Poetic Southern China
Shanghai | Suzhou | Hangzhou
Price details
Price includes all accommodation, experiences, guiding and transfers. Based on travelling off-peak and may increase if travelling over peak season. Price excludes international flights and meals that are not listed in the itinerary.
Tour Highlights
Discover China's cultural roots in southern China, a place where silk and tea have flourished for hundreds of years. This region has long been the heart of ancient China's economy, shaped by its deep cultural heritage and enduring traditions.
Your journey begins in Shanghai, where you will feel the city's modern energy alongside its cultural depth, expressed through its food, art, and vibrant urban life. From there, travel to nearby Suzhou for its elegant classical gardens, boating on quiet water alleys, and local charm. Continue to Hangzhou, where you'll pick and taste some of China's finest tea and experience the timeless beauty of the West Lake.
Walk along the Bund to uncover the city's history, then explore local neighborhoods to meet locals and experience both sides of Shanghai
Experience the contrast of Shanghai, from cutting-edge innovations like driverless taxis to riding a moped through old neighborhoods
Visit a charming, off-the-beaten-path water town with winding canals and stone bridges
Spend a day in Suzhou with immersive cultural experiences, from tea whisking to wandering through local alleys and visiting classical gardens and markets
Enjoy a day in nature in Hangzhou, exploring West Lake and stepping into tea fields with bamboo hats and baskets
Itinerary
DAY
1
DAY
1
Poetic Southern China
Shanghai
MORNING
Shanghai Airport Pickup
AFTERNOON
The Bund & Suzhou Creek Riverside Tour
Poetic Southern China • Afternoon
The Bund & Suzhou Creek Riverside Tour
Join a guided walking tour along the scenic riversides of Suzhou Creek and the Huangpu River, uncovering the story of Shanghai's rise from a humble water town to one of the world's greatest metropolises.
Learn how the rivers shaped the city's development, admire the architectural landmarks of the Bund, and explore Shanghai's colonial history. Across the river, Pudong's skyline tells the story of China's future-facing transformation and economic growth.
Duration: 2 hours
Best seasons: Spring, Summer, Autumn, Winter
Themes: History & Culture, Off-the-Beaten Path
Poetic Southern China • Accommodation
Shanghai Marriott Marquis City Centre
Conveniently situated in the heart of the tourist destination, guests staying at Shanghai Marriott Marquis City Centre can easily access a number of city landmarks as well as entertainment and shopping attractions including, The Bund, Nanjing Road Pedestrian Street and the People's Square. The refreshed features can be seen in the hotel's guestrooms, food and beverage outlets, lobby lounge and the 2,000 square meters flexible event space.
DAY
2
DAY
2
Poetic Southern China
Shanghai
MORNING
Discover Old Shanghai on a Moped
Poetic Southern China • Morning
Discover Old Shanghai on a Moped
Panoramic Shanghai awaits on this exciting moped tour. Feel the wind as you glide along Suzhou Creek, through the Bund's atmospheric backstreets, quiet corners of the Old City, and the leafy avenues of the French Concession.
The route is thoughtfully designed to use mostly light-traffic roads, helping guests cover more ground in comfort and style. Along the way, enjoy delicious local street food and refreshing drinks while your guide shares stories that bring Shanghai's layered history to life.
Duration: 3 hours
Best seasons: Spring, Autumn
Themes: History & Culture, Active & Outdoors, Off-the-Beaten Path
AFTERNOON
Chinese-art-themed Tour in the Former French Quarter
Poetic Southern China • Afternoon
Chinese-art-themed Tour in the Former French Quarter
Experience the Former French Concession's rich history, from traditional alley lanes once home to locals, to peaceful French-style parks and elegant mansions once inhabited by elites. This walking journey combines architectural charm, neighborhood atmosphere, and creative discovery.
Highlights include exploring Tianzifang, enjoying drinks at boutique cafés, wandering through local lanes, and finishing with two different hands-on Chinese art crafts to take home in an artsy studio in Tianzifang.
Duration: 4 hours
Best seasons: Spring, Summer, Autumn, Winter
Themes: History & Culture, Art & Creative, Off-the-Beaten Path
Poetic Southern China • Accommodation
Shanghai Marriott Marquis City Centre
Conveniently situated in the heart of the tourist destination, guests staying at Shanghai Marriott Marquis City Centre can easily access a number of city landmarks as well as entertainment and shopping attractions including, The Bund, Nanjing Road Pedestrian Street and the People's Square. The refreshed features can be seen in the hotel's guestrooms, food and beverage outlets, lobby lounge and the 2,000 square meters flexible event space.
DAY
3
DAY
3
Poetic Southern China
Shanghai
MORNING
Eat Like a Local - Foodie Tour (Breakfast)
Poetic Southern China • Morning
Eat Like a Local - Foodie Tour (Breakfast)
Savor 10 dishes at 5 of Shanghai's most authentic and time-honored eateries while hearing the stories behind the food. Guests will also have the chance to make soup dumplings themselves. Along the way, explore classic Shanghai icons such as Nanjing Road and People's Square, uncovering the untold stories behind these landmarks.
The menu varies by departure. Breakfast options may include crab roe soup dumplings, crispy buns, pancakes, scallion pancake, mango dessert and more. Dinner experiences may include crab roe soup dumplings, crispy buns, braised pork belly, Shanghai steamed rice, Chinese liquor and more.
Duration: 3 hours
Best seasons: Spring, Summer, Autumn, Winter
Themes: History & Culture, Food & Drinks
AFTERNOON
What's Trendy in China? Technology Theme
Poetic Southern China • Afternoon
What's Trendy in China? Technology Theme
Step into China's fast-evolving consumer landscape, where homegrown brands like PopMart, MINISO, and other rising names are reshaping tastes locally and globally. This experience reveals how China has evolved from the world's factory into a creator of influential brands, IP, and consumer trends.
Discover how these brands built their influence, explore their business strategies, and hear the stories behind their success. Food and lifestyle also play a role: highlights include trendy street food, milk tea, and a meal at the world-famous Haidilao, known internationally for its service and frequent appearance in business case studies.
Duration: 4 hours
Best seasons: Spring, Summer, Autumn, Winter
Themes: Food & Drinks, Art & Creative
Poetic Southern China • Accommodation
Shanghai Marriott Marquis City Centre
Conveniently situated in the heart of the tourist destination, guests staying at Shanghai Marriott Marquis City Centre can easily access a number of city landmarks as well as entertainment and shopping attractions including, The Bund, Nanjing Road Pedestrian Street and the People's Square. The refreshed features can be seen in the hotel's guestrooms, food and beverage outlets, lobby lounge and the 2,000 square meters flexible event space.
DAY
4
DAY
4
Poetic Southern China
Suzhou
MORNING
A Day in the Past
Poetic Southern China • Morning
A Day in the Past
Embark on a full-day journey through Suzhou, blending history, culture, and local charm. Discover iconic sites such as classical gardens, serene water alleys, bustling markets, and historic temples.
Along the way, enjoy curated experiences including exploring one of Suzhou's finest gardens, taking a boat ride through scenic canals, and pausing for tea in an ancient-style riverside teahouse. This itinerary offers a rich introduction to Suzhou's artistry, spirituality, and everyday traditions.
Duration: 7 hours (excluding transit)
Best seasons: Spring, Summer, Autumn, Winter
Themes: History & Culture, Food & Drinks, Art & Creative, Off-the-Beaten Path
Poetic Southern China • Accommodation
Shanghai Marriott Marquis City Centre
Conveniently situated in the heart of the tourist destination, guests staying at Shanghai Marriott Marquis City Centre can easily access a number of city landmarks as well as entertainment and shopping attractions including, The Bund, Nanjing Road Pedestrian Street and the People’s Square. The refreshed features can be seen in the hotel’s guestrooms, food and beverage outlets, lobby lounge and the 2,000 square meters flexible event space.
DAY
5
DAY
5
Poetic Southern China
Shanghai/Hangzhou
MORNING+AFTERNOON
Fengjing Watertown: An Authentic Watertown Experience
Poetic Southern China • Morning+afternoon
Fengjing Watertown: An Authentic Watertown Experience
Discover the enchanting Fengjing Watertown near Shanghai, an authentic escape brimming with local charm. Glide through its serene waterways on a private boat, savor delightful street snacks, and uncover fascinating history, including a Mao-era relic and bunker system, and sip a coffee in a grand traditional mansion that once housed a wealthy family and a national champion in the ancient imperial exams.
Duration: 4 hours (excluding transit)
Best seasons: Spring, Summer, Autumn, Winter
Themes: History & Culture, Off-the-Beaten Path
Poetic Southern China • Accommodation
JW Marriott Hotel Hangzhou
JW Marriott Hotel Hangzhou is located in the Hangzhou city center. The guest rooms are tastefully designed and appointed with guests' comfort in mind.
Deluxe rooms, executive rooms and spacious suites are available to meet every discerning taste. The executive lounge overlooks West Lake with spectacular view of downtown and serves a full breakfast as well as choice refreshments and delicate snacks throughout the rest of the day. In the evening, cocktails and selected wines are served along with a variety of appetizers, international and local favorite dishes by our culinary team. Four world-class restaurants offer unforgettable culinary experiences. On-site amenities are catered to your home away from home needs such as a relaxing swim at our indoor pool or working off your fatigue at our well-equipped fitness center. Our friendly and attentive staff is delighted to serve and will strive to make your stay at Hangzhou an enjoyable and unforgettable experience.
DAY
6
DAY
6
Poetic Southern China
Hangzhou
MORNING+AFTERNOON
Where Tea Grows and Nature Unfolds
Poetic Southern China • Morning+afternoon
Where Tea Grows and Nature Unfolds
Experience the poetic beauty of Hangzhou in a day filled with nature, culture, and calm. Begin at West Lake, visiting a hidden lakeside garden and gliding across peaceful waters to quieter shores by boat.
Choose between a short climb for sweeping panoramic views or a visit to Leifeng Pagoda for the same breathtaking vista with ease of access.
In the afternoon, immerse yourself in the heart of Longjing (Dragon Well) tea country. Pick fresh tea leaves, roast them by hand, and taste the delicate flavors of one of China's most famous teas. Conclude your journey with a tranquil walk through a bamboo-lined path.
Duration: 7 hours (excluding transit)
Best seasons: Spring, Summer, Autumn
Themes: History & Culture, Active & Outdoors, Off-the-Beaten Path
Poetic Southern China • Accommodation
JW Marriott Hotel Hangzhou
JW Marriott Hotel Hangzhou is located in the Hangzhou city center. The guest rooms are tastefully designed and appointed with guests' comfort in mind.
Deluxe rooms, executive rooms and spacious suites are available to meet every discerning taste. The executive lounge overlooks West Lake with spectacular view of downtown and serves a full breakfast as well as choice refreshments and delicate snacks throughout the rest of the day. In the evening, cocktails and selected wines are served along with a variety of appetizers, international and local favorite dishes by our culinary team. Four world-class restaurants offer unforgettable culinary experiences. On-site amenities are catered to your home away from home needs such as a relaxing swim at our indoor pool or working off your fatigue at our well-equipped fitness center. Our friendly and attentive staff is delighted to serve and will strive to make your stay at Hangzhou an enjoyable and unforgettable experience.
DAY
7
DAY
7
Poetic Southern China
Hangzhou
MORNING
Xixi - Navigate the Urban Wetland
Poetic Southern China • Morning
Xixi - Navigate the Urban Wetland
Xixi Wetland is China's first and only national urban wetland park, located just a short distance from the heart of Hangzhou. Step into a completely different world where quiet waterways and lush greenery replace the pace of city life.
Glide along maze-like canals on a peaceful boat ride, reaching the hidden center of the wetland. Along the way, observe local flora, birdlife, and the subtle beauty of this unique ecosystem.
Your journey leads to a secluded teahouse, where you can relax with afternoon tea and local delicacies, fully immersed in the calm atmosphere of the wetlands.
Duration: 2 hours
Best seasons: Spring, Summer, Autumn
Themes: Food & Drinks, Art & Creative, Off-the-Beaten Path
AFTERNOON
Shanghai Airport Dropoff
Enquiry Form
Enquiry Form
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