Essence Tour from Nanjing to Suzhou: History & Tongli Water Town

Itinerary

• Day 1: Arrival, Nanjing

  Welcome to Nanjing, the time-honored capital of Jiangsu Province!

  On arrival, your private guide will pick you up and escort you to your hotel to help you check in. The rest of the day is free for you to relax and recover from jet lag.

  • Nanjing

• Day 2: Explore Nanjing History Culture and Reflection

  Start your journey at the Presidential Palace, where a series of important political events took place. Entering the palace is like opening up an album of modern Chinese history. Today, it is the largest architectural heritage of modern China and the Museum of Chinese Modern History. Appreciate its exquisite Jiangnan gardens as well as modern buildings influenced by Western style.

  Move on to Zhonghua Gate, which means Chinese Gate. It is the most splendid part of the ancient City Wall of Nanjing. Continue to the Imperial Examination Museum, where you'll learn about the rigorous civil exam system that once shaped the destinies of countless scholars pursuing official careers in imperial China. Temple of Confucius will be the next. You will see a large scale of ancient Chinese architectures and get an understanding of Confucianism and the way Chinese think.

  The day concludes at the Nanjing Massacre Memorial Hall, a solemn space honoring the victims of World War II. The exhibits are moving and at times heavy, but they serve as a powerful reminder of history and the resilience of Nanjing.

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  • Nanjing

• Day 3: Nanjing - Suzhou

  Today, you will firstly visit the Sun Yat-sen Mausoleum, the tomb of the "Father of the Nation" in the Republic of China. He has been widely revered in both mainland China and Taiwan.

  Continue to visit the tomb of the first emperor of the Ming Dynasty, Hongwu Emperor Mausoleum, also called Ming Xiaoling. Afterward, take 1.5 hours' high-speed train to Suzhou. Upon arrival, your private guide and driver will take care of you.

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  • Suzhou

• Day 4: Suzhou Highlights

  Start your day at the Lingering Garden, where elegant rocks, serene pools, and graceful pavilions capture the essence of classical China. Explore the winding pathways and enjoy a rickshaw ride through the old town, soaking in the charm of traditional streets.

  Next, visit the Suzhou Museum, designed by the legendary I.M. Pei. Its modern architecture harmonizes beautifully with local cultural elements, offering a window into Suzhou's rich heritage.

  Then, head to the No.1 Silk Factory, a comprehensive site that combines a museum, production area, store, and fashion show platform. Watch how silkworms are nurtured and how delicate cocoons are transformed into lustrous silk - a fascinating blend of history and craftsmanship.

  End the day with the Master of Nets Garden Show, where classic Chinese landscaping and evening illumination create a magical finale to your Suzhou experience.

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  • Suzhou

• Day 5: Tongli Water Town Excursion, Departure

  Drive to Tongli Water Town, often called the "Venice of China". Stroll along its charming canals and stone bridges, soaking in the tranquil atmosphere and catching glimpses of daily life in the Jiangnan region - you might even see locals washing clothes by the river. Experience a hand-operated boat ride for a unique perspective of this picturesque town. Late in the afternoon, transfer to the railway station for your onward journey to Shanghai or another city, concluding a peaceful day in one of China's most enchanting water towns.

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