How to Plan Your Private Suzhou and Zhouzhuang Water Village Day Trip from Shanghai

Planning a private tour can be a daunting task, but with this exclusive experience to Suzhou and Zhouzhuang Water Village, it doesn’t have to be. This private tour ensures a personalized experience for you and your party, with the flexibility to adjust the itinerary to your liking. Let us guide you on how to plan your private tour to Suzhou and Zhouzhuang from Shanghai.

Overview

Avoid the rigid and impersonal experience of a large group tour with this private guided tour from Shanghai to Suzhou and the water village of Zhouzhuang. In the company of just your party and a guide, explore only the sites that interest you and enjoy a relaxing boat ride through Zhouzhuang. This private tour exclusively for your party ensures a personal experience. It also provides flexibility to adjust the itinerary to your own preferences. Hassle-free pick-up and drop-off from your downtown Shanghai hotel is included, along with lunch, all admission fees, and a boat tour.

What’s Included

• Private guide
• Transport by private vehicle
• Hotel pickup and drop-off in downtown Shanghai
• Gratuities
• Entrance fees to additional Suzhou Gardens
• Rickshaw ride in Suzhou

Meeting and Pickup

Pickup points:

• Select a pickup point

Pickup details:

• Your centrally located hotel in Shanghai.

What to Expect

1. Zhouzhuang Water Town

Your tour starts with pickup from your hotel in downtown Shanghai. Your private guide will meet you at your hotel, and you will be driven in a private vehicle to Zhouzhuang, one of China’s most famous water towns. Explore the beautifully preserved architecture and enjoy the many attractions including a boat tour, Ming and Qing Dynasty houses and bridges, temples and museums.

2. Humble Administrator’s Garden

Next, head to Suzhou to visit the Humble Administrator’s Garden, one of the four most famous gardens in China. Stroll through the picturesque grounds and learn about the history of this UNESCO World Heritage Site. You’ll also experience a rickshaw ride through Suzhou, where you can see life in the city from a different perspective.

3. Additional Suzhou Gardens

Your tour ends with a visit to additional Suzhou gardens, the Bonsai Garden, the Silk Factory and other local attractions, depending on your interests. Your guide will then take you back to your hotel in downtown Shanghai, concluding your private tour experience.

Book Your Tour Now

Booking a private tour to Suzhou and Zhouzhuang water village is a perfect way to fully explore these two beautiful and historic sites. With a private guide, you can be sure that your interests will be the focus of the experience, and with the flexibility to adjust the itinerary, you can create the tour that suits your needs. To book this tour, book here on Viator.

Frequently Asked Questions About Shanghai

Shanghai, also known as the “Pearl of the Orient,” is a vibrant city located in China. With a population of over 24 million, it is the largest city in China and one of the largest in the world. Shanghai is a hub for finance, technology and culture, and attracts millions of visitors every year. Here, we have compiled a list of the most frequently asked questions about Shanghai.

1. What is the best time to visit Shanghai?

Shanghai has a subtropical climate with four distinct seasons. The best time to visit Shanghai is during the spring and autumn months, which are from March to May and September to November, respectively. The weather is mild, and the skies are clear, making it ideal for outdoor activities. The summer months, June to August, are hot and humid, while the winter months, December to February, are cold and damp.

2. What are some must-visit places in Shanghai?

Shanghai has a rich history and culture, and there are several must-visit places in the city. Some of the most popular attractions include:

• The Bund – a waterfront area with buildings influenced by European architecture
• Yu Garden – a classical Chinese garden with traditional architecture
• Shanghai Tower – the tallest building in China with a panoramic view of the city
• Tianzifang – a trendy neighborhood with narrow alleyways, cafes, and boutique shops
• Shanghai Museum – a museum that houses over 120,000 cultural relics

3. What are some famous foods to try in Shanghai?

Shanghai is known for its delicious cuisine and offers a variety of dishes, including:

• Xiaolongbao – steamed soup dumplings filled with meat or vegetables
• Scallion Oil Noodles – savory noodles mixed with scallion oil, sauce, and meat or vegetables
• Roast Duck – roasted duck served with pancakes and vegetables
• Sheng Jian Bao – pan-fried buns filled with pork, bread crumbs, and soup

4. What is the currency used in Shanghai?

The official currency used in Shanghai is the Chinese yuan (CNY). Visitors can exchange their currency for yuan at airports, banks, and hotels. Some popular credit cards, such as Visa and Mastercard, are accepted in Shanghai, but it’s always advisable to have some yuan on hand.

5. What is the transportation system like in Shanghai?

Shanghai has a well-developed public transportation system that includes buses, taxis, and trains. The metro system is the most convenient way to get around the city, with 16 lines and over 300 stations. Visitors can purchase a rechargeable transportation card, which can be used on all forms of public transportation.

6. What is the dress code in Shanghai?

Shanghai is a cosmopolitan city with a diverse culture, and there is no strict dress code. However, visitors should dress modestly and avoid revealing clothing when visiting religious sites or traditional areas of the city. Comfortable shoes are recommended for exploring the city, as there is a lot of walking involved.

7. What are some etiquette rules to follow in Shanghai?

Shanghai has a rich culture, and visitors are expected to follow certain etiquette rules, such as:

• Respect elders and seniors
• Avoid pointing with your finger
• Always use both hands when giving or receiving items
• Avoid public displays of affection
• Wait to be seated at restaurants

8. What is the voltage used in Shanghai?

The voltage used in Shanghai is 220V, and the frequency is 50Hz. Visitors may need to bring a converter to use their electrical appliances, such as laptops or mobile phones.

9. What are the visa requirements for visiting Shanghai?

Visitors may need to obtain a visa before traveling to Shanghai, depending on their country of origin. Visitors can apply for a visa at their nearest Chinese embassy or consulate. There are different types of visas available, including tourist visas, business visas, and student visas.

Book Your Tour Now

Shanghai is a city rich in culture and history, and there are plenty of things to see and do. Whether you’re exploring the traditional neighborhoods or the modern skyscrapers, Shanghai has something for everyone. By following some basic etiquette rules and being aware of the local customs, visitors can fully enjoy their trip to this amazing city.

How to Spend Your Time as a Tourist in Shanghai

Shanghai, one of the largest cities in China and the world, is a fascinating destination for tourists. It offers a perfect blend of modernity and ancient history, with towering skyscrapers and traditional temples. There is so much to see and do in this vibrant city that you can easily spend days exploring different neighborhoods. Here’s an informative guide on how to spend your time as a tourist in Shanghai.

1. Visit the Bund

The Bund is one of the most famous tourist attractions in Shanghai, and it’s not difficult to see why. Located on the west bank of the Huangpu River, the Bund offers spectacular views of Shanghai’s skyline. Take a stroll along the waterfront promenade and admire the colonial architecture of the buildings on the opposite bank. The best time to visit the Bund is in the evening when the buildings light up, creating a magical atmosphere.

2. Explore Shanghai’s Old Town

Shanghai’s Old Town, also known as the Yu Garden area, is a must-visit for tourists. The area is home to several historical landmarks, including the Yu Garden, a traditional Chinese garden dating back to the Ming Dynasty. The garden features beautiful pavilions, rockeries, and ponds. Nearby, you’ll find the City God Temple, a Taoist temple built during the Ming Dynasty. The temple features numerous halls, courtyards, and gardens, and it’s a great place to learn more about Chinese religious practices.

3. Check out the Oriental Pearl Tower

The Oriental Pearl Tower, one of Shanghai’s most recognizable landmarks, is a TV tower located in Pudong. The tower is over 468 meters tall and features a revolving restaurant, an indoor observation deck, and an outdoor observation deck. The outdoor observation deck offers stunning 360-degree views of Shanghai’s skyline.

4. Visit the Shanghai Museum

The Shanghai Museum is a world-class museum that showcases the art and history of China. The museum’s collection includes over 120,000 pieces, including ceramics, jade, calligraphy, and paintings. The museum is located in the People’s Square area, and admission is free.

5. Take a Walk through Tianzifang

Tianzifang is a labyrinth of narrow alleyways, traditional Shikumen-style buildings, and trendy cafes, art galleries, and boutiques. The area is located in the French Concession and is a great place to explore Shanghai’s bohemian side.

6. Visit the Jade Buddha Temple

The Jade Buddha Temple, a Buddhist temple in the Jing’an District, is another popular tourist attraction. The temple features two jade Buddha statues brought from Burma in the nineteenth century. Visitors can also admire the other Buddhist statues, intricate carvings, and impressive architecture.

7. Enjoy a Nightlife Experience in Xintiandi

Xintiandi, located in the French Concession, is a pedestrianized street that features a mix of trendy bars, restaurants, and shops. The area is a great place to experience Shanghai’s nightlife, and it’s especially popular with young locals.

8. Take a Day Trip to Suzhou

Suzhou, a city located about 100 kilometers west of Shanghai, is known for its classical gardens and canals. Visitors can take a day trip from Shanghai to Suzhou to explore the city’s UNESCO-listed gardens, including the Humble Administrator’s Garden and the Lingering Garden.

Book Your Tour Now

There’s so much to see and do in Shanghai that you’ll never get bored. Whether you prefer exploring historical landmarks, modern architecture, or trendy neighborhoods, Shanghai has something for everyone. Follow this guide for a well-rounded tourist experience in this fascinating city. Don’t forget to try some of the local cuisine along the way!