From Shanghai: Suzhou and Tongli Water Town 2-Day Tour

Exploring the ancient water towns of Suzhou and Tongli from Shanghai offers an enriching cultural experience. Travelers can enjoy picturesque gardens, scenic canals, and local cuisine on this 2-day tour. With private guide services, select meals, and entrance fees included, it’s a hassle-free way to discover the distinct charms of these historic destinations. Whether you’re interested in architecture, nature, or simply experiencing a slice of traditional Chinese life, this tour promises an unforgettable journey.

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Key Points

A 2-day tour from Shanghai that explores the ancient water towns of Suzhou and Tongli, including garden visits, boat rides, and local cuisine.
Tour price starts from $399 per person, with private guide services, select meals, and all entrance fees included.
Day 1 focuses on Suzhou’s classical gardens, while Day 2 is dedicated to the picturesque canals and historic sites of Tongli Water Town.
Tour not recommended for children under 6 or individuals with mobility issues due to the nature of the activities.
Free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance, and no upfront payment required to book the tour.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Tour Overview and Pricing

This 2-day tour from Shanghai provides visitors the opportunity to explore the historic cities of Suzhou and Tongli Water Town.

Priced from $399 per person, the tour includes private guide services, hotel pick-up and drop-off, select meals, and all entrance fees.

This 2-day tour from Shanghai is priced from $399 per person, including private guide services, hotel transportation, select meals, and all entrance fees.

With free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance, travelers can book their spot without any upfront payment.

While suitable for most ages, the tour isn’t recommended for children under 6 or those with mobility issues.

Comfortable shoes, sun protection, and a camera are advised for this moderately paced walking tour.

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Itinerary Highlights

The 2-day itinerary starts with hotel pickup in Shanghai and a 1.5-hour transfer to Suzhou.

Highlights include:

Visiting the Humble Administrators Garden and the Garden of the Master of Nets, two of Suzhou’s renowned classical gardens
Enjoying a local lunch featuring the famous Squirrel-Shaped Mandarin Fish
Taking a rickshaw ride through Suzhou’s charming alleys to explore daily life
Touring the historic Tiger Hill in Suzhou, with its 2,500-year-old sites
Experiencing a boat ride along the picturesque canals of Tongli, the "Venice of China"

Day 1: Exploring Suzhou

After hotel pickup in Shanghai, the group travels to Suzhou, about a 1.5-hour drive or bullet train ride. The first stop is the Humble Administrators Garden, one of China’s finest classical gardens. Next, they visit the Garden of the Master of Nets, a UNESCO World Heritage site showcasing traditional Chinese garden design. Lunch is at a local restaurant famous for its Squirrel-Shaped Mandarin Fish. In the afternoon, the group explores Suzhou’s alleys by rickshaw, seeing the local pace of life. The day ends with a return to the hotel in Suzhou.

| Suzhou Attractions | Description |

| — | — |

| Humble Administrators Garden | One of China’s finest classical gardens |

| Garden of the Master of Nets | UNESCO World Heritage site, showcases traditional Chinese garden design |

| Squirrel-Shaped Mandarin Fish | Local delicacy served at lunch |

| Rickshaw ride through Suzhou alleys | Explore the local pace of life |

| Return to Suzhou hotel | End of Day 1 |

Visiting the Humble Administrators Garden and Garden of the Master of Nets

Although the group arrives in Suzhou after a 1.5-hour journey from Shanghai, they quickly make their way to the Humble Administrators Garden, one of China’s finest classical gardens.

They explore the serene landscapes, pagodas, and pavilions that make this UNESCO World Heritage site a must-see.

The group then visits the nearby Garden of the Master of Nets, known for its intricate design and harmony with nature.

Visiting the Garden of the Master of Nets, renowned for its intricate design and harmonious integration with nature.

The highlights include:

Admiring the exquisite architecture and landscaping
Strolling along the numerous pathways and bridges
Discovering hidden alcoves and tranquil ponds
Observing the traditional Suzhou gardening techniques
Feeling immersed in the history and culture of the region

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Experiencing Local Life With a Rickshaw Ride

Next, the group embarks on a rickshaw ride through the charming alleys of Suzhou.

The traditional tricycles allow them to explore the local neighborhoods and get a glimpse into daily life. They wind through narrow streets lined with ancient buildings, passing by residents going about their routines.

The rickshaw driver shares insights about the community, pointing out landmarks and describing the area’s history.

This intimate mode of transportation offers a unique perspective, immersing the travelers in the vibrant, pedestrian-friendly atmosphere of Suzhou.

It’s an engaging way to experience the city’s rich cultural heritage.

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Day 2: Discovering Tongli Water Town

The second day of the tour begins with breakfast at the hotel. After fueling up, the group heads out to explore Tongli, a tranquil water town often called the "Venice of China".

Begins the day with hotel breakfast, then explores tranquil Tongli, China’s "Venice", before returning to Shanghai.

Highlights include:

Boat ride along the charming canals lined with historic bridges and buildings
Visit to Tiger Hill, a 2,500-year-old scenic site with a famous leaning pagoda
Lunch at a cozy local restaurant to sample Tongli’s culinary delights
Wandering the stone pathways and arched bridges that crisscross the town’s waterways
Browsing the quaint shops and galleries showcasing traditional Tongli crafts and artistry

Finally, the tour returns to Shanghai, concluding this immersive two-day journey.

Exploring Tiger Hill and the Scenic Canals of Tongli

After breakfast at the hotel, the group heads out to explore Tongli, a tranquil water town often called the "Venice of China".

They first visit Tiger Hill, a 36-meter-high hill with historical sites dating back 2,500 years.

Next, they board a boat for a leisurely ride along the picturesque canals, passing under stone bridges and admiring the traditional architecture lining the waterways.

Lunch is served at a local Tongli restaurant, offering a taste of the town’s authentic cuisine.

With a better understanding of this "water town," the group then returns to Shanghai, taking with them memories of Tongli’s serene beauty.

Inclusions, Exclusions, and Important Information

The tour package includes a private guide, hotel pickup and drop-off, specified meals, entrance fees to all sites, a rickshaw ride in Suzhou, and a boat ride in Tongli.

Participants should be aware of the following:

Not suitable for children under 6 years or individuals with mobility impairments
Comfortable shoes, sun hat, camera, and water are recommended
Smoking and consuming food/drinks are restricted in certain areas
Moderate walking is involved, so comfortable shoes are advised
Personal expenses aren’t included in the tour price

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I Book This Tour for a Solo Traveler?

Yes, the tour can be booked for a solo traveler. The pricing is per person, and the tour doesn’t require a minimum group size. A solo traveler can enjoy the same experience as part of this private tour.

Is There an Option to Extend the Tour to 3 Days?

Yes, there’s an option to extend the 2-day tour to 3 days. Travelers can add an extra day to explore more of Suzhou’s gardens and cultural sites or spend more time discovering the charming canals and historical buildings of Tongli Water Town.

Can I Customize the Itinerary to Visit Additional Sites?

Yes, you can customize the itinerary to visit additional sites. The tour operator offers flexibility to tailor the tour based on your interests and preferences. Just let them know which extra sites you’d like to include.

Do I Need a Visa to Participate in This Tour?

Yes, travelers will need a valid Chinese visa to participate in this tour. The tour operator can provide visa assistance if needed, but obtaining the necessary visa is the responsibility of the participant.

Is There an Option to Upgrade the Transportation to a Private Car?

Yes, there’s an option to upgrade to a private car for this tour. Participants can choose a private vehicle transfer instead of the standard group transportation, though this will incur an additional cost.

The Sum Up

This 2-day tour from Shanghai offers an enriching glimpse into China’s cultural heritage. Explore the stunning gardens of Suzhou, savor local cuisine, and discover the picturesque canals of Tongli Water Town. With private guide services, select meals, and entrance fees included, it’s a convenient and immersive way to experience the captivating beauty of these historic destinations.