Immerse Yourself in the Rich History and Stunning Landscapes of Suzhou, Nanjing, and Hangzhou
For those with an insatiable wanderlust and a penchant for history, stepping into the cities of Suzhou, Nanjing, and Hangzhou is akin to time travel. These three gems, located in eastern China, offer a rich tapestry of ancient traditions, architectural wonders, and picturesque landscapes. Over ten days, this itinerary will guide you through a mesmerizing journey, immersing you in the heritage culture while offering snapshots of modern Chinese urban life.
Exploring the Venice of the East: Suzhou
Start your journey in Suzhou, often referred to as the “Venice of the East”. With its network of canals and stunning classical gardens, Suzhou is a testament to China’s ancient artistry and innovative urban planning. Spend your first few days exploring the Garden of the Humble Administrator, the largest of Suzhou’s gardens and a UNESCO World Heritage site.
You’ll be captivated by the garden’s harmonious blend of water, rocks, plants, and pavilions. Also, don’t forget to visit the Suzhou Museum, designed by renowned architect I.M. Pei, which houses more than 15,000 pieces of cultural relics.
Unravel the Stories of Imperial China in Nanjing
Next, we move to Nanjing, the ancient capital of six Chinese dynasties. It’s here that you can delve deeper into the country’s imperial past. Take a step back in time as you walk along the mighty Ming City Wall, built during the Ming Dynasty.
The city’s rich history is also echoed in the Nanjing Massacre Memorial Hall, a solemn reminder of the atrocities committed during the Second Sino-Japanese War. To balance the solemnity, take a serene boat ride on the Qinhuai River, illuminated by the glow of traditional Chinese lanterns at dusk.
Revel in the Natural Beauty of Hangzhou
End your journey in Hangzhou, a city renowned for its natural beauty and historic relics. Explore the ethereal West Lake, a UNESCO World Heritage Site known for its stunning vistas and ancient landmarks.
Take a leisurely bike ride around the lake, stopping to enjoy the view of the Three Pools Mirroring the Moon, the most renowned sight on West Lake. Also, pay a visit to the historic Lingyin Temple, one of the most significant and wealthiest Buddhist temples in China.
“Traveling – it leaves you speechless, then turns you into a storyteller.” – Ibn Battuta
At the conclusion of this ten-day journey, you’ll have woven your own stories and created unforgettable memories. You’ll have watched the sunrise over the tranquil West Lake, walked the ancient city walls of Nanjing, and lost yourself in the enchanting gardens of Suzhou. Through the tapestry of experiences, you’ll have come to appreciate the rich history and stunning landscapes of eastern China, and hopefully, ignited a desire to explore even more. This is the power and allure of immersive travel – it leaves you yearning for the next adventure.
