Suzhou & Hangzhou Essence Tour

Itinerary:
Morning: After breakfast at the hotel, head to the iconic Humble Administrator's Garden—one of Suzhou's most celebrated classical gardens. Centered around tranquil ponds and winding streams, this Jiangnan masterpiece is adorned with elegant pavilions, winding pathways, and meticulously landscaped greenery, offering a picturesque scene at every turn. Continue to the Suzhou Museum, a striking architectural blend of modern minimalism and traditional Jiangnan charm, designed by the legendary I.M. Pei. The museum showcases a diverse collection of local cultural treasures, including Yue kiln celadon, Suzhou-style wood carvings, and exquisite Wu School paintings.
Afternoon: Head west to the Fengqiao Scenic Area. Stroll along the historic Grand Canal and immerse yourself in the poetic atmosphere immortalized in the Tang-era verse "Maple Bridge Night Mooring." Then visit the storied Hanshan Temple, where you can experience the serenity of this ancient site and participate in the tradition of striking the great bell to make a wish.
Evening: As the sun sets, explore the charming Shantang Street, a centuries-old riverside district lined with traditional buildings, stone arch bridges, and charming teahouses. When the lanterns begin to glow, the area transforms into one of Suzhou's most romantic nighttime scenes. Enjoy a leisurely stroll to soak in the water-town ambiance.

Attractions:
Humble Administrator's Garden (Ticket included): Listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, this garden is a hallmark of Jiangnan landscape artistry. Designed with water at its core and harmoniously integrated pavilions, walkways, and floral landscapes, the space invites exploration at every step. It's divided into three distinct sections, with the central garden—preserving its original Ming Dynasty design. The on-site Suzhou Garden Museum in the garden offers deeper insights into traditional landscape design.
Suzhou Museum (Free Entry): A modern cultural landmark fusing contemporary architecture with Suzhou's classical elegance. Designed by I.M. Pei, the museum is known for its minimalist geometry and peaceful courtyards. Inside, you'll find four permanent galleries showcasing treasures such as celadon ceramics, delicate fans, and historical calligraphy—each reflecting Suzhou's rich cultural legacy.
Fengqiao Scenic Area (Free Entry): Nestled along the western edge of Suzhou's old town, this scenic canal area includes the Hanshan Temple, Maple Bridge,Tieling Pass, and a stretch of the ancient Grand Canal. Made famous by Tang poet Zhang Ji's lines in "Mooring at Maple Bridge," it offers a quiet, poetic setting that evokes nostalgia.
Hanshan Temple (Ticket included): Steeped in over a thousand years of history, Hanshan Temple is one of China's most culturally significant Buddhist temples. Known for its bell-striking ritual and peaceful courtyards, the temple draws pilgrims and travelers alike. The verse "The bell of Hanshan reaches the guest boat at midnight" continues to resonate through the ages.
Shantang Street (Free Entry): Stretching from Changmen Gate to Tiger Hill, this historic waterway street is lined with whitewashed walls, black-tiled roofs, and vibrant local shops. First developed under the governance of Tang poet Bai Juyi, the area honors his legacy with the Bai Gong Memorial Hall. It remains one of the most authentic and lively old quarters in Suzhou.

Included Activity: Shantang Street Boat Ride
Enjoy a peaceful boat ride through Shantang Street. It offers a unique way to experience the charm of this Jiangnan water town.

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

Hotel: Mercure Suzhou City Center, Crystal Orange Hotel Suzhou Guanqian Street, Atour Hotel, leqiao subway station, Guanqian Street, Suzhou or similar

Itinerary:
Morning: Begin your day at Osmanthus Park, a peaceful retreat tucked in the southeastern corner of Suzhou's old town. Named after the city's iconic flower, the park boasts one of the richest collections of osmanthus varieties in China. Strolling through the garden, you'll enjoy a subtle fragrance in the air and see how remnants of the ancient city wall blend seamlessly with the modern landscape. Continue to the Master of the Nets Garden, a compact yet beautifully composed example of classical Suzhou landscaping. With its elegant pavilions, flowing water, winding corridors, and tranquil courtyards, this garden embodies the charm and refinement of traditional Chinese aesthetics—offering a serene escape in the heart of the city.
Afternoon: After lunch, explore Yiyuan Garden, a late Qing dynasty private estate known for its intricate layout and understated beauty. Divided into two main sections connected by a corridor of ornamental windows, the garden offers a rich visual experience through layered perspectives and classic design elements.Then head to the Lingering Garden, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of China's Four Great Classical Gardens. Originally built during the Ming dynasty, this garden is famed for its artistic rock formations, picturesque pavilions, lotus-filled ponds, and elegant corridors—a masterpiece of Jiangnan-style garden design.

Attractions:
Osmanthus Park (Free Entry): A serene urban oasis named for Suzhou's city flower, Osmanthus Park features more than 260 species of trees and shrubs, including one of the country's most extensive osmanthus collections. With seasonal blossoms, landscaped paths, and remnants of ancient architecture, it's a delightful place to unwind and connect with nature.
Master of the Nets Garden (Ticket included): An small yet refined example of classical Suzhou garden art. Despite its modest size, the garden uses space masterfully—combining architecture, water, and greenery into a harmonious whole. The garden reflects the elegant lifestyle of ancient scholars and is admired for its clever spatial design.
Yiyuan Garden (Ticket included): Built by Qing dynasty official Gu Wenbin, Yiyuan is a hidden gem among Suzhou's gardens. With a clever east-west layout divided by a scenic corridor, the garden offers both architectural variety and layered visual depth. The eastern side features elegant courtyards and pavilions, while the western side centers around a pond surrounded by artificial hills, trees, and traditional architecture.
Lingering Garden (Ticket included): Famous for its rich layers of design, Lingering Garden is an outstanding example of Chinese garden artistry. Winding stone paths, ornate pavilions, ancient trees, and lotus ponds come together in a setting that feels like walking through a classical Chinese painting. It's one of the finest places to experience the charm of Jiangnan-style landscaping.

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

Hotel: Mercure Suzhou City Center, Crystal Orange Hotel Suzhou Guanqian Street, Atour Hotel, leqiao subway station, Guanqian Street, Suzhou or similar

Itinerary:
After breakfast at 8:00 AM, a private transfer will take you to the Suzhou railway station for your high-speed train to Jiande. Upon arrival, you'll be greeted by a private driver and transferred to your accommodation at Found Retreat Jiande in Hangzhou.
The afternoon is free for you to relax and enjoy the peaceful surroundings of the hotel at your own pace.

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

Hotel: Found Retreat Jiande Hangzhou or similar

Itinerary:
Spend the day as you wish—relax at the hotel or venture out for a scenic hike along a recommended countryside trail:
Qiantan – Xixifan – Zhuyuxuan – Zixu Ferry – Husun Cliff – Lingshan Peak – Fujiawu – Wushitan – Fangmen – Yaowu.
This picturesque 14 km route offers a tranquil journey through nature and rural landscapes.
Prefer sightseeing? Nearby highlights include Qili Sailing Spot, Daciyan Temple, Lingqi Cave, Xinye Ancient Village, Meicheng Old Town, and Yan Ziling Fishing Terrace. All are easily accessible for a self-paced visit, depending on your interests.

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

Hotel: Found Retreat Jiande Hangzhou or similar

Itinerary:
Enjoy a leisurely morning. After breakfast at 8:00 AM, a private transfer will take you to the prestigious West Lake State Guesthouse, known as the "No. 1 Garden by West Lake." Spend the afternoon at your own pace—relax at the hotel or explore the surrounding area freely.

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

Hotel: West Lake State Guesthouse – No. 1 Garden by West Lake, Hangzhou or similar

Itinerary:
Morning: Spend your day to discovering the cultural heritage and natural beauty of West Lake—one of China's most celebrated landmarks. Begin your morning with a visit to King Qian's Temple. Tucked away inside Orioles Singing in the Willows, this historic shrine commemorates Qian Liu, the founding ruler of the Wuyue Kingdom. Next, enjoy a peaceful walk through Orioles Singing in the Willows, where springtime breezes ripple through hanging willow branches and birdsong echoes along the lake—like stepping into a living ink painting.
Head to Three Pools Mirroring the Moon, the most iconic island within West Lake. With its graceful pavilions, landscaped gardens, and stone pagodas reflected in the water, this island captures the tranquil charm of Hangzhou. Then, visit Viewing Fish at Flower Harbor, where colorful koi swim through crystal-clear ponds set against lush floral backdrops.
Afternoon: Ascend the top of Leifeng Pagoda for sweeping views of West Lake and a glimpse into legends like the "White Snake." Continue to Jingci Temple, where the scent of incense mingles with the deep tones of ancient bells in a serene and spiritual setting. Make your way to Breeze-Ruffled Lotus at Quyuan Garden, a graceful garden known for its summer lotus blooms and historical ties to winemaking. Visit the Yue Fei Temple and pay tribute to national hero Yue Fei—the loyal general of the Southern Song Dynasty. As the day winds down, stroll through Autumn Moon over the Calm Lake, where golden sunlight meets calm waters in a scene of poetic beauty. Your final stop is the romantic Broken Bridge, famed for its wintry "melting snow" illusion and legendary love stories.

Attractions:
King Qian's Memorial Temple (Ticket included): Tucked inside the scenic Orioles Singing in the Willows Park, this 900-year-old temple was built in honor of King Qian, the founding ruler of the Wuyue Kingdom. With its grand halls and imposing architecture, it exudes a royal atmosphere. Today, it serves as a cultural landmark where visitors can explore the deep historical roots of the Wuyue era.
Orioles Singing in the Willows (Free entry): Stretching along Nanshan Road, this serene lakeside park is famed for its endless willows swaying gently in the spring breeze. Recognized as one of the "Ten Scenes of West Lake," it offers a peaceful, green site perfect for a stroll or quiet reflection.
Three Pools Mirroring the Moon (Ticket included): Often hailed as the most iconic view of West Lake, this picturesque islet—also known as "Little Yingzhou"—features three stone pagodas arranged in a perfect triangle on the water. On clear nights, candlelight glowing from inside the towers reflects in the moonlit lake, creating the enchanting illusion of "three pools mirroring the moon."
Viewing Fish at Flower Pond (Free entry): Once a private estate, this lush garden near the Su Causeway is now a beloved spot in West Lake's southern area. Named for a stream flowing from Flower Hill, it is one of the "Ten Scenes of West Lake." The park features five scenic zones: Red Carp Pond, Peony Garden, Flower Harbor, a sprawling lawn, and wooded groves—each offering a different charm.
Leifeng Pagoda (Ticket included): Standing atop Sunset Hill on the lake's southern bank, the newly rebuilt Leifeng Pagoda is China's first colored bronze tower. It forms the centerpiece of the "Leifeng in Evening Glow" scene and is best known from the romantic legend The Legend of the White Snake. The pagoda is now a symbolic icon of Hangzhou's cultural heritage.
Jingci Temple (Ticket included): One of West Lake's four most important ancient temples, Jingci Temple holds deep historical and spiritual significance. It's closely associated with the iconic "Evening Bell at Nanping Hill," one of West Lake's famed ten scenes, thanks to its resounding temple bell that echoes through the hills.
Lotus in the Breeze at Crooked Courtyard (Free entry): Situated west of the lake and just across from the Yue Fei Temple, this garden is one of the top places in Hangzhou to view lotus blossoms. Today, it also celebrates the region's wine culture, with five themed areas: Yue Lake, Bamboo Garden, Wind and Lotus, the Crooked Courtyard, and the Lakeside Forest.
Yue Fei Temple (Ticket included): Located in the northwest corner of West Lake, this solemn shrine commemorates Yue Fei, one of China's most revered national heroes. Inside, the exhibition hall displays historical materials about Yue Fei's life and unwavering patriotism.
Autumn Moon over the Calm Lake (Free entry): At the west end of Bai Causeway near Solitary Hill, this peaceful waterfront garden features elegant pavilions like the Imperial Tablet Pavilion and the Octagonal Pavilion. On crisp autumn nights, the calm lake mirrors the glowing moon, creating a tranquil and poetic scene.
Remnant Snow on the Broken Bridge (Free entry): Located at the northern tip of Bai Causeway, this bridge is steeped in romantic legend—most famously, the meeting of Xu Xian and Lady White in The Legend of the White Snake. In winter, when one side melts while the other still holds snow, the bridge appears "broken" from a distance. This iconic visual makes it one of the most classic scenes of West Lake.

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

Hotel: SKYBIRD Hotel (Hangzhou West Lake Hefang Street), Haoyi Hotel(Hangzhou West Lake Southern Song Yujie store), Hangzhou West Lake Hefangjie Banland Hotel or similar

Itinerary:
Morning: Begin your day at Lingyin Temple, tucked away in the west of West Lake. Known for its serene setting, incense-filled air, and echoing temple bells, this centuries-old monastery offers a peaceful retreat from the city. Stroll through ancient halls and take in the temple's quiet grandeur. Just steps away, Feilai Peak rises dramatically behind the temple. Admire the artistry of over 400 ancient stone statues. It's a remarkable fusion of art, faith, and nature.
Noon: Continue to Manjuelong Village, a scenic valley best known for its fragrant osmanthus trees. Especially in autumn, the sweet scent fills the air as you walk along leafy trails shaded by blooming branches. Relax over a cup of local tea and enjoy the scenery of tea plantations and traditional village charm.
Afternoon: Next, step into the tranquil world of the Yunqi Bamboo Trail, one of the "New Ten Scenes of West Lake." This quiet path winds through a lush bamboo forest, where sunlight filters through the leaves and a cool mountain breeze whispers through the trees—like walking through a living ink painting. Wrap up your day at Qinghefang Street, Hangzhou's most historic street. Lined with centuries-old buildings, it's the perfect place to browse handmade crafts, sample local delicacies, and soak in the city's vibrant folk culture.

Attractions:
Lingyin Temple (Ticket included): Also called the "Yunlin Temple," Lingyin is one of Hangzhou's oldest and most revered Buddhist temples. Nestled between forested peaks, it's known for its spiritual atmosphere, rich cultural heritage, and ancient relics that span multiple dynasties.
Feilai Peak Scenic Area (Ticket included): Adjacent to Lingyin Temple, Feilai Peak is famed for its cliffside Buddhist carvings—over 400 in total, dating from the 10th to 14th centuries. With nearly 300 still intact, it's a rare treasure trove of ancient grotto artistry in southern China.
Manjuelong Village (Free entry): Tucked in the southern hills of West Lake, this peaceful valley is famous for its autumn osmanthus blossoms. The village's traditional whitewashed houses and shaded paths offer a quiet escape into nature.
Yunqi Bamboo Trail (Ticket included): Located at the foot of Wuyun Mountain, this trail winds through a dense bamboo grove known for its tranquil atmosphere. The site takes its name from a legend of colorful clouds once gathering here. Known for its cool, shaded trails and misty mountain air, it's especially popular in summer as a peaceful retreat.
Qinghefang Street (Free entry): Hangzhou's most iconic historic street, Qinghefang blends ancient architecture with vibrant street life. Explore traditional teahouses, craft shops, and snack stalls. It's a lively destination that captures the charm of old Hangzhou with its blend of heritage architecture and bustling street life.

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

Hotel: SKYBIRD Hotel (Hangzhou West Lake Hefang Street), Haoyi Hotel(Hangzhou West Lake Southern Song Yujie store), Hangzhou West Lake Hefangjie Banland Hotel or similar

Itinerary:
Today: Your journey comes to an end as you head home with unforgettable memories. Depending on your train or flight schedule, a private transfer to the station or airport will be arranged approximately two hours in advance. We look forward to welcoming you again on your next adventure.

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