Zhouzhuang

Architecture

Depart from your downtown Shanghai hotel in a comfortable, air-conditioned minivan and begin the scenic journey to Suzhou, an ancient town famed for the beauty of its verdant gardens. Listen as your guide offers informative narration on the town hailed as the Venice of the east, and then disembark your coach to explore the Master of Nets Garden. Marvel at the town’s exquisite example of Ming Dynasty landscaping, and admire the harmonious style of Chinese garden construction. Continue to the town’s ancient city wall, reputed to date back to 600 BC, and stroll parallel to the picturesque Grand Canal. Conclude your tour of Suzhou with a visit to its 14th century silk factory, then revitalize with a delicious Chinese lunch in a local restaurant.  Afterwards, return to your vehicle to travel to Zhouzhuang, a quaint town thronged with winding waterways and charming structures. Admire the simple, perfectly preserved houses, and hear of how the town’s history dates back to the 11th century as you sail the canals in a Chinese sampan.  Relax during the journey back to your Shanghai hotel and bid farewell to your guide and group upon your return. 

Embark on a delightful day trip with your friendly private guide, departing from your Shanghai hotel in a comfortable vehicle. Begin by exploring the enchanting water town of Tongli, where a tranquil boat ride and delectable local lunch await. Wander along riverside ancient households and the impressive city gate wall, immersing yourself in the allure of old China. Next, venture to the beautiful city of Suzhou to visit the renowned Humble Administrator's Garden. Stroll through its historic houses, serene ponds, and winding walkways, experiencing the epitome of Chinese garden design. Should you desire to visit an alternative garden, discuss your preferences with your guide during the journey. Continue your adventure on vibrant Pingjiang Road, where you'll immerse yourself in the local life and culture of Suzhou. Explore intriguing shops lining the street and consider a rickshaw ride to enhance your exploration (additional cost applies). As your captivating day trip concludes, you'll be transported back to your Shanghai hotel, cherishing the memories of tongli and Suzhou's wonders.

If you choose: Shanghai to Suzhou w/ roundtrip private vehicle transfer: Round trip with private vehicle: from your Shanghai downtown hotel to Suzhou. It takes around 2 hours scenic drive ride to Suzhou for one way. If you choose: Shanghai to Suzhou w/ roundtrip Bullet train&subway transfer: Round trip transfer will be subway+bullet train. Your private guide will accompany you all along the whole tour, tickets fee are all included. Bullet Train Shanghai to suzhou( 30mins) for one way. Both cities have pretty developed subway system which is clean, fast, safe and easy. Once arrival, you will firstly explore the Master of Nets Garden which is considered as Suzhou town’s exquisite example of Ming Dynasty(1369-1644AD) landscaping, is a full of details art. You can admire, take in and feel the harmonious style of Chinese garden construction. After Garden visit, you will have a private fun rickshaw ride through the old streets in Pingjiang road before lunch in Pingjiang Road along the canal. The last stop will be Tongli water village which is less busy, less commercial and less crowded water village compare with Zhouzhuang. Enjoy a quiet boat ride in the town and relaxing walk in the hidden lanes as a local. At the end of the tour, you will take your private transfer back Shanghai hotel or take bullet train back Shanghai hotel with your guide accompany.

Begin your day trip with a friendly private guide, departing from your Shanghai hotel in a comfortable vehicle. Journey to Zhouzhuang, the renowned water town, where you'll delight in a tranquil boat ride and savor a delectable local lunch. Along the riverside, you'll encounter ancient households and the imposing city gate wall, immersing yourself in the captivating ambiance of bygone eras and the allure of old China. Following lunch, venture to the exquisite city of Suzhou to explore the iconic Humble Administrator's Garden. Meander through its enchanting landscapes, adorned with historic houses, serene ponds, and winding walkways. Considered a masterpiece of modern Chinese garden design, this garden will transport you back in time as you relax in a pavilion beside the shimmering pond. Should you desire to visit an alternative garden, discuss your preferences with your guide during the journey. Continuing your adventure, discover the vibrant Pingjiang Road, where you'll experience the local life and culture of Suzhou. Take in the captivating sights of intriguing shops lining the street, and consider seizing the opportunity for a rickshaw ride to enhance your exploration (additional cost applies). As your captivating day trip draws to a close, you'll be transported back to your Shanghai hotel, filled with cherished memories of your journey through the wonders of Zhouzhuang and Suzhou.

Meet your tour guide in the lobby of your Suzhou hotel or Suzhou Railway Station. Then hop on your private vehicle and start your Suzhou adventure. Your first stop is the UNESCO listed garden in Suzhou: Humble Administrator's Garden, which is the largest and most prestigious garden in Suzhou. Admire magnificent halls, delicate pavilions, lush flowers, zigzagging bridges, bamboo groves and fragrant lotus ponds and listening to the stories and history from your local knowledgeable guide. During the peak season, the Humble Administrator's Garden will be very crowded, if you prefer lesser and more peaceful garden, you will visit the Lingering Garden instead. Lingering Garden is one of nine "Classical Gardens of Suzhou" on the UNESCO World Heritage List, and praised as one of China's four famous gardens. With a history of more than 400 years, the Lingering Garden has changed hands several times. Each owner did his best to perfect it. Follow your guide to explore the beautiful gardens and immerse yourself in the ancient charm while listening the interesting commentary from your guide. Move on to the Pingjiang road which can dating back to Song Dynasty (960-1279). Extending for almost 2 kilometers through the heart of Suzhou’s Old Town, this narrow flagstone street and the lanes extending from it are lined with well-preserved traditional architecture, shops, teahouses, guesthouses, and local homes that lend the street an authentic, ancient atmosphere. After lunch in the local restaurant, continue your afternoon visit to one of two best well-known ancient water town Tongli or Zhouzhuang. Tongli: Reputed as the “Oriental Venice”, Tongli has more than 1000 years of history. It is made up of seven islands, 12 canals or rivers, and 49 bridges to connect the town. Here you can see beautiful examples of traditional architecture, bridges, homes, gardens and canals. Here you can take a sculling boat (at your own cost) to feel the excitement of watching the ancient buildings and people passing by Zhouzhuang: The most popular, developed, and commercialized water town in China, The town is built amid canals, ponds, and lakes. What makes it special are the old buildings and bridges, boat rides, crafts, and the quaint water town scenery. The canals that crisscross Zhouzhuang have many stone bridges, about fourteen of these were built in the imperial era about 150 years ago or more. No mater which water town you will visit, you will be amazed by its fantastic ancient town scenery and learn its amazing culture from your guide. Tour end with your suzhou hotel or railway station drop off.

Embark on an enchanting day trip to Zhouzhuang Water Village, a captivating destination known for its timeless charm and picturesque canals. Cross the Zhangting Shenting and Double Bridge, savor a tasty local lunch, and enjoy a relaxing boat ride along the canals. Meet your friendly private guide in the morning and set off on a scenic journey to the village, where you'll be immersed in its rich history and cultural heritage. Upon arrival, marvel at the architectural masterpiece of Zhangting Shenting and cross the iconic Double Bridge, witnessing the village's unique blend of traditional beauty and tranquil waterways. Savor a delectable local lunch, treating your taste buds to the flavors of regional cuisine. Afterwards, enjoy a leisurely boat ride along the meandering canals, taking in the scenic views and immersing yourself in the village's serene ambiance. Throughout the tour, benefit from personalized insights and informative commentary from your knowledgeable guide, enhancing your understanding of Zhouzhuang's significance and charm. As your unforgettable day trip comes to an end, bid farewell to Zhouzhuang and relax as you are transferred back to your Shanghai hotel, filled with cherished memories of this remarkable experience.