5-Day Shanghai, Hangzhou and Suzhou Bullet Train Tour

Five days linking Shanghai, Hangzhou and Suzhou by bullet train was such a smart way to see the region. The trains are fast and spotless and our guide met us at each station. West Lake in Hangzhou at sunset and the classical gardens of Suzhou were the dreamy highlights, while Shanghai's Bund skyline bookended the trip.

The canal towns near Suzhou were the surprise of the trip, like stepping back a few centuries with the stone bridges and waterways. Hangzhou's West Lake boat ride was serene. Shanghai gave us the modern contrast on the Bund and in the old town. The whole route was customisable and they happily added a tea plantation visit.

Loved that it was private and flexible. We swapped one Shanghai museum for more time in the Suzhou gardens and they made it happen. The bullet train between cities is part of the fun, you cover huge distances in under an hour. West Lake, the Humble Administrator's Garden and the Yu Garden were all stunning.

A well-paced introduction to the Yangtze delta. Five days, three cities, almost no time wasted thanks to the trains. Hangzhou felt a touch rushed for my taste but Suzhou's gardens and canals made up for it. Shanghai's Bund at night is unmissable. Good guides in each city, all spoke clear English.

The gardens of Suzhou were even more beautiful than the photos, every corner framed like a painting. Combining them with Hangzhou's West Lake and cosmopolitan Shanghai gave a great range over five days. The bullet train transfers were effortless. Private setup meant we never queued for tickets anywhere.