Nanjing: 6-Day Jiangnan Tour with Meals and Hotels

Nanjing: 6-Day Jiangnan Tour with Meals and Hotels
Location: East China, China
Country: China
Price: $744 per person
Supplier Name: (Based on the source, the experience provider isn’t explicitly named, but this is from GetYourGuide)

A quick look at what awaits
This 6-day trip takes you through some of China’s most captivating southern cities—Nanjing, Wuxi, Suzhou, Hangzhou, and Wuzhen—starting from Shanghai or Nanjing itself. For just $744, you get a thoughtfully curated itinerary with luxury accommodations, guided tours, and plenty of local cuisine.
What we love most? First, the chance to explore West Lake in Hangzhou, a UNESCO site that truly embodies China’s poetic landscapes. Second, the water town of Wuzhen, with its enchanting bridges and traditional buildings that feel like stepping into a classic Chinese watercolor.

A potential consideration is the tight schedule, which requires a fair amount of travel and walking. But if you’re comfortable with a busy itinerary and want a well-rounded taste of Jiangnan, this trip offers excellent value.
This tour is perfect for travelers who appreciate cultural sights, scenic landscapes, and comfortable luxury—especially those new to China or short on time but eager to experience several highlights in a single trip.

Key Points

Variety of destinations: From historical Nanjing to scenic West Lake and ancient water towns, each stop adds something special.
Comfortable accommodations: Staying in luxury hotels enhances the experience and makes the busy days more relaxing.
Local cuisine included: With 8 lunches and 5 breakfasts, you’ll enjoy authentic dishes in different regional styles.
Guided tours: Knowledgeable guides like Liu or Wang help bring history and culture alive.
Efficient transportation: Air-conditioned coach travel keeps the group comfortable through multiple cities.
Flexible options: Book now with the option to pay later and cancel up to 24 hours in advance.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Exploring the Itinerary in Detail

Day 1: Arrival in Shanghai or Nanjing

Most travelers begin by arriving in Shanghai or Nanjing, then settle into a luxury hotel. This first day is open for you to relax or explore at your own pace. If arriving in Shanghai, you might enjoy a peaceful evening along the historic The Bund, where the skyline’s glittering reflections mirror the city’s blend of old and new.

Day 2: From Shanghai to Nanjing via Wuxi and Nianhua Bay

The journey kicks off with a trip to Nanjing, a city known for its historical significance. Visiting the Confucius Temple Commercial Street offers a lively introduction to traditional architecture and local markets. It’s a bustling area where modern shops sit alongside ancient temples, giving you a tangible sense of Jiangnan’s lively urban culture.
Next, you’ll visit the Sun Yat-sen Mausoleum, a serene spot with impressive architecture and peaceful gardens, perfect for contemplating China’s modern history.

In the evening, the tour shifts to Wuxi, specifically the Zen town of Nianhua Bay. Here, you’ll enjoy traditional architecture and Zen-inspired cultural experiences. It’s a quieter, contemplative contrast to the busier city sights and offers a glimpse into the spiritual side of Jiangnan.

Day 3: Suzhou’s Gardens and Wuzhen Water Town

The day begins in Suzhou, often called China’s “Garden City.” The Lingering Garden is a highlight—an exquisite example of classic Jiangnan landscape design, with intricate rockeries, tranquil ponds, and elegant pavilions. We loved how the garden’s peaceful atmosphere invites quiet reflection amid its meticulously crafted scenery.

Later, the journey takes you to Wuzhen, one of China’s most picturesque water towns. You’ll stroll through its ancient streets lined with whitewashed buildings, crossing stone bridges lit by lanterns at dusk. The Xizha district offers a glimpse into traditional life with Ming and Qing architecture, quiet canals, and local crafts. Many travelers enjoy the lantern-lit walk, which adds a fairy-tale touch.

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Day 4: West Lake in Hangzhou and Cultural Experiences

Traveling to Hangzhou, the day is centered on the West Lake Scenic Area—a stunning stretch of water surrounded by temples, pagodas, and lush hills. The views are truly postcard-perfect, especially with the backdrop of misty mornings or sunset reflections.

In the evening, a spectacular performance of “Songcheng Eternal Love” brings to life legends from the Southern Song Dynasty, blending storytelling, music, and dance. This show is a highlight, giving you cultural insights while entertaining with impressive staging.

Day 5: Hangzhou’s Historic Streets and Shanghai’s Skyline

Start with a visit to a traditional tea house—a must-do in Hangzhou, famous for its Longjing tea. You’ll learn about tea production and taste fresh leaves. Then, a stroll along Hefang Street reveals well-preserved Ming and Qing architecture, bustling shops, and street food vendors.

Later, you’ll head back to Shanghai, where the iconic The Bund offers a mix of historic colonial buildings and modern skyscrapers. A Huangpu River cruise caps the day, providing a relaxed way to admire Shanghai’s skyline—an impressive combination of old and new, all lit up at night.

Day 6: Free Time and Departure

Your final day is flexible—whether exploring Nanjing Road, visiting local markets, or simply relaxing at your hotel. It’s a good time to reflect on the journey before heading home or onward.

What the Tour Includes and What to Keep in Mind

The package offers 5 breakfasts and 8 lunches, which is quite generous, giving you a chance to sample regional dishes almost every day. The luxury hotels ensure a restful night after busy days of sightseeing. The professional guides like Liu or Wang are known for their friendly, informative style, making history and culture engaging without feeling heavy.

Transportation is via air-conditioned coach, which helps keep you comfortable across the long travel distances. Entrance fees to key sights like Sun Yat-sen’s Mausoleum, Lingering Garden, Wuzhen, and the Huangpu River cruise are included, so you won’t need to worry about extra costs unless you choose optional activities.

One thing to consider is the itinerary’s pace. With multiple cities, a good amount of walking and travel is involved, so comfortable shoes are a must. Also, weather can influence plans—sometimes schedules are adjusted for rain or traffic, so flexibility is key.

Why This Tour Delivers Value

At $744, this tour packs quite a punch. You visit six destinations with a blend of cultural, scenic, and historic sites, all while staying in well-rated luxury hotels. The included meals and guided tours mean less planning stress and more immersive experiences. Compared to booking each part separately, this package offers convenience and a coherent journey through Jiangnan.

Many travelers appreciated the stunning views, especially at West Lake and Wuzhen’s waterways, which feel like stepping into a traditional Chinese painting. The opportunity to combine historic sites, scenic landscapes, and vibrant towns in one trip makes this an excellent choice for those wanting a well-rounded taste of East China.

Who Will Enjoy This Tour Most?

This experience is ideal for culture seekers who love history, architecture, and scenic beauty. It suits travelers comfortable with group travel and active days, including walking and sightseeing. If you’re looking for a relaxing yet comprehensive introduction to Jiangnan’s highlights, this trip hits the mark.

It’s also great for those who prefer organized tours with included meals and accommodations, allowing you to focus on enjoying the sights rather than logistics.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is this tour suitable for children?
Children under 1.2 meters are welcome but do not include meals or entrance tickets. The tour is not recommended for very young children or those with mobility issues because of the amount of walking and sightseeing involved.

Are meals included?
Yes. You’ll receive 5 breakfasts and 8 lunches, giving you a chance to enjoy authentic regional dishes.

What are the main sights I will see?
Highlights include Nanjing’s Sun Yat-sen Mausoleum, Suzhou’s Lingering Garden, Wuzhen Water Town, West Lake in Hangzhou, and a cruise along the Huangpu River in Shanghai.

What should I bring?
Comfortable shoes, a hat, sunscreen, camera, and water are recommended. Be prepared for a fair amount of walking and outdoor activity.

How flexible is the itinerary?
Schedules may be adjusted due to weather or traffic, but guides aim to keep the experience smooth and enjoyable. You can explore some areas at your own pace on free days.

Are the guides knowledgeable?
Yes, guides are professional and friendly, providing insightful commentary and helping you understand the cultural significance of each site.

Is this tour suitable for solo travelers?
Absolutely. Group tours like this often create opportunities to meet fellow travelers, and the organized structure makes navigating multiple cities easier.

What about transportation?
All transportation is by air-conditioned coach, making long-distance travel between cities comfortable and convenient.

Are there optional activities?
Some activities, like certain local crafts or additional visits, might be available but are not included in the base price.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, offering some flexibility if your schedule shifts.

In summary, this 6-day Jiangnan tour offers an excellent combination of scenic beauty, cultural insight, and comfort. It’s a well-priced option for travelers eager to see some of China’s most beautiful and historically significant sites without the hassle of planning each detail independently. Whether you’re interested in the poetic West Lake, ancient water towns, or vibrant cities, this trip provides a balanced, authentic experience that highlights Jiangnan’s best.

You can check availability for your dates here: