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Lantern-lit canal and stone bridge at the Jiangnan water town of Wuzhen
7 DAYS · SHANGHAI · SUZHOU · WUZHEN · HANGZHOU

Jiangnan: Shanghai to West Lake

The Bund, classical gardens and the poetic waters of West Lake.

7 days
Shanghai to Hangzhou
6 nights
Four cities, four hotels
Year round
Classic Jiangnan route
Minimum 2 
Privately guided throughout
Introduction

A classic journey through Shanghai, Suzhou, Wuzhen and Hangzhou.

Known as China's economic capital, Shanghai is a magical city harbouring rich heritage such as the Bund, Yu Garden, Nanjing Road, Shanghai Tower and Jade Buddha Temple. Suzhou is famed for its classical Chinese gardens and traditional waterside architecture, which earned it the nickname of the beautiful city of 6,000 bridges from Marco Polo.

Hangzhou is renowned for the poetic West Lake, a masterpiece of landscaping blending natural beauty with man-made structures. Discover many of its picturesque sites like a Hangzhounese and learn about the art of making Chinese tea, with a boat trip through the water town of Wuzhen along the way.

More in Shanghai & Eastern China →
Route map showing Shanghai, Suzhou, Wuzhen and Hangzhou
Highlights

Why advisors choose this journey.

  1. Huangpu River night cruise

    Take a night cruise on the Huangpu River and enjoy the glittering night view from both sides.

  2. Classical garden art

    Enjoy the most traditional classical garden art in China at Suzhou's celebrated gardens.

  3. Authentic Wuzhen water town

    Take a boat trip to the authentic Jiangnan water town of Wuzhen and listen to local stories.

  4. Impression West Lake show

    VIP seats to watch the Impression West Lake show, directed by Zhang Yimou.

Day by day

Full Itinerary.

  1. ShanghaiD1–4
  2. SuzhouD4–5
  3. WuzhenD5
  4. HangzhouD5–7

Airport to hotel

Upon arrival in Shanghai, you will be met by your local guide and transferred to the hotel.

A historic Shanghai lane framing the Pudong skyline at dusk
Overnight
Shanghai
Meals
No meals included

Shanghai city tour

This morning, you will visit the landmark Shanghai Oriental Pearl TV Tower, a good place to look back at Shanghai's history. Then we explore the 16th-century Yu Gardens and City God Temple of Shanghai.

In the afternoon, you will visit the iconic Bund. Extending from Suzhou Creek into the downtown, it was once the hub of international settlements during the 19th and early 20th century.

The evening concludes with a cruise on the Huangpu River. Drift along the tranquil waters as you marvel at Shanghai's iconic skyline illuminated in a symphony of colors.

The Pudong skyline seen across the Huangpu River from the Bund
Overnight
Shanghai
Meals
Breakfast included

Historic Shanghai tour

In the morning, visit the Shanghai Museum (closed on Monday) with its extensive Chinese art collection.

After lunch, we embark on a captivating 1.17 km (0.73 miles) stroll along Wukang Road, fondly referred to as “the mini Xintiandi” by the locals, thanks to its European-styled buildings housing unique shops and restaurants opened by French, Russian, Italian and Filipino businesses.

Highly sought after as the preferred residential address among expats, the Former French Concession carries a rich history and aesthetic appeal. Then explore Tianzifang with its burgeoning art galleries, local designer clothes and handicraft boutiques.

The red-brick Wukang Mansion on a tree-lined Shanghai street
Overnight
Shanghai
Meals
Breakfast included

Shanghai to Suzhou

After checking out, you will be driven to Suzhou (approx. 110 km / 68 miles, 1 hr 50 mins drive).

A classical Suzhou garden with a pavilion and arched bridge over still water

One-day Suzhou tour

Start your day at the Humble Administrator's Garden. First built in 1509, this is Suzhou's largest garden and considered to be the most impressive. A 5-minute walk brings you to the Lion Grove Garden, constructed in 1342 by the Buddhist monk Tianru. The garden's curiously shaped rocks are modelled after lions, protectors of the Buddhist faith.

This afternoon, visit the Suzhou Museum (closed on Monday). Designed by the famous architect I.M. Pei and occupying the site of the Residence of Zhongwang, this artistic museum is now listed as one of the key cultural relics under China's state protection. The museum is home to over 15,000 pieces in its collections, including 240 grade-one cultural relics such as Chinese paintings, calligraphies, porcelains and housewares made of precious metals.

Overnight
Suzhou
Meals
Breakfast included

Suzhou to Wuzhen

This morning, you will be driven to Wuzhen (approx. 75 km / 1.5 hrs drive), famed for its silk production. Stroll the Grand Canal as you learn the age-old folk art of sericulture and dyeing traditions.

Wuzhen is divided into two main scenic spots, East and West, each with its own characteristics, attracting many tourists to experience the unique charm of the Jiangnan water town.

Lights and performers on the water at the Impression West Lake show, Hangzhou

Magnificent West Lake

In the late afternoon, you will be driven to Hangzhou (approx. 80 km / 1 hr), where you will check into your hotel.

This evening, prepare for a mesmerising spectacle of light, music, dance and theatre as the legends of Hangzhou come to life on the water during the Impression West Lake show. The production is directed by the visionary Zhang Yimou, renowned for directing the opening and closing ceremonies of the 2008 Beijing Summer Olympics.

Overnight
Hangzhou
Meals
Breakfast included

Explore Hangzhou

Today you will visit one of the most sacred spiritual spots in Hangzhou, Lingyin Temple, revered by scholars and artists throughout the ages. Lingyin Temple got its name because of its tranquil surroundings. Sheltered by forested hills on three sides, the temple is a quiet and serene sanctuary, when it is not thronged with visitors. Over history the temple has been damaged and undergone renovation several times.

Thereafter, continue to Hu Qing Yu Tang. Founded in 1874 by Hu Xueyan, a notable businessman in China during the Qing Dynasty, it is a traditional pharmacy reputed as the “Medicine King in the South of the Yangtze River”. You will also visit his hundred-year-old residence with exquisite architecture, ingenious layout and antique furnishings.

At dusk, embark on a serene West Lake cruise and discover some of its most iconic views.

A gilded pavilion lit at dusk on the shores of West Lake, Hangzhou
Overnight
Hangzhou
Meals
Breakfast included

Hotel to airport

Enjoy a relaxed morning at leisure. After checking out, a private transfer will take you to the airport for your onward journey.

Modern glass towers rising above Hangzhou
Meals
Breakfast included
Hotel information

Where you will stay.

In Shanghai

3 recommended stays

The St. Regis Shanghai Jingan

Classic selection · Deluxe Room, 46 sq m / 495 sq ft

In the heart of Jingan, Shanghai's cultural and business center.

We choose the St Regis for a genuinely central Shanghai base: it sits on West Beijing Road in Jingan, within easy reach of Nanjing Road, the Bund and the former French Concession, keeping taxi times short throughout the stay. Its butler service, a St Regis signature, is a real point of difference locally, and the interiors mix English and Chinese palace styles with handcrafted gold-foil artwork worth a slow look in the lobby. We recommend the Deluxe Room on a higher floor for skyline views over Jingan.

Good to know
  • Home to the city's largest standard guestrooms, starting at 46 square meters.
  • Signature 24-hour butler service includes complimentary coffee and tea delivery.
  • The Drawing Room serves the 'Mary Jing', a local twist on the classic Bloody Mary.
Visit hotel website →
Golden canopy entrance of The St. Regis Shanghai Jingan
Guest room with city views at The St. Regis Shanghai Jingan
Shanghai skyline at sunset seen from The St. Regis Shanghai Jingan

The Peninsula Shanghai

Signature selection · Deluxe Room, 55 sq m / 592 sq ft

The Peninsula's flagship on the historic Bund.

We put guests at The Peninsula for its position directly on the Bund, the only flagship Peninsula built rather than converted for the brand, giving it purpose-designed Art Deco interiors that suit the setting. Its Michelin-starred Cantonese restaurant and classic afternoon tea are genuine reasons to stay in for an evening, and the riverfront promenade is on the doorstep for an early walk. We recommend the Deluxe Room facing the river for the Pudong skyline view.

Good to know
  • The only new building on the Bund in over 60 years, in glamorous Art Deco style.
  • Every room includes the signature valet box for discreet laundry and paper delivery.
  • The Aviation-themed lounge celebrates Shanghai's rich 1930s flight history.
Visit hotel website →
Art Deco facade and entrance of The Peninsula Shanghai at dusk
Grand Deluxe Suite bedroom overlooking the Bund gardens
Sir Elly's Terrace with views across to the Pudong skyline

J Hotel Shanghai Tower

Shanghai — upgrade option · Grand Suite, 95–113 sq m

The world's highest hotel, atop the 632-meter Shanghai Tower.

We offer J Hotel as an upgrade for guests who want the novelty and views of staying inside the 632-meter Shanghai Tower itself, the world's highest hotel, set high above Lujiazui with sweeping views across the whole city. It suits travelers celebrating a special occasion or simply wanting the highest vantage point in Shanghai for a night. We recommend the Grand Suite for the wraparound views. Offered as an upgrade on the classic selection at CNY 13,200 per person.

Good to know
  • The world's highest hotel, with the lobby situated on the 101st floor.
  • Every guest is assigned a dedicated personal butler, available 24 hours a day.
  • Heavenly Jin holds the record for the highest restaurant in a building.
Visit hotel website →
J Hotel Shanghai Tower lobby high above Lujiazui
Grand Suite with city views at J Hotel Shanghai Tower
Dining room looking over Shanghai from J Hotel Shanghai Tower

In Suzhou

2 recommended stays

Shangri-La Hotel, Suzhou

Classic selection · City View Room, 42 sq m / 452 sq ft

The 'Up in the Air' hotel in Suzhou's High-tech Zone.

Shangri-La Suzhou is conveniently located in the core business district of Suzhou High-tech Zone, Shishan Business Circle. The guest room floors are housed on the 28th to 51st floors and are therefore known as the “Up in the Air” hotel. It is within walking distance of a neighbouring shopping center and Shishan Road Station of Suzhou Metro Line 3, and near Metro Lines 1 and 5.

Good to know
  • Known as the 'Hotel in the Clouds', with guestrooms on floors 28 to 51.
  • Corner rooms offer dual-aspect views of the modern skyline and Lion Mountain.
  • Direct access to the metro puts the classical gardens within easy reach.
Visit hotel website →
Illuminated Shangri-La Suzhou tower above the city at dusk
Guest room with floor-to-ceiling city views at Shangri-La Suzhou
Light-filled fitness center at Shangri-La Suzhou

Four Seasons Hotel Suzhou

Signature selection · Deluxe Garden View Room, 55 sq m / 592 sq ft

A private island retreat on Jinji Lake.

We favor the Four Seasons in Suzhou for its private island setting on Jinji Lake, a genuinely different pace from the city-center hotels a short drive away, with expansive gardens that reward an early morning walk before the day's touring begins. Its lakeside spa and quiet grounds suit guests wanting a resort feel without leaving Suzhou itself. We recommend the Deluxe Garden View Room for direct access to the gardens and lake outlook.

Good to know
  • A rare urban resort set on a 9-hectare private island within scenic Jinji Lake.
  • Designed to evoke a contemporary, light-filled interpretation of a Suzhou garden.
  • Arrival across a private bridge creates an immediate sense of seclusion.
Visit hotel website →
Aerial view of Four Seasons Hotel Suzhou on Jinji Lake
Guest room with treetop and lake views at Four Seasons Hotel Suzhou
Lagoon pool at sunset with the Suzhou skyline beyond
Cherry blossom framing the Four Seasons Suzhou facade in spring

In Hangzhou

2 recommended stays

Park Hyatt Hangzhou

Classic selection · Garden View Room, 63 sq m / 678 sq ft

Jiangnan-style living with views over the Qiantang River.

We select the Park Hyatt for its position facing the Qiantang River and Qianjiang New Town rather than the more crowded West Lake shoreline, giving guests a quieter base with easy access to Hangzhou's newer dining district. Its Jiangnan-inspired interiors and understated service suit travelers who want contemporary comfort without a resort-style scale. We recommend the Garden View Room for its outlook over the hotel's landscaped grounds.

Good to know
  • A 'vertical Jiangnan manor' designed by Yabu Pushelberg above the Qianjiang CBD.
  • The 35th-floor infinity pool offers a serene 'swim in the sky' above the river.
  • The Forty8 bar has a glass-bottomed terrace looking 240 meters straight down.
Visit hotel website →
Park Hyatt Hangzhou tower lit at dusk above the city
Deluxe Riverview King room overlooking the Qiantang River
Marble-lined indoor swimming pool at Park Hyatt Hangzhou
Forty8 bar with city views at Park Hyatt Hangzhou

Four Seasons Hotel Hangzhou at West Lake

Signature selection · Garden View Room, 63 sq m / 678 sq ft

A tranquil haven on the edge of West Lake.

We choose this Four Seasons for its position right on the edge of West Lake itself, rather than a short drive from it, which matters in Hangzhou where lake access defines a stay. The property blends traditional courtyard architecture with contemporary interiors, allowing an early lakeside walk before the crowds arrive at the main scenic spots. We recommend the Garden View Room for the calmer outlook over the hotel's own gardens.

Good to know
  • Guests can bypass city traffic with a signature arrival by traditional wooden boat.
  • Jin Sha is among Hangzhou's most decorated restaurants for refined local cuisine.
  • Set within 9 acres of private lagoons and willow-lined gardens on the lake's edge.
Visit hotel website →
Aerial view of the courtyard pavilions and pool at Four Seasons Hotel Hangzhou at West Lake
Timber-panelled guest bedroom with embroidered silk panels at Four Seasons Hotel Hangzhou
Garden-facing living room of a suite at Four Seasons Hotel Hangzhou
Traditional wooden boat on the willow-lined water beside Four Seasons Hotel Hangzhou
Official quotation

Rates & what is included.

The indicative cost covers the full journey for the party size shown. The single supplement applies only when one guest occupies a room alone. All rates in CNY.

Classic selection
  • The St. Regis Shanghai Jingan · Shanghai · Deluxe Room, 46 sq m / 495 sq ft
  • Shangri-La Hotel, Suzhou · Suzhou · City View Room, 42 sq m / 452 sq ft
  • Park Hyatt Hangzhou · Hangzhou · Garden View Room, 63 sq m / 678 sq ft
Indicative cost per person
CNY 27,500
Single supplement
CNY 5,400
Signature selection
  • The Peninsula Shanghai · Shanghai · Deluxe Room, 55 sq m / 592 sq ft
  • Four Seasons Hotel Suzhou · Suzhou · Deluxe Garden View Room, 55 sq m / 592 sq ft
  • Four Seasons Hotel Hangzhou at West Lake · Hangzhou · Garden View Room, 63 sq m / 678 sq ft
Indicative cost per person
CNY 36,900
Single supplement
CNY 12,000
Shanghai — upgrade option
  • J Hotel Shanghai Tower · Shanghai · Grand Suite, 95–113 sq m
On request

Based on 2 guests sharing twin rooms. Minimum 2 guests to operate. Single supplement added only for single-room occupancy. All rates in CNY.

What's included

  • Accommodation on twin sharing basis in hotel as stated, on bed & breakfast basis
  • All transportation & transfers on an air-conditioned coach
  • Private English-speaking guides
  • All entrance fees to sights stated
  • VIP seats for Impression West Lake show

What's not included

  • International and domestic airfare
  • Meals not included in the itinerary
  • Beverages in restaurants where meals are included
  • Gratuities
  • Personal expenses, e.g. telephone bill & laundry
  • Visa
  • Travel insurance
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