Grand East China Panorama: Shanghai, Suzhou, Wuxi & Hangzhou

An epic journey through the Yangtze Delta's "Golden Quadrangle"—from futuristic skylines and classical gardens to Zen Buddhist sanctuaries and majestic lakes.

Duration

DAY 9

Location

SHANGHAI

Group Size

Private Tour

Tour Overview

Go beyond the standard itinerary with this extensive 9-day private exploration of East China. Starting in the cosmopolitan hub of Shanghai, you will journey through the “Venice of the East” Zhouzhuang to the elegant gardens of Suzhou. The adventure expands into Wuxi, a hidden gem where you will stand before the colossal Lingshan Grand Buddha, stroll through the Zen-inspired Nianhua Bay, and visit the massive film sets of Three Kingdoms City. Finally, experience the poetic romance of Hangzhou’s West Lake before returning to Shanghai. This is the ultimate tour for travelers who want to see it all.

Daily Itinerary

01

Day 01

Arrival in Shanghai: The Magic City

Airport Pick-up (with Sign) → Hotel Transfer

Upon your arrival in Shanghai, our professional driver will greet you at the airport arrival hall holding a name sign. You will be transferred comfortably to your hotel. Rest up and get ready to explore one of the world’s most dynamic cities.

02

Day 02

Skylines & Colonial History

Oriental Pearl Tower → Huangpu River Cruise → The Bund → Nanjing Road

Ascend the Oriental Pearl Tower to walk on the 360-degree glass skywalk and visit the History Museum. Enjoy a relaxing Daytime Cruise on the Huangpu River to see the contrast between the colonial architecture of The Bund and the skyscrapers of Lujiazui. End the day strolling along the bustling Nanjing Road.

03

Day 03

Old Shanghai & French Elegance

Yu Garden → Old Town → French Concession (Xintiandi) → Jade Buddha

Explore the classic Ming Dynasty architecture at Yu Garden and wander through the vibrant Shanghai Old Town. Then, experience the unique “Shikumen” architecture in the French Concession (Xintiandi). Finally, find inner peace at the majestic Jade Buddha Temple.

04

Day 04

The No.1 Water Town

Shanghai → Zhouzhuang Water Town → Suzhou

Drive to Zhouzhuang, China’s most famous water town. Take a boat ride through the canals, cross the iconic Double Bridge, and visit the historic Zhang and Shen Halls. In the afternoon, we continue to Suzhou, famous for its elegant gardens. Overnight in Suzhou.

05

Day 05

Classical Gardens of Suzhou

Lingering Garden → Panmen Gate → Tiger Hill

Visit the Lingering Garden, a UNESCO World Heritage site known for its exquisite layout. See the Panmen Gate, the only existing ancient water-and-land city gate in China. Climb Tiger Hill to see the leaning pagoda, a symbol of Suzhou. Overnight in Suzhou.

06

Day 06

Wuxi Zen & Grand Buddha

Suzhou → Wuxi: Lingshan Grand Buddha → Nianhua Bay

Drive to Wuxi. Stand in awe before the 88-meter tall Lingshan Grand Buddha, one of the largest Buddha statues in China. Watch the “Nine Dragons Bathing Sakyamuni” musical fountain performance. Later, relax in Nianhua Bay, a beautifully designed Zen-style resort town perfect for photography. Overnight in Wuxi.

07

Day 07

History & Lake Taihu

Three Kingdoms City → Water Margin City → Yuantouzhu → Drive to Hangzhou

Visit the massive CCTV film sets of Three Kingdoms City and Water Margin City, known as the “Hollywood of the East.” Enjoy a cruise on Lake Taihu (if weather permits) and admire the cherry blossoms or lotus at Yuantouzhu (Turtle Head Isle). In the late afternoon, we drive to Hangzhou. Overnight in Hangzhou.

08

Day 08

Heaven on Earth: West Lake & Tea

West Lake Cruise → Lingyin Temple → Longjing Tea Village → Transfer to Shanghai

Discover why Marco Polo called Hangzhou the “City of Heaven.” Enjoy a scenic boat cruise on the West Lake. Visit the spiritual Lingyin Temple and the carvings at Feilai Peak. Step into a Longjing (Dragon Well) Tea Village to learn about tea culture. Drive back to Shanghai in the evening. Overnight in Shanghai.

09

Day 09

Farewell to the Magic City

Hotel to Airport Transfer

Enjoy your final breakfast in Shanghai. Our professional driver will meet you in the hotel lobby and transfer you to Pudong (PVG) or Hongqiao (SHA) Airport. As you head to the airport, take a final look at the city’s skyline. We wish you a safe flight home!

PRIVATE TOUR SPECIAL

$1269

per person

FAST REPLY

FREE PLAN

Available Services

Transport: Private air-conditioned vehicle with professional driver (Fuel, tolls, parking included).

Accommodation: 8 nights in selected hotels (Twin-share) with daily breakfast.

Guide: Professional English-speaking Guide.

Tickets: First main entrance tickets for all listed spots.

Internal Transport: All necessary eco-buses and cable cars within scenic areas.

Insurance: Tourism accident insurance.

Support: 24/7 English-speaking online support.

Excluded Services

flights or trains to/from arrival city.

Lunches & Dinners (flexible for your choice).

Personal expenses & Visa fees.

Gratuities for guide and driver (Optional).

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