Exploring Eastern China: Shanghai, Hangzhou, and Suzhou Itinerary

Day 1: Arrival in Shanghai

Shanghai, China on March 23, 2025

9:00AM

Yu Garden

Visit the beautiful Yu Garden, a classic Chinese garden with pavilions, ponds, and rockeries that reflect traditional architectural styles.
CNY 40, 2 hours

12:00PM

Lunch at Nanxiang Steamed Bun Restaurant

Enjoy authentic Shanghai soup dumplings (xiaolongbao) at this famous restaurant known for their delicious steamed buns.
CNY 80, 1 hour

2:00PM

The Bund

Stroll along the iconic Bund to capture stunning views of the Huangpu River and the famous skyline of Pudong.
Free, 1.5 hours

5:00PM

Dinner at Lost Heaven

Dine on Yunnan cuisine at Lost Heaven, featuring creative dishes in a beautifully decorated setting.
CNY 250, 1.5 hours

Day 2: Cultural Shanghai

Shanghai, China on March 24, 2025

8:00AM

Breakfast at Aubaine

Start your day with a delicious French breakfast at Aubaine, known for its fresh pastries and great coffee.
CNY 70, 1 hour

9:30AM

Shanghai Museum

Explore the extensive collection of ancient Chinese art and artifacts at the Shanghai Museum, a must-visit for history enthusiasts.
Free, 2 hours

12:30PM

Lunch at Szechuan Citizen

Experience spicy Szechuan cuisine with bold flavors at this popular restaurant, perfect for adventurous eaters.
CNY 120, 1.5 hours

2:00PM

Shanghai Tower

Take in breathtaking views from the observation deck of Shanghai Tower, the tallest building in China.
CNY 180, 1.5 hours

5:00PM

Dinner at Din Tai Fung

Feast on high-quality dumplings at Din Tai Fung, where the craftsmanship of every dish is evident and delightful.
CNY 200, 1.5 hours

Day 3: Day Trip to Zhujiajiao

Shanghai, China on March 25, 2025

7:30AM

Breakfast at Yang’s Fried Dumplings

Grab a quick breakfast with crispy, fried dumplings that are a local favorite, providing an energizing start to the day.
CNY 50, 1 hour

9:00AM

Zhujiajiao Water Town

Take a short trip to Zhujiajiao, a picturesque water town with charming canals, ancient bridges, and traditional architecture.
CNY 60 (transport + entrance), 4 hours

1:00PM

Lunch at Local Eatery

Taste local delicacies in Zhujiajiao at a small eatery, where you can try freshly made fish and vegetable dishes.
CNY 80, 1 hour

2:30PM

Leisurely Boat Ride

Enjoy a relaxing gondola ride through the serene canals of Zhujiajiao, taking in scenic views and serene surroundings.
CNY 100, 1 hour

4:00PM

Return to Shanghai

Travel back to Shanghai to unwind after a full day of exploration.
CNY 60, 1 hour

6:00PM

Dinner at Baia

Savor Italian cuisine at Baia, known for its wood-fired pizzas and pasta dishes in a vibrant atmosphere.
CNY 200, 1.5 hours

Day 4: Travel to Hangzhou

Hangzhou, China on March 26, 2025

8:00AM

Breakfast at The Cup & Plate

Enjoy a welcoming breakfast filled with calm vibes, featuring fresh pastries and specialty coffees at The Cup & Plate.
CNY 70, 1 hour

9:30AM

Travel to Hangzhou

Take a bullet train to Hangzhou; enjoy comfortable and fast travel as you head to the beautiful city.
CNY 280, 1 hour

11:00AM

West Lake

Visit West Lake, a UNESCO World Heritage site, offering stunning scenery and opportunities for serene walks and boat rides.
Free (boat ride costs CNY 60), 3 hours

2:00PM

Lunch at Lou WaiLou

Dine at the historic Lou WaiLou where you can try authentic Hangzhou dishes, including their famous Dongpo pork.
CNY 150, 1.5 hours

4:00PM

Lingyin Temple

Meditate in the tranquil surroundings of Lingyin Temple, one of the largest and most important Buddhist temples in China.
CNY 45, 1.5 hours

6:00PM

Dinner at Zhi Wei Guan

Wrap up your day with dinner at Zhi Wei Guan, known for its traditional Hangzhou dishes and picturesque setting by the lake.
CNY 200, 1.5 hours

Day 5: Exploring Hangzhou

Hangzhou, China on March 27, 2025

8:30AM

Breakfast at Starbucks Reserve

Enjoy a unique Starbucks experience with crafted coffee and pastries in a special ambiance.
CNY 60, 1 hour

10:00AM

Tea Plantations of Longjing

Visit the famed Longjing tea plantations, where you can taste freshly brewed tea and learn about tea cultivation.
CNY 100, 2 hours

12:30PM

Lunch at Longjing Village

Delight in organic farm-to-table dishes at a cozy restaurant in Longjing Village, featuring tea-infused meals.
CNY 120, 1.5 hours

2:00PM

Xixi National Wetland Park

Explore the beautiful wetlands, with walking trails, diverse wildlife, and a peaceful atmosphere.
CNY 100, 3 hours

5:30PM

Dinner at Grandma's Home

Enjoy homestyle Hangzhou dishes at Grandma's Home, known for its warm service and comforting meals.
CNY 150, 1.5 hours

Day 6: Cultural Experiences in Hangzhou

Hangzhou, China on March 28, 2025

8:00AM

Breakfast at The Green Tea

Start your day with a unique experience at The Green Tea, famous for its matcha-infused breakfast options.
CNY 70, 1 hour

9:30AM

Heavenly Palace

Visit the iconic Leifeng Pagoda situated on Sunset Hill, offering stunning views of West Lake and its surroundings.
CNY 40, 1 hour

11:00AM

Chinese Culinary Class

Participate in a local cooking class to learn how to prepare traditional Hangzhou dishes using local ingredients.
CNY 400, 3 hours

3:00PM

Lunch at Local Restaurant

Enjoy the dishes you’ve just created in the cooking class at a local restaurant, a great way to taste your efforts.
CNY 150, 1.5 hours

5:00PM

Dinner at The Grandma's Restaurant

Another great dining experience at The Grandma's Restaurant, reflecting the rich culinary heritage of Hangzhou with local delicacies.
CNY 200, 1.5 hours

Day 7: Travel to Suzhou

Suzhou, China on March 29, 2025

8:00AM

Breakfast at Maan Coffee

Enjoy a cozy start to your day with great coffee and a delightful selection of baked goods at Maan Coffee.
CNY 80, 1 hour

9:30AM

Travel to Suzhou

Take a train from Hangzhou to Suzhou, enjoying a smooth ride through the beautiful scenery of the region.
CNY 120, 1 hour

11:00AM

Classic Gardens Tour

Begin with a visit to the Humble Administrator's Garden, a UNESCO World Heritage Site recognized for its classical layout.
CNY 70, 2 hours

1:30PM

Lunch at Dongpo Restaurant

Enjoy lunch at Dongpo Restaurant, famous for its authentic Suzhou style dishes including their signature Dongpo pork.
CNY 130, 1.5 hours

3:30PM

Tiger Hill

Visit Tiger Hill, known for its park scenery and the iconic leaning pagoda, offering beautiful views of Suzhou.
CNY 40, 2 hours

6:00PM

Dinner at Songhelou

Dine at Songhelou, one of Suzhou's oldest restaurants where you can savor Suzhou specialties in a historic setting.
CNY 200, 1.5 hours

Day 8: Art and Culture in Suzhou

Suzhou, China on March 30, 2025

8:00AM

Breakfast at Starbucks

Begin your day at Starbucks for a familiar breakfast with your favorite coffee and pastries.
CNY 50, 1 hour

9:30AM

Suzhou Museum

Visit Suzhou Museum, designed by I. M. Pei, and admire the collection of ancient Chinese art and artifacts.
Free, 2 hours

12:00PM

Lunch at Xiangmen Restaurant

Enjoy a unique Suzhou dining experience with various local dishes in a traditional setting.
CNY 120, 1.5 hours

2:00PM

Silk Factory Tour

Learn about the ancient tradition of silk-making, from raising silkworms to weaving silk at a local factory.
CNY 50, 1.5 hours

4:00PM

Pingjiang Road

Stroll along Pingjiang Road, a picturesque street lined with shops, tea houses, and canals reflecting traditional Suzhou architecture.
Free, 1.5 hours

6:30PM

Dinner at Wu Men Ren Jia

Wrap up your day with a delicious dinner at Wu Men Ren Jia, known for its homemade style Suzhou dishes.
CNY 150, 1.5 hours

Day 9: Final Day in Suzhou

Suzhou, China on March 31, 2025

8:00AM

Breakfast at The Brew

Savor your morning coffee at The Brew, a cozy café known for its artisanal coffee and pastries.
CNY 60, 1 hour

9:30AM

Lingering Garden

Visit Lingering Garden, famous for its exquisite layout and beautiful designs, perfect for nature lovers.
CNY 50, 2 hours

12:00PM

Lunch at Deyuan Restaurant

Indulge in classic Suzhou cuisine at Deyuan Restaurant, where you can try local favorites in a contemporary setting.
CNY 100, 1.5 hours

2:00PM

Explore Local Market

Wander through a local market to experience daily life in Suzhou, with fresh produce, snacks, and local crafts.
Free, 2 hours

4:30PM

Return to Shanghai

Travel back to Shanghai, preparing for your next adventure.
CNY 120, 1 hour

6:30PM

Dinner at The Commune Social

End your trip with a modern dining experience at The Commune Social, known for its innovative small plates and vibrant ambiance.
CNY 250, 1.5 hours

Day 10: Departure from Shanghai

Shanghai, China on April 1, 2025

8:00AM

Breakfast at Good Day Coffee

Indulge in a gourmet breakfast at Good Day Coffee, renowned for its artisanal specialties and cozy vibe.
CNY 80, 1 hour