Jiangnan Whispers

🕑 10 Days

📍 Suzhou, Hangzhou & Shanghai

🕑 10 Days

📍 Suzhou, Hangzhou & Shanghai

Immerse yourself in the poetic landscapes of China’s southeast—where silk, tea, and ancient water towns echo with elegance. Jiangnan, the “south of the Yangtze,” is famed for its classical gardens, stone bridges, and misty canals.

About This Tour

This gentle and romantic route brings you through some of China’s most cultured and historic cities.

From the neon lights and colonial lanes of Shanghai to the tranquil water towns of Suzhou and the serene lakeside temples of Hangzhou, every stop is infused with classical beauty and timeless charm.

This is the ideal trip for travelers who appreciate culture, history, and graceful scenery.

Highlights

Wandering Suzhou’s UNESCO-listed classical gardens
Cruising the Grand Canal through Zhouzhuang Water Town
Sipping Longjing tea at a plantation in Hangzhou’s hills
Enjoying Shanghai’s vibrant modern culture

Photos

What's Included

Private chauffeur service to and from the airport at the start and end of the trip.
All transfers by car, train, or plane with booking assistance.
Admission fees and activities as indicated in the itinerary.
English/Spanish-speaking guide.
Assistance with hotel reservations throughout the trip.
Local SIM card with data or support for eSIM.

Itinerary

Day 1: Arrival in Suzhou

Afternoon: Arrive in Suzhou and check in to your hotel. Take time to settle in and relax.
Evening: Take a peaceful stroll along Pingjiang Road, a stone-paved riverside street lined with teahouses, boutiques, and bridges.

Day 2: Classical Gardens & Silk History

Morning: Visit the Humble Administrator’s Garden, one of China’s finest classical gardens, with pavilions, lotus ponds, and zigzag bridges.
Afternoon: Explore the Lingering Garden, another UNESCO-listed masterpiece known for its rockeries and harmonious design.
Late Afternoon: Stop by the Suzhou Silk Museum to learn about the city’s ancient role in China’s silk trade.
Evening: Enjoy a local dinner or opt for a Kunqu opera performance, one of China’s oldest and most elegant art forms.

Day 3: Zhouzhuang Water Town

Morning to Afternoon: Take a short trip to Zhouzhuang, one of China’s most famous water towns. Cruise the canals, visit old residences like the Zhang House, and stroll over arched stone bridges.
Evening: Return to Suzhou for dinner and a quiet evening.

Day 4: Suzhou to Hangzhou

Morning: Take a scenic train or private car to Hangzhou (approx. 1.5–2 hours).
Afternoon: Check in and take a lakeside walk around West Lake, stopping by iconic spots like Leifeng Pagoda and the Broken Bridge.
Evening: Dine with a view of the lake or enjoy free time to explore Hangzhou’s night markets.

Day 5: Tea Hills & Culture

Morning: Visit the Longjing tea plantations nestled in the hills. Tour a working farm, sip freshly brewed Longjing green tea, and take in the serene surroundings.
Afternoon: Stop at the China National Tea Museum to learn about the culture, history, and rituals surrounding Chinese tea.
Evening: Optional: Watch the spectacular Impression West Lake show, a stunning outdoor performance set on the lake itself.

Day 6: Wuzhen Water Town

Morning to Afternoon: Take a half-day trip to Wuzhen, another iconic water town known for its well-preserved architecture and calm canals. Explore folk museums, wood carving displays, and the town’s ancient charm.
Evening: Return to Hangzhou and enjoy a quiet dinner at a teahouse or lakeside restaurant.

Day 7: Hangzhou to Shanghai

Morning: Travel to Shanghai by high-speed train or car (approx. 1.5–2 hours).
Afternoon: Check in and explore the historic French Concession, with its tree-lined streets, old mansions, and chic cafés.
Evening: Head to Xintiandi for dinner and nightlife in a stylish district that blends history with modernity.

Day 8: The Bund & Pudong

Morning: Cross the river to explore Pudong’s futuristic skyline. Visit the Shanghai Tower or Shanghai World Financial Center for panoramic city views.
Afternoon: Relax at a riverside café with skyline views.
Evening: Head to The Bund for a dazzling view of the city’s lights reflecting on the Huangpu River. Walk down Nanjing Road to experience Shanghai’s most famous shopping street aglow with neon signs and bustling nightlife.

Day 9: Yu Garden & Culture

Morning: Free time or visit the Shanghai Museum for a deep dive into Chinese art, bronze, ceramics, and calligraphy.
Afternoon: Visit Yu Garden in the late afternoon and explore the surrounding City God Temple Bazaar.
Evening: Enjoy the garden and bazaar area after dark, beautifully lit and full of energy. Try local specialties like xiao long bao or dine at a hidden lanehouse bistro.

Day 10: Departure from Shanghai

Morning: Depending on your flight, enjoy a final coffee in the Jing’an or Xintiandi area.
Transfer to the airport for your departure.

How to Book Your Adventure

Save your Spot

Once you’re happy with the itinerary, simply confirm your booking and make the payment to reserve your adventure.

Enjoy your Journey

From your arrival to your last stop, we’re here to make sure every part of your adventure runs smoothly.

Let’s Talk

Send us a message. We’ll get to know your travel style, interests, timeline, and budget.

Tailored Planning

We design a custom itinerary that matches your interests—whether you’re into nature, food, culture, or a bit of everything.