Our 5-day tour across Shanghai, Hangzhou, Suzhou, and Tongli was an incredible journey that blended modern marvels, historical treasures, and natural beauty. The seamless coordination, expert guides, and comfortable travel arrangements made this trip truly unforgettable.

We kicked off our journey in Shanghai, where Autumn, our guide, greeted us with a genuine warmth that set the tone for the entire trip. Autumn shared captivating stories about Shanghai’s development, from its ancient roots to its current status as a global financial hub. Our visit to the Bund was awe-inspiring, offering panoramic views of both colonial-era architecture and futuristic skyscrapers. We also visited the bustling Yu Garden, where Autumn’s expert knowledge brought the history of this ancient garden to life. The pace of the day was perfect, and Autumn’s insights kept us thoroughly engaged.

From Shanghai, we took the bullet train to Hangzhou, where Andy awaited us. Hangzhou’s charm unfolded as we set sail on a West Lake boat cruise, gliding through mist-covered waters surrounded by green hills. Andy’s storytelling was mesmerizing—he shared not only the history but also the folklore that makes the lake so enchanting. We then visited the Viewing Fish at the Flower Pond, a beautiful, peaceful spot where we enjoyed the scenery and Andy’s rich explanation of the area’s significance. Our visit to Meijiawu Tea Plantation was another highlight, where we learned about the ancient art of tea cultivation and got to taste some of the finest green tea.

Next, we traveled to Suzhou, and Darcy took over as our guide. We started our day with a visit to the Lingering Garden, a true gem of classical Chinese gardens. Darcy explained the symbolism behind the garden’s design, allowing us to appreciate its deeper meaning. The private boat ride along the Grand Canal was an unforgettable experience, giving us a unique perspective of Suzhou’s waterway history. Darcy’s passion for Suzhou’s silk industry and its historical importance was contagious, making the tour incredibly informative.

The final stop on our itinerary was Tongli, a picturesque water town that felt like a hidden treasure. We wandered through narrow streets, crossed ancient stone bridges, and marveled at the peaceful canals. It was the perfect way to end the tour, offering a quiet, timeless escape from the bustling cities we had just visited.

This tour was a perfect blend of culture, history, and natural beauty, and I would highly recommend it to anyone looking for a well-rounded exploration of China’s most iconic cities.

Reviewed to: 5 Days Hangzhou Suzhou Heavenly Tour from Shanghai by High Speed Train