9 Days Shanghai Suzhou Hangzhou Huangshan Eastern China Tour

Welcome to Shanghai, China’s vibrant, international hub of East-meets-West culture! Upon arrival, our team will escort you to your downtown hotel. Enjoy the rest of the day at your leisure—perfect for recovering from jet lag or starting your own local exploration.

Arrival Ideas: Reaching Shanghai is easy by air or high-speed rail. Two major airports, Pudong and Hongqiao, connect the city to domestic hubs like Beijing, Xi'an, and Chengdu, etc. Also, high-speed trains offer efficient travel from Beijing (4.5-6 hrs), Xian (6-7.5 hrs), Huangshan (2.5-3 hrs), Guangzhou (7-8.5 hrs), Suzhou (0.5 hr), Hangzhou (about 45 mins), Wuhan (3.5-4.5 hours), etc.

Free Time Ideas: Your guide can provide expert recommendations for your free hours based on your personal interests and available time.

Today, spend the day exploring the "Paris of the East," where Western and Eastern influences meet through stunning museums, traditional gardens, modern skyscrapers, and historic colonial architecture.

First, visit the Shanghai Museum, famous for its architectural design resembling an ancient bronze ding. Inside, explore 12 exhibition halls showcasing 120,000 artifacts across 5,000 years of history. Be sure to visit the Bronze and Ceramic halls to see iconic masterpieces like the Da Ke Ding and the Marquis Su of Jin bells, two of China's most significant historical treasures.

Then, visit Yu Garden, Shanghai's most famous classical garden, where you can marvel at intricate traditional architecture and masterful carvings. It’s a peaceful retreat from the city's modern pace. Afterward, explore the surrounding Yuyuan Bazaar to experience a bustling local market.

Later, stroll along Nanjing Road Pedestrian Street, a bustling pedestrian street packed with famous brands, restaurants, and shops. Then, head to the Bund, Shanghai’s premier landmark. Known as an "Exhibition of International Buildings," it features 52 historic architectural styles. From here, enjoy spectacular views across the river of the futuristic Pudong skyline and its iconic skyscrapers.

End your day at Shanghai Tower, the tallest building in China at 632 meters. Ascend to the 118th-floor observation deck (546 meters) for a stunning, bird’s-eye view of the city’s modern skyline.

After meeting your guide in the lobby, take a quick 30-minute bullet train to Suzhou. Welcome to the "Venice of the East!"

Upon arrival, you’ll visit Lingering Garden (Liu Garden), a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of China’s four premier classical gardens. Originally dating back to 1593, it perfectly captures the refined Qing Dynasty style through its elegant pavilions, striking rock formations, and peaceful ponds.

Next, enjoy a relaxing stroll along Pingjiang Ancient Street (Pingjiang Road). This beautifully preserved, 1,606-meter stone-paved road has served as a vital thoroughfare since the Song Dynasty, over 800 years ago.

Later, visit Tiger Hill (Hu Qiu), a historic park rich with ancient tombs, temples, and stunning scenery. As the local saying goes, "It is a pity to visit Suzhou without seeing Tiger Hill." Don't miss the iconic Tiger Hill Pagoda, China’s "Leaning Tower," which has stood for over a millennium.

Next, wander along Shantang Street, "Suzhou’s No. 1 Ancient Street," boasting over 1,100 years of history. Explore its traditional houses, stone bridges, and charming local shops while sampling classic snacks. As night falls, the red lanterns along the riverbanks ignite, casting a soft glow on the water.

Return to your hotel in Suzhou.

Head to the Suzhou Museum this morning to explore historic paintings, crafts, and calligraphy. The building itself, a rare architectural gem designed by the legendary I.M. Pei, is just as significant as the ancient treasures housed within its walls.

Next, drive an hour to Zhouzhuang Water Town (周庄), one of CNN's "Top Ten Most Beautiful Towns in the World." With a 900-year history, 60% of its Ming and Qing architecture remains original. Famous for the "Double Bridges" depicted by artist Chen Yifei, this premier water town capture Jiangnan’s timeless grace by ancient canals and traditional homes.

In Zhouzhuang, stroll across Fu'an Bridge for scenic views of the iconic Double Bridges. Explore Shen Hall, a classic "front hall, rear hall" residence, and the unique Zhang Hall, where boats docked directly at the backyard. Visit the Zhouzhuang Museum to uncover the heritage of this thousand-year-old water town. Conclude your day at a leisurely pace, letting time stand still amidst these historic canals and traditional homes.

After your Zhouzhuang Water Town tour, you will be driven to Hangzhou (140km, about 2 hour). Welcome to Hangzhou, the Paradise on Earth with a history of over 5,000 years.

Upon arrival, your guide/driver will escort you to your hotel in Hangzhou downtown for check-in. The rest day is for you to relax yourself.

Optional Hefang Street Tour:

If your energy allows, you can visit Hefang Street (河坊街) after your arrival in Hangzhou.

As the markets at the back of the imperial court of the Southern Song Dynasty (1127-1279), Hefang Street has not only witnessed the thousand years of changes in Hangzhou but also retained the cultural memories of the old generations.

If you are interested in Chinese Herbal Medicine Culture you can visit the landmark of the Hefang Street - Hu Qing Yu Tang, a 100-year-old traditional Chinese medicine pharmacy and Traditional Chinese Medicine Museum (胡庆余堂中药博物馆). You can even treat yourself to a unique Ginseng Latte with a herbal flavor there.

A short walk from Hefang Street lies the Former Residence of Hu Xueyan, known as the Number One Mansion of a Late Qing Tycoon. Built between 1872 and 1875, this grand complex was once the home of Hu Xueyan, a legendary red-hat merchant who was both a high-ranking official and a wealthy businessman. Notably, Hu Qing Yu Tang was founded in 1874 by Hu Xueyan.

Hefang Street is also a perfect place to taste authentic Hangzhou local snacks, appreciate traditional folk crafts, and immerse yourself in the charming blend of historic heritage and lively local lifestyle.

Today afer breakfast, you will have a full day in Hangzhou to explore it’s beauty and culture.

First, your Hangzhou guide/driver will escort you to explore the China National Tea Museum. The museum has two branches. The Shuangfeng Branch showcases Longjing history and ancient utensils in a classic garden. Nearby, the hillside Longjing Branch offers West Lake views and "Dian Cha" demonstrations. Together, they house 3,865 artifacts documenting the global evolution of China’s rich tea heritage.

Next, visit Meijiawu Tea Culture Village, the premier producer of Longjing Tea with 600 years of history. Discover the craft where 30,000 hand-picked buds create 1 kg of tea. Explore the Lu Zhenghao Plantation and Premier Zhou Memorial Hall, then enjoy fresh tea paired with authentic Hangzhou cuisine amidst ancient architecture and scenic workshops.

After lunch, visit Lingyin Temple (灵隐寺), a 1,700-year-old Zen landmark nestled by Feilai Peak’s limestone cliffs. It houses ancient stone pagodas and China’s largest seated Buddha. Explore the legendary home of the "mad monk" Jigong and soak in the spiritual atmosphere of this sanctuary, famously known as a popular spot to pray for romance.

Then, explore the UNESCO-listed West Lake by foot, bike (self-pay), boat or public sightseeing bus. For Chinese people, West Lake is the most romantic place, inspired by poems written by Su Dongpo (苏东坡, The Gay Genius), the classic legend of "The White Snake" (白蛇传), and the tragic romance of "The Butterfly Lovers" (梁祝), whose fame rivals that of Shakespeare's "Romeo and Juliet."

Hangzhou West Lake Visiting Route A (South Bank + North Bank):

Highlights: Three Ponds Mirroring the Moon Cruise (20 minutes), Chinese One Yuan Note, Watching Fish at Flower Harbor, Su Causeway, West Lake Sightseeing Bus (5km, 0.5h), Broken Bridge, Optional Leifeng Pagoda

Your journey begins at the Park Pier (公园码头), where a West Lake Ferry carries you to the island of Three Pools Mirroring the Moon (三潭印月). Along the way, you will capture the iconic One Yuan Note photo, aligning the ancient pagodas exactly as they appear on the banknote.

After a peaceful boat ride back to the south shore, you’ll find yourself at Flower Harbor, a classic garden where thousands of red carp gather beneath peony pavilions in a vibrant display of life.

The path continues to the legendary Leifeng Pagoda, where you have the option to ascend for a 360-degree panorama of the entire lake basin. To round out the experience, board a sightseeing buggy for a breezy ride along the willow-lined Su and Bai Causeways. This effortless tour glides through centuries of history, concluding near the Broken Bridge, where you can disembark to enjoy the romantic atmosphere of one of Hangzhou’s most celebrated vistas.

Hangzhou West Lake Visiting Route B (South Bank):

Highlights: Secluded Boat Cruise Rowing by Hand (2h), Optional Taizi Bay Park Hiking (0.5h to the Top - Jiudi Pavilion) & West Lake Paramona View, Long Bridge Park West Lake Sunset, Jixian Pavilion

You’ll start your West Lake Boat Tour from Majiawan Wharf and embark on a relaxing two-hour hand-rowed boat ride. Glide through the secluded, lesser-known waters of West Lake to embrace peaceful lakeside scenery hidden from the usual tourist crowds.

After disembarking, you’ll pass by Prince Bay Park. If you still have energy, you may climb up to Jiuyao Pavilion at the hilltop for a stunning full panoramic overlook of West Lake.

Then, take a leisurely stroll along the southern bank of West Lake. At Long Bridge Park, you’ll stay to capture the gorgeous sunset with Long Bridge and Leifeng Pagoda forming a perfect backdrop. Our route continues to Jixian Pavilion, which is especially breathtaking in summer when lotus flowers are in full bloom all around.

Later, be escorted to the railway station or airport in Hangzhou for your departure.

Optional Hangzhou Evening Activities:

• Hefang Street: Blending ancient architecture, time-honored brands and local folk culture, it is the most representative old street in downtown Hangzhou. You can wander among red lanterns, taste authentic Hangzhou snacks and experience the charm of traditional Jiangnan nightlife.
• Impression West Lake Show (19:40): A world-class outdoor spectacle directed by Zhang Yimou on a natural lake stage. Advance booking required; refunds issued for weather cancellations.
• Grand Canal Night Cruise (1-hour): Sail this 2,500-year-old UNESCO site to see illuminated landmarks like Gongchen Bridge. Best April–October; winter schedules (Dec to Feb) may be reduced.

Your guide will meet you in the hotel lobby this morning to escort you to the station for your bullet train to Huangshan, about 1.5 to 2 hours.

Welcome to Huangshan! Your local guide and driver will meet you at the station exit, then escort you to explore Tunxi Ancient Street and Chengkan Ancient Village this afternoon.

Then, stroll down the 1,200-meter Tunxi Ancient Street, China’s best-preserved historic road featuring Song, Ming, and Qing styles. Admire authentic Huizhou architecture while browsing traditional art supplies, local teas, and snacks.

Later, visit Chengkan Ancient Village, an 1,800-year-old site designed according to Taiji philosophy. Discover over 150 historic residences featuring iconic white walls, gray tiles, and intricate Hui-style carvings.

After admiring the elegant pavilions, ancestral temples, and stone bridges of this "Bagua Village," head to your hotel for check-in.

After breakfast, local team will escort you for a full day at Yellow Mountain, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Experience its "Five Natural Wonders," including uniquely-shaped granite peaks, ancient pine trees,  winter snow, hot springs and the stunning sea of clouds that make this China's most beautiful mountain range.

Drive 1.5 hours to the mountain area, then take a sightseeing bus and the Yungu cable car to the North Sea Scenic Area. Admire the odd-shaped pines at Begin-to-Believe Peak before hiking to Cloud Dispelling Pavilion for breathtaking "sea of clouds" views. Finally, discover the gravity-defying Flying-over Rock and hike to Bright Summit, the mountain's second-highest peak, for stunning panoramic vistas of the surrounding granite range.

Last, return to your hotel on the mountain.

Rise early to catch the sunrise (typically 5:00–6:00 AM) just a short walk from your hotel. If weather permits, you’ll witness golden sunlight piercing the mist and majestic peaks rising above the famous sea of clouds. Afterward, return to your hotel to enjoy breakfast and recharge for the day's adventure.

Continue your exploration of Yellow Mountain at Dawn Pavilion and the famous Stone Monkey Watching the Sea on Lion Peak. Afterward, enjoy a scenic hike down, keeping your camera ready for more stunning vistas. Finally, follow the wooded path to the cable station for your descent before transferring back to Huangshan City for some free time.

After breakfast, head to Hongcun Ancient Village, an UNESCO World Heritage site known as the "village in a Chinese painting." It’s a photographer’s dream, famous for its ancient water systems and beautiful Hui-style architecture. Be sure to check out South Lake and the Moon Pond to see the historic homes perfectly reflected in the water—it's truly a unique sight.

Afterward, you will be transferred to train station or airport for your next destination.

Thank you for choosing Asia Odyssey Travel for your Shanghai Suzhou Hangzhou Huangshan Eastern China Tour!