Our 5-day tour across Shanghai, Hangzhou, Suzhou, and Tongli was an unforgettable experience, thanks in large part to the impeccable service and organization provided by the team. Each destination was an enchanting exploration of China's rich culture and stunning landscapes, and the personal touch provided by our guides made the journey truly special.

We began our adventure in Shanghai, where our guide, Autumn, greeted us with a warm welcome and immediately set the tone for the rest of the trip. Her extensive knowledge of the city’s history and modern culture gave us a deeper understanding of the places we visited, including the majestic skyline along The Bund and the tranquil Yuyuan Garden. Autumn was both professional and personable, making the entire day informative and enjoyable.

The next day, we boarded the bullet train to Hangzhou, where we met Andy, our guide for the day. Andy was simply fantastic. He was incredibly knowledgeable about the history of the famous West Lake and guided us through the scenic boat cruise, taking us to key spots like the Viewing Fish at the Flower Pond and the Guo Garden. He shared fascinating stories and cultural tidbits, adding a layer of richness to every place we visited. His calm demeanor and patience with our group were truly appreciated, and he made sure we had plenty of time to take photos and enjoy the surroundings.One of the highlights of our Hangzhou visit was the Meijiawu Tea Plantation. Andy’s insight into the tea-making process was exceptional. We had the chance to sample various teas and learn about the ancient traditions behind them. It was an experience we will cherish forever. We finished the day with a visit to Chenghuang Pavilion, where the view of the city’s skyline illuminated by the sunset was breathtaking.On Day 3, we visited Lingyin Temple and explored the Bamboo Lined Path at Yunqi. Andy’s explanations of the Buddhist culture and the historical significance of the temple were enriching. Later, we made our way to the Six Harmonies Pagoda and walked around Hefang Street, where Andy gave us ample time to explore local shops and try some authentic Hangzhou snacks.

The next day, we took the bullet train to Suzhou, where we were met by Darcy, our guide in this charming city. Darcy brought a fresh perspective to the tour, introducing us to the tranquil beauty of Lingering Garden. She took the time to explain the symbolism behind the garden's layout and the philosophy of traditional Chinese garden design. We also enjoyed a private boat ride along the Grand Canal, which allowed us to appreciate the architectural beauty of the city from the water.

Our final day included a visit to Tongli, a picturesque water town. Darcy was kind enough to take us to the morning market in Suzhou, where we saw locals bartering for fresh goods. The peacefulness of Tongli’s canals and ancient buildings offered a perfect contrast to the bustling city life we had experienced earlier.

Throughout the entire journey, our drivers were also professional, ensuring smooth transportation between cities and attractions. Every detail of the trip, from the booking process to the final farewell, was meticulously planned. We never felt rushed, and there was always time to explore on our own.

In conclusion, this tour exceeded all expectations. The combination of knowledgeable guides like Autumn, Andy, and Darcy, along with excellent drivers and seamless coordination, made this journey through Shanghai, Hangzhou, Suzhou, and Tongli a highlight of our travels. We highly recommend this tour for anyone seeking a deep dive into China’s cultural treasures, all while enjoying comfort, ease, and expert guidance.

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