Hangzhou: Jinxi Water Town & Kunshan Garden Private Day Trip

Slip into the gentle rhythm of old Jiangnan on this relaxed private day trip from Hangzhou to the canal town of Jinxi and the garden city of Kunshan. After a comfortable hotel pickup, your private driver and English-speaking guide whisk you east to a quieter, more authentic side of China's famous water towns.

First you'll explore Jinxi, an ancient water town that has largely escaped mass tourism. Without the crowds of its more famous neighbors, Jinxi keeps its everyday charm: locals chatting by the water, weathered stone bridges and tea houses lining sleepy canals. Your guide leads you to the serene Lianchi Buddhist temple, the romantic Lady Chen water tomb, and the picture-perfect Gulian Bridge, sharing the legends woven into each. This is also a wonderful place to taste local treats such as the town's beloved layered shortcakes and fresh river specialties like steamed white fish, salt-water river shrimp and tender river snails.

After a relaxed lunch, you'll continue to Tinglin Garden in Kunshan, a hidden gem that rewards visitors in every season. Depending on the time of year you might find wintersweet, plum, peach and cherry blossoms, the rare qiong flower, summer twin lotus blooms, or autumn's red leaves and ancient ginkgos. Many travelers find its quiet beauty rivals the celebrated classical gardens of Suzhou, but with far fewer people.

The whole day is easy and unhurried, with only gentle walking along canals and garden paths. It is fully private and pet friendly, making it perfect for couples, families and anyone craving an authentic, low-key taste of Jiangnan. Your guide takes care of every detail so you can simply wander, photograph and savor the scenery.

Free cancellation is available on most tours up to 24 hours before the start time. The exact cancellation terms for this tour are shown during booking.