All-Inclusive Suzhou and Tongli Water Town Tour from Shanghai With First Class Bullet Train

Tour Itinerary

In the morning, your Shanghai driver will be waiting for you in the hotel lobby, holding a "Your Way Holiday" sign. The driver will take you directly to the Shanghai high-speed railway station, where you will board a first-class seat to Suzhou. Upon arrival, your Suzhou guide will be waiting for you at the station exit with the same sign. Your Suzhou journey begins immediately!

You will start your tour at The Master of Nets Garden, which is the smallest of the Suzhou residential gardens, yet it is the most impressive because of its use of space, creating the illusion of an area much greater than its actual size. The garden is divided into three sections: a residential section, the central main garden, and an inner garden. This 12th-century gem (later refurbished in the 18th century) and UNESCO World Heritage Site boasts an impressive garden and nightly Kunqu opera performances, but it’s best known for its architectural splendor. Alternatively, you may visit the Lingering Garden (Liu Yuan), another stunning example of Suzhou's classical garden design. The Lingering Garden is famous for its grand layout, elegant pavilions, and exquisite rockeries. Both gardens offer a deep dive into the beauty of Suzhou’s garden aesthetics. Your tour will be accompanied by a professional guide, who will provide detailed insights into the garden’s design, history, and cultural significance.

Next, we will head to Shantang Street for an authentic taste of city life in old Suzhou. Quiet, leafy, and slow-paced, this historic street is lined with well-preserved ancient Chinese houses, alongside charming restaurants and teahouses that serve traditional foods and drinks. As you stroll along, you will encounter various shops offering local handicrafts and antiques, giving you a glimpse into Suzhou's rich cultural heritage. Shantang Street is also known for its picturesque canals, with quaint bridges that add to the street's timeless beauty. Along the way, there are upscale cafes catering to the chic crowd, blending modern trends with the traditional setting. You’ll have the opportunity to taste a few traditional Chinese snacks, such as sweet osmanthus cake and savory dumplings, while your guide shares fascinating stories about the history and significance of the street, bringing Suzhou’s past and present to life.

At last, we will drive you to Tongli, a charming ancient water town located just 30 kilometers from Suzhou and about an hour's drive from Shanghai. Known for its tranquil canals, ancient bridges, and traditional residential complexes, Tongli is often referred to as the “Venice of the East” due to its picturesque waterways and rich cultural heritage. The town is home to numerous bridges, historic homes, and temples that date back to the Ming and Qing Dynasties, offering a perfect opportunity to explore ancient Chinese architecture and the traditional way of life.

One of the must-visit spots in Tongli is the Tuisi Garden, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the town’s most famous attractions. This classical Chinese garden, which covers over 5,000 square meters, is known for its delicate layout, beautiful pavilions, ponds, and intricate rockery. The garden showcases the harmony between architecture and nature, reflecting the aesthetics of traditional Suzhou gardens.

Another notable attraction is the Tongli Water Street, where you can take a relaxing boat ride along the canals. The water street is lined with traditional white-washed houses and shops selling local handicrafts, antiques, and souvenirs. As you glide along the water, you’ll pass by the iconic Shui'ao Bridge, one of the town’s oldest and most photographed bridges, known for its picturesque arch and the traditional wooden boats that float beneath it.

You will also have the chance to visit the Chongben Hall, a well-preserved residence that once belonged to a wealthy local family. This historical house offers a glimpse into the life of affluent merchants during the Ming and Qing Dynasties, with its beautifully decorated rooms, antique furniture, and stunning wood carvings. Similarly, Jia’s Residence is another architectural gem, showcasing classic Chinese residential design with elegant courtyards, wooden beams, and delicate artwork that highlight the town’s prosperous past.

As you explore this ancient water town, your guide will share fascinating stories about its history, development, and the cultural significance of these landmarks. After your visit to Tongli, your guide will take you to the Suzhou high-speed railway station, where you will board a train back to Shanghai. Upon arrival, your Shanghai driver will be waiting for you at the station exit and will take you directly back to your hotel.

Price Per Person in US Dollars