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A Tale of Two Cities

Viewed by 66 travelers
Day 1 · Thu, Dec 28
Shanghai, China · Thursday, December 28, 2023

Art and Architecture

  • Shanghai Museum (Free admission · 2-3 hours)
  • Yu Garden (CNY 30 · 1-2 hours)
  • Huangpu River Cruise (CNY 120 · 1.5 hours)

Morning:

Start your day strolling along The Bund, admiring the historic buildings and modern skyline of Shanghai. Visit the Shanghai Museum to appreciate its extensive collection of ancient Chinese art and artifacts.

Afternoon:

In the afternoon, visit Yu Garden to marvel at its traditional Chinese architecture and tranquil ponds. Afterward, explore the nearby City God Temple and sample some local snacks at Yuyuan Bazaar.

Evening:

In the evening, take a Huangpu River Cruise to see Shanghai's iconic skyline illuminated against the night sky.

Day 2 · Fri, Dec 29
Shanghai, China · Friday, December 29, 2023

Urban Exploration

  • Tianzifang (Free admission · 2-3 hours)
  • Nanjing Road Shopping (Varies · 3-4 hours)
  • Shanghai Tower (CNY 180 · 1-2 hours)

Morning:

Spend the morning getting lost in the maze of narrow alleyways and art galleries in Tianzifang. Enjoy a leisurely brunch at one of the many charming cafes in the area.

Afternoon:

Head to Nanjing Road, one of the world's busiest shopping streets, for an afternoon of retail therapy and people-watching. Don't miss the iconic neon lights and bustling atmosphere.

Evening:

In the evening, ascend the Shanghai Tower for panoramic views of the city from one of the tallest buildings in the world.

Shanghai → Su Zhou
Day 3 · Sat, Dec 30
Su Zhou, China · Saturday, December 30, 2023

Gardens and Water Towns

  • Lingering Garden (CNY 55 · 2-3 hours)
  • Zhouzhuang Water Town (CNY 100 · 3-4 hours)
  • Shantang Street Dining (Varies · 2-3 hours)

Morning:

Begin your day with a visit to Lingering Garden, a classical Chinese garden renowned for its exquisite design and peaceful atmosphere. Take your time to admire the intricate architecture and beautiful landscape.

Afternoon:

Travel to the ancient water town of Zhouzhuang, known as the 'Venice of the East', and wander through its winding canals, historic houses, and stone bridges. Enjoy a boat ride to appreciate the town from a different perspective.

Evening:

In the evening, head to Shantang Street to savour local delicacies and experience the charm of Su Zhou's old streets, lined with traditional shops and ancient buildings.

Day 4 · Sun, Dec 31
Su Zhou, China · Sunday, December 31, 2023

Cultural Immersion

  • Humble Administrator's Garden (CNY 90 · 2-3 hours)
  • Suzhou Museum (Free admission · 1-2 hours)
  • Kunqu Opera Performance (CNY 200-300 · 2-3 hours)

Morning:

Start your day at the Humble Administrator's Garden, one of the finest Chinese gardens in Su Zhou, renowned for its harmonious blend of pavilions, halls, and corridors nestled among lush greenery and serene ponds.

Afternoon:

Spend the afternoon exploring the Suzhou Museum, designed by renowned architect I.M. Pei. Immerse yourself in its impressive collection of ancient Chinese art and cultural relics.

Evening:

In the evening, experience the traditional art of Kunqu Opera at a local theatre, where you can appreciate the elaborate costumes, graceful movements, and emotive storytelling of this ancient art form.

Day 5 · Mon, Jan 1
Su Zhou, China · Monday, January 1, 2024

Silk and Serenity

  • Silk Factory Tour (Free admission · 1-2 hours)
  • Master of the Nets Garden (CNY 40 · 1-2 hours)
  • Grand Canal Night Cruise (CNY 150 · 1-1.5 hours)

Morning:

Embark on a guided tour of a silk factory to gain insight into the silk production process, from silkworm rearing to silk weaving. Appreciate the artistry and skill involved in this ancient craft.

Afternoon:

Spend the afternoon at the Master of the Nets Garden, a UNESCO World Heritage site known for its exquisite design and tranquil ambiance. Take a leisurely stroll around the garden's pavilions, rockeries, and ponds.

Evening:

In the evening, board a traditional wooden boat for a night cruise along the ancient Grand Canal, where you can soak in the enchanting views of Su Zhou's illuminated waterfront and historic architecture.

Day 6 · Tue, Jan 2
Su Zhou, China · Tuesday, January 2, 2024

Intricate Crafts and Tea

  • Suzhou Silk Embroidery Institute (Free admission · 1-2 hours)
  • Tea Ceremony (CNY 100-200 · 1-1.5 hours)
  • Pingjiang Road Exploration (Varies · 2-3 hours)

Morning:

Start your day at the Suzhou Silk Embroidery Institute, where you can witness the intricate art of silk embroidery through live demonstrations by skilled artisans. Admire the exquisite craftsmanship and learn about the cultural significance of this traditional craft.

Afternoon:

Participate in a traditional Chinese tea ceremony at a local tea house, where you can learn about the history, rituals, and etiquette of Chinese tea culture while savouring a selection of fine teas.

Evening:

In the evening, take a leisurely stroll along the charming Pingjiang Road, lined with ancient buildings, quaint shops, and atmospheric tea houses. Immerse yourself in the timeless charm of old Suzhou.

Day 7 · Wed, Jan 3
Su Zhou, China · Wednesday, January 3, 2024

Canal Cruises and Pagodas

  • Grand Canal Boat Tour (CNY 100 · 1.5-2 hours)
  • Tiger Hill (CNY 80 · 2-3 hours)
  • Panmen Gate (CNY 35 · 1-1.5 hours)

Morning:

Embark on a scenic boat tour along the Grand Canal, the longest and oldest man-made waterway in the world, passing by historic landmarks, traditional residences, and picturesque bridges that are quintessentially Su Zhou.

Afternoon:

Explore the iconic Tiger Hill, known for its leaning Cloud Rock Pagoda and historic sites linked to ancient Chinese folklore. Climb to the top for panoramic views of the surrounding landscape.

Evening:

In the evening, visit the ancient Panmen Gate, one of the few remaining original city gates in China, and admire its impressive architecture and surrounding moat.

Su Zhou → Shanghai
Day 8 · Thu, Jan 4
Shanghai, China · Thursday, January 4, 2024

Reflections and Farewells

  • Jing'an Temple (CNY 50 · 1-2 hours)
  • XinTianDi Exploration (Varies · 2-3 hours)
  • The Waterhouse at South Bund (CNY 300-500 · 2-3 hours)

Morning:

Spend your last morning at Jing'an Temple, an ancient Buddhist temple in the heart of Shanghai. Take in the peaceful atmosphere, marvel at the golden Buddha statue, and reflect on your journey through China.

Afternoon:

For your final afternoon, explore the trendy district of XinTianDi, known for its blend of historic Shikumen architecture and modern lifestyle. Enjoy a leisurely meal at a stylish restaurant or browse the upscale boutiques.

Evening:

Conclude your trip with a farewell dinner at The Waterhouse at South Bund, an award-winning restaurant housed in a former warehouse, overlooking the Huangpu River. Savour the culinary delights and reminisce about your unforgettable journey.

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