Travel beyond Shanghai and discover the gardens, waterways, villages, mountains and cultural treasures of Jiangnan.
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Tailor-made inquiry
Advisor proposal after consultation
Discover Hangzhou’s Tea & Buddhist Heritage
Visit Meijiawu Tea Village and Lingyin Temple to experience Hangzhou’s famous tea culture, ancient Buddhist heritage and peaceful landscapes.
Step Into the Charm of Tongli Water Town
Spend a full day exploring Tongli’s canals, stone bridges, historic residences and traditional streets while experiencing the classic beauty of a Jiangnan water town.
Explore Shaoxing's Literary Heritage by Wupeng Boat
Follow in the footsteps of Lu Xun through his childhood home, then drift through ancient canals on a traditional black-canopied boat.
Hike the Dramatic Maling Tianguan Canyon Near Jiande
Walk cliff-hugging plank paths above emerald pools and waterfalls in one of Zhejiang's most spectacular natural landscapes.
Discover the beauty of Jiangnan on this 10-day Shanghai Hangzhou Suzhou Shaoxing tour, traveling through Shanghai, Hangzhou, Shaoxing, Jiande and Suzhou. Explore West Lake, tea villages, ancient temples, classical gardens, historic streets and charming water towns, with a traditional Wupeng boat ride and scenic mountain landscapes along the way.
Duration
10 days / 9 nights
Tour Type
Tailor-made Travel
Theme
Heritage & Culture
Group Size
Only Your Group
Start City
Shanghai
Activity Level
MODERATE
Route Map
Map pins show the primary places guests will visit on this route.
Welcome to Shanghai! Your driver meets you at Pudong Airport for a smooth transfer to your hotel. After settling in, step out into the tree-lined streets of the former French Concession. Stroll past plane-tree avenues, art-deco villas, and cozy cafes. Your guide introduces the neighborhood's layered history, from colonial past to today's creative hub. Ease into your journey with a relaxed evening walk, soaking in the city's blend of East and West. Dinner at a local bistro sets the tone for the days ahead.
Today's Highlights
Optional Excursions
Airport Arrival Assistance with Guide
Upgrade your arrival experience with a professional guide service. Your guide will meet you at the airport, assist with luggage, help with communication if needed, and provide support during your transfer, making your first moments in China smoother and more comfortable.
Advisor quoted
Dive into Shanghai's contrasts today. Start at Yu Garden, a 400-year-old classical garden with zigzag bridges and dragon-wall courtyards. Then wander the French Concession's leafy lanes before popping into Tianzifang, a maze of alleyway galleries and boutique shops. Cross Nanjing Road, Shanghai's busiest shopping street, and end at The Bund as sunset lights up the Pudong skyline across the river. Your guide weaves in stories of old Shanghai and the city's rapid rise along the way.
Today's Highlights
Optional Excursions
Haipai Qipao Bespoke Experience
Explore the elegant charm of the Haipai Qipao, a living intangible cultural heritage that blends Western tailoring with traditional Chinese silhouettes, and experience the essence of Shanghai's traditional clothing. You can visit the Haipai Qipao workshop to learn about its century-old history, select your own fabric, and have a skilled tailor custom-make your qipao. You can also experience the fun of making your own frog buttons and preview your look through a digital mirror—a refined encounter with the fashionable soul of Shanghai.
Advisor quoted
Four Staples Lane Breakfast Experience
Start the day like a true Shanghainese with the iconic Four Staples (Si Da Jin Gang) - dalengbing (sesame flatbread), cifan (glutinous rice roll), youtiao (fried dough), and doujiang (soy milk). The early-morning immersion begins with a short culture class on Shanghai's breakfast heritage, then dives into the lively Anshan Road Market to taste freshly made classics straight from the vendors, finishing with a basket of soup dumplings and a crash lesson in Shanghainese phrases you can use right away.
Advisor quoted
Themed Huangpu River Night Cruise with Buffet Dinner
Upgrade to a premium themed Huangpu River night cruise. Glide along the Huangpu River and enjoy sweeping views of the illuminated Bund “Exhibition of World Architecture” and Lujiazui neon skyline. While admiring the stunning riverside nightscape, indulge in a rich Chinese and Western buffet dinner onboard.
Advisor quoted
Shanghai Evening River Cruise
As an optional add‑on after your daytime Shanghai sightseeing, you can join an evening Huangpu River cruise. Glide along the water to behold brilliantly‑lit colonial‑style buildings on the Bund and shimmering high‑rise towers of Lujiazui, witnessing Shanghai’s stunning day‑to‑night transformation from a unique riverside perspective.
Advisor quoted
Board a morning high-speed train to Hangzhou, arriving in about an hour. Your local guide greets you and leads you straight to West Lake. Cruise across the lake past pagodas and willow-draped causeways, then visit Guo's Villa, a beautifully preserved scholar's garden. After lunch, explore Lingyin Temple, one of China's most important Buddhist monasteries nestled among forested hills. In the afternoon, sip freshly picked Longjing tea at Meijiawu Tea Village and walk the serene Yunqi Bamboo Path.
Today's Highlights
Optional Excursions
Hike Through Tea Fields and Discover Hangzhou’s Tea Culture
Escape the city and explore the peaceful countryside of Meijiawu Tea Village, one of Hangzhou’s most famous Longjing tea-producing areas. Follow the hillside trails through lush tea plantations, enjoy views of rolling green hills, and experience the tranquil atmosphere of a traditional tea village.
Advisor quoted
Create a Shimmering Handmade Accessory with Ancient Shell Craftsmanship
Experience the exquisite beauty of traditional mother-of-pearl inlay craftsmanship, an ancient technique that transforms natural shell fragments into delicate decorative pieces. Under the guidance of artisans, polish and arrange the iridescent shell pieces to create your own elegant accessory, such as a hairpin, brooch, or earrings. The natural shimmer of the shell creates a timeless piece that combines traditional artistry with modern style.
Advisor quoted
A short drive brings you to Shaoxing, a city steeped in literary history. Visit Lu Xun's former residence, where China's most celebrated modern writer grew up. Wander through Shen Garden, a classical Song-dynasty garden with poetic inscriptions on its walls. Stroll Cangqiao Street, a quiet canal-side lane untouched by mass tourism. The highlight: a ride on a traditional wupeng boat, gliding through narrow waterways as the boatman steers with his feet. Return to Hangzhou in the evening.
Today's Highlights
Optional Excursions
Shen Garden Night Performance “Night of Shen Garden”
Experience immersive night show inside Shen Garden. Under lantern‑lit ancient garden setting, watch traditional opera performance depicting the poignant love story of Lu You and Tang Wan.
Advisor quoted
Rice Wine Jar Painting & Wine Tasting
Visit the rice‑wine culture venue. Paint your own mini wine jar under artisan guidance, sample several grades of local Shaoxing rice wine, learn about time‑honored rice‑wine brewing heritage. Finished painted jar can be taken home as souvenir.
Advisor quoted
Leave Hangzhou behind for a day of dramatic natural scenery. Drive south to Maling Tianguan Canyon near Jiande, where sheer cliff walls rise hundreds of meters above a narrow gorge. Follow the wooden plank path bolted to the cliff face, crossing suspension bridges and peering down into emerald pools. Waterfalls cascade from the canyon rim, misting the trail on warm days. Your guide points out geological layers and local flora along the way. Descend to the valley floor and head to Jiande.
Today's Highlights
Optional Excursions
Maling Tianguan Super‑All‑In‑One Pass
Upgrade to Maling Tianguan super all‑in‑one pass, covering scenic highlights and cliff adventure rides. Take the flying magic carpet uphill, visit Golden‑Buddha‑Hand Bridge, Sky Mirror and Wanfu Summit. Enjoy cliff glass drift, high‑altitude zip line, suspension bridge, high‑altitude bicycle and dry slide. One‑ticket access for sightseeing and thrilling mountain activities, no separate tickets needed.
Advisor quoted
Spend a quieter day exploring Jiande's hidden cultural gems. Visit Daciyan Temple, a serene Buddhist site carved into a mountainside, where monks still practice daily rituals. The surrounding forest offers peaceful walking paths and panoramic views of the Xin'an River valley. In the afternoon, wander Xin Ye Ancient Village, a remarkably preserved settlement with Ming and Qing dynasty architecture. Walk through ancestral halls, stone-paved lanes, and old merchant houses. Return to Jiande town.
Today's Highlights
Optional Excursions
Xinye Ancient Village Rubbing & Clay Pottery DIY
Inside Xin Ye Ancient Village, try ancient stone‑inscription rubbing from old village steles, then shape simple pottery wares. Connect with ancient village’s Hui‑style architectural culture.
Advisor quoted
Qili Sailing River Kayaking /drifting
Glide across clean Xin’an River by kayak. Surrounded by green mountain banks, enjoy fresh river breeze and river‑valley natural scenery, gentle‑water route for leisure paddling.
Advisor quoted
Take a morning high-speed train to Suzhou, the city of classical gardens and canals. Your guide leads you to the Master of Nets Garden, a UNESCO-listed masterpiece of miniature landscape design where every rock, pond, and pavilion is placed with poetic intention. Next, visit Panmen Gate, the only surviving water-and-land city gate in China, dating back over 2,500 years. After lunch, explore Hanshan Temple, immortalized in a famous Tang-dynasty poem. End the day strolling Pingjiang Road.
Today's Highlights
Optional Excursions
Imperial Banquet at Wu Palace VIP seat
Taste restored Tang royal dishes amid live ancient performances in grand palace-style surroundings.
Advisor quoted
Hanfu Costume Rental & Professional Photography
Rent full‑set Hanfu and receive delicate makeup. Select Song‑ or Ming‑style outfits for photos against the ancient city‑gate and Ruiguang Pagoda. Your tour guide will take nice shots for you. You may also wear the costume for evening sightseeing and night‑cruise photos.
Advisor quoted
Kunqu Opera Performance & Workshop
Originated in Suzhou, Kunqu Opera ranks among China’s oldest opera styles. You can watch authentic live‑stage performances at Suzhou Kunqu Museum or local theatres to soak up Suzhou’s time‑honored cultural heritage.
Advisor quoted
Private Hand-Rowed Boat on Pingjiang River
Take a private hand‑rowed wooden boat on Pingjiang River without other guests. As you drift past white‑walled buildings and stone‑arch bridges, the boat‑woman sings gentle Wu folk tunes. You can take crowd‑free photos and enjoy tranquil Jiangnan scenery unavailable with shared‑boat options.
Advisor quoted
Escape to Tongli Water Town, one of Jiangnan's best-preserved ancient water towns. Cross stone bridges over winding canals and watch locals go about their day along the waterways. Visit Tuisi Garden, a UNESCO-listed retreat built by a retired official, with intricate carvings and a cleverly designed layout. Wander the ancient streets past rice-wine shops, embroidery studios, and riverside teahouses. Your guide shares stories of the town's merchant families. Return to Suzhou.
Today's Highlights
Optional Excursions
Tuisi Garden Night Tour
Join a guided night‑time visit to UNESCO‑listed Tuisi Garden and feel poetic Jiangnan charm. Stroll dim‑lit stone paths beside lit pavilions, corridors and waterside platforms. Soft lighting highlights elaborate buildings and peaceful ponds. Much quieter than daytime, the garden delivers a dream‑like vibe. Enjoy shadow reflections, exclusive night views and take wonderful photos of classic Suzhou‑garden scenery.
Advisor quoted
Water Town Paper Cutting Experience
Under local artisans’ guidance, you will practice traditional water‑town paper‑cutting, a precious intangible heritage. Master basic skills to craft delicate patterns of Tongli’s stone bridges, classical gardens and water‑town elements. This hands‑on experience fits visitors of every age and level. Take your finished paper‑cut work home as an exclusive souvenir to keep authentic Jiangnan folk culture with you.
Advisor quoted
Hand-Pulled Boat Experience
Take a hand‑rowed wooden boat across Tongli’s quiet canals with a local boatman. Pass stone bridges, willow trees and white‑walled dwellings. View ancient buildings from the water and capture picturesque reflections for an immersive Jiangnan water‑town experience.
Advisor quoted
Take a morning high-speed train back to Shanghai, settling in for your final evening in the city. The rest of the day is free to explore at your own pace. Revisit a favorite neighborhood, pick up last-minute souvenirs on Nanjing Road, or simply relax at your hotel. Your guide can recommend a farewell dinner spot based on your tastes, from upscale Shanghainese cuisine to a hidden dumpling joint. Enjoy Shanghai one last time before your departure tomorrow.
Today's Highlights
Your ten-day journey through eastern China comes to an end. Enjoy a leisurely morning at your hotel before your driver arrives for the transfer to Pudong or Hongqiao Airport, or the railway station. If time allows, squeeze in a final walk or a quick dim sum breakfast nearby. Your guide confirms your departure details the evening before, ensuring a smooth handoff. Leave with a suitcase full of memories from Shanghai, Hangzhou, Shaoxing, Jiande, and Suzhou.
Today's Highlights
Comfortable, safe, and well-maintained vehicles throughout your journey.
Late-Model Vehicles (2022+)
All vehicles are 2022 or newer models — modern, safe, and meticulously maintained.
Daily Deep Cleaning
Every vehicle is sanitized and detailed before each use.
Professional Drivers
Licensed, uniformed drivers with 5+ years of tourist transport experience.
Full Insurance Coverage
Comprehensive commercial insurance for all vehicles and passengers.
Onboard Amenities
Complimentary water, Wi-Fi, phone chargers, and tissues on every ride.
Climate Comfort
Dual-zone climate control ensures perfect temperature year-round.
We usually arrange a 5-seater for 1–2 guests, a 7-seater for 3–5 guests, and a 12-seater for 6–9 guests, and so on. All vehicles have ample luggage space. Photos are for reference only. Vehicle brands and models may vary by destination.
Have a specific restaurant or dietary need in mind? Vegetarian, vegan, gluten-free, halal, and other requests can be accommodated with advance notice.
Heritage Restaurants
Historic establishments with decades of culinary tradition — where locals celebrate.
Local Family Kitchens
Home-cooked meals with local families — authentic recipes passed down generations.
Street Food & Night Markets
Guided tastings through iconic food streets with a local foodie guide.
Farm-to-Table Fresh
Seasonal dishes with ingredients grown on-site, set against scenic backdrops.
Fine Dining & Michelin
Award-winning restaurants with tasting menus, wine pairings, and unforgettable culinary artistry.
Dining Preferences & Dietary Requirements
Share dietary needs, restaurant preferences, or food interests before travel so the advisor can confirm practical arrangements.
Your private guide oversees the day's logistics, including the visit order, pacing, walking routes, attraction entry arrangements, and coordination with the driver. By adjusting the schedule based on traffic, crowd conditions, and your interests, the guide ensures a seamless, flexible, and personalized sightseeing experience.
Licensed & Certified Guides
All guides hold national tourism licenses and have 5+ years of experience.
English Proficiency (IELTS 7+)
Fluent communication — guides can discuss history, culture, and current events with ease.
Multi-Language Available
English, French, German, Spanish, Japanese, and Korean-speaking guides available on request.
Wireless Audio Headsets
Every guest receives a headset so you never miss a word, even in crowded sites.
No Forced Shopping Guarantee
Zero pressure — we never force you into souvenir shops. Your time is yours.
Local Shopping Recommendations
Want authentic gifts? We'll recommend trusted local markets and artisan shops — no tourist traps.
Our “No Forced Shopping” Promise
We guarantee zero shopping stops unless you specifically request them. If you ever feel pressured, contact us immediately for a full refund of that day's service.
Request a Specialist Guide
Interested in a specific topic? We can arrange historian guides for cultural sites, photographer guides for scenic spots, or foodie guides for culinary tours. Just let us know when booking.
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Yes. The traditional Wupeng boat ride is included in the itinerary, giving you the opportunity to experience Shaoxing’s historic canals and traditional waterways from the water.
The connections are very convenient. You will take high-speed trains from Shanghai to Hangzhou, Jiande to Suzhou, and Suzhou to Shanghai. The other city-to-city transfers are by private vehicle, allowing you to travel comfortably and efficiently between destinations.
Yes, this tour works well for families with older children (10+) and active seniors. The pace is flexible and can be adjusted. Some attractions involve walking on uneven surfaces or climbing stairs (garden rockeries, canyon plank paths). Your guide can modify the itinerary to suit your group's needs and energy levels.
Absolutely. This is a tailor-made tour designed around your preferences. You can add extra days in any city, swap attractions, adjust the pace, or extend to nearby destinations like Huangshan or Nanjing. Your travel advisor will work with you to customize every detail before confirmation.
Shaoxing is quite close to Hangzhou, so there is no need to change hotels. After your day trip to Shaoxing, you will return to Hangzhou for the night, making the journey more convenient and comfortable.
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THE LOCAL DIFFERENCE
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Advisor-designed quote
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THE LOCAL DIFFERENCE
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Preset private route
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THE LOCAL DIFFERENCE
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Preset private route
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THE LOCAL DIFFERENCE
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Preset private route
