Suzhou & Tongli Water Town One Day Escape from Shanghai
Jiangsu, Shanghai
Escape the city on this full-day private tour from Shanghai. Explore the tranquil canals of Tongli Water Town and the classical gardens and historic streets of charming Suzhou.
Suzhou Day Tour from Shanghai with Private Transport and Guide
This full-day private tour from Shanghai explores Suzhou’s 1,000-year-old water town, classical gardens, and canal streets, ideal for culture lovers and first-time visitors.
Highlights
- Visit a UNESCO-listed water town with ancient canals and bridges
- Enjoy a private boat ride through traditional waterways
- Explore Suzhou’s renowned classical gardens rich in history
- Walk along historic canal-side streets with local shops and culture
- Travel comfortably with private transport and an expert English-speaking guide
Description
Begin with hotel pick-up in Shanghai and travel in a private air-conditioned vehicle to Suzhou. Your English-speaking guide will provide insights into regional culture and history along the way.
Explore Tongli, a 1,000-year-old UNESCO water town famous for its well-preserved canals, stone bridges, and Ming-Qing architecture. Experience a peaceful gondola ride along ancient waterways and stroll through cobblestone streets discovering traditional markets and courtyard homes, guided by stories from your expert guide.
Stop in Suzhou city for lunch on your own at recommended local restaurants, sampling specialties such as sweet-and-sour Mandarin fish or Suzhou-style noodles.
In the afternoon, visit one of several UNESCO classical gardens including the Master of the Nets Garden, Lingering Garden, Humble Administrator's Garden, Couple's Retreat Garden, or Lion Grove Garden. Appreciate their intricate layout of ponds, pavilions, rockeries, and bonsai.
Next, take a leisurely walk along historic canal streets like Pingjiang or Shantang Street, lined with traditional buildings, tea houses, and shops. Cross ancient stone bridges and observe Suzhou’s enduring cultural atmosphere.
Visit an ancient city wall dating back over 2,500 years, which once defended the city and now highlights Suzhou’s historical importance.
Alternatively, opt to visit a local silk factory to learn about Suzhou’s silk-making process, from silkworm cultivation to weaving, showcasing why the city is known as China’s Silk Capital.
Your guide and private driver will then return you to Shanghai.
Includes
- Private professional English-speaking tour guide
- Pickup and drop-off from downtown Shanghai hotels
- Private air-conditioned vehicle with driver for door-to-door transfer
- Entrance ticket to one selected classical garden in Suzhou
- Entrance fee to Tongli Water Town
- Boat ride ticket in Tongli
- A carefully prepared souvenir gift
Excludes
- Meals and drinks (arranged and paid by you)
- Gratuities
Important Information
- Wear comfortable walking shoes
- Hat recommended for sunny days
Cancellation Policy
Cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.
Book early to secure your preferred garden visit and bring comfortable shoes for walking. The best time to visit is during spring or autumn for mild weather.
