Suzhou Boat Tour From Shanghai: Discover Canals, Gardens, and Local Culture

Tour Itinerary

In the morning, you will take a bullet train from Shanghai to Suzhou, it takes only 30 minutes for one way. Upon arrival in Suzhou, our tour guide will pick you up at the exit of train station with a welcome signage “Your Way Holiday”. And your all inclusive luxury Suzhou tour start as below:

Your first destination is the Lingering Garden, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of Suzhou’s most exquisite classical gardens. Recognized as one of China’s four most famous gardens—alongside the Humble Administrator’s Garden, the Summer Palace, and Chengde’s Mountain Resort—this masterpiece is celebrated for its intricate landscape design. The garden's layout showcases a harmonious blend of traditional Chinese architecture and natural beauty, employing masterful spatial techniques that have earned global acclaim. As you stroll through its serene paths and elegant pavilions, your guide will share fascinating insights into its history, architectural significance, and cultural importance, ensuring a deeper appreciation of this iconic site.

Next, enjoy a rickshaw ride through the charming streets of Suzhou. Similar to the rickshaw experience in Beijing, this ride offers a unique way to explore the city’s narrow alleys, bustling public markets, and vibrant local life. As you weave through the lanes, you’ll get a close-up view of Suzhou’s rich traditions and daily activities. The professional rickshaw pullers, well-versed in the city’s history, culture, and folk customs, will share fascinating stories and insights along the way. This immersive experience provides a deeper understanding of Suzhou’s heritage and offers a memorable glimpse into the essence of this famous garden city.

Enjoy a delightful meal at a local Suzhou Chinese restaurant, renowned for its authentic and flavorful Suzhou cuisine. Indulge in a variety of traditional dishes that showcase the unique culinary heritage of the region, such as sweet and savory squirrel-shaped mandarin fish, tender braised pork, and seasonal delicacies made with fresh, locally-sourced ingredients. The warm and inviting atmosphere of the restaurant enhances your dining experience, offering a perfect blend of comfort and tradition. Your guide will be on hand to recommend the best dishes and ensure you have a truly memorable taste of Suzhou’s rich gastronomic culture.

In the afternoon, you’ll be driven to Pingjiang Historical Street, a perfect spot to experience the authentic charm of old Suzhou. This peaceful, tree-lined street offers a leisurely stroll through Suzhou’s past, with traditional Chinese houses, local restaurants, and teahouses serving regional delicacies. The street also boasts a mix of upscale cafes, attracting a more modern crowd. As you wander through this charming area, you’ll have the chance to sample traditional Chinese snacks, while your guide shares fascinating stories about the street’s history and its cultural significance, enhancing your connection to Suzhou’s vibrant heritage.

Continue your tour with a private boat ride along the Grand Canal, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The Suzhou section of the canal stretches for about 82.35 km, running from Wuqi Bridge, which marks the border between Suzhou and Wuxi, to Yazi Ba, the boundary between Suzhou and Zhejiang Province. Historically, this section of the canal has been a vital waterway for transporting goods such as coal, rice, oil, and agricultural products to Suzhou and surrounding areas. As you glide along the canal, you'll pass by many historical landmarks, giving you a glimpse into the region's rich cultural and commercial history. The boat ride also offers scenic views, with the opportunity to see the beautiful sights that line the waterway, making it easy to appreciate the journey that once connected Suzhou to Hangzhou.

Your final stop is Suzhou No. 1 Silk Mill, a fascinating site that offers an in-depth look into the city’s long-standing silk heritage. Suzhou has a rich history in silk production, from the cultivation of mulberry trees and silkworms to the meticulous process of transforming raw silk into exquisite fabric. The Suzhou No. 1 Silk Mill serves as both a working factory and a museum, where you can observe the entire silk-making process, starting from the delicate cocoons and following each step until the creation of beautiful, finished fabrics. Here, you'll also learn about the historical significance of silk in Chinese culture, making this an experience not to be missed.

After finished Suzhou No.1 Silk Mill, drive you to Suzhou train station or your hotel in Suzhou and your Suzhou tour come to the end.

Price Per Person in US Dollars