Elegance of the South: A 6-Day Immersion into Jiangnan’s Gardens and Water Towns

Overview

This journey captures the essence of Jiangnan—the storied region south of the Yangtze River famed for its artistry, harmony, and timeless charm. Meander through Suzhou’s UNESCO-listed classical gardens, where stone paths, lotus ponds, and calligraphy-inscribed pavilions reflect centuries of aesthetic philosophy. In Wuzhen, live like a local in a preserved water town of arched bridges, tiled roofs, and riverside life. Conclude in Shanghai, where the refined soul of Jiangnan meets global energy. Throughout the trip, you'll enjoy curated cultural encounters, luxurious stays, and a gentle rhythm perfect for savoring the beauty of China’s southern heartland.

Highlights

• Classical Garden Aesthetics：Explore masterpieces of Chinese garden art in Suzhou, where every corridor, window, and pond forms a scene of natural poetry.
• Immersive Water Town Living：Stay overnight inside Wuzhen’s historic core, with quiet canals, folk workshops, and twilight boat rides evoking the charm of old Jiangnan.
• Soft Landing in Modern Shanghai：Begin and end your journey in Shanghai, a gateway that bridges the elegance of Jiangnan with the dynamism of a world city.
• Effortless Comfort, Premium Logistics：Enjoy a fully escorted loop with private chauffeur service, mountain-view lodges, and thoughtful pacing—no need to navigate or plan a thing.

Day 1: Arrival in Shanghai – Transfer to Suzhou

• Arrive at Shanghai Pudong/Hongqiao International Airport.
• Meet your personal guide and enjoy a comfortable private transfer to Suzhou, known as the "Venice of the East".
• Check in at a centrally located luxury hotel and relax after your journey.

Day 2: Suzhou Gardens, Canals, and Cultural Charm

Morning

• Visit the Humble Administrator’s Garden, a UNESCO World Heritage site and one of China’s four great classical garden.
• Explore the award-winning Suzhou Museum, designed by architect I.M. Pei, seamlessly blending modern minimalism and traditional aesthetics. 

Afternoon

• Walk along Pingjiang Road, a historic riverside street lined with stone bridges, traditional teahouses, and boutique shops. Enjoy classic Pingtan Songs of Suzhou or sampling Suzhou-style dim sum.
• Visit Guanqian Street, the city's vibrant historic commercial district. 

Day 3: Temples, Gardens & Transfer to Wuzhen

Morning

• Visit Hanshan Temple, immortalised in Tang poetry, where the ancient bell tolls in tranquil surroundings.
• Explore Lingering Garden, celebrated for its delicate rockeries, winding corridors, and poetic layout.

Afternoon

• Stroll along Shantang Street (Qili Shantang), a scenic historic canal route that perfectly reflects Suzhou's cultural soul.
• Depart for Wuzhen, one of China’s most iconic ancient water towns.
• Check-in at a riverside boutique hotel inside the scenic zone.

Day 4: Cultural Immersion in Wuzhen

• Spend the full day exploring Wuzhen, renowned for its well-preserved architecture, peaceful canals, and folk culture.
• Visit traditional dyeing workshops, woodcarving museums, and local wine distilleries.
• Enjoy a private boat ride at sunset for a magical view of lantern-lit waters.

Day 5: Return to Shanghai – Urban Discovery

Morning

• Transfer back to Shanghai.
• Visit the Shanghai Museum at People’s Square, home to an exceptional collection of bronze, ceramics, calligraphy, and jade.

Afternoon

• Walk through People’s Square and continue to Nanjing Road Pedestrian Street, one of the world’s busiest shopping avenues.
• End the day at The Bund, where colonial-era architecture meets futuristic skyscrapers across the Huangpu River.
• Evening (Optional): Dinner cruise on the Huangpu River or rooftop cocktails with skyline views.

Day 6: Modern Shanghai & Departure

Morning

• Visit the Jing’an Temple, a serene Buddhist sanctuary amidst the bustling city.
• Drive through Anfu Road, Shanghai’s elegant French Concession street known for design boutiques and stylish cafes.
• Photo stop at the Former Residence of Soong Ching-ling or nearby garden mansions.
• End with a view of the iconic Bund towers before your airport transfer.

Afternoon

• Transfer to Shanghai Airport for departure. Your guide will assist with check-in and farewell arrangements.

Inclusions & Exclusions

Included in the Package:

• Services of China Best Gets local guide and expert team
• Accommodation based on double occupancy with breakfasts included
• All overland transfers with private chauffeur and in-transport refreshments
• Domestic flights and trains, as noted in the itinerary
• All admission fees and activity expenses, as noted in the itinerary
• Meals as noted in the itinerary
• Two bottles of water per person per day
• Travel and medical insurance

Not Included in the Package:

• International flights plus relevant taxes
• Meals, apart from those included in the itinerary, and alcohol
• Excursions and activities not included in the itinerary
• Personal expenses, including shopping and extra services
• Communication fees, such as SIM cards or phone charges
• Additional expenses due to personal reasons, including but not limited to:
  • Laundry fees
  • Paid TV programs
  • Medical expenses for personal injuries
    
  • Costs related to retrieving lost personal belongings
  • Penalties or extra charges resulting from personal negligence, rule violations, or illegal activities (e.g., damages to hotel property, fines at scenic spots, or compensation for losses at learning venues).

Accommodation

• A four-star hotel accommodation based on double occupancy with breakfasts is included in the package price. The hotel selection is made based on location, quality, and availability, and all accommodations meet international four-star standards.

(Please note that images provided are for reference only and do not necessarily reflect the exact hotel you will stay in.)

• For guests seeking a higher standard of accommodation, an upgrade to premium or five-star hotels is available at an additional cost. This can be arranged by purchasing the Hotel Upgrade product separately during the booking process.

(Please note that images provided are for reference only and do not necessarily reflect the exact hotel you will stay in.)

• Cancellations made 21 days or more before the departure date are eligible for a 90% refund of the total amount paid
• Cancellations made between 7 and 20 days before the departure date are eligible for a 25% refund
• Cancellations made within 7 days of the departure date are non-refundable
• The cancellation request date is determined based on the timestamp of the email sent to our support team

All refund requests must be submitted in writing via email and will be processed within a reasonable time frame after confirmation.