9-Day Shanghai, Suzhou, Hangzhou & Yellow Mountain Tour | Best China Itinerary
9 Days · From $1,549
Explore Shanghai's modern skyline, Suzhou's canals, Hangzhou's tea culture & Yellow Mountain's iconic peaks on a private 9-day China tour. Tailor-made & unforgettable.
Itinerary
- 1
Day 1: Arrival in Shanghai
Arrive in Shanghai, where your private guide will greet you at the airport or railway station and escort you to your downtown hotel. Shanghai is a vibrant metropolis where old traditions blend seamlessly with futuristic skyscrapers. After check-in, enjoy the rest of the day free to explore the lively neighborhood surrounding your hotel, filled with restaurants, shops, and iconic city scenery.
- 2
Day 2: Shanghai
Begin your day with an in-depth walk along The Bund, taking in sweeping views of the Huangpu River and Shanghai’s iconic skyline. After lunch, ascend Shanghai Tower for a stunning panoramic view of the city. Continue your exploration with a stroll along Nanjing Road, the busiest commercial street in China, before visiting the classical Yuyuan Garden and the bustling Yuyuan Bazaar nearby. In the late afternoon, wander through the peaceful streets of the Former French Concession, where leafy boulevards and historic architecture reveal the charm of old Shanghai.
- 3
Day 3: Shanghai to Suzhou
After breakfast, take a short high-speed train to Suzhou, a city famed for its elegant classical gardens and centuries-old waterways. Your first stop is Tiger Hill, known for its leaning pagoda and rich cultural history. Continue to the Suzhou Silk Museum, where you will learn about the heritage and craftsmanship of China’s silk culture. After lunch, visit the Humble Administrator’s Garden, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of China’s finest classical gardens. Conclude the day with a leisurely walk along Shantang Street, a historic canal district lined with traditional houses, bridges, shops, and local snacks.
- 4
Day 4: Suzhou to Hangzhou
This morning, visit the renowned Suzhou Museum, designed by celebrated architect I. M. Pei, where modern aesthetics harmonize seamlessly with classical Suzhou style. Afterwards, travel to Zhouzhuang Water Town, often hailed as “China’s No. 1 Water Town,” where stone bridges, flowing canals, and preserved houses reflect centuries of Jiangnan culture. Later in the day, transfer by high-speed train to Hangzhou, where your guide will meet you and assist with hotel check-in.
- 5
Day 5: Hangzhou
Begin the day with a scenic boat ride on West Lake, admiring distant mountains, pagodas, willow-lined shores, and the poetic scenery that has inspired Chinese culture for centuries. After lunch, explore Xiaohe Zhijie Street and the nearby Gongchen Bridge Historic District, areas that preserve the authentic charm of Hangzhou’s riverside life with cafés, old buildings, and specialty museums. Continue with a visit to Hu Xueyan’s Former Residence, a lavish Qing-dynasty mansion combining local craftsmanship with Western decorative elements. Finish the day at Hefang Street, a lively pedestrian area filled with traditional snacks, shops, and historic architecture
- 6
Day 6: Hangzhou to Huangshan
After breakfast, drive to Feilai Peak, home to more than 300 Buddhist stone carvings dating back over a thousand years. Nearby, visit Lingyin Temple, one of the most important and ancient Buddhist temples in China. Continue to Longjing Tea Village, where you can taste freshly brewed tea and learn about Hangzhou’s tea culture before embarking on a relaxing hike through the Nine Creeks trail, known for its flowing streams, bamboo groves, and serene landscapes. In the afternoon, board a high-speed train to Huangshan, where your local guide will meet you upon arrival.
- 7
Day 7: Huangshan
Set out on a full-day adventure in the UNESCO-listed Yellow Mountain. After reaching the base, take a shuttle bus and ascend by cable car or on foot. Explore highlights such as White Goose Ridge, Beginning-to-Believe Peak, and the West Sea Grand Canyon. Known for its granite peaks, ancient pine trees, and sea of clouds, Yellow Mountain offers some of China’s most stunning scenery. Your guide will adjust the pace as needed. In the evening, stay overnight on the mountain for a memorable experience.
- 8
Day 8: Huangshan to Hongcun
Rise early to witness the Yellow Mountain sunrise, a breathtaking moment when golden light cuts through drifting mist to illuminate the peaks. After breakfast, continue sightseeing around Lion Peak and Dawn Pavilion before descending by cable car. Then transfer to Hongcun Village, a UNESCO World Heritage Site known as “the village in Chinese paintings.” With its ancient waterways, serene ponds, and over 140 preserved Ming and Qing residences, Hongcun offers a beautiful glimpse into traditional Huizhou architecture and village life.
- 9
Day 9: Departure from Hongcun
Today marks the end of your 9-day journey. Your guide and driver will transfer you to the airport or railway station for your onward flight or train.
What's Included
- ✓Costs for a private, air-conditioned business vehicle throughout the tour.
- ✓Services of a private English-speaking tour guide.
- ✓Hotels, entrance fees to scenic spots (first gate tickets), and meals as listed in the itinerary.
- ✓Travel insurance coverage during the tour (details available on the Insurance Policy page).
- ✓Inter-city flights or high-speed train travel.
- ✓24-hour customer service support during the trip.
- ✓Service fees, covering tour planning, handling, operation, and communication costs.
- ✗Chinese Visa fees.
- ✗Round-trip ticket. (We offer Air Ticket Booking Service, if you need it, please let us know.)
- ✗Personal expenses.
- ✗Meals, transportation transfers, and tourist attraction fees not listed in the itinerary.
- ✗Optional activities recommended at scenic spots or other commercial establishments.
- ✗Luggage overweight charges.
- ✗Optional activities provided by the driver or guide.
- ✗Personal Accident Insurance during Travel .
Gallery
