7 Days Shanghai Suzhou Nanjing Hangzhou Tour 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 in Shanghai, you will be  escorted 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.

Shanghai 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.

Today, you will have full day to experience the perfect blend of East and West in the "Paris of the East." Explore brilliant museums, classical gardens, futuristic skyscrapers, and stunning architecture - all in one vibrant city.

First, head to Pudong and the Lujiazui financial district, home to a trio of iconic skyscrapers. The Shanghai Tower, China’s tallest and the world’s second-tallest building at 632 meters (2,073 ft), soars with a dramatic 120-degree twist from base to peak. Ride the world’s fastest elevators (64 km/h) to the "Top of Shanghai Observatory" on the 118th floor, 546 meters above ground. Enjoy breathtaking 360-degree views of the city, with the Jin Mao Tower and Shanghai World Financial Center below.

Later, visit the Shanghai Museum (East), one of the world’s finest museums of ancient Chinese art. Its sleek, modern design is inspired by the traditional Chinese jade bi disc. Inside, explore galleries of bronzes, ceramics, calligraphy, paintings, jade, furniture, coins, and sculptures. Don’t miss iconic treasures like the Da Ke Ding, a 3,000-year-old bronze vessel, displayed with the Zi Long Ding and Marquis of Jin Bells - a rare highlight of the Bronze Gallery. Also, see the legendary Sword of King Goujian of Yue, a masterpiece of ancient craftsmanship.

Later, transfer to Xintiandi, a bustling place that seamlessly blends Shikumen architecture 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 “Long Tang” (弄堂, alleyway) homes and stands as the pioneering development in the city, demonstrating the commercial viability of preserving historical architecture.

In the late afternoon, walk along Nanjing Road Pedestrian Street, lined with global brands, cafes, and historic buildings. End at the Bund, Shanghai’s top must-see landmark. Known as the "Exhibition of International Architecture," it features 52 grand buildings in Gothic, Baroque, and Art Deco styles. From here, enjoy a stunning view of the Pudong skyline across the Huangpu River.

Travel Notes:

1. Shanghai Museum (East) is closed on Tuesdays. You will visit Shanghai Museum (People’s Square)on that day. If access to the People’s Square location is unavailable, we will arrange an alternative city attraction.

Welcome to Suzhou, reputed as the "City of Gardens" and "Venice of the East," offering an elegant and picturesque atmosphere.

After breakfast, drive to Suzhou for sightseeing (takes 1.5 hours). Welcome to Suzhou, reputed as the "City of Gardens" and "Venice of the East," offering an elegant and picturesque atmosphere.

Your first stop is 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.

After lunch, 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).

Afterward, take a leisurely walk along Pingjiang Road, a living map of the Song Dynasty. Its cobblestone lanes and riverside pathways perfectly showcase the charm of old Suzhou. Walk through the historic streets, know Suzhou Pingtan, or try authentic Suzhou snacks.

If you like, you can also take 30-40 minute traditional boat ride (optional experience) along the Pingjiang Road Canal. This gentle journey lets you experience the romance of “When you come to Suzhou, every household lives along the river,” and feel the unhurried rhythm of life that has shaped Suzhou for centuries.

After the tour, drive back to Shanghai.

In the morning, you will be transferred to Shanghai train station for your high-speed train to Nanjing (2 hours).

Upon your arrival in Nanjing Train Station, you will be met for your train station pick-up and transfer to your hotel. After checking in and settling down, you will begin your exploration of this historic city.

Your first stop is the Zhonghua Gate & Ming Dynasty City Wall, the largest and best-preserved gate fortress of the Ming Dynasty. It is the world's largest existing Wengcheng (an outer defensive enclosure or barbican) and features three inner courtyards, four arched gates, and 27 vaulted tunnels (soldier-hiding holes) designed to shelter thousands of soldiers and store provisions. From the top of the wall, you can enjoy sweeping views of the Qinhuai River and the historic southern part of the city, experiencing the depth of Nanjing’s Six Dynasties heritage.

Visit the Confucius Temple – Qinhuai Scenic Area, the historic and cultural center of Nanjing. The area is built around the Confucius Temple (Fuzimiao), one of China’s earliest temples honoring Confucius and a symbol of traditional learning and ceremony. Nearby, explore the Jiangnan Examination Hall (Imperial Examination Museum), once the largest imperial examination center in ancient China, where countless scholars competed for civil service titles.

Walk through charming riverside streets lined with lanterns, traditional architecture, and local snacks, then enjoy scenic views along the Qinhuai River, known as the “Mother River of Nanjing.”

Optional Activity: After nightfall, you may take a Qinhuai River Boat Cruise (at your own expense). Gliding past illuminated pavilions, bridges, and ancient riverside buildings, this experience offers the most iconic night view of Nanjing.

After breakfast, you will drive to the Zhongshan Scenic Area to begin a day of exploring Nanjing’s most iconic landmarks.

First, visit the Sun Yat-sen Mausoleum, the resting place of Dr. Sun Yat-sen, the founding father of the Republic of China. This immense, solemn site is a masterpiece of architecture, blending traditional Chinese and Western styles. You will enter through the grand Archway of Universal Love, then walk up the ceremonial staircase of 392 steps, representing Dr. Sun’s lifelong journey and national ideals. At the top stands the solemn memorial hall, housing a marble statue of Dr. Sun and offering panoramic views over the forested mountain and Nanjing city.

After that, you will proceed to the nearby Ming Xiaoling Mausoleum, the tomb of the Hongwu Emperor, Zhu Yuanzhang, the founder of the Ming Dynasty. As a UNESCO World Heritage site, it holds immense historical weight. Your experience will include walking the famous Sacred Way, an impressive avenue lined with pairs of massive stone animals and military figures, which gracefully winds through the landscape, setting the imperial standard for tomb construction for centuries.

In the afternoon, head back to the city to visit the Presidential Palace. This complex served as the official headquarters of the Republic of China government and has a layered history spanning over 600 years, from the Ming and Qing dynasties to the Taiping Heavenly Kingdom and the Nationalist government. You will tour the blend of classical Chinese gardens and Western-style offices, feeling the weight of the many pivotal moments in modern Chinese history that unfolded within its walls.

After the tour, you will be transferred to the train station for your train to Hangzhou (about 1.5-2 hours). Welcome to Hangzhou - the “Heaven on Earth,” a cultural city with over 5,000 years of history. Upon arrival, you will be transferred to your hotel in Hangzhou.

After breakfast, 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.

(Note: If your visit falls on Tuesday, please be noted that the China National Tea Museum is closed. In this case, we recommend visiting the China National Silk Museum instead. Known as the "City of Silk," Hangzhou has a rich and profound silk heritage. The China National Silk Museum is the largest silk museum in the world, offering excellent opportunity to explore culture and craftsmanship of Chinese silk.)

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 Street (Hefang Street), the historic marketplace of the Southern Song Dynasty. Here you can explore traditional workshops, snack stalls, and the century-old Chinese medicine pharmacy Hu Qing Yu Tang, now also a museum (self-pay). Founded by Hu Xueyan, one of the wealthiest merchants of the late Qing Dynasty, the site displays Qing-style architecture and traditional medicine-making demonstrations. Time permitting, visit the Former Residence of Hu Xueyan.

It’s time to end your Shanghai Suzhou Nanjing Hangzhou Tour. Your guide and driver will escort you to the airport or train station for your flight or train to your next destination.

Thank you for choosing Asia Odyssey Travel for your China tour. We look forward to welcoming you again on your next trip to China or Asia!