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Rivers, Gardens & Skylines: An 8-Day Immersive Journey through the Yangtze River Delta
Route:
Shanghai > Suzhou > Nanjing > Hangzhou
Duration:
8 – 10 Days
Suitable for:
Cultural&History explorers, photographers
Accommodation:
4-star boutique hotels & local stays
Best Season:
All seasons
Guide Languages Available:
English, French, Chinese
Introduction
Discover the vibrant contrasts of China’s Yangtze River Delta, where bustling cosmopolitan cities meet tranquil classical gardens and serene water towns. This 8-day immersive journey blends history, culture, art, and natural beauty, offering an authentic experience of Eastern China’s rich heritage.
Itinerary Overview
Our standard itineraries are for reference only — just let us know your preferences in the form, and our travel experts will customize a trip just for you!
Explore Shanghai’s dynamic fusion of colonial grandeur, modern skyscrapers, and vibrant local culture.
Day 1: Iconic Cityscapes and Museum Treasures
Begin with a stroll along The Bund, soaking in views of the historic waterfront and futuristic Pudong skyline. Walk through the bustling Nanjing Road pedestrian street and visit People’s Square and the Shanghai Museum to explore rich Chinese art and history. End your day with panoramic city views from the Lujiazui Observation Deck or enjoy a scenic Huangpu River night cruise.
Day 2: Classic Culture and Modern Art
Visit the beautiful Yu Garden and the adjacent City God Temple market, renowned for traditional snacks and crafts. In the afternoon, choose between the artistic alleys of Tianzifang, the trendy Xintiandi district, or the Shanghai Museum of Contemporary Art. Wrap up the day with a spectacular acrobatics show or musical theater performance.
Day 3: Science and Water Town Wonders
Morning options include the Shanghai Science and Technology Museum or the Natural History Museum, ideal for curious minds. Spend your afternoon exploring one of the ancient water towns — Qibao or Zhujiajiao — to experience Jiangnan’s famed canals and quaint streets.
Step into Suzhou’s refined elegance, famous for exquisite classical gardens and peaceful waterways.
Day 4: Garden Masterpieces and Historic Streets
Take a morning high-speed train to Suzhou (approx. 30-60 minutes). Visit the three celebrated gardens — the Humble Administrator’s Garden, Lion Grove Garden, and Canglang Pavilion — masterpieces of classical Chinese landscaping. In the afternoon, stroll along the historic Pingjiang Road, sampling local delicacies. End your evening with a traditional Suzhou Pingtan performance or a relaxing walk by Jinji Lake.
Day 5: Museums and Quiet Water Towns
Explore the architecturally stunning Suzhou Museum, designed by I.M. Pei, blending modern and traditional styles. Then visit the peaceful Mudu Ancient Town, less crowded than other water towns, offering an authentic Jiangnan experience. Optionally, enjoy a Suzhou River night cruise.
Discover Nanjing’s rich imperial past and natural beauty along the Yangtze River.
Day 6: Mausoleums and Museums
Travel by high-speed train to Nanjing (approx. 1.5 hours). Visit the Dr. Sun Yat-sen Mausoleum and Ming Xiaoling Mausoleum, two of the city’s most important historic sites. In the afternoon, explore either the extensive Nanjing Museum or the historic Presidential Palace. In the evening, enjoy a scenic night cruise on the Qinhuai River and stroll the vibrant Confucius Temple market.
Day 7: Ancient Walls and Spiritual Sites
Walk along the impressive Nanjing City Wall at Zhonghua Gate. Visit Jiming Temple or climb Qixia Mountain to combine natural scenery with Buddhist culture. Spend a relaxing afternoon in Hexi Central Park in the modern business district.
Conclude your journey in Hangzhou, famed for its breathtaking West Lake and tea culture.
Day 8: West Lake and Evening Spectacle
Take a high-speed train to Hangzhou (approx. 1.5 hours). Spend the day exploring West Lake’s scenic spots, including Su Causeway, Broken Bridge, Leifeng Pagoda, and Flower Harbor Fish Garden. In the evening, watch the mesmerizing West Lake Music Fountain show or the spectacular Impression West Lake live performance.
Day 9: Spiritual and Tea Traditions
Visit the ancient Lingyin Temple and nearby Feilai Peak grottoes. Experience authentic Longjing tea culture with a visit to Longjing Village or Longwu Tea Plantation. Optionally, explore the Hangzhou Botanical Garden or the China National Silk Museum.
Day 10: Natural Beauty or Ancient Towns
Enjoy a day trip to Qiandao Lake for nature and water activities or visit nearby ancient towns such as Tonglu or Fuchunjiang for peaceful riverside scenery. Return to Hangzhou in the afternoon and prepare for departure.
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Useful Information
At Travel China, we believe your journey should be as unique as you are. Our itineraries are here to inspire—but every trip can be fully customized to match your interests, pace, and preferences. Simply share your ideas with us through the form, and our travel experts will craft a tailor-made adventure just for you, along with a personalized quote.
All our tours can be adjusted to suit your needs—whether it’s adding destinations, changing pace, or tailoring experiences. Just tell us what you have in mind!
A small deposit of just 10% per person confirms your booking and secures your hotels, tickets, and private transport. The remaining balance is paid upon your arrival in China.
A visa is required for travel to mainland China. We recommend applying at least two months in advance.
Ages 14–70 must apply in person at a Visa Application Center.
Ages 13 and under / 71 and over can apply online.
We’ll provide you with the necessary documents and guidance to make the process smooth and easy.
Comfortable private cars are arranged within cities. For intercity travel, we use China’s efficient high-speed trains or domestic flights. Please note: lighters and aerosols are not allowed on trains or planes.
The local currency is the Renminbi (RMB / CNY / Yuan). We suggest exchanging money before departure. US dollars are also commonly accepted. Credit cards work in most hotels and malls, but small shops may only accept cash. ATMs are widely available.
Hotels may require a credit card or cash deposit upon check-in.
You’ll be warmly greeted by your local guide upon arrival. Throughout your trip, a knowledgeable local guide will accompany you in each city to offer expert insight and support.
We handpick hotels for comfort, location, and character—typically at a 4-star standard. Ratings may differ from international norms, but we inspect all our partner properties regularly to ensure quality. All rooms come with private bathrooms.
Breakfast is always western style and served in the hotel each morning. Dinner (when included) will be taken in local restaurants or at the hotel. A variety of restaurants are visited giving you the chance to experience a range of dishes and flavours. Unlike the western world, Chinese people do not normally pre-heat their plates and food can be presented at a variety of temperatures, which is a typical Chinese way of doing things.
Please contact Customer Experience for questions about other dietary requirements or allergy information.
It is not recommended to drink the tap water, even in developed countries water may contain unfamiliar elements that can cause upset stomachs. In less developed countries water is not filtered in the same way. Bottled water will be available at shops and hotels.
If your visit falls during a major Chinese holiday, such as Chinese New Year (Jan–Feb) or Golden Week (May 1–3 & Oct 1–7), note that transportation may be busier and attractions more crowded. Shops may close temporarily, but scenic sites remain open.
