5 DAYS, SHANGHAI,WUXI AND SUZHOU

Shanghai's Jewish District: Shanghai is a city not only of modern splendor, but also of rich historical merit. With its diverse past steeped in international relations and foreign influence, the city sheds light on a chapter in world history unfamiliar to many in China and abroad. U China Travel is delighted to feature a half-day tour of Shanghai's Jewish District to add yet another layer of richness to its extensive history. The tour provides insight into the significant influence the immigrant Jewish community had on the city's economic and architectural growth, highlighting the achievements of one of its most prominent families, the Sassoon's. In Shanghai's Hongkew District the tour visits the Ohel Moshe Synagogue, a museum documenting the history and experiences of the more than 20,000 Jewish immigrants that sought refuge in Shanghai at the height of WWII.

The Grand Canal: Suzhou is most notably known for its Grand Canal. This magnificent water system is not only the longest man-made waterway in the world, but also is regarded as one of China's greatest engineering achievements. A network of picturesque lakes and canals both large and small weave through Suzhou City, eventually leading back to the Grand Canal.  Take a cruise along the canal to catch a glimpse of the local lifestyle. While smaller boats float the enchanting smaller canals, busy boat traffic on the Grand Canal is a constant reminder that Suzhou’s canal provided a vital route for transporting goods along China’s rivers.

Humble Administrator's Garden: Explore the Humble Administrator’s Garden, perhaps China’s most famous classical garden. Designed during the Ming Dynasty, the garden covers five hectares and is divided into three parts: an Eastern, Middle, and Western Garden. The gardens surround a central pond with pavilions, terraces, chambers, and towers spotting the landscape. This peaceful, serene garden brings great pleasure to all who visit. Be sure to stop by the Garden Museum to learn more about the history of China’s largest and most beautiful garden.

Garden of Master Nets:  Located in Suzhou's picturesque Cang Lang District, the Master Of The Nets Garden is noted as one of China's finest classical gardens, earning it recognition as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The garden was first created more than 800 years ago, but has since then seen a number of changes. It is acclaimed for demonstrating an intensely thorough attention to detail in synthesizing art, architecture, and nature in the masterful design of gardens. The Master of The Nets is particularly recognized for its elements of proportion, dimension, contrast, sequence, depth, and concept of borrowed scenery. It has served as a sanctuary of inspiration both intellectually and spiritually for centuries.

Lingshan Grand Buddha:  Silently towering at 88m above the ground, the Lingshan Grand Buddha is the true centerpiece of the Lingshan Scenic Area. The Buddha stands a full 42m (138ft) taller than the Statue of Liberty, situated alongside Taihu Lake in the city of Wuxi. Amidst a picturesque backdrop, the statue emulates the peaceful serenity of traditional Buddhist culture.

Lingshan Buddhist Palace:  Situated along the eastern edge of Lingshan, the Lingshan Buddhist Palace stands as a magnificent spiritual sanctuary within the park. Incorporating impressive artistic, and spiritual concepts, the Buddhist Palace is a structure destined to behold great historical significance.

Lunch at Lingshan Vegetarian Restaurant: Highlighting a fresh, flavorful variety of vegetarian cuisine, the Lingshan Vegetarian Restaurant located just east of King Asoka’s Pillar within Lingshan Buddhist Scenic Area boasts a diverse menu of traditional and exotic vegetarian dishes. The steamed buns and noodles are a regular favorite, while dishes like the Jinyumantang (carrot, potato, egg, and ginger), Jixiangsanbao (pumpkin, corn, and pine nut), and Tianxialiangcang (radish, carrot, celery, hericium, and tofu) add an exciting variety to the dining experience.

Shanghai World Financial Center: This 101-story tall skyscraper completed construction and was opened to the public in mid-2008. It Reaches 492 meters (1,515 ft) above the hustle and bustle of Shanghai.

Yuyuan Garden:  Peacefully situated within the bustling center of Shanghai close to the Yuyuan Bazaar is the Yuyuan Garden.  This exquisite 5-acre garden is famous for its design.  Meandering paths lead visitors across bridges, past rockeries, around picturesque lakes, and through decorative halls and pavilions.  The intentional location of trees and shrubs within the garden serve as frames for charming views and create a sense of peace and harmony throughout the garden.

 Shanghai Museum: Regarded by many as China's largest and most impressive museum, the Shanghai Museum was designed to resemble an ancient Chinese cooking vessel. The museum houses a stunning collection of bronze, ceramic, and porcelain sculptures as well as calligraphy, furniture, and ethnic artifacts, spanning centuries of Chinese history.  Don't forget to see if there are any traveling exhibitions on view and be sure to give yourself plenty of time to enjoy this extensive collection

You will be transfered to the airport for your flight;