7 DAYS CLASSIC BEAUTY OF JIANGNAN

Upon arrival in Shanghai, you will be met by your local guide and transferred to your hotel. 

In the afternoon, you’ll visit one of Shanghai’s most famous landmarks, the Oriental Pearl TV Tower, a perfect spot to reflect on the city’s rich history. Afterward, you’ll head to the iconic Bund, which stretches from Suzhou Creek into downtown and was once the center of international settlements during the 19th and early 20th centuries.

The evening wraps up with a peaceful cruise on the Huangpu River, where you can admire Shanghai’s stunning skyline illuminated in a dazzling array of colors.

Spend the day in Shanghai at your own leisure. 

If you’re interested in local culture, a visit to the Shanghai Museum is highly recommended, or you can explore the 16th-century Yu Garden and the historic City God Temple of Shanghai.

After checking out, you’ll be driven to Suzhou (approx. 110km/ 1h 50min). Begin your day at the Humble Administrator’s Garden, Suzhou’s largest and most renowned garden, first built in 1509. Just a 5-minute walk away is the Lion Grove Garden, constructed in 1342 by the Buddhist monk Tianru. The garden is known for its uniquely shaped rocks, designed to resemble lions, the protectors of Buddhist faith.

In the afternoon, explore the Suzhou Museum with a museum expert (closed on Mondays). Designed by the renowned architect I. M. Pei and located on the site of Zhongwang’s Residence, this museum is a key cultural landmark in China. It houses over 15,000 artifacts, including 240 grade one cultural relics, such as Chinese paintings, calligraphy, porcelain, and precious metal wares.

In the evening, take a stroll along Shantang Street, a bustling ancient street dating back to 852 AD. Here, you’ll discover traditional houses, local food stalls, and artisan shops, offering a true taste of Suzhou’s old-world charm and Wu culture.

This morning, you’ll be driven to Wuzhen (approx. 75km/ 1h 30min), a town renowned for its silk production. Stroll along the Grand Canal and immerse yourself in the ancient traditions of sericulture and fabric dyeing.

Wuzhen is divided into two main scenic areas, East and West, each offering its own unique charm that attracts many tourists to this enchanting Jiangnan water town. You’ll have the entire day to explore, with a boat trip planned for the West area and a walking tour in the East area.

After breakfast and check-out, you’ll be driven to Hangzhou (approx. 90km/ 1h 30min). Upon arrival, your first stop will be the Zhejiang Museum, one of China’s oldest and most prestigious museums.

In the afternoon, you’ll visit the iconic West Lake. The West Lake Cultural Landscape of Hangzhou, surrounded by hills on three sides, has inspired poets, scholars, and artists since the 9th century. The area features temples, pagodas, pavilions, gardens, and tree-lined causeways, as well as artificial islands—all designed to enhance the natural beauty of this UNESCO World Heritage site.

As dusk falls, enjoy a serene boat ride on West Lake, taking in some of the lake’s top ten scenic spots. In the evening, you’ll attend the spectacular “Impression West Lake” show (VIP seat), directed by the renowned Zhang Yimou, who also choreographed the opening and closing ceremonies of the 2008 Beijing Olympics.

After breakfast, you will visit Lingyin Temple, one of the most revered spiritual sites in Hangzhou, cherished by scholars and artists throughout history. The temple, named for its tranquil surroundings, is nestled among forested hills on three sides, providing a peaceful sanctuary—when not crowded with visitors. Over the centuries, Lingyin Temple has been damaged and restored several times.

Next, you’ll continue to Hu Qing Yu Tang, a traditional pharmacy founded in 1874 by Hu Xueyan, a prominent businessman during the Qing Dynasty. Known as the “Medicine King of the South Yangtze,” the pharmacy is a cultural landmark. You will also visit Hu Xueyan’s century-old residence, which features exquisite architecture, intricate layouts, and antique furnishings.

In the afternoon, after leaving Hu Qing Yu Tang, you’ll explore the Song Dynasty Ruins at Deshou Palace. Originally the residence of Qin Hui, a controversial prime minister of the Song Dynasty, it later became a retreat for Emperor Gaozong, the founding ruler of the Southern Song Dynasty, after he abdicated in 1162. Afterward, enjoy a leisurely walk along Imperial Street.

Enjoy the day at your own leisure before checking out and being transferred to the airport for your onward journey.