll through its tranquil landscapes and explore historical sites including the remains of General Yue Fei's anti-Jin fortress and the Zheng He Cultural Garden, offering insights into legendary figures of Chinese history.
Afternoon: In the afternoon, visit the Nanjing Presidential Palace, a key landmark in modern Chinese history. Learn about the country’s political evolution while admiring its unique mix of Chinese and Western architectural styles. Continue to the Sun Yat-sen Mausoleum, a solemn and grand memorial nestled within the Zhongshan Scenic Area. End the day at Meiling Palace, an elegant hilltop villa once favored by Soong Mei-ling and Chiang Kai-shek, known for its graceful architecture and historical charm.

Attractions:
Niushou Mountain Cultural Tourism Zone (Ticket included): Also known as Tianque Mountain, this scenic area is famous for its ox-horn-shaped twin peaks and lush natural surroundings. A celebrated scenic spot in Nanjing, it is noted for its springtime beauty and cultural significance.
Nanjing Presidential Palace (Nanjing) (Ticket included): Once the seat of several Chinese governments, this well-preserved complex now serves as the China Modern History Museum. It showcases a mix of classical Chinese buildings and Western-style structures, offering a window into the nation's political transformation.
Sun Yat-sen Mausoleum (Free entry): Located within Zhongshan Mountain National Park, this majestic complex honors Dr. Sun Yat-sen, the founder of modern China. Its symmetrical layout and harmonious integration with the surrounding landscape reflect traditional aesthetics and national pride.
Meiling Palace (Ticket included): Built in 1931 on Xiaohongshan Hill, Meiling Palace was a former villa of Soong Mei-ling and Chiang Kai-shek. Surrounded by pine forests and known for its refined design, it remains one of Nanjing's  most iconic and elegant landmarks.

Dining:
Breakfast: Included at your hotel
Lunch: Local specialties (own expense)
Dinner: Local specialties (own expense)

Hotel: G Hotel Nanjing, inling Mandarin Garden Hotel Nanjing, Yebo Qinhuai SSAW Hotel·Grand Theater or similar

Itinerary:
Today: Enjoy a leisurely morning with no set schedule—feel free to explore on your own or relax at your hotel. Depending on your flight or train time, a private transfer will be arranged to take you to the airport or railway station for your journey home.
We wish you a pleasant trip back and hope to see you again in China!

Dining:
Breakfast: Included at your hotel
Lunch: Local specialties (own expense)