At Red Lantern Adventures, we pride ourselves on curating seamless, memorable travel experiences across China. Recently, we had the pleasure of welcoming a group of Norwegian tourists who no longer require visas for stays of up to 15 days in China. Taking full advantage of this, they booked a week-long journey with us, exploring the captivating cities of Suzhou and Hangzhou. From serene classical gardens to scenic lakes and historical streets, this tour was the perfect blend of relaxation, culture, and discovery.
Let’s take you through their unforgettable adventure, from their arrival at Shanghai’s Pudong International Airport to their explorations of two of China’s most picturesque cities.
Planning the Trip: Flights and Accommodations
Without the need for visas, planning the trip was even more straightforward. We helped the group book round-trip plane tickets from Oslo to Shanghai, ensuring their flights were convenient and aligned with their schedule. For accommodations, we reserved excellent hotels in both Suzhou and Hangzhou, ensuring they experienced the utmost comfort with beautiful views and close proximity to the cities’ key attractions.
Day 1: Arrival in Shanghai and Transfer to Suzhou
Upon arriving at Shanghai’s Pudong International Airport, the Norwegian group was greeted by our friendly driver and guide. After a long flight, they appreciated the luxury of having a private vehicle waiting for them, which comfortably took them directly to Suzhou, a short 90-minute drive from Shanghai.
Suzhou, often referred to as the "Venice of the East" due to its picturesque canals, is known for its classical gardens and silk industry. After checking into their charming riverside hotel, the group enjoyed a peaceful evening walk through Suzhou’s quiet streets, soaking in the tranquil atmosphere.
Day 2: Exploring Suzhou’s Classical Gardens
Their second day in China began with a visit to two of Suzhou’s UNESCO World Heritage-listed classical gardens, which are considered masterpieces of Chinese landscape design. We started at the Humble Administrator’s Garden, the largest garden in Suzhou, where the group wandered through its maze of pathways, bamboo groves, and peaceful ponds. The guide explained the garden’s historical significance, dating back to the Ming Dynasty, and shared insights into traditional Chinese gardening principles.
Next, they visited the Lingering Garden, which is smaller but equally beautiful, with its intricate rock formations and carefully curated plant life. The group was particularly fascinated by the garden’s harmonious balance between architecture and nature, reflecting the calm and introspective philosophy of Chinese garden design.
In the afternoon, they explored Suzhou’s historic Shantang Street, a charming waterway lined with traditional houses, shops, and tea houses. They had the opportunity to try local snacks, buy handcrafted souvenirs, and even take a short boat ride through the canal, offering a picturesque view of Suzhou’s ancient water town charm.
Day 3: Silk and Canals of Suzhou
On their third day, the group was immersed in Suzhou’s rich silk heritage with a visit to the Suzhou Silk Museum. Our guide explained the city’s long-standing reputation as the center of China’s silk production, which dates back more than 2,500 years. The group watched live demonstrations of silk weaving and admired intricate silk embroidery, gaining a deeper appreciation for the craftsmanship behind this luxurious fabric.
After the museum, we arranged a visit to the Master of the Nets Garden, one of Suzhou’s smaller gardens but renowned for its detailed and compact design. Despite its size, the garden perfectly encapsulates the essence of Suzhou’s traditional aesthetic and is one of the best-preserved in the city.
In the afternoon, we organized a tranquil boat cruise along the city’s ancient canals. The group glided past traditional whitewashed houses with black-tiled roofs, witnessing daily life unfold on the water’s edge. The peacefulness of the canal combined with the historical architecture left a lasting impression on the group.
Day 4: Arrival in Hangzhou and West Lake Wonders
After three days in Suzhou, it was time to head to the next destination: Hangzhou. We arranged a comfortable private transfer, and after a scenic two-hour drive, the group arrived in this breathtaking city known for its natural beauty and cultural treasures.
Their hotel, conveniently located near West Lake, offered stunning views of this UNESCO-listed site, which is often described as the “soul of Hangzhou.” After checking in, the group spent the afternoon exploring West Lake on a traditional boat tour, admiring the willow trees swaying along the shores, ancient temples tucked into the landscape, and the distant mist-covered mountains.
The guide pointed out significant landmarks, including the famous Broken Bridge, where according to legend, lovers reunite, and the Leifeng Pagoda, which offers spectacular views over the lake.
Day 5: Lingyin Temple and Longjing Tea Fields
The fifth day was dedicated to immersing the group in the spiritual and natural aspects of Hangzhou. We started with a visit to Lingyin Temple, one of the most important Buddhist temples in China. The group marveled at the grand halls and ancient Buddha statues, and our guide shared the rich history of this spiritual site, which dates back over 1,600 years. The adjacent Feilai Peak, with its forested pathways and intricate stone carvings of Buddhist figures, provided the perfect setting for reflection and exploration.
In the afternoon, we headed to the Longjing Tea Fields, famous for producing some of China’s finest green tea. The group enjoyed walking through the terraced fields, meeting local farmers who explained the traditional methods of hand-picking tea leaves. They participated in a tea-tasting ceremony, savoring the delicate flavors of freshly brewed Dragon Well tea while learning about its significance in Chinese culture.
Day 6: Exploring Hangzhou’s Grand Canal
On day six, the group delved into the historical side of Hangzhou with a boat ride along the Grand Canal, the longest artificial waterway in the world. This ancient engineering marvel, which connects Hangzhou to Beijing, played a significant role in China’s economic development.
The group visited a nearby museum dedicated to the history of the canal, learning about its construction, the role it played in trade, and the daily lives of those who lived along its banks. They then explored the Qinghefang Ancient Street, a well-preserved street filled with traditional shops, artisans, and tea houses. The lively atmosphere and historical charm provided a unique cultural experience.
Day 7: A Relaxing Day at Guo’s Villa and Departure
For their final day, we planned a relaxing morning visit to Guo’s Villa, one of Hangzhou’s most famous private gardens. Situated on the northern shore of West Lake, the villa is a stunning example of traditional Chinese garden design, with elegant pavilions, rockeries, and serene water features.
The group enjoyed a leisurely stroll through the peaceful surroundings, reflecting on the beauty and serenity of their time in China. Afterward, we treated them to a traditional Hangzhou-style lunch, featuring local delicacies like West Lake vinegar fish and Dongpo pork, a rich and flavorful dish named after the famous Song Dynasty poet Su Dongpo.
With their week-long journey coming to an end, we arranged a comfortable transfer back to Shanghai, where the group departed from Pudong International Airport for their return flight to Norway. The group left China with fond memories, eager to share stories of their experiences in Suzhou and Hangzhou with friends and family back home.
Why Choose Red Lantern Adventures?
This incredible week-long tour of Suzhou and Hangzhou is just one example of how Red Lantern Adventures offers seamless, tailor-made travel experiences throughout China. From helping Norwegian tourists take advantage of visa-free entry to China, to planning every aspect of their journey—flights, accommodations, transportation, and guided tours—we ensure that your trip is worry-free and full of unforgettable experiences.
Whether you’re interested in China’s breathtaking landscapes, rich history, or unique culture, Red Lantern Adventures is here to help you plan your perfect getaway. Contact us today to start your journey!
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