Suzhou Private Customized Day Trip from Shanghai by Bullet Train
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Suzhou Private Customized Day Trip from Shanghai by Bullet Train

Active
(17 reviews)
8h
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
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Mobile or paper ticket accepted

About this experience

Rather than struggling to plan your own itinerary, make the most of Suzhou on a private full-day tour. It's the perfect introduction for first-time China visitors. Just pick three or four attractions, perhaps a classical garden of Suzhou, the boat ride on the ancient canals, a Buddhist pagoda, the Suzhou museum or local opera, and design your dream day out. Entrance fees are at your own expense, upgrade to tour with first class train ticket at time of booking.

Available options

Tour w/ 2nd Class Train Ticket

Your Excellent English-speaking guide will meet you at your hotel lobby at 8:00am or your preferred departure time.<br/>Pickup included

Tour W/ Super 1st Class Train

Your professional and friendly local guide will pick you up at your hotel lobby at 8:00am or your preferred departure time.<br/>Pickup included

Tour w/ 1st Class Train Ticket

Tour w/ 1st Class Train : Your excellent English-speaking guide will pick you up from your hotel lobby at 8:00am or your preferred departure time.<br/>Pickup included

What's included

Private vehicle
Hotel pickup and drop-off
Professional guide
Lunch
Round Trip Bullet Train Ticket

Detailed itinerary

1

Your lovely local guide who speaks excellent English will meet you at your hotel lobby at 8:00 am or your preferred departure time. Please make sure to bring your passport with you before arriving at Shanghai railway station. All your train tickets will be ready in advance. This is a fully private customized tour based on your interests, please choose 4 top attractions that you want to visit the most, or feel free to discuss your preference with your guide directly. The high-speed train only takes you half hour from Shanghai to Suzhou.

2

If you like, you can choose to visit the most famous classic Master-of-Nets Garden. Compare to other gardens in Suzhou, this garden is always more quite and peaceful for your better enjoyment. Your guide will share with you the Chinese garden art, and give you an overview of high official's life in the history.

3
Stop 3

You can also choose to visit Humble Administrator's Garden, which is one of the most famous classic gardens in Suzhou with over 400 years old. The garden is very beautiful but crowded at high season. You can check with your guide for the updated information on the travel day if you want to visit.

4
Stop 4

Another good option is to take a relaxing boat for about 30-40 minutes to enjoy the beautiful view of ancient grand canal, see how this town is arranged by waterways and how life & market are going on by water. Lunch is included, you will taste all different kinds of local food such as bamboo, shrimp, soup noodles, sticky rice cake and so on at a very nice local restaurant. Please feel free to let your guide know if you have any food requests.

5
Stop 5

Tiger hill is a wonderful place to see the oldest Buddhist pagoda, beautiful bonsai garden and nature views, Your knowledgeable local guide will explain you all the history and stories behind it.

6

Your final stop can be either at Shantang Street or Pingjiang Street. Both of them are the old streets by canal, where you can choose to enjoy a cup of sea at a riverside tea house with local opera performances, or walk around doing some souvenir shopping.

At end of the tour, your guide will escort you to Suzhou railway station and you will take the high-speed train back to Shanghai. After arrival, your private driver will meet you at the exit of train station and take you back to your hotel directly. If you have any special requests for the drop-off point, please check with your guide.

What's not included

All entrance fees
Gratuities

Available languages

Guide guide
ZH-TW CMN EN

Reviews breakdown

Viator 4.8
4 reviews
5★
3
4★
1
3★
0
2★
0
1★
0
Tripadvisor 5.0
13 reviews
5★
13
4★
0
3★
0
2★
0
1★
0

Important information

Travelers should have at least a moderate level of physical fitness
Children must be accompanied by an adult
Please wear comfortable walking shoes
Operates in all weather conditions, please dress appropriately
Please advise any specific dietary requirements at time of booking
A currently valid passport is required on the day of travel
Local operator will contact you for your passport pictures to purchase bullet train ticket in advance

About Shanghai

Shanghai is a global financial hub and a city of stunning contrasts, where futuristic skyscrapers stand alongside traditional shikumen houses. It's known for its vibrant culture, delicious cuisine, and historic landmarks, making it a must-visit destination in China.

Top Attractions

The Bund

The Bund is a famous waterfront area with a stunning skyline of colonial-era buildings and modern skyscrapers. It's a must-visit for its historic significance and breathtaking views.

Historical/Architecture 1-2 hours Free

Oriental Pearl Tower

This iconic tower is a symbol of modern Shanghai, offering panoramic views of the city from its observation decks.

Architecture 2-3 hours ¥150-200

Yu Garden

Yu Garden is a classical Chinese garden with beautiful landscapes, pavilions, and historical buildings. It's a peaceful oasis in the bustling city.

Historical/Garden 2-3 hours ¥30

Shanghai Museum

The Shanghai Museum houses an extensive collection of ancient Chinese art and artifacts, providing a deep dive into China's rich history and culture.

Museum 2-3 hours Free

Nanjing Road

Nanjing Road is one of the world's busiest shopping streets, offering a mix of international brands, local shops, and vibrant street life.

Shopping 2-3 hours Varies by shop

Must-Try Local Dishes

Xiaolongbao

Small soup dumplings filled with meat and hot broth, typically pork. They are a staple of Shanghai cuisine and are often served with soy sauce and ginger.

Dumplings Contains meat, gluten, and soy.

Braised Pork Belly (Hong Shao Rou)

A slow-cooked dish of pork belly braised in soy sauce, sugar, and other seasonings. It's tender, flavorful, and often served with steamed buns or rice.

Main dish Contains pork and soy.

Shanghai Soup Dumplings (Shao Mai)

Open-topped dumplings filled with minced pork and shrimp, often served with a dipping sauce made of soy sauce, vinegar, and ginger.

Dumplings Contains pork, shrimp, and soy.

Stinky Tofu (Chou Doufu)

Fermented tofu with a strong odor, often deep-fried and served with pickled cabbage. It's an acquired taste but a popular street food.

Snack Vegetarian, contains soy.

Popular Activities

Hiking in nearby nature reserves Biking along the Huangpu River Tea house visits Spa treatments Visiting museums and historic sites Attending traditional performances Boat rides on the Huangpu River Swimming at nearby beaches

Best Time to Visit

April to October

This period offers pleasant weather, making it ideal for sightseeing and outdoor activities. The city is lively with numerous festivals and events.

15°C to 35°C 59°F to 95°F

Practical Information

Language

  • Official: Chinese (Mandarin)
  • Widely spoken: Shanghainese, English (in tourist areas)
  • English: Moderately spoken in tourist areas, limited elsewhere

Currency

Chinese Yuan Renminbi (CNY)

Time Zone

GMT+8

Electricity

220VV, 50HzHz

Safety Information

Overall Safety Rating: Generally safe

Shanghai is generally safe for travelers, with low crime rates and a strong police presence. However, as with any major city, it's important to be aware of your surroundings and take precautions to protect yourself and your belongings.

Important Precautions:
  • • Be cautious of pickpockets in crowded areas.
  • • Use licensed taxis or ride-hailing apps like Didi.
  • • Be wary of strangers offering unsolicited help or services.

Getting there

By air
  • Shanghai Pudong International Airport • 30 km from city center
  • Shanghai Hongqiao International Airport • 13 km from city center
By train

Shanghai Railway Station, Shanghai South Railway Station

By bus

Shanghai Long-Distance Bus Station, Shanghai South Long-Distance Bus Station

Getting around

Public transport

The Shanghai Metro is efficient, clean, and covers most of the city. It's the fastest and most convenient way to get around.

Taxis

Available • Apps: Didi, Meituan

Rentals

Car, Bike, Scooter

Neighborhoods

The Bund Pudong French Concession Xintiandi Tianzifang

Day trips

Hangzhou
180 km from Shanghai • Full day

Hangzhou is a beautiful city known for its natural beauty, historic sites, and the famous West Lake. It's a great day trip from Shanghai for those looking to escape the city and enjoy some nature.

Suzhou
100 km from Shanghai • Full day

Suzhou is a historic city known for its classical gardens, silk production, and canals. It's a great day trip for those interested in history, culture, and architecture.

Zhujiajiao
50 km from Shanghai • Half day

Zhujiajiao is an ancient water town known for its well-preserved Ming and Qing dynasty architecture, canals, and bridges. It's a great day trip for those looking to experience traditional Chinese water town life.

Festivals

Shanghai Tourism Festival • September Shanghai International Film Festival • June Chinese New Year • January/February (varies)

Pro tips

  • Use the Shanghai Public Transportation Card for convenient and discounted travel on metro, buses, and ferries.
  • Download a translation app or carry a phrasebook to help with language barriers.
  • Try local street food, but be cautious of food safety and choose busy stalls with high turnover.
  • Visit popular attractions early in the morning or late in the afternoon to avoid crowds.
  • Consider hiring a local guide or joining a tour to gain insights into Shanghai's history and culture.
From $25 per person

Price varies by option

Adults
Age 0-99
1
Booking requirements:
  • Min travelers: 1
  • Max travelers: 15
  • Adult required for booking
Secure booking
Free cancellation available
Instant confirmation

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