9 Days Best Scenic and Culture Tour Around Shanghai

Summary

Day 1 Arrive in Shanghai
Day 2 Shanghai: Yuyuan Garden & Bazaar, The Bund, Tianzifang, Old French Concession,  Nanjing Road
Day 3 Shanghai to Suzhou by Bullet train: take bullet train to Suzhou,Lingering Garden,Tiger Hill,Pingjiang Ancient Street, Suzhou No.1 Silk Factory
Day 4 Suzhou to Hangzhou by Bullet train: Tongli Water Town,take train to Hangzhou
Day 5 Hangzhou: Boat cruise around West Lake, Fish Watching at Flower Pond, Lingyin Temple, Meijiawu Tea Plantation, Qinghefang Old Street, Impression West Lake Show
Day 6 Hangzhou to Huangshan by Bullet train: Tunxi Ancient Street
Day 7 Huangshan: Hongcun Ancient Village, Huangshan Scenic Area
Day 8 Huangshan to Shanghai by Bullet train: Enjoy Huangshan Sunrise,Take train to Shanghai
Day 9 Leave Shanghai

Day 1

Welcome to Shanghai! Situated on the estuary of Yangtze River, Shanghai serves as the most influential economic, financial, international trade, and cultural center in East China. Also it is a popular travel destination for visitors to sense the pulsating development of the country. In addition to its modernization, the city's multicultural flair endows it with a unique glamour. Here, one finds the perfect blend of cultures, the modern and the traditional , and the western and the oriental. 

Upon on your arrival in Shanghai, our Shanghai driver will meet you at the exit of airport with a welcome sign "Your Way Holiday". Transfer to your hotel in Shanghai for check-in and the rest day is free on your own to explore the city or recover the jetlag.

Day 2

After breakfast, your guide and driver will meet you in the hotel lobby, ready to begin your exciting day. We will first head to Yu Garden (Yuyuan Garden), one of Shanghai’s most famous classical gardens, located in the heart of the city. Originally built in the Ming Dynasty, the garden covers an area of around 20,000 square meters and showcases the brilliance of traditional Chinese landscaping and design. As you stroll through the garden, you’ll pass through elegant pavilions, towering rockeries, serene ponds, and delicate bridges, all surrounded by lush greenery. The garden’s intricate design aims to create a peaceful, harmonious atmosphere, offering a perfect example of Chinese garden art at its finest. After thoroughly exploring the garden, you’ll have the opportunity to wander through Yuyuan Bazaar, a lively market just outside the garden, where you can shop for a variety of traditional Chinese handicrafts, teas, and snacks, allowing you to immerse yourself in the local culture. Throughout your visit, your English-speaking guide will provide fascinating commentary about the history and significance of Yu Garden and the surrounding area. Once the visit is complete, your guide will assist you and ensure a smooth and comfortable return to your hotel.

Next, you will visit The Bund (Waitan), one of Shanghai’s most iconic landmarks, known for its stunning blend of historical and modern architecture. Stretching along the Huangpu River, The Bund offers picturesque views of the city’s skyline, including the Oriental Pearl Tower and Shanghai Tower. This historic waterfront area was once the financial heart of Shanghai, with colonial-era buildings showcasing a mix of Gothic, Baroque, and Neoclassical styles. As you stroll along the riverfront, you’ll be able to admire the striking contrast between the old and new Shanghai, with modern skyscrapers on one side and historic buildings on the other. Afterward, you’ll head to Nanjing Road, a vibrant shopping street just a short walk from The Bund. Known for its bustling atmosphere, Nanjing Road is lined with shops, restaurants, and entertainment venues, making it the perfect place to experience the local culture and pick up unique souvenirs. Throughout the day, your expert guide will provide fascinating insights into the history of the area, point out the most significant landmarks, and offer recommendations to make your visit even more enjoyable. Your guide will also be on hand to answer any questions and ensure that your time in Shanghai is seamless and memorable.

Lunch will be arranged at Nanxiang Dumpling House to try the most famous Shanghai Xiaolongbao(soup dumpling).A favorite of dim sum eaters around the globe, are considered to be a Shanghai specialty, rumored to have originated here in the 19th century. Legend has it that this world-renowned snack started out as an experiment by a cake shop owner in Nanxiang who decided to try out a riff on his popular steamed bread. 

After lunch, your driver will take you to the charming Tianzifang area, located in the historic French Concession of Shanghai. Tianzifang is a vibrant and artistic neighborhood known for its narrow alleyways, traditional Shikumen houses, and a captivating blend of old-world charm and modern creativity. Originally a residential area, it has evolved into a lively arts and crafts enclave, filled with galleries, boutique shops, trendy cafés, small artisan workshops, and unique boutiques. As you wander through the area, you’ll have the opportunity to explore its maze-like lanes, each offering something new, from local art exhibitions to handcrafted jewelry and textiles. It’s the perfect place to shop for one-of-a-kind souvenirs that capture the essence of Shanghai’s creative spirit. The neighborhood provides a delightful contrast to the more modern areas of the city, offering a glimpse into Shanghai’s rich cultural heritage and artistic transformation. Throughout your visit, your guide will provide fascinating insights into the history of Tianzifang, explain how it has transformed from a residential district to an artistic hub, and point out hidden gems that many visitors might miss. Your guide will also ensure that you have a smooth and enjoyable experience, helping you make the most of your time in this unique neighborhood.

Continue your tour to the Old French Concession, one of Shanghai’s most charming and historically rich neighborhoods. This area, once part of the French Concession, is known for its picturesque, tree-lined streets, colonial-era architecture, and elegant European-style villas, which lend the area a peaceful yet vibrant atmosphere. As you stroll through the winding lanes, you’ll experience a delightful blend of old-world charm and the contemporary energy of modern Shanghai. The Old French Concession is home to trendy cafés, stylish boutique shops, art galleries, and some of the city’s best restaurants, making it the perfect place to relax, shop, and immerse yourself in the local culture. The area’s unique fusion of Western and Chinese influences creates a distinct ambiance that is quite different from the more commercial parts of Shanghai. Along the way, your guide will share fascinating stories about the history of the French Concession, explaining its colonial past and how it has evolved into a vibrant cultural hub. Your guide will also point out significant landmarks, hidden gems, and share recommendations for great spots to visit, ensuring you have a smooth and enjoyable experience while exploring this iconic part of Shanghai.

After dinner, you will head to Nanjing Road, one of Shanghai’s most famous and lively shopping streets, known for its vibrant atmosphere and stunning neon-lit skyline. Stretching over 5 kilometers, Nanjing Road is a bustling pedestrian street that offers a dazzling array of shopping, dining, and entertainment options. As you walk along this iconic street, you’ll experience the dynamic energy of Shanghai, with everything from high-end luxury stores to local boutiques, department stores, and countless shops. The street truly comes alive at night, when the colorful lights and large billboards illuminate the area, creating an exciting and vibrant scene. Nanjing Road is not only a shopping paradise but also an excellent place to witness the blending of modern Shanghai with its commercial history. Whether you’re looking for the latest fashion trends, unique souvenirs, or simply want to enjoy the lively atmosphere, Nanjing Road is the perfect destination. Along the way, your guide will offer recommendations for the best places to shop and explore, as well as share insights into the area’s fascinating history. Your guide will also ensure that you have a smooth and enjoyable experience, helping you navigate the area and make the most of your time in one of Shanghai’s most famous landmarks.

After the tours, you will be taken back yo your hotel in Shanghai.

Day 3

After breakfast, our driver will pick you up at your hotel lobby and drive you to Shanghai train station to catch the bullet train to Suzhou. Upon on your arrival, our Suzhou guide will wait for you at the exit of train station with a welcome sign "Your Way Holiday". 

The first stop of your Suzhou tour is Lingering Garden, one of China’s four most famous classical gardens and a masterpiece of traditional Chinese landscape design. This garden is renowned for its delicate architecture, featuring a series of elegant halls in various sizes, shapes, and colors, all showcasing the refined Qing Dynasty style. If you wish to experience the seamless blend of natural beauty and human ingenuity, Lingering Garden is the perfect destination. Also known as Liu Garden, it is a tranquil haven that offers a variety of scenic delights, including intricately shaped stones, serene ponds, and peaceful walkways surrounded by lush greenery. As you explore the garden, you’ll be captivated by the carefully planned layout, where every corner reveals picturesque views, whether it’s the reflection of the pavilions in the water or the beauty of flowers in bloom. The combination of architecture, nature, and design creates a sense of harmony that is both peaceful and awe-inspiring. Lingering Garden, as one of China’s Four Famous Gardens, offers not only a visual treat but also a sensory experience that speaks to the soul. Throughout your visit, your guide will provide insightful commentary on the garden’s history, design principles, and the cultural significance behind its various elements, ensuring a deeper understanding and appreciation of this remarkable site.

After admiring the classic beauty of the Chinese gardens, our guide will take you to a local restaurant where you can indulge in the authentic flavors of Suzhou cuisine. Suzhou is famous for its delicate and refined culinary traditions, and you’ll have the opportunity to try a variety of dishes that highlight the region’s unique ingredients and cooking techniques. Known for its emphasis on fresh, seasonal produce, Suzhou cuisine often features light and subtly sweet flavors, with dishes such as Squirrel-shaped Mandarin Fish , Sweet and Sour Soup, and Suzhou-style Dumplings  that showcase the delicate balance of flavors. Your guide will recommend the best local specialties, and offer explanations about the ingredients and preparation methods, ensuring a truly immersive dining experience. Whether you are a food enthusiast or just curious to explore the local food culture, this meal will give you a true taste of Suzhou’s rich culinary heritage.

In the afternoon, continue your tour with a visit to Tiger Hill, one of Suzhou’s most renowned and historically significant landmarks. While it may only be a hillock about 30 meters high, Tiger Hill is rich in cultural heritage, offering a fascinating collection of historical sites and relics. Among its many attractions are the Tomb of King He Lu, the Yunyan Pagoda, the Sword-testing Stone, the Thousand Men Rock, and the Sword Pond—each one telling a story from ancient Chinese history. The most iconic feature of Tiger Hill is the millennium-old Yunyan Pagoda, which stands majestically at the top of the hill. This pagoda, with its unique tilt, is not only a remarkable feat of ancient architecture but also serves as the symbol of Suzhou. As you explore the area, you’ll have the chance to immerse yourself in the rich cultural and historical significance of this site. Your guide will provide fascinating insights into the stories behind each landmark, share the legends associated with Tiger Hill, and explain the cultural importance of this centuries-old hilltop. Throughout the tour, your guide will be available to answer questions and ensure that you have a memorable and informative experience at this celebrated destination.

Next, you will have some leisure time to stroll along Pingjiang Ancient Street, one of the most charming historic streets in Suzhou. Stretching for 1,606 meters, Pingjiang Road runs parallel to the picturesque Pingjiang River and is a perfect place to experience the timeless beauty of ancient Suzhou. Along the street, you’ll find traditional Suzhou-style houses with whitewashed walls and black tiled roofs, standing in simple elegance that reflects the peacefulness and sophistication of ancient China. The architecture is modest yet timeless, embodying the essence of traditional Suzhou living. As you walk along this scenic street, you’ll be transported back in time to the Song Dynasty, nearly 800 years ago, when the area was first established. Despite the passage of time, Pingjiang Ancient Street has remained largely unchanged, preserving the authentic charm and historical atmosphere of Suzhou’s old town. The street is lined with quaint shops, teahouses, and galleries, providing a wonderful opportunity to immerse yourself in local life and enjoy the tranquil surroundings. Your guide will share interesting facts about the history and culture of the area, as well as recommend hidden gems along the street to explore, ensuring that you have an enriching and enjoyable experience during your visit.

Finally, you will visit the Suzhou No. 1 Silk Factory, a place that offers a fascinating insight into Suzhou’s rich silk culture, which has been an integral part of the city’s history for centuries. Suzhou is famous for its silk production, which includes the cultivation of mulberry trees and silkworms, as well as the intricate process of transforming raw silk into beautiful fabrics. The Suzhou No. 1 Silk Factory operates almost like a living museum, where you can witness firsthand how silk is made—from the harvesting of silkworm cocoons to the delicate process of weaving and dyeing the silk into fine textiles. During your visit, you will be able to observe skilled workers in action, learning about each step of the process and how Suzhou’s silk has been regarded as one of the finest in the world. Your guide will provide detailed explanations about the historical significance of silk production in Suzhou, the different types of silk, and how the craft has been passed down through generations. Additionally, you will have the opportunity to explore the factory’s showroom, where you can find a wide selection of silk products, from clothing to home décor, perfect for souvenirs or gifts. Your guide will also be available to answer any questions you have, ensuring you leave with a deeper appreciation of Suzhou’s silk-making heritage.

After the tour, you will be taken back to your hotel in Suzhou.

Day 4

After enjoying a delicious breakfast, your private driver will take you on a scenic drive to Tongli Water Town, which is located approximately one hour away from Suzhou’s city center. Tongli, with a history spanning over 1,000 years, is one of the most well-preserved ancient water towns in China. Although it has only recently become a popular tourist attraction, the town remains deeply rooted in tradition. Its picturesque canals are lined with stone bridges and ancient architecture, including private gardens, temples, and traditional houses, all of which showcase the unique charm of the region.

The first stop in Tongli is the Retreat and Reflection Garden, a traditional Suzhou-style garden that dates back to 1885. This garden was recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 2001, joining the ranks of other famous classical gardens in Suzhou. Although it shares similarities with other Suzhou gardens, the garden’s distinctive east-west axis sets it apart from typical designs found in the region. As you wander through the garden, your private guide will provide in-depth explanations of its unique features, such as the layout of the pavilions, ponds, and rockeries, all meticulously crafted to create a tranquil environment.

Following the garden visit, take a break for lunch at a local Chinese restaurant, where you will have the opportunity to savor some of the unique dishes of the water town. Here, you can enjoy the flavors of local specialties, which often feature fresh ingredients sourced from the town’s waterways.

In the afternoon, your tour will continue with a visit to Chongben Hall, where you can admire the intricate collection of wood carvings that depict the folklore and legends of the Yangtze River Delta. The hall is a stunning example of craftsmanship, with every carving telling a story of the region’s rich cultural heritage. Afterward, you will explore Jiayin Hall, a traditional mansion built in 1912. This historic house is adorned with engravings inspired by "Romance of the Three Kingdoms", a well-known Chinese novel. The level of detail in the carvings is impressive, and your guide will take the time to explain the significance of these depictions and the history behind the mansion’s construction.

Next, you’ll visit the Three Bridges of Tongli, which are some of the most iconic features of the town. While Tongli has more than 50 bridges, the Taiping, Jili, and Changqing bridges are the most well-known and frequently visited. These bridges are not only beautiful but also hold great cultural significance. Locals believe that crossing these bridges during important life events, such as births, weddings, or birthdays, will bring them good health, happiness, and prosperity. As you walk across the bridges, your guide will share the fascinating folk tales associated with each one while you take in the stunning views of the canals and surrounding architecture.

After your tour of Tongli, you will be transferred to Suzhou train station to catch the bullet train to Hangzhou. Upon arrival at Hangzhou train station, our guide will be waiting for you at the exit holding a sign that says "Your Way Holiday". They will escort you directly to your hotel and assist with the check-in process, ensuring a smooth transition and a comfortable start to your stay in Hangzhou.

Day 5

In the morning, your local Hangzhou tour guide will meet you at your hotel lobby to begin your exciting day of exploration. The first highlight of your journey will be a peaceful **boat ride on the picturesque West Lake. This scenic boat trip offers a delightful way to fully appreciate the natural beauty of Hangzhou. As you cruise across the calm waters, you’ll be surrounded by enchanting landscapes, including small islands, graceful causeways, ancient temples, magnificent pagodas, and lush ornamental plants that line the lake. The serene surroundings are so captivating that you will feel as though you’ve stepped into a traditional Chinese painting, a scene where nature and architecture blend perfectly. West Lake is not only the heart and soul of Hangzhou, but it is also a symbol of tranquility, beauty, and cultural significance. This area has been celebrated for centuries as a place of inspiration for poets, artists, and philosophers. During the boat ride, your guide will provide fascinating insights into the history and legends of the lake, pointing out famous landmarks such as Broken Bridge, Leifeng Pagoda, and Su Causeway, and sharing stories of their cultural importance. The boat ride itself is a relaxing escape, allowing you to immerse yourself in the peaceful atmosphere of West Lake. Throughout the experience, your guide will be by your side to offer expert knowledge, answer any questions, and ensure that you have a comfortable and enjoyable time, making this a truly memorable start to your day in Hangzhou.

Afterwards, you will visit Lingyin Temple, the largest and oldest Buddhist temple in Southern China. This iconic temple, along with the nearby Fei Lai Feng, is considered one of the Top Ten Most Famous Ancient Buddhist Monasteries in China. Lingyin Temple has a long and rich history, dating back over 1,700 years, and it is renowned for its stunning architecture and peaceful atmosphere. The temple complex is home to numerous pagodas, Buddhist statues, and grottoes, which offer visitors a deep sense of spiritual tranquility. As you explore, you will see intricately carved stone statues, ancient murals, and sacred sites that reflect the Buddhist heritage and cultural significance of this sacred place. In addition to its historical and cultural importance, the temple is also set in a breathtakingly beautiful natural environment, surrounded by lush forests, vibrant flowers, and clear springs, making it a peaceful retreat for both worshippers and visitors alike. Fei Lai Feng, with its unique stone carvings of Buddhist figures, adds another layer of awe to the experience, offering a perfect blend of history, culture, and nature. Your guide will accompany you throughout the visit, providing detailed explanations about the temple’s history, its significance in Chinese Buddhism, and the fascinating stories behind the religious relics and carvings. They will ensure that you gain a deeper understanding of the temple's cultural and spiritual value while making the most of your time here.

Your lunch will be arranged at a charming Local Tea Farmer's Tea House, offering a unique and immersive experience. Here, you will have the opportunity to learn about traditional Chinese tea culture in a tranquil, rural setting. If you’re interested, the tea farmers will guide you through the process of preparing and cooking local delicacies, providing you with an authentic hands-on culinary experience. You can learn how to cook Beggar’s Chicken, West Lake Carp in Vinegar Sauce (don’t worry, it’s bone-free!), Lotus Root, Bamboo Shoots, and many other delicious regional vegetables that are cherished in Hangzhou’s local cuisine. The dishes are not only delicious but also showcase the rich agricultural resources of the area. If you prefer to simply relax and savor the flavors without cooking, feel free to enjoy the array of freshly prepared local specialties served to you. This is a wonderful opportunity to experience the flavors of Hangzhou and gain a deeper appreciation for its culinary traditions. Your guide will be on hand to help translate, share insights about the food, and ensure that you have a memorable and enjoyable meal in this warm and welcoming setting.

In the afternoon, you will be driven to Dragon Well Tea Plantation, a picturesque area renowned for its scenic beauty and rich tea culture. Located in Meijiawu Village, this region is the birthplace of Longjing Green Tea, the most famous and celebrated green tea in China. As you explore the tea plantations, you will be surrounded by lush, terraced hillsides, with vibrant green tea bushes stretching as far as the eye can see. The landscape here is breathtaking, offering a perfect blend of natural beauty and agricultural tradition. During your visit, you’ll have the chance to learn about the tea culture that has been an integral part of Chinese life for centuries. The locals will explain the intricate process of growing, harvesting, and processing Longjing tea, from plucking the tender tea leaves to roasting them to perfection. In Meijiawu Village, there are numerous tea houses where you can stop to relax and taste the freshly brewed Longjing tea. This is an excellent opportunity to savor the unique, smooth flavor of the tea and appreciate its delicate aroma. Your guide will share the fascinating history and significance of Longjing tea, as well as its place in Chinese culture, ensuring you gain a deeper understanding of the region’s rich tea heritage.

Later go for Qinghefang Old Street. It is a good place to experience the life of Old Hangzhou, because it is the epitome of historic Hangzhou. A great place for shopping, eating, and sightseeing. You can see the well-preserved old buildings, explore the interesting boutique stores, and choose your favourite souvenirs. 

After dinner, go for enjoy a performance-Impression West Lake Show. It is one of most popular night show in China, it takes around 50 minutes to show you some Hangzhou local culture and folktale...After the show, you will be taken back to your hotel.

DAY 6

Pick up from your hotel and drive you to Hangzhou train station to catch your bullet train to Huangshan. Upon on your arrival, our Huangshan tour guide will meet you at the exit of the station with welcome sign "China Private Tour". You will start your tour directly.

Firstly, our tour guide will take you to a local Chinese restaurant that serves typical Huangshan dishes. 

After lunch, you will visit the Tunxi Ancient Street, which  was built in Ming and Qing Dynasties. The colorful bazaars of local features are displayed in front of your eyes. You will find antique shops, medicine shops, tea houses, restaurants and galleries in the street.

Drive you to your hotel after the tour, our tour guide will help you check in. The rest of the day is free on your own.

DAY 7

In the morning, check out from your hotel and drive you to visit Hongcun Ancient Village, is the best example of typical Anhui-style architecture. Hongcun is the China you think of when you think of ancient China. Many of the buildings in Hongcun can be dated back to the Song Dynasty and is regarded as the best example of typical Anhui-style architecture. Called “the ancient village in Chinese paintings”, Hongcun is so quiet, peaceful and beautiful which was listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 2000, together with Xidi village.

After lunch, drive you to foothill of Mt.Huangshan, where you will take Yungu cable car to the top of Mt.Huangshan.

Along the uphill way, you will see the Beginning-to-Believe Peak,  The Lion Peak, Brush Pen Peak, A Monkey Gaping at the sea and other attractions, enjoy the fantastic sunset on Cloud Dispelling Pavilion. Upon reaching the top, you are greeted with a breathtaking view of Huangshan Mountain. This is when you truly discover why it is known as the "the loveliest mountain of China."

Stay overnight on the top of Huangshan Mountain.

DAY 8

If the weather permits, get up early to enjoy the magnificent sunrise view of Huangshan Mountain. The best place for watching sunrise is from Refreshing Terrance, it is also closest spot from your hotel. In good-weather days, you can see clearly the golden light of the sun piercing the mists, and rocky peaks rising above the frothy, ever-changing sea of white clouds. After the sunrise, get back to your hotel for breakfast.

Continue your wonderful sightseeing on the Yellow Mountain to see the famous Dawn Pavilion, Stone Monkey Watching the Sea on the Lion Peak (1690m). Then walk along the wood path to the cable station to take a cable car to exit the mountain. Your driver is ready at the mountain foot to transfer you back to Huangshan City for lunch.

After lunch, you will be transferred to Huangshan train station for the afternoon train to Shanghai. Upon your arrival in Shanghai, our guide will pick you up at the exit of the train station and drive you to your hotel, the guide will help you check in.

DAY 9

Today is free on your own until our driver transfer you to Shanghai international airport and you fly back home. Your 9 Days Best Scenic and Culture Tour Around Shanghai comes to end. Wish you enjoy your trip!

Price Per Person in US Dollars

Price Includes 1. Cozy Ride: Enjoy the comfort and spaciousness of our air-conditioned car, offering scenic views. 2. Bilingual Expert Guide: Benefit from a personalized experience with a guide fluent in your language, catering to your needs. 3. Entrance Fees: Access all attractions and activities mentioned in the itinerary without worrying about additional entrance fees. 4. Seamless Transfer: Enhance your experience with convenient hotel or train station pickup and drop-off service. 5. Connect Seamlessly: Stay connected with complimentary onboard WiFi, allowing you to share your experiences in real-time. 6. City-to-City Train Tickets: Include the cost of train or flight tickets between the cities listed in the itinerary, ensuring a smooth and efficient travel experience. 7. Selected Hotels and Daily Breakfast: Experience a comfortable stay in handpicked hotels, each chosen for its quality and amenities. Enjoy a daily breakfast at the hotel, starting your day on a delicious note. 8. Complimentary Water: Receive a complimentary bottle of water for each person, keeping you refreshed throughout your journey. 9. Travel Agency Liability Insurance: Benefit from coverage under our travel agency liability insurance, providing added protection and peace of mind during your trip.

Price Excludes 1. Personal Expenses: This includes phone bills, laundry, additional tours, postage, and any entertainment fees not covered in the itinerary. 2. Meals: While meals are not included, our guide will recommend the best local food spots, giving you the chance to explore and choose based on your preferences. (Average cost per person for a regular meal at local eateries: 40RMB/6USD-80RMB/12USD) 3. Tips: Tips are not mandatory but are recommended for excellent service. If you feel satisfied with the service, you may consider leaving a tip. 4. Insurance: Insurance coverage for personal loss, illness, or damages incurred during your trip is not included. 5. Optional Activities: Any optional activities listed in the itinerary are not included in the tour fees, allowing you to choose and participate based on your preferences.