5 Days Shanghai Suzhou Hangzhou Tour: Experience Heavenly Charm by Bullet Train

Nihao! Welcome to Shanghai, China’s most internationalized and vibrant city! Shanghai's long-term fusion of Eastern and Western cultures has contributed to Shanghai's unique culture. Upon your arrival at the airport/train station in Shanghai, the tour guide and driver will meet and greet you at the exit, and then escort you to the well-selected hotel in downtown Shanghai. The rest of the day is free on your own so you can have a good rest for the jet lag or explore by yourself around your hotel.

Arrival Ideas:
Travelers can go to Shanghai easily by air or high speed train. There are two airports - Shanghai Pudong International Airport and Shanghai Hongqiao International Airport operating numerous international and domestic airlines. Travelers can go to Shanghai by air from most cities in China, like Beijing, Xian, Guangzhou, Chengdu, Guilin, Kunming, Lijiang, Lhasa, and more. In addition, travelers can take high speed train to Shanghai from Beijing (4.5-6 hours), Xian (6-7.5 hours), Huangshan (2.5-3 hours), Guangzhou (7-8.5 hours), Suzhou (0.5 hour), Hangzhou (about 45 mins), Wuhan (3.5-4.5 hours), etc.

On this day, your guide will take you to Lujiazui Financial District in Shanghai Pudong New Area to the highest building in China - the Shanghai Tower. It features a dramatic 120-degree twist from its base to its peak. Take the world's fastest lifts (traveling at 64km/h) to the "Top of Shanghai Observatory" located on the 118th floor, 546 meters above ground level. Here, you'll have the unparalleled opportunity to enjoy a 360-degree panoramic view of modern Shanghai and also look down upon the Oriental Pearl TV Tower (a cultural landmark of Shanghai), Jin Mao Tower (a traditional Chinese pagoda-like structure with a modern style) and the Shanghai World Financial Center (the third tallest building in China and the fifth tallest in the world).

Next, move to Yu Garden, the most celebrated classical Chinese garden hidden in the bustling downtown area of Shanghai, where you can appreciate the beauty of a Jiangnan water town ! Yu Garden was a private garden of the Ming Dynasty (1368-1644) with a history of over 460 years, was built in 1559 by Pan Yunduan (潘允端) for his father to enjoy his retired life. You will see the winding paths and changing scenery, the plants and ponds, the brick carvings, stone carvings, clay sculptures, and wood carvings in the garden, all designed with great craftsmanship. On the way to Yu Garden, you will pass by the iconic Jiuqu Bridge (九曲桥Nine-Bend Bridge/Zigzag Causeway) and the Huxin Pavilion (湖心亭Mid-lake Pavilion, built in the Qing Dynasty, 1616-1912). According to Chinese Fengshui, the zigzag causeway is designed to thwart spirits, who can only journey in straight lines. As you enter Yu Garden, you can explore various beautifully crafted dragons hidden in the buildings, count them, and learn more about the Chinese dragon totem from your guide.

Later, explore Yuyuan Bazaar (Chenghuangmiao Market) outside Yu Garden which is a vibrant Shanghai Old Street where you can try Shanghai’s local snacks such as Xiaolongbao (Nanxiang Steamed Bun Restaurant小笼包), Pan-Fried Pork Buns (Fried Dumplings生煎包), Soup Dumplings (灌汤包), and Won-ton Soup (上海馄饨). You can also buy some traditional Chinese handicrafts and artworks for souvenirs here.

After lunch, it's time to venture into the Xintiandi near the French Concession, where you can admire the elegant residences that stand as a testament to that era. Xintiandi (新天地) is a bustling place that seamlessly blends Shikumen architecture (石库门) with modern urban fashion style. It offers a comprehensive introduction to the local Shikumen (stone-gate house) architecture, along with enticing dining and shopping options. This upscale entertainment and shopping complex is modeled on traditional “Nong Tang” (弄堂alleyway) homes and stands as the pioneering development in the city, demonstrating the commercial viability of preserving historical architecture. 

Then, enjoy a leisure walk from Nanjing Road to the Bund, which is less than a 2 km walk. Nanjing Road Pedestrian Street is one of the iconic attractions of Shanghai, known as the "Number One Commercial Street in China". It serves as a window to Shanghai's openness to the world and a paradise for shoppers from both domestic and international locations. Nanjing Road is the perfect place to experience century-old Chinese time-honored shops.

At last, move to the Bund, the Top 1 Place to Visit on the Shanghai Bucket List. The Bund is the best spot to view the Oriental Pearl TV Tower (a symbol of Shanghai) and the three skyscrapers of Lujiazui that are famed as the "Kitchen Three Piece Set" (陆家嘴三件套) by locals due to their shapes: a syringe (Jin Mao Tower, 421m), bottle opener (Shanghai World Financial Center, 493m), and eggbeater (Shanghai Tower, 546m), respectively. Kown as “An Exhibition of International Buildings”, the Bund is a collection of 52 buildings representing various international architectural styles. Since 1844 (Qing Dynasty), foreign banks, trading companies, clubs, and newspapers have gathered here, showcasing the former glory of the "Wall Street of the Far East" (远东华尔街). You will visit the Zhapu Road Bridge (乍浦路桥) to capture the "Shanghai Version of Seine River Scenery"(上海版塞纳河风光), followed by Waibaidu Bridge (外白渡桥Garden Bridge of Shanghai), where you can admire the Russian Consulate building (俄罗斯领事馆green roof) that combines Baroque and German Renaissance styles. At Huangpu Park (黄埔公园), established in 1886, you can pay tribute to the Monument to the People's Heroes (人民英雄纪念塔) and discover more about the history of the Bund. After passing the Peace Hotel, you won't miss the iconic Clock Tower at the Shanghai Customs House (江海关大楼), the HSBC Building (汇丰银行), the Golden Bull Plaza (金牛广场sculpture of a golden bull), and the Gutzlaff Signal Tower (外滩天文台), all of which are classic attractions of the Bund.

his morning, you will be escorted to the Shanghai High-Speed Railway Station for your bullet train to Hangzhou (about 1 hour, 158 km). Welcome to Hangzhou - the “Heaven on Earth,” a cultural city with over 5,000 years of history.

Upon arrival, start your Hangzhou tour at Xiangji Temple (香积寺), located near the Beijing-Hangzhou Grand Canal. The temple and the ancient Gongchen Bridge form a charming historic scene loved by locals. Built in 978, the temple is dedicated to the “Aksobhya Buddha” and grain-related folk beliefs. Explore the Twin Pagodas, Heavenly Kings Hall, and Mahavira Hall. Locals believe its prayers are as effective as those at Lingyin Temple.

Next, drive to the China National Tea Museum, the only national museum dedicated entirely to tea culture. It houses 3,865 items, including ancient tea specimens and foreign tea sets. The museum has two branches: (1) Shuangfeng Branch - closer to West Lake, featuring Jiangnan-style garden, a statue of Lu Yu, and exhibits on Longjing Tea and Chinese tea history. (2) Longjing Branch - set on a hillside overlooking West Lake, focusing on global tea culture, traditional tea-making techniques, and historic tea rituals such as Tang-dynasty tea boiling and Song-dynasty Dian Cha.

Continue to Meijiawu Tea Culture Village, the largest Longjing Tea-producing area. Known for receiving state leaders and foreign guests since the 1950s, the village becomes especially lively during the Qingming tea-picking season. More than 30,000 fresh tea buds are needed to produce 1 kg of premium Longjing Tea. Stroll through streets lined with Ming and Qing architecture, tea houses, and workshops. Visit Lu Zhenghao Tea Plantation to witness traditional tea roasting. If time permits, you can stop by the Premier Zhou Enlai Memorial Hall (closed Mondays). Meijiawu is also a great place to enjoy lunch featuring authentic Hangzhou cuisine and Longjing tea.

Afterward, experience West Lake (UNESCO World Heritage Site) like a local. West Lake is famous for temples, gardens, bridges, pagodas, tea houses, willow-lined paths, and literary heritage. Countless poems, legends, and love stories are tied to its beauty. Choose your way to explore: take a walk, bike (free for the first hour), take a lake cruise (self-pay), or ride a sightseeing bus (self-pay).

Walk along the Su Causeway (苏堤) and recall Su Dongpo’s famous lines:

“The shimmering ripples delight the eye on sunny days;

The misty hills are marvelous in rainy haze…”

If you’re a fan of Chinese legends, you may also explore:

• Wan Song Academy (万松书院) where Liang Shanbo and Zhu Yingtai studied together in the “Butterfly Lovers” legend.
• Long Bridge (长桥) their farewell spot, now known for views of Leifeng Pagoda at Sunset.
• Leifeng Pagoda(self-pay) - central to the legend of The White Snake, one of China’s most beloved myths.

Fans of Dream of the Red Chamber can visit the filming site Quyuan Fenghe (曲院风荷) or take a boat tour (self-pay) to Three Ponds Mirroring the Moon, the scene depicted on the Chinese one-yuan banknote.

Later, stroll through Qinghefang (Hefang) Street, one of Hangzhou’s best-preserved historic commercial districts. Visit Hu Qing Yu Tang, a Traditional Chinese Medicine Museum founded by the famed merchant Hu Xueyan.

After the tour, be transferred to your hotel in Hangzhou.

In the morning, you will arrive at Hangzhou bullet train station to catch a high speed train to Suzhou (approximately 1.5-2 hours). Welcome to Suzhou, renowned as the "City of Gardens" and the "Venice of the East", where an elegant and picturesque atmosphere greets you at every turn.

Your first stop is a brief visit to the Suzhou Garden Museum to gain a clear understanding of the Classical Gardens of Suzhou, which consist of nine gardens in the historic city of Suzhou listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Then, continue your discovery at the serene Humble Administrator’s Garden, the largest garden in Suzhou, which is considered one of the greatest examples of quintessential Chinese landscape design.

Built in 1509, Humble Administrator's Garden is the finest example of a Ming Dynasty garden. Retired magistrate Wang Xianchen created this masterpiece over 16 years. He named it to reflect his desire for a humble life after public service. The garden has three sections: the expansive Eastern Garden, the distinguished Central Garden, and the exquisite Western buildings. With its ponds, rockeries, trees, and pavilions, the garden unveils scenic views like an unrolling scroll painting. As you meander along the circular route, be impressed by the intimate courtyards, elegant architectural details, and majestic artisan stonework while immersing yourself in the gorgeous poems depicted in each architecture. These poems reflect the notable attitudes of the owners. The Orchid Snow Hall, the main hall in the eastern part of the garden, gets its name from Li Bai's poem verse "Alone between heaven and earth, the clear breeze scatters the orchid snow" (独立天地间,清风洒兰雪), implying a pure and lofty character. Walking along the path, you will come to the House of Sweet-Scented Osmanthus, the main building in the garden, named after Zhou Dunyi's essay "In Love with the Lotus" (香远益清,亭亭净植), implying noble and elegant virtues. Overlooking the fan-shaped "With Whom Shall I Sit in the Pavilion", you will evoke the atmosphere of Su Dongpo's poem "With whom shall I sit? The bright moon, the fresh breeze, and I" (与谁同坐?明月清风我). Continuing your journey, you will reach Jianshan Hall, named after the poem by Tao Yuanming "Gathering chrysanthemums by the eastern hedge, I contentedly gaze upon the southern mountains" (采菊东篱下,悠然见南山). Every step in this poetic atmosphere is accompanied by architecture that tells a story through its connection to a poem.

Important tips for appreciating and photographing Suzhou Gardens:
1. Begin by observing the overall layout and composition of the garden from the map. This will give you an impression of the main themes and designs.
2. Take a tour of the garden with an open mind to appreciate its essence. Pay attention to the use of spatial techniques like borrowed scenery, facing scenery, leaked scenery etc.
3. Notice the architecture - its layout, forms, and how it complements other elements like plants, rocks, water. Understand the cultural significance behind the designs.
4. Spend time comprehending the mood and emotions conveyed through the names of the buildings and their accompanying couplets.
5. Look out for scenic views that capture the seasonal beauty of the garden.
6. Frame and photograph interesting perspectives using the garden's structures and scenery.

To delve into over 2500 years of history, you will visit Suzhou Museum, boasting remarkable architecture and impressive collections. Designed by the world-renowned architect I.M. Pei, this museum seamlessly blends classical and modern elements, preserving the traditional white powdered walls of Suzhou to evoke a classical ambiance while exuding a contemporary sensibility. The museum's distinct contours, strong geometry, and captivating silhouettes are truly awe-inspiring. As you step into the museum, you will find yourself enchanted by the beauty that filters through windows and dances with the rays of light. The scenery constantly evolves, creating a dynamic and captivating experience. While exploring the museum's halls, you will encounter a rich display of local Suzhou crafts and cultural artifacts from the Wu region. Among the treasures showcased is the renowned Sword of King Yu of Wu, along with other exquisite pieces like lacquerware, bamboo carvings, jade carvings, gold bricks, clay sculptures, and musical instruments.

In the afternoon, you will visit Lion Grove Garden, where renowned architect I.M. Pei spent his childhood. Built in the Yuan Dynasty by a Zen Buddhist monk, this garden is older than the Humble Administrator's Garden. The garden derives its name "Lion Grove" from the presence of over 500 lifelike and vivid lion-shaped rockeries, which have made it famous. The Qianlong Emperor, renowned in the Qing Dynasty (1616-1912) for his exceptionally long reign, visited the Lion Grove Garden six times and personally inscribed the characters "Zhen Qu" meaning "true delight". Inspired by the garden's artificial rockeries, he commissioned the construction of similar structures in the Yuanmingyuan (Old Summer Palace) and the Chengde Mountain Resort. Explore this rock labyrinth kingdom with its nine winding stone pathways and 21 cave openings, and be captivated as you gaze in awe at the manmade limestone mountains adorned with caves and formations inspired by the nearby Taihu Lake. Marvel at the multi-story rock maze rising nearly 23 feet high. Observe the dazzling pavilions and learn the backstory behind each one. Don't miss the majestic waterfall and ancient trees that also dot the grounds. Wandering this fascinating fusion of nature and architecture will allow you to appreciate why it captivated emperors and inspired young I.M. Pei.

After that, let’s take a traditionally decorated boat along the Pingjiang Road Canal for about 30-40 minutes. This boat tour allows you to experience the romance of "When you come to Suzhou, every household lives along the river," immersing yourself in the relaxed pace of life that has defined Suzhou for centuries.

Next, enjoy a leisurely stroll down Shantang Street, reputedly "Suzhou's No. 1 Ancient Street," with over 1,100 years of history. As you explore, you'll discover various shops, temples, shrines, pagodas, memorial archways, guild halls, mansions, bridges, and traditional Chinese architecture. Be sure to visit the Bai Juyi Memorial Hall to see artifacts and learn about this prominent historical figure who built the street. While wandering, don’t forget to try local Suzhou snacks for an authentic taste of the region.

Option for Suzhou Evening Tour:
Night Performance at Master of the Nets Garden (夜游网师园;19:30-22:00)

The Master of the Nets Garden is celebrated for its small yet elegant design. Regarded as the pinnacle of small-scale gardens in Suzhou, the Master of the Nets Garden is considered to be the most exquisite of Suzhou's famed classical gardens. The Master of the Nets Garden comes alive at night with lively dance, music, and opera performances staged amidst the garden's elegant architecture. Follow your guide from pavilion to pavilion and immerse yourself in eight local performing arts specialties, including Kunqu Opera (昆曲) and Pingtan (评弹Suzhou-style ballad singing), as well as folk dance, traditional Chinese instrumental music, and even comedy. After the performance, feel free to explore the garden in a new light. (Tip: The performances take place from 19:30 to 22:00. from mid-Mar. to mid-Nov.)

After breakfast, you will visit the iconic Suzhou landmark - Tiger Hill (Hu Qiu), known as the "Number One Mountain in Wu Region". This site holds cultural significance related to prominent Tang Dynasty poet Bai Juyi. He oversaw the excavation of the Shantang River, forming Shantang Street and creating the poetic transportation route of "Seven Li Shantang to Tiger Hill". “From the road leading to Kaishan Temple, water and land traffic frequently intermingled. Silver bridles guided spirited horses, while flower boats carried beautiful women” (自开山寺路,水陆往来频。银勒牵骄马,花船载丽人). At Tiger Hill, marvel at the renowned Tiger Hill Pagoda, the oldest surviving brick pagoda in China and sole remaining structure from the Five Dynasties period. Its architectural style embodies Tang and Song aesthetics. Tiger Hill Pagoda is often called the "Leaning Tower of China." Also explore the Sword Pond at Tiger Hill, said to be the entrance to the tomb of King Helü of Wu with three thousand treasure swords buried below. As described in a poem, "Bizarre rocks with a thousand monks seated, a mystical pond where a sword rests deep. The Hai Dang Pavilion on both sides, the mountain at the heart of the temple" (怪石千僧坐,灵池一剑沉。海当亭两面,山在寺中心).

Later, you will be transferred to Tongli Water Town, located approximately 28km from Tiger Hill (about a 40-minute drive). With a history spanning over 1000 years, Tongli is often referred to as the "Oriental Venice". Upon arrival, you will discover the unique feature of Tongli Ancient Town, characterized by its distinct geographical layout resembling the Chinese character "川" (chuan). This layout is formed by fifteen clear small rivers that divide the town into seven small islands. Ingeniously connecting these islands are 49 ancient bridges, creating a breathtaking water town landscape.

In this water town, every household maintains a close relationship with the water, and boats serve as the primary mode of transportation for residents. Exploring Tongli, you can truly appreciate the poetic scenery of "small bridges, flowing water, and traditional houses" blending harmoniously, capturing the essence of Jiangnan. Take a leisurely stroll across the ancient bridges and witness the serene flow of clear water meandering through this historic town. Allow yourself to slow down and fully immerse in the idyllic surroundings. Don't miss the opportunity to visit the Retreat & Reflection Garden (Tuisi, 退思园), a UNESCO classical garden named after its owner, Ren Lansheng. Despite its small size, this garden exemplifies the essence of classical gardens. It is divided into four parallel sections: the mansion, inner residence, courtyard, and garden. Stepping into this tranquil haven will make you feel as if you have entered a secluded "xanadu," where nature's beauty and harmonious design embrace you. Afterwards, immerse yourself in the captivating love story at Pearl Tower, and then visit Chongben Hall, Jiayin Hall, and Gengle Hall to delve deeper into the intriguing stories behind these historical houses.

After the tour, you will be escorted to your hotel in Shanghai or taken to the airport/train station for your flight or train to your next destination. Thank you for choosing Asia Odyssey Travel (AOT) for your China tour, and we are always here working for you and hope to see you again for your next trip to China/Asia.