Suzhou Classical Gardens Private Day Tour from Suzhou/Shanghai

Suzhou , China

Suzhou Classical Gardens Private Day Tour from Suzhou/Shanghai

Active

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

Instant confirmation

Mobile or paper ticket accepted

About this experience

1）Explore the UNESCO World Heritage-listed Humber Administrator's Garden;
2）Stroll at the Lingering Garden, see lotus ponds and bamboo groves in Summer;
3）Walk through Shantang Street, an ancient riverside pedestrian road to discover the local business and staged folk activities;
4）Visit the only existing water and land gate in China: Panmen Gate

Available options

From Suzhou City Hotel

Pickup point is Suzhou downtown hotel, all tickets, private guide&driver, all private transfer are all included.<br/>Pickup included

From Shanghai by Bullet Train

Including entrance tickets, private guide&driver, Shanghai hotel pickup&drop off, roundtrip bullet train tickets all transfer<br/>Pickup included

What's included

All entrance tickets to the sights listed above

English-speaking tour guide service fee

Air-conditioned vehicle with a private driver

Detailed itinerary

Stop 1

Humble Administrator's Garden was built in Ming Dynasty (early 16th century), dating back more than 500 years of history, is the representative works of classical gardens south of the Yangtze River. You will see hill house, wave corridor, kinds of bridges and pavilions in the garden.
The best time to visit is in the Spring and Summer, when the garden becomes the site of several floral exhibitions. The Humble Administrator's Garden holds a grand “Azalea Festival” every spring, There are hundreds of rare azaleas on display during these period (From mid-March to early May every year), colorful and enchanting everywhere. Lotus Flower Festival from early June to mid - October, during the festival, the Humble Administrator's Garden becomes the best place for tourists to admire the lotus with the shade on the river bank and bursts of cool breezes. if you miss the Azalea or Lotus, you may have a chance to see chrysanthemum show in Autumn, from early September to mid October.

Afterwards, 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.

Stop 3

After lunch, we are continuing to visit Lingering Garden.
As one of the four most famous classic gardens in China, Lingering Garden is worth to visit, you can see the fascinating scene from every single angle of the garden.
Lingering Garden was first built in 1593 during in Ming Dynasty and it was a private residence of Xu Taishi, a bureaucrat of the Ming court. But now was built in the Qing Dynasty style, with a history of more than 400 years, the Lingering Garden has changed hands several times, each owner did his best to perfect it. It is known for exquisite architectural art. It boasts its fine gardening, luxurious and spacious hall, and collection of stones from Taihu Lake. The garden can generally be divided into four parts: the central, eastern, western and northern parts according to the style of the buildings.

The last destination to see Panmen Gate that the oldest city gate of Suzhou and the only existing water and land gate in China. The gate is located on the south-west corner of the Main Canal Suzhou. Originally built during the Warring States Period in the state of Wu, historians estimate it to be around 2,500 years old.
At the end of the tour, you will be transferred back to your hotel.

What's not included

Accommodation

Meals

Gratuity to the guide and driver

Personal costs

Available languages

Guide guide

Important information

Wheelchair accessible

Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller

Transportation options are wheelchair accessible

All areas and surfaces are wheelchair accessible

Suitable for all physical fitness levels

About Suzhou

Suzhou, often referred to as the 'Venice of the East,' is renowned for its classical gardens, silk production, and intricate waterways. This historic city offers a blend of traditional Chinese culture and modern amenities, making it a unique destination for travelers.

Top Attractions

Humble Administrator's Garden

One of the most famous classical gardens in China, the Humble Administrator's Garden is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. It features beautiful pavilions, ponds, and intricate rockery work.

Historical/Garden 2-3 hours ¥100 (Moderate)

Suzhou Museum

Designed by renowned architect I.M. Pei, the Suzhou Museum houses a vast collection of ancient artifacts, including ceramics, paintings, and calligraphy.

Museum 1-2 hours Free (Entry is free, but advance booking may be required)

Pingjiang Road

A well-preserved ancient street in Suzhou, Pingjiang Road offers a glimpse into the city's rich history. It features traditional architecture, shops, and teahouses.

Historical/Shopping 1-2 hours Free (Shopping and dining costs vary)

Tiger Hill (Huqiu Mountain)

A historic site and scenic area, Tiger Hill is known for its ancient pagoda, caves, and beautiful views. It's a popular spot for hiking and sightseeing.

Historical/Nature 2-3 hours ¥50 (Moderate)

Suzhou Silk Museum

Dedicated to the history and art of silk production, the Suzhou Silk Museum offers insights into the city's renowned silk industry. Visitors can learn about the silk-making process and see beautiful silk products.

Museum/Cultural 1-2 hours ¥30 (Budget)

Must-Try Local Dishes

Squirrel-Shaped Mandarin Fish

A signature dish of Suzhou cuisine, this dish features mandarin fish cooked in a sweet and sour sauce, arranged to resemble a squirrel.

Main dish Contains seafood

Suzhou Style Braised Pork

A tender and flavorful dish made with pork belly braised in a savory sauce, often served with rice or noodles.

Main dish Contains pork

Sweet and Sour Yangzhou Fried Rice

A popular fried rice dish featuring a balance of sweet and sour flavors, often made with shrimp, ham, and vegetables.

Main dish Contains seafood and pork

Bilayer Cake (Double-Skin Milk)

A traditional Suzhou dessert made with milk, sugar, and eggs, creating a creamy and smooth texture with a slightly crispy top layer.

Dessert Vegetarian

Popular Activities

Hiking in Tiger Hill (Huqiu Mountain) Boat tours in ancient water towns Tea ceremonies in Suzhou tea houses Strolling along Pingjiang Road Visiting classical gardens and historical sites Exploring local markets and street food Fishing in local lakes and rivers Visiting historical sites and museums

Best Time to Visit

March to May, September to November

These months offer pleasant weather with mild temperatures and lower humidity, making it ideal for sightseeing. The city's gardens and waterways are particularly beautiful during these times.

15-28°C 59-82°F

Practical Information

Language

Official: Chinese (Mandarin)
Widely spoken: Wu Chinese (local dialect), English (limited)
English: Limited

Currency

Chinese Yuan (CNY)

Time Zone

GMT+8

Electricity

220VV, 50HzHz

Safety Information

Overall Safety Rating: Generally safe

Suzhou is generally safe for travelers, with low crime rates and a safe environment for tourists. However, it's always important to stay vigilant and take precautions to ensure a safe and enjoyable trip.

Important Precautions:

• Use licensed taxis or ride-hailing apps
• Keep valuables secure and out of sight
• Be cautious of strangers offering unsolicited help or services

Getting there

By air

Sunan Shuofang International Airport • 20 km from city center

By train

Suzhou Railway Station, Suzhou North Railway Station

By bus

Suzhou Long-Distance Bus Station, Suzhou North Bus Station

Getting around

Public transport

The metro system is efficient, clean, and easy to navigate. It consists of multiple lines connecting key areas of the city.

Taxis

Available • Apps: Didi Chuxing

Rentals

Car, Bike, Scooter

Neighborhoods

Pingjiang Road Shiquan Street Surging Wave Bridge (Langshan) Area Xuanmiao Temple Area

Day trips

Tongli Ancient Town

30 km from Suzhou • Half day to full day

A well-preserved ancient water town featuring traditional architecture, canals, and bridges. It offers a glimpse into the rich history and culture of the region.

Zhouzhuang Water Town

40 km from Suzhou • Full day

One of the most famous water towns in China, Zhouzhuang features ancient architecture, canals, and bridges. It's a popular destination for tourists seeking a glimpse into the region's rich history and culture.

Huzhou

100 km from Suzhou • Full day to overnight

A city known for its beautiful lakes, mountains, and tea plantations. Huzhou offers a variety of outdoor activities, cultural experiences, and scenic views.

Festivals

Suzhou Lantern Festival • Mid-February (Lunar New Year) Suzhou Culture and Arts Festival • September to October Suzhou International Comedy Festival • October

Pro tips

Visit the Suzhou Museum early in the morning or on a weekday to avoid crowds and enjoy a more peaceful experience
Explore the city's canals and waterways by taking a boat tour, which offers a unique perspective on Suzhou's ancient architecture and scenic landscapes
Try local snacks and street food at the Shiquan Street Night Market, a bustling and vibrant destination for food lovers
Experience Suzhou's rich tea culture by visiting a traditional tea house, such as Louisa Tea House or Yun Xian Lou Tea House, and participating in a tea ceremony
Purchase high-quality silk products at the Suzhou Silk Market, where you can find a wide variety of fabrics, garments, and accessories at competitive prices