Suzhou is a city with over 2,500 years of history. Following completion of the Grand Canal in the Sui Dynasty, the town grew and prospered from the trade that passed through its gates. Much of this wealth was channelled into the creation of hundreds of beautiful Chinese gardens, many of which still exist today, and which have given Suzhou the name "The Garden City".
It is possible to visit a number of these gardens and to wander among the sculpted ponds and rockeries in contemplation, much as the merchants and officials, their original owners, would have done years before. The Humble Administrator's Garden, The Garden of the Master of the Nets, The Garden of Harmony and the West Garden Temple are the most well known, though also the most visited. Many also hold fine Bonsai collections.
Beyond Suzhou’s gardens, the city also has rich history in the production and weaving of silk. By the 14th century Suzhou had become China’s leading silk producer and quality silk and brocade is still available at reasonable prices today.
A guide can take you to the station in Shanghai and assist you to board the train — a journey of around 45 minutes. You are then met on the platform in Suzhou by your guide and driver for the day. After visiting one of the top gardens, the famous operational silk factory and the narrow streets around Pan Men water gate you continue onto the small town of Tongli by car.
Tongli is just one of a number of water towns located around two hours' drive from Shanghai, and is perhaps the least touristy. The town is built on a network of small canals and the best way to watch the water-side way of life is from the comfort of one of the numerous punts that drift through the narrow waterways. If you are lucky, you may also be able to witness the cormorant fishermen at work in the canals, although this may only happen for a small fee!
Start planning your tailor-made trip by contacting one of our China specialists
These activities are designed to give you the most authentic experiences around where you're staying. We work with local guides, who use their knowledge and often a resident's eye to show you the main sights and more out-of-the-way attractions. Our specialists can suggest tours and activities that will introduce you to the local ways of life.
Culinary Tour of Shanghai
Visit Zhonghua market in Shanghai and wander down some of the famous side streets sampling regional delicacies with a guide, who will be able to give you all sorts of recommendations.
Morning Shanghai Bicycle Tour
This guided cycling tour around Shanghai’s old town and French Concession backstreets shows you a salt-of-the-earth side of the city that few visitors experience. You’ll pass tiny street markets, and stop off at a public park and a Buddhist temple.
Shanghai Acrobatics
Gifted Chinese acrobats perform the contortions and feats of balance that have made them famous throughout the world.
Shanghai Highlights
Shanghai has very few Buddhist temples, so the Jade Buddha Temple is well known and well used. The Yuyuan Garden and Bazaar are located at the south-eastern end of the old city, its bustling maze of narrow lanes lined with traditional houses.
You can enjoy this activity as part of the suggested tours below, or we can weave it into a trip shaped entirely around you.
