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Grand Canal Tours
21 Reviews

The Grand Canal is the longest and oldest man-made waterway in the world, once covering 1,115 miles (1,794 kilometers) from Beijing to Hangzhou. Dating from the fifth century BC, this engineering marvel is now a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Some sections are still in use today.
The Basics
With traditional buildings and historic sites still lining the Grand Canal, it’s best appreciated from water level. Travel through hundreds of years of history and gain a better understanding of how the canal transformed trade and commerce in China during a guided canal cruise, or get a closer look at historical buildings during a walking tour alongside the canal.
Visitors in Hangzhou can take a boat from Wulinmen Pier. Visitors in Suzhou or Shanghai can join an organized day tour, covering portions of the canal in Suzhou, along with other attractions, such as a classical garden and an ancient city gate, or activities, such as a rickshaw ride or a visit to a silk mill.
Things to Know Before You Go
- The canal is open to the public, but canal cruises charge a fee.
- Different cruises travel along many sections of the canal. Be sure you’re clear on your departure and drop-off points, if not traveling as part of a guided tour.
- Full-day tours from Shanghai can last more than 10 hours.
How to Get There
Hangzhou and Suzhou feature two popular sections of the canal for visitors. In Hangzhou, cruises depart from Wulinmen Pier. The best way to get to Wulinmen Wharf is by taxi. In Suzhou, the cruise from Xinshiqiao Dock to Shantang Street is popular. Xinshiqiao Dock is about 4 miles (6 kilometers) from Suzhou Railway Station, and the easiest way to get there is by taxi.
When to Get There
Most cruises are offered year-round. Daytime cruises allow you to better see the details of the buildings alongside the canal, while nighttime cruises offer more atmosphere, as many sights will be illuminated. Visit during spring or fall for the most pleasant weather.
History of the Grand Canal
TheGrand Canal’s oldest sections date back to the fifth century BC, but it wasn’t until the Sui dynasty in the seventh century that the different sections were first connected. There was an organized approach to connect the five major rivers: the Hai River, Huai River, Yangtze River, Yellow River, and Qiantang River. Once completed, the Grand Canal greatly developed China’s economy and enhanced communication throughout the country.
Address: Yangzhou, Jiangsu, China
49 Tours and Activities to Experience Grand Canal
Did you know?You can reserve your spot today and pay when you're ready.
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Did you know?
You can reserve your spot today and pay when you're ready.Learn more
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Private Suzhou Day Trip from Shanghai by Bullet Train with All Inclusive Option
33
Escape the bustle of modern Shanghai and enjoy a relaxing day in small-town China during this all-inclusive day trip to Suzhou, a picturesque riverside city famed for its centuries-old heritage. The Trip include a round-trip bullet train ticket. Upgrade your tour with all-inclusive package which offers a complimentary traditional Chinese lunch, a scenic boat ride along the Grand Canal, and a private rickshaw ride through history-packed Pingjiang Road.
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From
US$ 198.00
Price varies by group size
From
US$ 198.00
Price varies by group size
Face masks required for travelers in public areas
Face masks required for guides in public areas
Face masks provided for travelers
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Suzhou and Zhouzhuang Water Village Full Day Coach Tour from Shanghai
43
Spend the day exploring beyond Shanghai’s city limits—and discover two of the region’s most beautiful destinations—on this full-day tour of Suzhou and the Zhouzhuang Water Town. Following pickup from one of several central locations, travel via comfortable, air-conditioned coach to Suzhou, where you’ll visit the UNESCO-listed Master of Nets Garden, will see the Grand Canal, and more. Then, transfer to the Zhouzhuang Water Town, where you’ll explore the centuries-old buildings and waterways by boat.
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From
US$ 135.00
From
US$ 135.00
Face masks required for travelers in public areas
Face masks required for guides in public areas
Face masks provided for travelers
Learn More

Group Day Tour in Suzhou and Zhouzhuang from Shanghai
16
Spare yourself the time and hassle of Chinese public transport with this convenient guided tour that covers two picturesque water towns: Suzhou and Zhouzhuang. In Suzhou, discover the Master-of-Nets Garden, the old city wall at Panmen Gate, and a silk mill. In Zhouzhuang, admire attractions like the celebrated Double Bridges. Tour includes a local restaurant lunch.
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From
US$ 144.00
From
US$ 144.00

Private Day Excursion to Suzhou and ZhouZhuang Water Village from Shanghai
10
It’s a matter of debate which of Suzhou and Zhouzhuang really counts as the Venice of the East. But after this fabulous private door-to-door (or port-to-port) tour you’re bound to have an opinion. Spend the morning in Suzhou, exploring the Master-of-Nets Garden, Suzhou No. 1 Silk Mill, and Panmen Gate. After a restaurant lunch, admire Zhouzhuang’s scenic bridges, lanes, and canals on foot and by gondola.
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From
US$ 220.00
Price varies by group size
From
US$ 220.00
Price varies by group size

Suzhou Private Customized Day Trip from Shanghai by Bullet Train
13
Experience China’s “Venice of the East” on this guided excursion. After a convenient hotel pickup, upgrade and relax on first-class bullet train tickets from Shanghai. Then explore this historic water town with an informative, professional guide and visit sites like the Humble Administrators Garden, Shantang Street, Suzhou Pingtan Opera, and Suzhou Museum. Enjoy a boat ride along the old canals and a complimentary meal.
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From
US$ 209.40
Price varies by group size
From
US$ 209.40
Price varies by group size

Suzhou Private Essence Tour of Rickshaw Ride and Grand Canal Ride
4
Spare yourself the challenge of negotiating with boatmen and rickshaw drivers, and let your private guide do the heavy lifting on this classic Suzhou tour. Check off not one but two UNESCO World Heritage sites as you tour the Lingering Garden and enjoy a private cruise down the Grand Canal. After a rickshaw ride, explore Shantang Street and Suzhou No. 1 Silk Mill before your private driver drops you back.
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From
US$ 143.20
Price varies by group size
From
US$ 143.20
Price varies by group size

All Inclusive Suzhou Highlight Tour with Boat Ride and Lunch
1
Often called “the Venice of the East” because of its scenic canals, Suzhou is a sightseer’s paradise—and this private, full-day tour offers a seamless way to explore. Meet your guide in the morning at the local train station, and set off. You’ll visit the UNESCO-listed, classical Lingering Garden; will admire Panmen Gate and stroll Pingjiang Historic Street; will go for a boat ride of the Grand Canal; and more.
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From
US$ 179.00
Price varies by group size
From
US$ 179.00
Price varies by group size

4-Hour Flexible Suzhou City Highlights Private Tour
3
Make the most of your limited time in Suzhou, and see more of the city in less time, when you book this convenient, half-day tour. Pick between morning and afternoon tour times, and set off with just a private guide for company. In the space of just a few hours, you’ll discover top city highlights like the UNESCO-listed Humble Administrator’s Garden, the lofty Tiger Hall, the historical Panmen Gate, and more. On this flexible, customizable tour, you can also go for a boat trip down the Grand Canal.
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From
US$ 114.29
Price varies by group size
From
US$ 114.29
Price varies by group size
Face masks required for travelers in public areas
Face masks provided for travelers
Hand sanitizer available to travelers and staff
Learn More

Private Full Day Tour to Suzhou and Zhouzhuang from Shanghai
1
Visit Suzhou without the hassle of driving or waiting for other passengers on this private guided tour from Shanghai. Explore the city's canals and gardens and discover why it is often called "the Venice of the East." Your tour includes a visit to a silk store, Chinese-style gondola cruise, and lunch.
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From
US$ 267.00
Price varies by group size
From
US$ 267.00
Price varies by group size

Private Day Trip to Suzhou from Shanghai by Bullet Train
4
Travel by bullet train from Shanghai to Suzhou, a relaxing 35-minute ride through the Chinese suburbs. With your local guide, visit the Lingering Garden, Tiger Hill, Pingjiang Road and leisurely enjoy boat ride along ancient grand canal. Round trip 1st class bullet train ticket are all inclusive.
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From
US$ 238.00
Price varies by group size
From
US$ 238.00
Price varies by group size

Private Custom Tour: 2-Day Suzhou City Highlights Tour
1
This 2 days private tour takes you to explore the most famous attractions in Suzhou, which is noted as the "Garden of City". You will be able to see Lingering Garden, one of four famous classic gardens in China, the No.1 Ancient Street--Shantang Street, the most impressive garden in Suzhou--Master of Nest Garden and the UNESCO World Heritage Site-Longest artificial canal in the world--Grand Canal, etc. Moreover, the itinerary can be 100% customized based on your own interests.
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From
US$ 296.40
Price varies by group size
From
US$ 296.40
Price varies by group size

2-Day Unlimited Private Trip to Suzhou and Hangzhou by Bullet Train from Shanghai
2
An old Chinese proverb says, “In heaven, there is paradise; on earth, there are Suzhou and Hangzhou.” Experience these two classical cities from Shanghai with a private guide to put the culture in context on this 2-day adventure by bullet train and private car. Choose between a guiding and transfer service, with fast train tickets, or upgrade for an all-inclusive package with lunch, entrance tickets, and a Suzhou boat ride.
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From
US$ 468.00
Price varies by group size
From
US$ 468.00
Price varies by group size
Face masks required for travelers in public areas
Face masks required for guides in public areas
Face masks provided for travelers
Learn More

Private Tour to Suzhou by Bullet Train, pickup from your hotel(Residence)
1
The winding canals, historical buildings, and classic gardens of Suzhou earned the city its nickname as the "Venice of the East." Tour Suzhou's must-see sites and hidden enclaves from Shanghai on this private 9-hour tour, which includes transportation on a bullet train, a customizable itinerary, lunch, entrance fees, and more.
-Instant Confirmation
-Private day trip from Shanghai to Suzhou
-Great overview and orientation of the city
-Perfect introduction for first-time visitor
-Flexibility to customize your itinerary to your own preferences
-Private guide for a more personalized experience
-Travel by boat and see the sights from the water
- Free hotel pickup and drop-off included
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From
US$ 213.07
Price varies by group size
From
US$ 213.07
Price varies by group size

Private Full Day Tour to Suzhou from Shanghai in Your Way
4
Escape Shanghai for a day and discover the peaceful and historical city of Suzhou—often described as “the Venice of the East” due to its picturesque canals. Pick between a private guide service, with transportation at your own expense, or upgrade for a tour by private vehicle. Upon arrival in Suzhou, you can stroll along its canals, spot centuries-old architecture, stop by a local restaurant for lunch (own expense), venture to Tiger Hill, explore scenic gardens, and more: the flexible itinerary is based around your interests.
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From
US$ 108.00
Price varies by group size
From
US$ 108.00
Price varies by group size

Suzhou and Zhouzhuang Water Village Private Day Tour with Lunch
1
Spend a day exploring Suzhou and Zhouzhuang with your own private guide on this full-day tour. You'll start with Suzhou, known for its gardens and canals, followed by lunch. In the afternoon, you'll head to Zhouzhuang, where you'll take a gondola ride along the canals and visit the 14th century Shen's House before returning to your Suzhou hotel.
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From
US$ 163.41
Price varies by group size
From
US$ 163.41
Price varies by group size
Face masks required for travelers in public areas
Face masks required for guides in public areas
Face masks provided for travelers
Learn More

Private Hidden and Historical Suzhou Exploration from Shanghai
3
Shanghai may be a bustling metropolis, yet within a short drive of this urban space travelers can find historic gems that are all too easy to miss. You can uncover more than 2000 years of history in the city of Suzhou on this private tour from Shanghai. See gardens and canals, visit a Buddhist pagoda, and even take a boat ride. With your personal guide's narration and easy travel included, this tour is a great way to uncover China's history.
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From
US$ 200.00
Price varies by group size
From
US$ 200.00
Price varies by group size

Private Day Tour of Suzhou Highlight
Explore China’s “Venice of the East” on this guided excursion. After a convenient hotel pickup, head to the historic water town of Suzhou and stroll around the houses, ponds, and pathways of the UNESCO-designated Humble Administrator’s Garden. Enjoy a complimentary lunch and boat trip on the old Grand Canal, then experience local culture and history at the Suzhou Silk Museum and Tiger Hill.
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From
US$ 255.28
Price varies by group size
From
US$ 255.28
Price varies by group size

Private Suzhou Tour to Explore the Hidden Door of Suzhou Old Time
Maximize time in Suzhou with a full-day private tour. Get picked up at your hotel and set out to see historical sites including Fengqiao Bridge, Hanshan Temple, and Shantang Street. Board a private boat for a scenic ride on the Beijing-Hangzhou Grand Canal. Complete the tour with a visit to a silk mill and learn about the silk-making process.
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From
US$ 177.00
Price varies by group size
From
US$ 177.00
Price varies by group size

Flexible Suzhou Private Tour from Shanghai with First Class Bullet Train Option
This relaxing day trip to Suzhou from Shanghai takes you to explore the top attractions of Suzhou. The itinerary is fully customizable based on your personal interests. See the beautiful Humble Administrator's Garden, Tiger Hill, Panmen Gate, Jinji Lake and etc.. Take a boat ride along the old Grand Canal or walk along on the historic Pingjiang Road and Shantang Street to experience the local life. Tasty lunch, round-trip bullet train ticket, private guide and transfer service are inclusive. Upgrade your bullet train seating into first class at time of booking.
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From
US$ 213.00
Price varies by group size
From
US$ 213.00
Price varies by group size
Face masks required for travelers in public areas
Face masks required for guides in public areas
Face masks provided for travelers
Learn More

Private Full Day Suzhou Zhouzhuang Tour From Shanghai with Chinese Lunch
If Shanghai represents the wealth area of modern China, Suzhou represent that in ancient China. Combining Suzhou city and its suburb area - Zhouzhuang, you may find out the secret of this area's prosperity.
1.Non shopping tour
2.No tourist traps
3.No hidding fee
4.The best use of time
5.Your own Private tour
6.Flexible itinerary
7.Licensed guides and tour vehicles
8.Unbeatable price and 5 stars service
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From
US$ 296.54
Price varies by group size
From
US$ 296.54
Price varies by group size

Independent Tour of Suzhou from Shanghai
Explore the historic water town of Suzhou on this guided excursion. After a convenient hotel pickup, head to Suzhou and stroll around the houses, ponds, and pathways of the UNESCO-designated Humble Administrator’s Garden. Enjoy a boat trip on the old Grand Canal, marvel at the history of Panmen Gate, and hop in a private rickshaw for a ride along picturesque Pingjiang Road.
…More
From
US$ 98.00
Price varies by group size
From
US$ 98.00
Price varies by group size
Face masks required for travelers in public areas
Face masks provided for travelers
Hand sanitizer available to travelers and staff
Learn More

Private Suzhou Tour from Shanghai including Lingering Garden and Tiger Hill
This private tour in Suzhou shows you the highlights of the city, including Lingering Garden, No.1 street called Shantang Street in Suzhou, boat cruise in canals to experience the life in "Oriental Venice", Tiger Hill No.1 also the most historical site in Suzhou, relaxing rickshaw ride to go through the old city and Pingjiang Road, the most well-preserved traditional block in the city.
1. Explore Suzhou’s sights and neighborhoods with a guide
2. Learn about local insights, history, and geography from your guide
3. Stay hydrated during your tour with bottled water provided for you
4. Hassle-free pickup from most hotels
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From
US$ 316.80
Price varies by group size
From
US$ 316.80
Price varies by group size

Flexible Suzhou Private Day Tour from Hangzhou by Bullet Train
Be amazed by the beautiful Chinese Gardens of Suzhou and experience the local culture atmosphere on a fully customized sightseeing day trip from Hangzhou by bullet train. You can choose the attractions you visit and the places you see, such as Humble Administrator's Garden, Tiger Hill, Panmen Gate, Jinji Lake and etc.. Take a boat ride along the old Grand Canal or walk along on the historic Pingjiang Road and Shantang Street to experience the local life. A tasty local lunch, round trip bullet train tickets, private guide and driver service are included. Upgrade to All-Inclusive Tour Package with boat ride ticket and one top attraction entrance ticket at time of booking.
…More
From
US$ 250.07
Price varies by group size
From
US$ 250.07
Price varies by group size
Face masks required for travelers in public areas
Face masks required for guides in public areas
Face masks provided for travelers
Learn More

Private Suzhou And Tongli Water Town Tour From Shanghai With Lunch And Dinner
If you have full day free in Shanghai and want to learn more about the culture and heritage in Yangtze River Delta, this tour combining Suzhou and Tongli could be a good chance. We can also customize it according to your needs.
1.Non shopping tour
2.No tourist traps
3.No hidding fee
4.The best use of time
5.Your own Private tour
6.Flexible itinerary
7.Licensed guides and tour vehicles
8.Unbeatable price and 5 stars service
…More
From
US$ 314.67
Price varies by group size
From
US$ 314.67
Price varies by group size
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