From Shanghai: Suzhou & Tongli Water Town Private Day Trip

Shanghai , China

From Shanghai: Suzhou & Tongli Water Town Private Day Trip

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About this experience

This full-day tour takes you to visit one water town - Tongli Water Town in Suzhou, one of the most fabulous water town in China. You may heard of it or seen either for its history or photography. For this tour, you will be picked up and dropped off at your Shanghai hotel, its quite convenient to add one southern style garden - Lion Grove Garden and Shantang Street to complete the full day tour. All the tickets, lunch, transport and guide are included.

Available options

By Bullet Train&Subway

Shanghai to Suzhou roundtrip is Bullet train, take subway explore Suzhou with private guide service.<br/>Pickup included

All Tour by Private Vehicle

All entrance tickets, delicious lunch, private guide, boat ride, rickshaw fee, roundtrip private vehicle are all inclusve.<br/>Pickup included

What's included

Rickshaw ride

Private transportation service

Professional English speaking tour guide

Lunch

Entrance tickets

Detailed itinerary

We pick you up at your centrally located Shanghai hotel

Stop 2 Pass by

Your first stop is the famous Tongli Water Town, which are well known for their bridges, rivers, and ancient house complexes. It is divided into seven islands intersected by 15 canals. Because of the landscape, almost all of the buildings in the town are along the waterfront. In front of the buildings, small stairs leading to the canals were built, which are convenient for residents to wash clothes and for traveling around the town by boat. You seem to have come to the ancient China Town. You may have a chance to take a boat in the river by your own expense.

After exploring the water town, drive to Suzhou city and have the local lunch before the next destination. Enjoy some local snacks or specialities and have a short rest.

Stop 4 Pass by

Then to visit Lion Grove Garden, it is one of the four most famous and representative gardens of ancient classical style in Suzhou City, mainly characterized by its lakeside rocks and rockeries. The name of the garden is derived from the shape of these rocks, which are said to resemble lions.

Explore Shantang Street, also well known as Seven Mile Shantang, it is an ancient riverside pedestrian road that is very popular with tourists. This old street sector is only about 360 meters long, but it has the reputation of “miniature of the old Suzhou” and the “window of Jiangsu culture”. It was a commodities center, where merchants conducted business and community staged folk activities.

What's not included

Dinner

Gratitude (Recommended)

Available languages

Guide guide

Reviews breakdown

Tripadvisor 5.0

5 reviews

5★

4★

3★

2★

1★

Important information

Wheelchair accessible

Suitable for all physical fitness levels

Infant (1-3 years old) are free providing they do not occupy a seat

Operates in all weather conditions, please dress appropriately

Comfortable walking shoes are recommended

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.