Experience the essence of Jiangnan through vibrant cities, classical gardens, scenic lakes, and charming ancient towns
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Experience the Essence of Jiangnan
Explore the best of eastern China through vibrant cities, elegant landscapes, ancient towns, and cultural traditions across Shanghai, Suzhou, Hangzhou, Wuzhen, and Nanjing.
Discover Shanghai’s Modern & Artistic Side
Go beyond the classic landmarks and experience Shanghai through historic neighborhoods, creative spaces, modern architecture, and riverside scenery.
Step into a Traditional Water Town
Visit Wuzhen East Area and experience the charm of ancient canals, stone bridges, historic buildings, and traditional riverside life.
Travel Comfortably by High-Speed Train
Enjoy smooth connections between major Jiangnan cities with China’s efficient high-speed rail system, making your journey comfortable and time-saving.
Discover the beauty of Jiangnan with this 7-day tour package covering Shanghai, Suzhou, Hangzhou, Wuzhen, and Nanjing. Experience the perfect blend of modern city life, classical gardens, peaceful lakes, ancient water towns, and historic landmarks. From Shanghai’s iconic streets and creative districts to Suzhou’s gardens, Hangzhou’s West Lake, Wuzhen’s traditional canals, and Nanjing’s rich history, this journey reveals the diverse charm of eastern China.
Duration
7 days / 6 nights
Tour Type
Tailor-made Travel
Theme
Train Tours
Group Size
Only Your Group
Start City
Shanghai
Activity Level
RELAXED
Route Map
Map pins show the primary places guests will visit on this route.
Your local guide and driver pick you up, starting the classic Shanghai city tour. First visit Yuyuan Garden & Bazaar; the guide interprets exquisite ancient Jiangnan courtyard architecture and local folk culture, and you can wander the old street full of traditional snacks and handicrafts. Next head to Wukang Building, a iconic historic villa landmark perfect for city photos. Then explore Tianzifang, where old shikumen lanes blend boutique shops and art studios to show authentic Shanghai lane life. Walk along bustling Nanjing Road, the city’s core commercial pedestrian street. Finish the day at The Bund, admiring the grand century-old European-style buildings with the Lujiazui skyline across the river.
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Optional Excursions
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
One-way Ticket for Huangpu River Sightseeing Tunnel
Cross the Huangpu River through the underwater sightseeing tunnel to reach Lujiazui quickly without subway rides. Immersive shifting‑light projections fill the tunnel for a dream‑like journey. Different from ferries and bridges, it delivers a fun, photo‑worthy way to travel across the river.
Advisor quoted
Accompanied by your Shanghai guide, kick off a cultural and artistic day. Visit Jade Buddha Temple, and listen to stories about its precious jade Buddha statues and tranquil Buddhist culture. Then tour Tian An 1000 Trees, a landmark vertical forest architectural landmark along Suzhou Creek. Next explore M50 Creative Park transformed from old textile factories; the guide shares its industrial transformation history, galleries and graffiti art. Embark on a relaxing Suzhou Creek Cruise to view riverside art landmarks from water perspective. End the tour at Xintiandi, blending preserved shikumen architecture with trendy restaurants and boutiques.
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Optional Excursions
Jiama woodblock print printing experience
45-minute intangible cultural heritage workshop. Learn folk culture and printing techniques, print 3 unique woodcut artworks, finish mounting and photo session to take handcraft souvenirs home.
Advisor quoted
Experience making xiaolongbao (soup dumplings) and Kung Pao chicken together!
2-hour dual cooking experience: Make Shanghai soup dumplings & Kung Pao Chicken. All ingredients and kitchen equipment provided to cook and taste two signature dishes.
Advisor quoted
Darkroom selfie + film darkroom developing experience
75-minute analog photography workshop including pinhole shooting, darkroom developing, negative printing and artwork framing. Experience vintage film craft and take unique photo prints.
Advisor quoted
Chinese Baijiu and Fruit Wine Tasting Experience
45-min Chinese wine tasting session covering wine etiquette, featuring 2 Yunnan fermented fruit wines & 1 Guizhou soy sauce-flavored liquor with cultural introduction.
Advisor quoted
Your Shanghai driver will wait for you at the hotel to take you to Shanghai Railway Station, where you will board a high-speed train to Suzhou. Upon arrival, local Suzhou guide meets you to continue the trip. Visit Humble Administrator’s Garden, the largest UNESCO classical garden, appreciate sophisticated Jiangnan landscaping design. Then tour Panmen Gate, a well-preserved ancient water city gate with thousand-year history. Next visit Suzhou Museum designed by I.M. Pei, combining Suzhou garden aesthetics and modern minimalist architecture. Conclude the day wandering Shantang Street alongside Grand Canal to experience canal folk life.
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Optional Excursions
Act as A Local - Enjoy A Cup of Tea at Local Teahouse
Sip local tea and enjoy Pingtan inside a vintage Su‑style teahouse. Appreciate classic architecture and melodic storytelling performances to deeply experience Jiangnan culture.
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
Our driver in Suzhou will take you to the railway station to board a high-speed train to Hangzhou, Local Hangzhou guide greets you after arrival. Take a West Lake boat cruise to enjoy panoramic lake views, then stop at Viewing Fish at the Flower Pond to appreciate lotus ponds and fish landscape. Visit Lingyin Temple, a revered ancient Buddhist shrine with grotto stone carvings. Drive to Meijiawu Tea Plantation to learn Longjing tea planting and tea-making culture. Finish the day at Hefang Street, a historic pedestrian street full of local snacks and traditional handicrafts. After the tour, the guide will return you to your hotel.
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Optional Excursions
Impression West Lake Show – Standard Seat
Enjoy Hangzhou’s iconic evening performance on the waters of West Lake. Created by Zhang Yimou, this spectacular show combines music, dance, lighting, and lake scenery to showcase Jiangnan’s poetry and culture. Includes standard seat tickets and private transfer back to your hotel after the show.
Advisor quoted
Private Rowboat Cruise Upgrade
Upgrade to a private rowboat cruise for a more intimate West Lake experience. With a local boatman steering the way, you'll glide along quieter waterways and enjoy the lake’s beauty away from the crowds.
Advisor quoted
Private Longjing tea tasting with a tea farmer
Upgrade the Hangzhou tea visit with a hosted Longjing tasting, seasonal tea-making context, and time for questions with a local tea family.
Advisor quoted
Your guide and driver accompany you for a full-day round trip to Wuzhen. Drive from Hangzhou to Wuzhen East Area (Dongzha), the original ancient water town well-preserved with local residential lifestyle. Wander stone alleys, ancient bridges and riverside houses; your guide tells the history of this thousand-year water town. After full-day sightseeing, drive back to Hangzhou together.
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Optional Excursions
Shadow Puppet Making Experience
Paint and decorate a delicate puppet with colorful patterns, then take home your finished artwork displayed in a frame. You can also assemble your puppet and perform it on a mini stage for a fun and interactive cultural experience.
Advisor quoted
Our driver from Hangzhou will pick you up at your hotel and take you to the railway station, where you will board a high-speed train to Nanjing. Your Nanjing tour guide will meet you at the station holding a "Your Way Holiday" sign, and the first stop will be the Presidential Palace, witnessing modern Chinese republican history through well-preserved old buildings and exhibition halls. Then pay respects at Nanjing Massacre Memorial Hall, a solemn memorial carrying important modern historical memory. End the day’s tour at Confucius Temple by Qinhuai River, stroll ancient pedestrian streets and appreciate Qinhuai riverside night scenery. After the trip, transfer to the Nanjing hotel.
Today's Highlights
Optional Excursions
Hanfu Photoshoot by Qinhuai River
Dress in traditional Hanfu and take professional photos along Qinhuai River within Confucius Temple. Pick various elegant costumes, hairpieces and accessories. Wander lantern-lit ancient lanes and riverside architecture to shoot timeless retro portraits as special travel souvenirs.
Advisor quoted
Fragrant Sachet Crafting Experience
Fragrant sachets are auspicious traditional Nanjing handicrafts. You may pick aromatic herbs and delicate fabrics, then sew a custom sachet by hand. Bring your unique handmade sachet back as a lovely souvenir.
Advisor quoted
Your Nanjing guide and driver accompany you for an in-depth cultural tour of ancient Nanjing. Walk along Wutong Avenue, the iconic tree-lined road representing Nanjing’s romantic urban style. Visit Meiling Palace, an elegant villa with exquisite garden layout and republican architectural features. Tour Ming Xiaoling Mausoleum, the grand imperial mausoleum of Ming Dynasty with grand stone sacred way. Last stop is Zhonghua Gate, the largest and best-preserved ancient city gate in China. After the tour, our guide will transfer back to your hotel or to a designated location in Nanjing, concluding your unforgettable 7-day Jiangnan tour.
Today's Highlights
Optional Experiences
Add upgrades while reviewing the itinerary. Availability is confirmed by the team before final payment.
Available for all 3 intercity high-speed rail routes: Shanghai→Suzhou, Suzhou→Hangzhou, Hangzhou→Nanjing. Spacious independent seats with adjustable backrests and footrests are arranged in quiet, low-traffic cabins with free onboard drinking water. You can relax comfortably during transfers; your guide and driver will wait for you in advance at the corresponding railway station for seamless itinerary connection.
Advisor quoted
Available after advisor confirmation.
Applicable to all three high-speed rail transfers including Shanghai→Suzhou, Suzhou→Hangzhou and Hangzhou→Nanjing. Enjoy 180° fully reclining leather seats in private noise-isolated compartments. Complimentary tea, snacks, blankets, disposable travel kits and continuous charging ports are provided for premium private rest space during long rides. Guide and driver will await you at every railway station to guarantee smooth transfer.
Advisor quoted
Available after advisor confirmation.
You can pick the immersive imperial banquet in Shanghai or Hangzhou. We provide free pre-booking to reserve your ideal seats. The venue recreates ancient palace scenes with court-style greetings, royal cuisine and live classical dance performances. Hanfu costume and makeup can be added at extra cost for a full authentic ancient royal dining experience.
Advisor quoted
Available after advisor confirmation.
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 guide is the heart of your journey. We employ only licensed, experienced guides who are passionate about sharing their culture. Every guide undergoes rigorous training in history, first aid, and cross-cultural communication.
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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Each city will have a local professional guide who will accompany you during the sightseeing. We arrange local guides because they have deeper knowledge of their own city’s history, culture, and hidden stories, providing a more authentic experience.
Hotel accommodation is not included by default. We can help arrange hotels according to your preferred location, budget, and travel style, or you are welcome to book your own hotels.
This itinerary includes Wuzhen East Area (Dongzha), known for its authentic atmosphere, traditional houses, workshops, and original water town lifestyle. Compared with the larger West Area, Dongzha offers a more traditional and historical experience, making it ideal for travelers interested in local culture and old-town charm.
The daily sightseeing time is usually around 8 hours, but the schedule can be adjusted according to your pace and interests. We keep the itinerary comfortable without rushing between attractions.
Spring and autumn are generally the most comfortable seasons, with pleasant weather and beautiful scenery. Spring is especially charming for gardens and flowers, while autumn offers clear skies and comfortable temperatures for sightseeing.
Guangzhou→Shenzhen
THE LOCAL DIFFERENCE
Explore Guangzhou and Shenzhen, two leading cities driving China’s technology development.
Visit science centers and innovation districts shaping the city’s future to discover Future cities.
Preset private route
Suzhou → Hangzhou
THE LOCAL DIFFERENCE
Visit UNESCO-listed Master of Nets Garden and Humble Administrator’s Garden. Appreciate delicate pavilions, rockeries and waterscapes, and experience the aesthetics of traditional Chinese gardening art.
Stroll along Pingjiang Road and Shantang Street. Visit Hanshan Temple and Tiger Hill to explore the profound history and charming canal culture of ancient Suzhou.
Advisor-designed quote
Lingering Garden → Lion Grove Garden → Hanshan Temple → Shantang Street → Zhouzhuang Water Town Day Tour
THE LOCAL DIFFERENCE
Discover two iconic classical gardens. Admire layered waterscapes in Lingering Garden and unique rock mazes in Lion Grove Garden, and experience Jiangnan literati aesthetics.
Visit the historic Hanshan Temple, renowned for the famous Tang poem. Enjoy tranquil Buddhist ambience and learn its timeless cultural legends.
Preset private route
Lingering Garden → Tiger Hill → Pingjiang Road → Shantang Street → Grand Canal Cruise → Master of the Nets Garden → Hanshan Temple → Suzhou Museum → Suzhou Pingtan Performance
THE LOCAL DIFFERENCE
Explore Suzhou’s timeless elegance through classical gardens, ancient waterways, historic streets, and traditional arts that reflect the unique beauty of southern China.
Stroll along Pingjiang Road and Shantang Street, where ancient canals, traditional houses, and local life reveal the authentic charm of old Suzhou.
Preset private route
