Arrive in Shanghai and meet your guide at the airport. Transfer by private vehicle to Suzhou, a 1.5-hour drive to this city famed for its classical gardens and tranquil waterways. Check into your hotel and take a moment to unwind, enjoying the serene charm of Suzhou’s canals and tree-lined streets.

Start the day exploring Suzhou's iconic gardens, beginning with the Lingering Garden and the Humble Administrator's Garden, where winding paths, lotus ponds, and ornate pavilions create a serene tapestry. In the afternoon, experience Suzhou's delicate culture with a live Kunqu Opera performance. Finish with a rickshaw ride through the old town, wandering narrow lanes and catching glimpses of traditional architecture.

About a 40-minute drive from Suzhou city center, venture to Tongli, a charming water town. Glide along its serene canals on a traditional hand-pulled boat, passing graceful stone bridges and riverside houses. Stroll through winding alleys lined with tea shops and artisanal boutiques before returning to Suzhou to catch your high-speed train to Nanjing. Upon arrival, your local guide will meet you at the station and escort you to your hotel, introducing you to the city known for its rich history, ancient city walls, and vibrant cultural heritage.

Visit the Sun Yat-sen Mausoleum, nestled among verdant hills, and experience the solemn grandeur of this tribute to the "Father of Modern China." Continue to Ming Xiaoling Tomb, where golden ginkgo and fiery maple leaves frame imperial stone carvings. One of the highlights here is the Sacred Way, lined with massive paired stone statues of elephants, tigers, and other mythical creatures.

After enjoying a local lunch, head to Zhonghua Gate, climbing its massive masonry walls and peering through the arched gateways that once defended the ancient city. Take some time to explore the lively nearby streets of Laomendong, where local snacks and shops bring the historic district to life.

Begin the day on a reflective note at the Memorial Hall of the Victims in the Nanjing Massacre by Japanese Invaders. Here, you will gain insight into this painful chapter in history, commemorate the innocent lives lost, and reflect on the trauma of war and the preciousness of peace.

Afterwards, we'll drive about one hour to Qixia Temple, surrounded by lush green mountains and tranquil forests. Wander among its serene pagodas, prayer halls, and centuries-old cliff-carved Buddha statues, let our hearts calm under the Buddha's peaceful smile and experience inner healing from the sorrow of the war memories in the morning.

Take a morning high-speed train from Nanjing to Huangshan (approximately 2 hours). Upon arrival, board a private vehicle and travel about 1.5 hours to one of the most picturesque villages, Hongcun. Stroll among its iconic Huizhou-style architecture, wandering quiet lanes and nearby fields, soaking in the serene countryside and charming rural scenery. In the evening, return to Huangshan city and check into your hotel.

This morning, take a cable car up Huangshan, China’s iconic mountain renowned for jagged granite peaks, twisted pines, and drifting clouds that create a "sea of mist." Explore the North Sea Scenic Area, where uniquely shaped rocks and sculpted pine trees rise dramatically from the mist, revealing one breathtaking panorama after another. Wander along stone paths and viewing platforms, capturing the legendary beauty of Huangshan as the light shifts across the peaks. Spend the night on the mountain, surrounded by tranquil scenery and the crisp mountain air.

If the weather allows, wake up early to catch the sunrise, as golden light spills over Huangshan's rugged peaks. Explore the West Sea Scenic Area, where jagged cliffs, unique rock formations, and pine-studded ridges reveal the mountain's dramatic beauty. Begin your descent, savoring the final panoramic views before transferring to the high-speed train back to Shanghai. Upon arrival, check into your hotel and enjoy a well-deserved rest.

Start your day with a stroll along the iconic Bund, where colonial-era buildings line the Huangpu River and offer stunning views of Shanghai's modern skyline. Next, explore the vibrant former French Concession, wandering the charming alleys of Xintiandi and Tianzifang, alive with cafés, boutiques, and local artistry.

At midday, step into a cozy local restaurant for a hands-on culinary experience - learn to make delicate xiao long bao (soup dumplings) and flavorful wontons, then savor your creations alongside authentic Shanghainese dishes. Conclude your adventure atop the soaring Shanghai Tower, enjoying breathtaking panoramic views of the city. For those interested in exploring further, an optional Huangpu River evening cruise offers a stunning perspective of Shanghai's illuminated skyline and vibrant riverside scenery.

Transfer to Shanghai Pudong or Hongqiao Airport for your onward journey, taking with your memories of layered history, elegant gardens, magnificent mountains, and vibrant cityscapes that showcase China's colorful cultural tapestry.