Jiangnan Watertown 5-Day Tour

Tour Overview

Journey through the poetic Jiangnan region, China’s land of “south of the Yangtze River,” renowned for its classical gardens, ancient water towns, and refined cultural traditions. This 5-day tour combines the modern glamour of Shanghai with the timeless elegance of Suzhou’s gardens and Hangzhou’s legendary West Lake, offering an immersive experience into China’s most romantic and culturally rich region.

Detailed Itinerary

Day 1: Arrive in Shanghai - The Bund

Arrive at Shanghai Pudong or Hongqiao International Airport. Private transfer to your hotel in the city center. Afternoon walking tour along the famous Bund, admiring the stunning collection of Art Deco and neoclassical buildings that earned Shanghai its nickname “Paris of the East.”

Cross to Pudong for panoramic views from the observation deck of one of Shanghai’s iconic towers. Evening enjoy the dazzling lights of the Bund waterfront.

Meals: Dinner (Shanghai cuisine) Accommodation: 4-star hotel in Shanghai

Day 2: Shanghai to Zhouzhuang - Suzhou

Morning drive to Zhouzhuang, China’s most famous water town with over 900 years of history. Glide through ancient canals on a traditional wooden boat, passing under stone bridges and past Ming and Qing dynasty residences. Visit the Zhang House and Shen House, showcasing the wealth of ancient merchant families.

Afternoon continue to Suzhou, the “Venice of the East.” Check into your hotel and enjoy an evening stroll along Pingjiang Road, a historic canal-side street lined with teahouses and traditional shops.

Meals: Breakfast (hotel), Lunch (water town specialties) Accommodation: 4-star hotel in Suzhou

Day 3: Suzhou Gardens - Silk Museum

Morning visit the UNESCO-listed Humble Administrator’s Garden, the largest and most renowned of Suzhou’s classical gardens. Marvel at the masterful integration of pavilions, rockeries, water features, and plants that create a miniature natural landscape. Continue to the intimate Master of the Nets Garden, a perfect example of Song Dynasty garden design.

Afternoon explore the Suzhou Silk Museum to learn about the 5,000-year history of Chinese silk production. Watch artisans demonstrate traditional silk-making techniques and browse exquisite silk products.

Optional evening: Attend a Kunqu Opera performance, the elegant 600-year-old art form that originated in Suzhou.

Meals: Breakfast (hotel), Lunch (Suzhou cuisine)

Day 4: Suzhou to Hangzhou - West Lake

Morning high-speed train to Hangzhou (approximately 1.5 hours). Upon arrival, begin your exploration of the legendary West Lake, celebrated by poets and artists for over a millennium.

Take a traditional boat cruise across the lake, visiting the Three Pools Mirroring the Moon and enjoying views of the Leifeng Pagoda. Walk along the famous Su Causeway, lined with willows and peach trees. Visit the historic Lingyin Temple, one of China’s largest and most important Buddhist temples.

Evening stroll along Hefang Street, sampling local snacks and browsing traditional crafts.

Meals: Breakfast (hotel), Lunch (Hangzhou cuisine) Accommodation: 4-star hotel in Hangzhou

Day 5: Longjing Tea Village - Depart Hangzhou

Morning excursion to Longjing (Dragon Well) Tea Village in the hills surrounding West Lake. Walk through terraced tea plantations and learn about the cultivation and preparation of China’s most famous green tea. Participate in a traditional tea ceremony and taste freshly brewed Longjing tea.

Transfer to Hangzhou Xiaoshan International Airport or Hangzhou East Railway Station for your onward journey.

Meals: Breakfast (hotel), Lunch (tea house lunch)

Travel Tips

• Spring (March-May) offers blooming flowers and pleasant weather; autumn (September-November) has comfortable temperatures and beautiful foliage
• Comfortable walking shoes are essential for garden exploration and cobblestone streets
• Bring an umbrella as the region can have sudden rain showers
• Try local specialties: Shanghai xiaolongbao (soup dumplings), Suzhou-style mooncakes, and Hangzhou’s Dongpo pork
• Water towns are best photographed in early morning before crowds arrive
• Bargaining is expected at markets but not in fixed-price shops
• The region is known for silk, tea, and traditional handicrafts - excellent souvenirs