Gardens & Water Town of Suzhou Day Trip from Shanghai

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8 to 10 hours (approximately)
Pickup offered
Offered in: English

A full day in Suzhou and Tongli with your own guide and driver. Morning in the Humble Administrator's Garden, the largest of Suzhou's classical gardens, with time to walk it properly rather than pass through. Lunch in Tongli, then the afternoon in the water town — its canals, bridges and the Retreat & Reflection Garden, built by a dismissed official in the 1880s. Private vehicle throughout, hotel pick-up and drop-off in Shanghai, all entrance tickets included. Pace and stops can be adjusted on the day.

What's Included

Bottled water
Hotel pick-up and drop-off in Shanghai
Lunch
Parking, tolls and fuel
Air-conditioned vehicle
All entrance tickets (Humble Administrator's Garden, Tongli, Retreat & Reflection Garden)
Private English-speaking guide
Gratuities

Meeting and pickup

Pickup points
You can choose a pickup location at checkout (multiple pickup locations are available).
Pickup details:

We can transfer you between your hotel/airport in Shanghai and the destination at your request

OR
Meeting point
End point
This activity ends back at the meeting point.

Itinerary

Duration: 8 to 10 hours (approximately)
  • 1
    Tongli Town

    After a peaceful morning, venture to the ancient water town of Tongli, a short drive from Suzhou. This 1,000-year-old town is a picturesque maze of canals, arched stone bridges, and preserved Ming and Qing dynasty buildings. Stroll along the cobblestone streets and enjoy the serene atmosphere of this well-preserved gem. Explore the Retreat and Reflection Garden, another UNESCO-listed site, where intricate architecture and tranquil water features provide a glimpse into the life of a wealthy scholar. Glide along the canals on a traditional wooden boat, soaking in views of charming waterfront homes and vibrant local life.

    3 hours • Admission ticket included
  • 2
    Tongli Town

    Lunch in Tongli

    40 minutes • Admission ticket included
  • 3
    Humble Administrator's Garden

    Begin your day at the Humble Administrator’s Garden, the largest and most renowned of Suzhou’s classical gardens, recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Built in the 16th century during the Ming Dynasty, this garden is a masterpiece of landscape design, combining pavilions, ponds, bridges, and exquisite flora into a harmonious haven. As you meander through its winding pathways, your guide will share the story of its creator, a retired official seeking peace in a turbulent era. Marvel at the poetic names of its features, such as the "To Whom Do I Sit Pavilion" and the "Hall of Distance Fragrance", which embody the deep connection between nature and art in traditional Chinese culture.

    2 hours 30 minutes • Admission ticket included

Additional info

  • Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller
  • Service animals allowed
  • Public transportation options are available nearby
  • Specialized infant seats are available
  • Suitable for all physical fitness levels
Supplied by Jake's Private Tours — Shanghai & Jiangnan

Tags

Day Trips
Full-day Tours
Bus Tours
Private and Luxury
Private Sightseeing Tours
Cultural Tours
Historical Tours
New Product
Short term availability

Cancellation Policy

For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.

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