The Grand Jiangnan Elegance Tour

Itinerary:
Morning: Take a leisurely walk around West Lake, enjoying scenic views along Su Causeway and Changqiao Park. Enjoy distant views of Leifeng Pagoda and the seasonal beauty of the lake. Climb the pagoda to take in sweeping panoramas of West Lake and Jingci Temple across the water.
Afternoon: Schedule your morning to ensure you can attend the 2:00 pm performance of Songcheng Eternal Love, a grand panoramic show. After the performance, stroll through Songcheng's vibrant Market Street to immerse yourself in the atmosphere of Song Dynasty daily life. The park recreates traditional entertainment such as "Goulan Wasi" with folk performances and themed inns, offering a rich cultural experience.

Attractions:
West Lake Scenic Area – Yigong Park (Free entry): Nestled inside Hubin Park by West Lake's edge, Yigong Park features iconic sights like Jixian Pavilion at sunset, the clear waters of Chenglu, and a boat dock where you can embark on a classic West Lake cruise.
Leifeng Pagoda (Ticket included): Also known as Huangfei Pagoda, it sits on Leifeng Hill by the south shore of West Lake. Famous for the Legend of the White Snake, the current pagoda is a rebuilt five-story structure, It offers panoramic views of the lake and Jingci Temple, especially stunning when illuminated at night.
Songcheng Hangzhou (Ticket included): This popular destination blends tourism, live performances, and resort leisure. The park's streets—East, West, North, Market, Rainbow Bridge, and Wind Flower Alley—showcase the lively charm and culture of the Song Dynasty. Boat rides on Song River add to the picturesque experience. The main show, Songcheng Eternal Love is a signature performance that brings the splendor and spirit of the Song Dynasty to life. Inspired by historical events and folk legends, the show combines stunning stage design, immersive visual effects, and powerful performances to recreate the cultural richness and bustling life of ancient China.

Included Activity: West Lake Boat Cruise
A boat ride on West Lake is a quintessential way to experience its charm. Glide across the water for about 4 kilometers in 15 minutes, taking in reflections of the surrounding mountains and the lake’s poetic scenery.

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

Hotel: Grand Hyatt Hangzhou, 1930’s Chaptel, Canopy by Hilton Hangzhou West Lake or similar

Itinerary:
Morning: Start your day in East Wuzhen, where the authentic charm of a traditional Jiangnan water town is beautifully preserved. Wander through narrow stone-paved alleys flanked by weathered wooden houses, admire whitewashed walls and black-tiled roofs, and take in the serene canals and arched stone bridges that define the town's timeless appeal.
Afternoon: Head to West Wuzhen, an elegantly restored area that blends historical charm with artistic flair. Discover folk museums, browse boutique shops, and unwind at a teahouse or café along the canal. Or simply relax by the water and enjoy the tranquil rhythm of riverside life.

Attractions:
East Wuzhen (Dongzha) (Ticket included): As a key part of the Wuzhen ancient town, East Wuzhen retains its rustic character with narrow lanes, aged wooden homes, and a strong local atmosphere compared to its western counterpart. Here, local residents still go about their daily lives among narrow lanes and centuries-old riverside homes.
West Wuzhen (Xizha) (Ticket included): Known as the cultural heart of Wuzhen, the West Gate area is a graceful blend of old-world architecture and modern artistry. The West Market River winds through the neighborhood, connecting picturesque islets with ancient stone bridges. Along its banks, you'll find cafés, teahouses, and boutique inns—ideal spots to enjoy Wuzhen's literary, poetic ambiance. This is where the classic Jiangnan image of “bridges, flowing water, and white-walled houses” truly comes to life.

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

Hotel: Wuzhen Zhaoming House, Splendid Clubhouse, Healtown Health Preservation Hall or similar

Itinerary:
Morning: Begin your day in the peaceful charm of Tongli, one of Jiangnan's most celebrated ancient water towns. Wander through narrow, cobbled lanes lined with whitewashed walls and traditional wooden houses. Visit the Former Residence of Fei Gong to learn about this esteemed scholar's life and achievements, then continue to the well-preserved Zhu Residence and Ye Family Mansion—fine examples of classic Jiangnan architecture that echo centuries of local history.
Afternoon: In the afternoon, relax at Nanyuan Teahouse, where you can sip fragrant tea, sample traditional snacks, and enjoy live performances of Jiangnan string music and opera in a riverside setting. Later, delve into Suzhou's rich storytelling heritage at the Suzhou Pingtan Museum and explore the history and charm of this precious heritage.

Attractions:
Tongli Water Town (Ticket included): One of the six famous ancient towns in Jiangnan, Tongli is located in Suzhou's Wujiang District. Fifteen waterways intersect the town, connected by 49 stone bridges, earning it the nickname "Venice of the East." With its Ming and Qing-era architecture, old stone streets, quiet alleys, and waterfront homes, Tongli offers a true taste of traditional Jiangnan life.
Former Residence of Fei Gong (Free entry): Fei Gong was a renowned Chinese historian and intellectual. His riverside former residence, built in the classic Jiangnan style, now serves as a memorial site featuring exhibitions of his personal artifacts, manuscripts, and contributions to modern scholarship and thought.
Nanyuan Teahouse (Ticket included): Set in a charming Qing-style building, Nanyuan Teahouse is a cultural haven where tradition comes alive. Guests can enjoy a range of teas and local snacks such as smoked peas and pickled radish, while watching intimate performances of traditional Suzhou music and opera. With windows overlooking the water, it's a perfect spot to slow down and soak up the atmosphere of old Jiangnan.
Suzhou Pingtan Museum (Free entry): This museum is dedicated to Suzhou Pingtan, a traditional art form combining storytelling and music. With over 12,000 exhibits, including rare books and performance scripts, it offers a deep dive into the history, styles, and masters of the genre. Interactive displays and audio-visual presentations allow visitors to fully experience the beauty and depth of this cultural treasure.

Included Activity: Pig Trough Boat Ride
Glide across the glassy surface of Lugu Lake in a traditional pig trough boat—a serene experience to connect you with nature and local heritage.

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

Hotel: Tongli Lake Resort Phase II or similar

Itinerary:
Morning: Begin your day at Suzhou's renowned Tiger Hill Scenic Area, famous for its rich history and stunning natural landscapes. Explore dramatic cliffs and ravines, and discover cultural treasures like the Yunyan Pagoda, Sword Pool, and Thousand-People Rock. The blend of classical Jiangnan garden architecture and lush greenery creates a serene atmosphere.
Afternoon: Head to the Maple Bridge Scenic Area west of Suzhou's old town. Enjoy scenic views along the ancient Grand Canal and visit key sites including Maple Bridge, Tieling Pass, and the charming Maple Bridge Ancient Town. Wander the peaceful streets and immerse yourself in the timeless water town ambiance. Afterwards, visit Hanshan Temple—over 1,400 years old and famed for its role in classic Chinese poetry. Ring the temple bell and offer incense to experience this beloved site for blessings and peace.
Evening: Enjoy free time to explore at your own pace. We recommend strolling along Pingjiang Road, a historic district known for its well-preserved traditional architecture, waterfront charm, and lively cafes and shops.

Attractions:
Tiger Hill Scenic Area (Ticket included): Located in Suzhou's Gusu District, Tiger Hill Scenic Area is an elegant fusion of historic architecture and lush vegetation exemplifies the classic beauty of Jiangnan gardens. Tiger Hill is renowned for its natural scenery, including cliffs and ravines, complemented by numerous historic and cultural sites built over centuries. Key highlights include the Tiger Hill Pagoda, Sword Pool, and Thousand-People Rock, which together showcase the rich heritage of Wu culture and the evolution of Chan Buddhism.
Maple Bridge Scenic Area (Fengqiao Scenic Area) (Free entry): This area along the Grand Canal includes five historic spots: Hanshan Temple, Jiangfeng Ancient Bridge, Tieling Pass, Maple Bridge Ancient Town, and the canal. Inspired by the famous Tang poem "Night Mooring at Maple Bridge," visitors come to savor the peaceful sound of the temple bell over the water.
Hanshan Temple (Ticket included): Located on Suzhou's western outskirts, Hanshan Temple is a centuries-old Buddhist temple famous across China and beyond, largely due to Zhang Ji's renowned poem. It remains a popular travel destination for ringing the bell, lighting incense, and seeking blessings.

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

Hotel: Yihe Riverside Suzhou, Hovle Mansion Club & Hotel, Scholars Boutique Hotel Pingjiangfu or similar

Itinerary:
Morning: After breakfast, drive to Shanghai and start your day in the historic City God Temple District—a lively area where heritage, culture, and street food come together. Stroll through bustling lanes lined with traditional-style buildings, sample iconic local treats like Nanxiang soup dumplings and savory pork rice cakes, and soak in the sights, sounds, and flavors of authentic old Shanghai.
Afternoon: Next, visit the nearby Yuyuan Garden, a masterpiece of classical Jiangnan landscaping built during the Ming Dynasty. Meander through its elegant pavilions, zigzag bridges, and serene koi-filled ponds, where every turn reveals the artistry and serenity of traditional Chinese gardens. Then, head across the river to Pudong and ascend to the 88th-floor observatory of Jinmao Tower. A high-speed elevator takes you 340 meters above the ground, where sweeping 360° views of Shanghai's futuristic skyline await—offering a breathtaking contrast to the garden's classical charm.
Evening: As dusk falls, head to the Bund for an unforgettable evening stroll along the Huangpu River. Watch the golden light fade into twilight as the historic buildings of the Bund glow to life, set against the glittering skyscrapers of Lujiazui across the water.

Attractions:
City God Temple (Chenghuangmiao) District (Free entry): Nestled in the eastern part of Shanghai's Huangpu District, the City God Temple is a vibrant hub of sightseeing, shopping, and local cuisine. Included the City God Temple and Yuyuan Garden, it's a must-see for first-time visitors. Here you can experience Shanghai's folk traditions, savor authentic local delicacies, and enjoy the lively buzz of everyday city life.
Yuyuan Garden (Ticket included): A gem of classical southern Chinese garden design, Yuyuan Garden spans 2 hectares and is a designated National Key Cultural Relic. Its ornate pavilions, dramatic rockeries, and lush plantings are artfully arranged to create an elegant, peaceful retreat in the heart of the city. The garden exemplifies Ming and Qing-era aesthetics and is famed for its intricate detailing and “big within the small” layout.
Jinmao Tower 88th Floor Observatory (Ticket included): Rising from the heart of Pudong's financial district, the Jinmao Tower Observatory offers one of Shanghai's most spectacular views. A high-speed elevator reaches the 88th floor in just 45 seconds, delivering you to a 340-meter-high platform enclosed by floor-to-ceiling glass. On clear days, you can catch stunning sunsets, and in the evening, the lights of Lujiazui and the Bund create a spectacular cityscape.
The Bund (Free entry): Spanning 1.5 kilometers along the Huangpu River, the Bund is a defining landmark of Shanghai. Its lineup of grand colonial-era buildings—ranging from Gothic and Neoclassical to Art Deco—stands in striking contrast to the futuristic skyscrapers across the river in Pudong. A nighttime walk here offers a front-row seat to one of China's most symbolic cityscapes.

Dining:
Breakfast: Included at your hotel
Lunch: Local specialties (own expense)
Recommend Foods: Nanxiang Soup Dumplings, traditional dim sum at Lu Bo Lang, and sweet rice balls from Ningbo Tangyuan
Dinner: Local specialties (own expense)

Hotel: Radisson Blu Hotel Shanghai New World, Crowne Plaza Shanghai, The Bund Puyan Hotel, Shanghai or similar

Itinerary:
Today: Enjoy free time in Shanghai at your own pace—relax at the hotel, explore nearby neighborhoods, or shop for last-minute souvenirs.
According to your flight or train schedule, a private transfer will be arranged approximately two hours before departure to take you to the airport, train station, or designated drop-off point for your journey home.

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