1 Day Suzhou Garden & Tongli Water Town Tour from Shanghai

This morning, your guide will meet you in the hotel lobby and escort you to Shanghai high speed train station for your bullet train to Suzhou (about 0.5 hour, 90km). Welcome to Suzhou, reputed as the “City of Gardens” and “Venice of the East,” offering an elegant and picturesque atmosphere. Upon arrival in Suzhou, you will be escorted to explore this charming, poetic city.

Your first stop is a brief visit to the Suzhou Garden Museum to gain a clear understanding of the Classical Gardens of Suzhou, which consist of nine gardens in the historic city of Suzhou listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Then, continue your discovery at the serene Humble Administrator’s Garden, the largest garden in Suzhou, which is considered one of the greatest examples of quintessential Chinese landscape design.

Built in 1509, Humble Administrator’s Garden is the finest example of a Ming Dynasty garden. Retired magistrate Wang Xianchen created this masterpiece over 16 years. He named it to reflect his desire for a humble life after public service. The garden has three sections: the expansive Eastern Garden, the distinguished Central Garden, and the exquisite Western buildings. With its ponds, rockeries, trees, and pavilions, the garden unveils scenic views like an unrolling scroll painting. As you meander along the circular route, be impressed by the intimate courtyards, elegant architectural details, and majestic artisan stonework while immersing yourself in the gorgeous poems depicted in each architecture. These poems reflect the notable attitudes of the owners. The Orchid Snow Hall, the main hall in the eastern part of the garden, gets its name from Li Bai’s poem verse “Alone between heaven and earth, the clear breeze scatters the orchid snow” (独立天地间,清风洒兰雪), implying a pure and lofty character. Walking along the path, you will come to the House of Sweet-Scented Osmanthus, the main building in the garden, named after Zhou Dunyi’s essay “In Love with the Lotus” (香远益清,亭亭净植), implying noble and elegant virtues. Overlooking the fan-shaped “With Whom Shall I Sit in the Pavilion”, you will evoke the atmosphere of Su Dongpo’s poem “With whom shall I sit? The bright moon, the fresh breeze, and I” (与谁同坐?明月清风我). Continuing your journey, you will reach Jianshan Hall, named after the poem by Tao Yuanming “Gathering chrysanthemums by the eastern hedge, I contentedly gaze upon the southern mountains” (采菊东篱下,悠然见南山). Every step in this poetic atmosphere is accompanied by architecture that tells a story through its connection to a poem.

Important tips for appreciating and photographing Suzhou Gardens:
1. Begin by observing the overall layout and composition of the garden from the map. This will give you an impression of the main themes and designs.
2. Take a tour of the garden with an open mind to appreciate its essence. Pay attention to the use of spatial techniques like borrowed scenery, facing scenery, leaked scenery etc.
3. Notice the architecture – its layout, forms, and how it complements other elements like plants, rocks, water. Understand the cultural significance behind the designs.
4. Spend time comprehending the mood and emotions conveyed through the names of the buildings and their accompanying couplets.
5. Look out for scenic views that capture the seasonal beauty of the garden.
6. Frame and photograph interesting perspectives using the garden’s structures and scenery.

To delve into over 2500 years of history, you will visit Suzhou Museum, boasting remarkable architecture and impressive collections. Designed by the world-renowned architect I.M. Pei, this museum seamlessly blends classical and modern elements, preserving the traditional white powdered walls of Suzhou to evoke a classical ambiance while exuding a contemporary sensibility. The museum’s distinct contours, strong geometry, and captivating silhouettes are truly awe-inspiring. As you step into the museum, you will find yourself enchanted by the beauty that filters through windows and dances with the rays of light. The scenery constantly evolves, creating a dynamic and captivating experience. While exploring the museum’s halls, you will encounter a rich display of local Suzhou crafts and cultural artifacts from the Wu region. Among the treasures showcased is the renowned Sword of King Yu of Wu, along with other exquisite pieces like lacquerware, bamboo carvings, jade carvings, gold bricks, clay sculptures, and musical instruments.

In the afternoon, you will be transferred to Tongli Water Town, located approximately 27km from Suzhou Museum (about a 40-minute drive). With a history spanning over 1000 years, Tongli is often referred to as the “Oriental Venice”. Upon arrival, you will discover the unique feature of Tongli Ancient Town, characterized by its distinct geographical layout resembling the Chinese character “川” (chuan). This layout is formed by fifteen clear small rivers that divide the town into seven small islands. Ingeniously connecting these islands are 49 ancient bridges, creating a breathtaking water town landscape.

In this water town, every household maintains a close relationship with the water, and boats serve as the primary mode of transportation for residents. Exploring Tongli, you can truly appreciate the poetic scenery of “small bridges, flowing water, and traditional houses” blending harmoniously, capturing the essence of Jiangnan. Take a leisurely stroll across the ancient bridges and witness the serene flow of clear water meandering through this historic town. Allow yourself to slow down and fully immerse in the idyllic surroundings. Don’t miss the opportunity to visit the Retreat & Reflection Garden (Tuisi, 退思园), a UNESCO classical garden named after its owner, Ren Lansheng. Despite its small size, this garden exemplifies the essence of classical gardens. It is divided into four parallel sections: the mansion, inner residence, courtyard, and garden. Stepping into this tranquil haven will make you feel as if you have entered a secluded “xanadu,” where nature’s beauty and harmonious design embrace you. Afterwards, immerse yourself in the captivating love story at Pearl Tower, and then visit Chongben Hall, Jiayin Hall, and Gengle Hall to delve deeper into the intriguing stories behind these historical houses.

After the tour, you will be escorted to Suzhou bullet train station for your high speed train to Shanghai (about 0.5 hour) or to other destinations like Hangzhou.

Thank you for traveling with HelloChinaTrip! We’re honored to have been part of your China tour and look forward to welcoming you back for your next Asian Vacation.