Grand Canal & Eastern China Treasures
An Exclusive Private Tour Exploring Shanghai's Modernity, Suzhou's Classical Gardens, and Hangzhou's Natural Beauty
Tour Overview
Experience the Perfect Blend of Ancient Heritage and Modern Innovation
This meticulously crafted 7-day private tour takes you through the cultural and economic heartland of Eastern China. Designed for discerning travelers and business visitors, our journey connects three of China's most captivating cities - the futuristic metropolis of Shanghai, the classical garden city of Suzhou, and the picturesque paradise of Hangzhou. With private transportation, expert guides, and carefully selected luxury accommodations, this tour offers an unparalleled insight into China's rich heritage and rapid modernization.
Detailed Itinerary
Day 1: Arrival in Shanghai - Gateway to Modern China
Accommodation: SSAW Boutique Hotel Shanghai Bund ★★★★
Meals: No Meals
Your Eastern China adventure begins upon arrival at Shanghai airport, where our professional guide will welcome you and provide private transfer to your luxury boutique hotel. After check-in, the remainder of your day is at leisure to recover from your journey or begin exploring this dynamic city independently.
Day 2: Shanghai Exploration - Where Tradition Meets Innovation
Accommodation: SSAW Boutique Hotel Shanghai Bund ★★★★
Meals: Breakfast & Lunch
Morning (09:00-12:30): After meeting your guide at the hotel lobby, we begin at the cultural heart of Shanghai - People's Square. Visit the renowned Shanghai Museum, housing over 120,000 precious artifacts across 21 categories of ancient Chinese art. Continue to Shanghai Old Street for authentic souvenir shopping before strolling along the iconic Bund, admiring the spectacular "Gallery of World Architecture."
Afternoon (13:30-16:30): Experience spiritual Shanghai at the Jade Buddha Temple, famous for its exquisite jade Buddha statues. Then capture memorable photos of the city's landmark - the Oriental Pearl TV Tower from the Riverside Promenade.
Evening: Your guide can arrange tickets for the spectacular ERA acrobatic show, one of Shanghai's most popular evening entertainments.
Day 3: Shanghai to Suzhou - Water Town Charm and Ancient History
Accommodation: Garden Hotel ★★★★
Meals: Breakfast & Lunch
Morning (09:30-12:30): Journey to the enchanting Tongli Water Town, where Ming and Qing Dynasty architecture lines ancient canals. Experience traditional canal life with a scenic wooden boat ride through the waterways.
Afternoon (13:30-16:30): Arrive in Suzhou and visit Tiger Hill, known as "No. 1 Sight of Suzhou," featuring stunning pagodas and beautiful gardens with 2,500 years of history.
Evening: Explore Jinji Lake's spectacular night scenery, including Asia's largest water-based Ferris wheel and mesmerizing laser shows.
Day 4: Suzhou - Classical Gardens and Silk Heritage
Accommodation: Garden Hotel ★★★★
Meals: Breakfast & Lunch
Morning (09:30-12:30): Discover why Suzhou is famous as the "City of Gardens" with a visit to the magnificent Lingering Garden, one of China's four great classical gardens. Continue to the architectural masterpiece of Suzhou Museum, designed by renowned architect I.M. Pei.
Afternoon (13:30-16:30): Wander through the historic Pingjiang Ancient Street, preserved for over 800 years, then visit a traditional Silk Factory to witness the intricate process of silk production.
Evening: Optional visit to Shantang Old Street or a romantic stroll along the Grand Canal to experience Suzhou's enchanting night atmosphere.
Day 5: Suzhou to Hangzhou - West Lake Paradise
Accommodation: Zhejiang International Hotel ★★★★
Meals: Breakfast
Travel in comfort via high-speed train to Hangzhou (approximately 2 hours). Upon arrival, meet your Hangzhou guide and transfer to your hotel. Begin your exploration of the legendary West Lake, starting with Su Causeway - one of the Ten Scenes of West Lake. Experience the lake's beauty using local public bikes or shuttle buses, cycling from Su Causeway to the West Lake Colored Port View Fish Garden. Continue to Bai Causeway for a leisurely walk, admiring the most famous scenic spots.
Visit Hu Qingyu Traditional Pharmacy to explore the mysteries of traditional Chinese medicine within an exquisite antique architectural complex.
Day 6: Hangzhou - Tea Culture and Spiritual Heritage
Accommodation: Zhejiang International Hotel ★★★★
Meals: Breakfast & Lunch
Morning (10:00-12:00): Immerse yourself in Chinese tea culture at Meijiawu Tea Plantation. Learn about tea picking and processing, participate in a traditional tea ceremony, and enjoy the serene beauty of terraced tea fields.
Lunch (12:30-14:00): Enjoy a unique snacks banquet at Chenghuangge Pavilion while admiring panoramic views of Hangzhou and listening to traditional Chinese music performances.
Afternoon (14:00-17:00): Visit the sacred Lingyin Temple, renowned for both its Buddhist significance and stunning natural surroundings. Conclude with shopping at historic Hefang Street, Hangzhou's ancient commercial center.
Evening: Optional attendance at the magnificent Impression West Lake show.
Day 7: Departure - Farewell to Eastern China
Meals: Breakfast
Enjoy a leisurely morning before transferring to Hangzhou bus station for your direct coach to Shanghai Pudong International Airport (approximately 3.5 hours). Our team will coordinate your bus departure according to your flight schedule.
Service Ends