3 Days Private Suzhou and Hangzhou Sightseeing Tour By Train

Day 1 Suzhou

In the morning, our local Suzhou tour guide will pick you up at your hotel in Suzhou or Suzhou train station, you will find a welcome signage "Your Way Holiday". And your Suzhou and Hangzhou Tour start as below:

Your tour begins at the Lingering Garden, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of Suzhou’s finest classical gardens. Renowned for its delicate design, it is celebrated as one of China’s four most famous classical gardens, alongside the Humble Administrator’s Garden, the Summer Palace in Beijing, and the Mountain Summer Resort in Chengde. This garden masterfully integrates a variety of artistic techniques, creating a harmonious space that exemplifies the art of architectural design. It is a shining example of how landscape architecture can blend seamlessly with nature. As you wander through its winding trails and beautifully crafted portals, you'll encounter stunning pavilions, serene ponds, and meticulously arranged rock formations. Each corner of the garden reveals a new vista, carefully designed to evoke tranquility and reflection. This peaceful haven offers the perfect opportunity to pause, relax, and let both mind and body rest. Your guide will accompany you throughout, offering insights into the history and architectural significance of this garden, making sure you fully appreciate its beauty and cultural importance.

Next, you’ll visit Panmen Gate, a historic site with origins dating back to 514 AD. Built by the Wu State during the Spring and Autumn Period, Panmen Gate is the only ancient city wall still standing in Suzhou today. This impressive structure has withstood the test of time, offering a glimpse into the city’s strategic defense system from over two thousand years ago. The gate, which once served as an essential part of Suzhou’s fortifications, is a perfect example of ancient Chinese military architecture. As you explore the site, your guide will share captivating stories about its construction, significance, and the role it played in the city’s defense against invaders. Panmen Gate is not only historically important but also beautifully located, surrounded by scenic gardens, tranquil waterways, and lush landscapes that add to its allure. As you stroll through the area, you’ll be able to enjoy both its historical and natural beauty. Your guide will offer detailed insights into the gate’s restoration efforts and its role in the development of Suzhou’s cityscape, ensuring a thorough understanding of this architectural marvel and its lasting cultural impact.

Enjoy a delicious lunch at a local Chinese restaurant, where you'll be able to experience authentic Suzhou cuisine. Known for its delicate flavors and refined cooking techniques, Suzhou's food scene offers a variety of dishes that will delight your palate. From the famous Suzhou-style wontons to the sweet and savory flavors of local fish dishes, your guide will offer the best recommendations based on your preferences. Whether you prefer a light meal or something more substantial, feel free to let your personal guide know if you have any dietary requirements or special requests. Your guide will ensure that you have a memorable dining experience that meets your tastes and expectations. This is a great opportunity to relax and enjoy the flavors of Suzhou, while soaking in the local atmosphere of the restaurant.

After lunch, head to Hanshan Temple, also known as Cold Mountain Temple, located near the picturesque town of Fengqiao. Made famous by the Tang Dynasty poet Zhang Ji in his renowned poem "The Night Mooring by the Maple Bridge," this tranquil Buddhist temple is renowned for its large, resonant bells and striking black roof, which contrasts beautifully with the surrounding greenery. As you stroll through the temple grounds, you’ll explore its peaceful halls, elegant pavilions, tranquil corridors, and meticulously maintained gardens. The serene atmosphere of Hanshan Temple makes it an ideal place to relax and reflect, offering a quiet escape from the hustle and bustle of daily life. Your guide will share the history and cultural significance of the temple, as well as the story behind the famous poem, helping you to fully appreciate the historical and spiritual essence of the site. You’ll also have time to enjoy the soothing sounds of the temple bells, which ring out on quiet afternoons, adding to the temple’s peaceful ambiance. Feel free to ask your guide for additional insights as you wander through the temple and its peaceful surroundings, making the most of this enriching experience.

For an authentic experience of old Suzhou’s city life, take a leisurely stroll down Pingjiang Historic Street. This charming, tree-lined street offers a perfect blend of tranquility and history, giving you a real sense of the city’s past. Lined with traditional Chinese houses, quaint teahouses, and small restaurants, the street exudes a slow-paced, peaceful atmosphere that invites you to pause and enjoy the surroundings. As you explore, you’ll also encounter upscale cafes, each offering a modern twist on Suzhou’s historic charm, attracting a stylish crowd. While walking, you’ll have the opportunity to taste a selection of traditional Chinese snacks, including savory treats and delicate sweets that are an integral part of local life. Your guide will share captivating stories about the street’s history and cultural significance, explaining how Pingjiang Road was once a bustling hub for trade and daily life in ancient Suzhou. You’ll also learn about the architecture, the people who lived here, and the role the street has played in shaping the city’s character over the centuries. Feel free to ask your guide for recommendations on where to sample the best local specialties and to learn more about Suzhou’s rich heritage.

The final stop on your tour is Suzhou No. 1 Silk Mill, a renowned institution with a deep-rooted history in the city's silk culture. Suzhou, blessed with the perfect climate and soil for silk production, has long been a center of China’s silk trade, and this mill proudly preserves and showcases the rich heritage of silk-making. The mill has been in operation for over 80 years, offering a fascinating glimpse into the intricate process of transforming raw silk from cocoons into luxurious fabric. As you explore the site, you’ll see each stage of silk production firsthand, from mulberry tree cultivation to silk worm farming, and the delicate process of spinning and weaving. The mill functions more like a museum, providing in-depth knowledge and hands-on demonstrations of the entire silk-making process. It’s an educational and immersive experience that highlights one of Suzhou’s most famous crafts. Don’t miss the opportunity to see the artisans at work and learn about the significance of silk in Chinese culture and Suzhou’s history. Your guide will share interesting facts and stories about the mill’s legacy and its role in sustaining this ancient tradition.

After the tour ends drive you back to your hotel in Suzhou.

Day 2 Suzhou--Hangzhou by Train

After breakfast, pick you up at your hotel lobby and drive you to Suzhou train station for your train to Hangzhou. You will be greetd by our local Hangzhou tour guide at the exit of train station with a welcome signage "Your Way Holiday". And your Hangzhou tour includes the following activities.

Your tour begins with a serene boat cruise on the famous West Lake, one of Hangzhou's most iconic and tranquil landmarks. Spanning 5.6 square kilometers, West Lake has long been a symbol of the city and is renowned for its natural beauty and cultural significance. As you glide across the calm waters, you’ll be treated to breathtaking views of the surrounding scenery, including the picturesque Three Pools Mirroring the Moon, one of the Ten Best Views of West Lake. Along the way, you’ll pass charming pagodas and elegant Chinese-style arched bridges, all set against a backdrop of tree-lined walkways, lush islands, and gentle hills. The peaceful atmosphere of West Lake, combined with its rich cultural heritage, makes it a truly unforgettable experience. Your guide will share fascinating insights into the history, legends, and symbolism of the lake, ensuring you gain a deeper appreciation for its place in Chinese culture. This boat ride offers not just scenic beauty but also a moment of serenity, allowing you to fully immerse yourself in the tranquil ambiance of one of China’s most cherished natural wonders.

Next, visit the Fish Viewing at the Flower Pond (Huagang Park), located at the southern end of the Su Causeway. This picturesque area is where a clean stream flows from Huajia Hill and joins West Lake, creating a serene and beautiful scene. The combination of fresh water and vibrant flowers has earned it the name "Flowery Harbor." Now a 22-hectare (54-acre) park, Huagang Park is home to a wide variety of trees and flowers, making it a delightful spot to explore year-round. A standout feature of the park is its peony garden, which blooms spectacularly in April, filling the air with fragrance and color. The goldfish pond, another highlight of the park, is a renowned spot for viewing koi swimming gracefully in the clear water. As you stroll through the park, your guide will explain the significance of the flowers and fish, sharing stories about the area's cultural history and its role in Hangzhou's natural beauty. Whether you're admiring the flowers or watching the fish, this peaceful setting provides an ideal opportunity to unwind and connect with the natural surroundings.

Next, drive to the Guo Garden, a charming villa completed in 1861 as a private retreat for a prosperous Qing Dynasty silk merchant. This elegant garden villa is a masterpiece of Chinese design, where the harmony between manmade structures and nature creates a sense of tranquility and balance. The villa opened to the public in 1991 after being carefully restored, and it is nestled beside the Sudi Causeway, which crosses the West Lake. From here, visitors can enjoy sweeping views of the serene Southern Screen Hill and the iconic Baochu Pagoda. The garden is divided into two main sections: Living in Quietness, where the silk merchant resided, and Sky in the Mirror, which features a picturesque pond surrounded by roofed corridors (lang), delicate bridges, intricate rock formations, lush trees, and vibrant flowers. The garden’s design reflects the perfect blend of natural beauty and thoughtful architecture, offering a peaceful escape from the bustling city. Your guide will walk you through the garden, explaining its history and the symbolism behind the unique elements that make this villa a true representation of traditional Chinese aesthetics.

For lunch, enjoy a delicious selection of local delicacies at a traditional Hangzhou restaurant, where you’ll be introduced to the flavors that make Hangzhou’s cuisine so renowned. Hangzhou is famous for its light, delicate dishes, often emphasizing fresh, seasonal ingredients. You’ll have the chance to try West Lake Fish in Vinegar Gravy—a sweet and sour fish dish that’s a local favorite, or Dongpo Pork, a savory braised pork belly that’s rich and tender, named after the famous poet and statesman Su Dongpo. Another must-try is Longjing Shrimp, where succulent shrimp are cooked with the region’s famous Longjing tea, creating a harmonious blend of savory and tea-infused flavors. To complement the meal, sip on Hangzhou's own Longjing Tea, one of the finest green teas in China, known for its refreshing aroma and smooth taste. Our local tour guide will be happy to make the best recommendations based on your preferences, ensuring you have an unforgettable culinary experience. Feel free to let the guide know if you have any dietary restrictions or special preferences, and they’ll tailor the meal to suit your tastes.

After lunch, visit the China National Tea Museum, a unique cultural gem dedicated to the rich and long history of tea in China. As the birthplace of tea, China’s tea culture is deeply woven into its traditions and daily life, and this museum offers an in-depth look at its fascinating evolution. The museum is the only one of its kind in mainland China, dedicated solely to tea and tea culture. Here, you’ll have the opportunity to explore a wide range of exhibits showcasing the history of tea, including its origins, its role in Chinese society, and its influence across the world. Admire ancient tea tools, scrolls, and tea-related artifacts that tell the story of this beloved beverage. As you wander through the museum, you’ll also be treated to opportunities to sample various types of tea, allowing you to experience firsthand the flavors that have made Chinese tea world-famous. You’ll also have the chance to learn about the traditional art of tea making, gaining insights into the delicate process of brewing and presenting tea. The museum is nestled among beautiful tea plantations, offering a scenic setting that enhances the experience. Our local tour guide will provide interesting commentary, answering any questions you may have and ensuring you gain a deep appreciation for tea culture.

Continue your visit to Leifeng Pagoda, a prominent cultural and historical landmark situated in the scenic West Lake area. Known for its beauty and significance, Leifeng Pagoda is deeply embedded in Chinese folk culture and literature. It is considered one of the "Ten Views of West Lake," largely due to its association with the famous Legend of the White Snake. This captivating legend has been passed down through oral traditions for generations, long before it was recorded in writing, and it remains one of the most beloved and enduring stories in Chinese culture. Over time, the legend has inspired countless operas, films, and TV series, each bringing the tale of the White Snake and her love affair with a human to life. The pagoda itself offers stunning views of West Lake and is a great place to reflect on the cultural richness of the area. As you explore this historic site, your guide will share insights into the legend, its cultural significance, and the role Leifeng Pagoda plays in the story. The beautiful surroundings of the pagoda, combined with its historical importance, make it a must-visit spot in Hangzhou. Our local guide will provide you with fascinating details, ensuring you fully appreciate the historical and cultural layers of this iconic site.

After the visit of Leifeng Pagoda, drive you to your hotel in Hangzhou downtown, our guide will help you check-in and the rest of the day is free on your own to explore the city.

Day 3 Hangzhou

After breakfast, the first stop of the day is the Lingyin Temple, also known as the "Temple of the Soul's Retreat." This majestic and serene temple is one of the largest and wealthiest in China, making it a must-visit cultural and spiritual landmark. Originally founded in 326 AD, the temple has been reconstructed and renovated no fewer than sixteen times, preserving its deep historical and architectural heritage. As one of the ten most famous ancient Buddhist temples in China, Lingyin Temple holds immense cultural and religious significance. The temple is home to numerous Buddhist scriptures and treasures, offering a glimpse into China's rich Buddhist tradition. Outside the temple, visitors can explore over 470 stone carvings of Buddhist figures, which date back to the 10th to 14th centuries. These intricate carvings are spread across the temple grounds and provide a fascinating insight into ancient Buddhist art and craftsmanship. As you wander through the peaceful surroundings, your guide will share the history of the temple, its cultural importance, and the stories behind the beautiful carvings. With its tranquil ambiance and rich history, Lingyin Temple is a place that allows you to connect with both the past and the present. Your guide will be there to provide deeper context and answer any questions you may have about this remarkable site.

Next, you'll head to the Bamboo-Lined Path at Yunqi, a serene and awe-inspiring forest that offers a unique experience. As you walk through the towering bamboo groves, you'll be struck by the sheer height and beauty of the bamboo stalks, which seem to stretch endlessly into the sky. The sound of rustling leaves and the soft creak of bamboo swaying in the wind creates a peaceful atmosphere, inviting you to pause and take in the surroundings. The forest's light quality is also remarkable—despite the density of the bamboo, the space feels airy and bright due to the vibrant green of the bamboo shoots, which allow sunlight to filter through in a soft, ethereal way. This creates a refreshing and almost magical ambiance that is unlike any other forest. As you walk along the path, you'll gain a new appreciation for the strength and versatility of bamboo, which has been used in Asian architecture for centuries, including as scaffolding for high-rise buildings. Your guide will provide insights into the history and ecological significance of bamboo, as well as its cultural uses throughout Asia. It’s a perfect spot for relaxation and reflection in the midst of nature’s tranquility.

Have your Lunch at the restaurant popular with the local people to stay away from the tourists' meals.

After lunch, you'll head to the Meijiawu Tea Plantation, a serene and picturesque area nestled in the heart of West Lake Park, renowned for its production of Longjing Tea, also known as Dragon Well Tea. This variety of roasted green tea is celebrated for its delicate flavor, high quality, and unique hand-production process, which has earned it the prestigious title of "China Famous Tea." Meijiawu is one of the most significant tea-producing regions in Hangzhou, surrounded by lush greenery and tranquil landscapes, providing an ideal environment for tea cultivation. Here, you’ll be immersed in the rich tea culture, where you can relax and enjoy the fragrant aroma of freshly brewed tea while taking in the breathtaking views of the tea fields. Our guide or a local tea farmer will walk you through the traditional methods of tea picking, pan-frying the leaves, and preparing the perfect cup of tea. This experience will give you a deeper understanding of the painstaking process that goes into producing one of China’s most cherished teas. You will also have the opportunity to savor different varieties of Longjing Tea, learning how each subtle difference in flavor and fragrance reflects the unique cultivation practices of the region.

Next, you’ll visit the Six Harmonies Pagoda, a stunning example of ancient Chinese pavilion-style architecture, situated on Yuelun Mountain to the south of West Lake. Facing the Qiantang River, this iconic structure is one of the three most renowned pagodas in Hangzhou, alongside Baochu Pagoda and Leifeng Pagoda, both located around the West Lake. The Six Harmonies Pagoda stands at a remarkable height, offering visitors spectacular panoramic views of the surrounding landscape. Its strategic position makes it an ideal spot to observe the famous Qiantang River Tide, which occurs during the autumn months when the river’s tide surges dramatically. This ancient pagoda is not only a marvel of architectural ingenuity but also a site deeply steeped in cultural and historical significance. As you explore the pagoda and its surrounding area, your guide will share insights into the history of the tower, its symbolic meaning, and the local legend that inspired its construction. You’ll also have the chance to enjoy the serene surroundings and the beautiful view of the Qiantang River, making it a truly memorable stop on your tour.

The last stop is the Song Dynasty Imperial Street, now known as Zhongshanlu Beiduan, which once led to the Palace of the Northern Song Dynasty (960-1127 AD). This historic street, stretching 400 meters (1,310 feet), is a fascinating blend of tradition and modernity. It is lined with an array of snack bars where you can sample delicious local delicacies and experience the authentic flavors of Hangzhou. As you stroll down the street, you’ll also find shops selling unique antiques, intricate embroidered items, and beautiful silks, giving you a chance to explore the rich craftsmanship of the region. The street is a lively hub that not only showcases Hangzhou’s culinary delights but also offers insight into its cultural heritage, offering everything from souvenirs to historical artifacts. While walking along this charming street, your guide will share the historical significance of the area and point out notable landmarks, making it an enriching cultural experience. Whether you're indulging in local treats or picking up a memorable souvenir, this stop is a perfect way to end your day in Hangzhou. Your guide will be happy to assist with recommendations and answer any questions you may have.

After the tour, our tour guide and driver will drive you back to your hotel in Hangzhou or the Hangzhou train station and your tour ends. Have a pleasant trip.

Price Per Person in US Dollars