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1 Day Suzhou Essence Tour with Zhouzhuang Water Town

All Suzhou Features Covered

What are the bests of Suzhou? Garden, silk and water town definitely!

Suzhou is called the Garden City in that it owns about 60 well-preserved classical gardens and 9 of them listed in UNESCO World Heritage Sites. Suzhou is also known as the Capital of Silk for it has a 4000-year-old silk industry. Furthermore, Suzhou always acts as an unbeatable base of the nearby water towns because of the quick access to them.

This 1 day tour takes you to appreciate these three lodestones of Suzhou in one go. You will spend half a day wandering through the perfectly-arranged architectures, lakes, rockeries and plants in an elegant garden and learning about the silk culture in a local factory. After the enjoyable experience in Suzhou City, you drive to one old canal town to experience the antique and poetic atmosphere of the water towns of Jiangnan area. All the attractions in this are chosen based on our research and experience to offer you the best-valued trip, but the itinerary can be changed and tailormade according to your interest and needs. Feel free to communicate with your travel consultant to customize your own tour.

  • Type : Private Tour
  • Tour Code : CD-SZZT-01
  • Price : from Request
    1. 1. This price is for one person, based on a group of 2 adults sharing one double-bed room in a 4-star hotel and traveling in low seasons;
    2. 2. This price is subject to change according to your traveling season, group size, hotel class, change of activities and possible fluctuation of currency exchange rate.
  • Theme : History / Culture / Water Town
  • Physical Demands :

HIGHLIGHTS OF THIS TOUR

  • Have fun to see how the exquisite silk garment is produced at century-old No.1 Silk Factory and appreciate the precious exhibits involving traditional silk weaving techniques;
  • Immerse yourself in the endless designs of Humble Administrator's Garden - the biggest masterpiece of the Classical Gardens of Suzhou and the archetype of many imperial gardens.
  • Appreciate the considerable old-world charm of Zhouzhuang Water Town – Suzhou's best known water town with featured Double Bridge which is painted in Chen Yifei's works.
  • Be accompanied by our local knowledgeable and considerate travel guide who will help you take an interesting insight to the history and culture Suzhou.
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Itinerary Day by Day (Can Be Customized)
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Day 1 Suzhou Day Tour (L)

Today's highlights: Humble Administrator's Garden, Suzhou No.1 Silk Factory, Zhouzhuang Water Town

In the early morning of today, you will be picked up from the train station or your hotel lobby by your private tour guide and driver, then set out for today’s exciting things to do.

Start with an interesting visit to Humble Administrator’s Garden, one of the Four Greatest Gardens in China as well as the largest and most grandiose one among all Suzhou Gardens. The Classical Gardens of Suzhou was listed as the World Heritage Site in 1997 because “the gardens of Suzhou” represent the development of Chinese landscape garden design over more than two thousand years, and they are the "most refined form" of garden art”, according to UNESCO. Among all the Suzhou Gardens, Humble Administrators’ Garden is the largest one in Suzhou and is considered by some to be the finest garden in all of southern China. It is an artistic combination of buildings, ponds, bridges, paths and trees arranged in a specific manner. Scenic, peaceful and eloquent, everything in the garden tells a story of the past time. After visiting Humble Administrator’s Garden, move on to Suzhou No.1 Silk Factory for a great entertaining and educational experience. Acting as a living museum of Suzhou Silk, this factory exhibits not only the ancient looms in different dynasties and different weaving techniques, but also the demo of silk manufacturing from cover to cover. You can feast your eyes on each step of the magic process, including silkworms eating mulberries, machinery unraveling cocoons, workers spinning silk and so on. A sea of fancy silk items like scarves, pajamas, bags, cheongsams, shirts, etc. are also on display.

Next, take about an hour’s drive to the beautiful water town of Zhouzhuang. Reputed as the No. 1 Water Town in China, Zhouzhuang is one of the “ten most beautiful towns in the globe” and “world charming water town” with a long history of over 1000 years, appealing sightseeing and authentic flavor of regions south of Yangtze River in China. Visiting Zhouzhuang Ancient Town, you can see 14 ancient particular stone bridges built in Yuan, Ming and Qing dynasties, multiple courtyards linking together on the winding water, more than 800 residents living by the river, etc. which is exactly the look of serene historic water town in east China. Besides the scenery, the special folk culture in Zhouzhuang will tell you about the real gem of culture in Wu area and the sole of this charming place. Famous attractions include the Double Bridge, Old Drama Stage, Cultural Street, Zhang’s Residence and Shen's Residence, etc.

After the tour, your guide and driver will escort you back to your hotel in Suzhou City or directly to take your train/flight to the next destination. Our service ends.

Optional Activities in Zhouzhuang: 1) riding a boat through the canals to appreciate the fascinating scenery of rivers, bridges and local residences and listen to the old songs of the local sculler. 2) enjoying an authentic Kun Opera Performance.

  • Elegant Jiangnan Sceneries in Humble Administrator's Garden Elegant Jiangnan Sceneries in Humble Administrator's Garden
  • Zhouzhuang Water Town Spring Zhouzhuang Water Town Spring
  • Suzhou No.1 Silk Factory Silk Products in Suzhou No.1 Silk Factory

The quotation for this trip is from Request Per Person

1. This price is for one person, based on a group of 2 adults sharing one standard double-bed room in 4-star hotel and traveling with our private tour in low seasons.
2. This price is subject to change according your traveling season, group size, hotel class, change of activities in your itinerary and possible fluctuation of currency exchange rate. If you want a lower price, you can get more people to join you, or use economy class hotels.
3. This price is only valid to March 31, 2025.
4. Reference exchange rate of USD 1=RMB 7.00. The final quote is based on current exchange rate. It may change according to the currency fluctuation, while the RMB quotation will be remained the same.

What's included?

  • Professional licensed English-speaking guide;
  • Admission tickets for all attractions listed in the itinerary;
  • Accommodation as listed in the itinerary (4-star standard);
  • Necessary vehicle transfers as listed in the itinerary;
  • Domestic flights (economy class) and high-speed trains (second class) as listed in the itinerary;
  • Airport (and train station) pick up and drop off;
  • Luggage Transfers: between airports (railway station) and hotels;
  • All meals as listed( “B” for Chinese and Western breakfast buffet in your hotel; “L” for Chinese Lunch in local restaurant; “D” for Chinese dinner in local restaurant.);
  • Accident insurance;
  • Our service charge, including tour planning, handling, operational and communication charges.

What's excluded?

  • China visa;
  • Personal expenses;
  • Accommodation not listed in the itinerary;
  • Single Room Supplement;
  • Tourist sites which are not listed in the itinerary;
  • Recommended optional activities;
  • Flights or trains not listed in the itinerary;
  • Excess Baggage Charges;
  • Optional tips to guides, drivers, etc.

Check What our delighted customers are saying about our services

Hi Tracy,

The tour you put together for us was great, we got to see the major sites. We really enjoyed gubei water town and wished we had more time there.

The ski day was luckily sunny and the kids had a lot of fun. It's their first time skiing so we didn't really know what to expect. It turned out well.

Driver Mr Hu and Guide Jamie were super patient with us. My kids sleep very late so we start everyday around 9am. They were very flexible and catered well to our needs.

Celestine

Celestine‚ Malaysia, March 14, 2024

Dear Leo,

Feedback as follows:

1. You are fast and patient to answer.

2. The tour arrangements are very good.

3. Willing to recommend your service.

4. Very impressive

Linda

Linda‚ Singapore, March 14, 2024

Hi April,

I loved everything about the tour and everyone that helped me along the way.

Here's some comments and photos:

China Discovery provided exceptional service in customizing our trip to Guilin, Yangshuo, and Longsheng in late February 2024. April, my travel consultant, was responsive, helpful, and friendly, addressing all my questions and needs promptly. Our tour guide, Steven, was not only friendly but also adaptable to our needs and the unexpected weather conditions (there was a cold front during our trip) without the need for me to ask. His food recommendations for our meals at every restaurant were superb and we got to taste not only the local specialty but also what the restaurant is known for. Last but not least, Mr. Young, our driver, ensured our safety with his steady driving.

Cheers!

Wendy

Wendy‚ Singapore, March 13, 2024

Dear Ms. Jiang,

We are so pleased with your China tour and are so thankful for all your help.

All the tour guides and drivers have been excellent and we felt very well taken care off.

We felt very safe and therefore could enjoy the tour without any worries.

Not only did we see a lot we also learned a lot about China, the country, the people, etc.

I think it is of great benefit to participate in this kind of a tour, first of all we did not have to share the tour guide with other persons, so we could ask all the questions that came to mind. Also that there was no shopping as a part of the tour was a plus.

Thanks again for a wonderful experience

Rosemarie

Rosemarie‚ USA, March 12, 2024

Afternoon Rita,

Apologies for the delay. As requested:

1. How do you comment your tour arrangements? DL: Overall an excellent service, well organised and a brilliant tour guide with expert knowledge/guidance.

Are you willing to recommend our service to your people who also have an interest to visit China? DL: Absolutely.

Not only did we see a lot we also learned a lot about China, the country, the people, etc.

I think it is of great benefit to participate in this kind of a tour, first of all we did not have to share the tour guide with other persons, so we could ask all the questions that came to mind. Also that there was no shopping as a part of the tour was a plus.

Thanks again for a wonderful experience

David L

David L‚ USA, March 12, 2024
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Esther G
"It was our 1st trip with China Discovery and pleased that we had such a wonderful time. Thanks to our tour consultant Rita Jiang who customised our private tour of 4. Hotels were excellent..." read more »
Reviewed on March 21, 2024
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Esther G
"It was our 1st trip with China Discovery and pleased that we had such a wonderful time. Thanks to our tour consultant Rita Jiang who customised our private tour of 4. Hotels were excellent..." read more »
Reviewed on March 21, 2024
Read all reviews(1,820+)

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We're working at Chengdu Bamboo International Tours, local based in Chengdu.

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Once you arrive in the destination, the patient and punctual guides will pick you up and take you to get under skin of the city at your own pace. By in-depth discovery and explanation, they’ll show you more about the history, culture, customs and authentic local life. Throughout the journey, they're not only expert guides who take care of all the details but also fellow travelers who are dedicated to help you explore in comfort and style.

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The hotels we choose are based on star rating, great locations, well-equipped facilities, cozy bed, high quality service and guests’ feedbacks. Choices are a lot ranging from luxury 5 star, comfortable 4 star to budget 3 star. You could decide where to stay to best suit for your budget and likes. Generally, the hotels have both Western and Chinese breakfast with a wide choices.

If you have already got an ideal hotel, please feel free to tell our travel consultants and they'll book the hotel for you.

Have good sleep in our well-selected hotels in all the destinations of China.

Meals & Dining

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We can satisfy all the dietary requirements no matter you want Chinese local food, western food, vegetarian food or muslin food.

The restaurants we will take you for lunch or dinner are all designated tourist restaurants approved by local tourist administration bureau. They have very good sanitary conditions and the food is prepared fresh and clean.

There will be some meals excluded in your itinerary as you like, and your private guide will be delighted to give you some suggestions and take you to the local restaurants to taste like Beijing Roast Duck, Xian Dumpling Dinner, Sichuan Hotpot, etc., if you are interested in local food tasting.

All the dining options will satisfy your stomach!

Photo gallery of this trip

  • Elegant Jiangnan Sceneries in Humble Administrator's Garden Elegant Jiangnan Sceneries in Humble Administrator's Garden
  • Zhouzhuang Water Town Spring Zhouzhuang Water Town Spring
  • Suzhou No.1 Silk Factory Suzhou No.1 Silk Factory

Most Important Suzhou Travel Notes

1. What are the features of China Discovery’s private Suzhou tour packages?

Our private Suzhou tour package ensures the highest standards for our guests with greater flexibility, better comfort and personalized service so you can experience Suzhou in the way you have always dreamt of it to be. You can decide how your time should be spent and the pace in which your tour is conducted, while we can help maximize every minute of your journey to let you enjoy your Suzhou vacation to the absolute fullest. Before the tour, you will enjoy an efficient one-on-one travel consulting service provided by one of our knowledgeable Suzhou expert. During the tour, you will have your very own personal guide, with a private vehicle and chauffeur, exclusively serving for your party - nobody else. So please do not hesitate to explore Suzhou with our private tour now!

2. Do you need a visa for Suzhou?

Since 2016, China has started the 144-Hour Transit Visa Exemption policy in Yangtze River Delta (Shanghai, Jiangsu and Zhejiang) to offer transit convenience for international travelers. It means that, visitors from the appointed 53 countries, holding the valid travel documents and connecting flight tickets to a third country/region, are allowed to enter and exit from one of the six ports - Shanghai Pudong International Airport, Shanghai Hongqiao International Airport, Shanghai Railway Station, Shanghai Wusongkou International Cruise Terminal, Nanjing Lukou International Airport and Hangzhou Xiaoshan International Airport, and stay for not exceeding 144 hours in the administrative regions of Shanghai, Jiangsu (Suzhou included) and Zhejiang.

3. When is the best time to visit Suzhou?

Because of the pleasant climate and great natural scenery of Suzhou, it is available to visit Suzhou all the year around. The elegant gardens, old water towns and fine silk will never disappoint you. But if you want to visit Suzhou in the most comfortable weather, you can choose to visit during April to October, especially April and May in spring and September and October in autumn. In spring, colorful flowers can be savored in different gardens, like Humble Administrator’s Garden, Lingering Garden, Tiger Hill, etc. In autumn, the sweet-scented osmanthus and fallen golden leaves make most streets and old lanes so charming.

4. How to Get to Suzhou

The most convenient way to get to Suzhou is by high speed train. There are frequent high speed trains from Shanghai (about 0.5h), Hangzhou (1.5~2.5h), Nanjing (1~1.5h), Wuxi (20min), Changzhou (25~50min), Wuhan (4~4.5h), etc. as well as some c. as well as some high speed trains from Huangshan (about 3.5h), Yangzhou (about 1.5h), Chengdu (12~14.5h), etc. Since there is no airport in Suzhou City, you can take a flight to Shanghai or Wuxi first and then transfer to Suzhou. Shanghai is the best gateway to Suzhou, because it can be reached easily by flights or high speed train and it operates quick transfer to Suzhou.

5. Where to Stay in Suzhou

In spite of the small scale, Suzhou city offers a variety of accommodating choices ranging from 5-star luxuries hotels to 3-star comfortable hotels. The best accommodating areas include Suzhou Old City – the home to the many attractions (like Administrator’s Garden, Suzhou Museum, Pingjiang Road, etc.) and central urban districts (offering quick access to good restaurants, shopping malls, metro lines). If you want to visit the water towns around Suzhou City, you can also choose to accommodate in the town for a great night view. Big towns like Tongli and Zhouzhuang also has some super hotels. Besides, you can also choose to accommodate Shanghai if you plan a day tour in Suzhou.

China Discovery always uses those hotels with convenient amenities, fine services and great reputations. Most of them are 5-star and 4-star hotels located near the downtown.

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