Day 1: Hangzhou

Kickstart your seven-day tour of East China by exploring Hangzhou, a city known for its picturesque West Lake. Begin your day with a leisurely stroll around the lake’s tranquil surroundings and immerse yourself in the natural beauty of Hangzhou. Your next stop is Lingyin Temple, one of the oldest and biggest temples in the country. Admire the impressive carvings and statues, and take in the serene atmosphere of the temple. End your day by heading to the Southern Song Dynasty Guan Kiln Museum to discover the history of ancient Chinese pottery.

Day 2: Suzhou

On Day 2, head to Suzhou, a city renowned for its scenic gardens. Start your day at the Humble Administrator's Garden, one of China's must-see tourist attractions. Continue your journey to the Suzhou Museum and learn about the rich cultural history of this beautiful city from its exhibits. End your day by exploring its ancient walls at Pan Gate, a well-preserved structure that dates back to the Wu Kingdom.

Day 3: Wuxi

After two exciting days in Hangzhou and Suzhou, it’s time to take a short drive to Wuxi, a city with azure Taihu Lake as its centerpiece. Begin your day with a peaceful boat ride on the lake and soak up the spectacular scenery. Next, head to the Xihui Park and hike to the top for a stunning 360-degree view of the city. Complete your day by visiting the Lingshan Grand Buddha, one of the tallest Buddha statues globally, with an impressive 88 meters goal.

Day 4: Nanjing

On Day 4, travel to Nanjing, a city that has been a capital of many of China's dynasties. Start your day at the eye-catching Ming Xiaoling Mausoleum, the tomb of Hongwu Emperor. Next, visit the Confucius Temple, which expresses the sage's teachings and their influence for Chinese culture. Finally, experience the city's nightlife by taking an atmospheric stroll along the Qinhuai River.

Day 5: Shanghai

On Day 5, you'll visit Shanghai, a financial hub and the largest city in China. Start your tour experiencing the grandeur of the Bund, a picturesque promenade along the Huangpu River with unobstructed views of Shanghai's skyline. Next, visit the Shanghai Museum to witness the finest Chinese art displays. End your day at Xintiandi, a restored district filled with upscale shops, restaurants, and bars.

Day 6: Hangzhou

Return to Hangzhou for a second visit and discover more of the city's hidden gems. Begin your day by strolling through the ancient Hefang Street, where traditional Chinese food and souvenirs are aplenty. Next, absorb yourself in the Taoist culture of the Baopu Temple and enjoy its peaceful ambiance. End your day by catching a breathtaking view of West Lake at sunset from the stunning Leifeng Pagoda.

Day 7: Suzhou

On your final day, revisit Suzhou, and indulge in its relaxing vibes. Start your day by exploring another charming garden, Lingering Garden, known for its exquisite design. Next, stroll down Pingjiang Road, a scenic and historic promenade that features traditional residences, stores, and restaurants. End your journey by savoring an excellent local dinner at one of Suzhou's high-quality restaurants.

This seven-day itinerary covers highlights of East China, and provides an insightful introduction to its fascinating history, culture, and natural beauty. From ornate gardens to ancient temples, this trip offers an unforgettable experience for travelers of all ages.