Answer: When deciding whether to stay in Shanghai and do day trips to Suzhou and Wuxi, or shift your hotel to Suzhou for a few days, it depends on your travel style, pace, and priorities.

Answer: When using the Didi app in Nanjing or anywhere in China, the fare displayed before you book a ride is typically an estimated fare. This is similar to ride-hailing apps in other countries where the final cost may vary slightly depending on real-time traffic conditions, route changes, or waiting times.

Answer: Hello! Visiting Shanghai and nearby cities like Suzhou, Hangzhou, and Wuxi in December can be a pleasant experience, though there are a few considerations regarding weather and crowd levels.

Answer: Suzhou is famous for its classical gardens, and many of the most famous ones like the Humble Administrator’s Garden and the Lingering Garden can get very crowded, especially during weekends and holidays. If you’re looking for less touristy gardens for a more tranquil experience, there are several options to consider.

Answer: Visiting Suzhou’s top classical gardens and attractions is generally straightforward, but ticketing can vary depending on the site and the season. Here’s a detailed guide:

Answer: Whether to base yourself in Shanghai for day trips or to split your stay between Shanghai, Suzhou, and Wuxi depends on your travel style, pace, and interest in exploring each city more deeply.

Answer: Yes, many museums and popular attractions in Nanjing and other Chinese cities now require visitors to reserve tickets in advance. This is primarily to control crowd sizes and comply with health and safety regulations. Most of these reservations are done through WeChat Mini Programs, which are integrated into the WeChat app.

Answer: Hi! For a family of 3 adults and one child looking to travel in June 2025 across Shanghai, Suzhou, and Hangzhou, hiring a private driver can be a convenient and flexible way to explore, especially if you prefer Chinese-speaking assistance. Here are some points to consider and options for arranging a driver:

Answer: With only 3 full days to spend, choosing between Hangzhou and Suzhou depends on the type of experience you want: nature and scenic beauty versus classical gardens and canals.

Answer: Your proposed itinerary for a one-day Suzhou trip from Shanghai is feasible but quite tight. With roughly 2 hours of driving each way, plus multiple destinations, you will be on a very structured schedule with little room for flexibility. Here’s a detailed breakdown:

Answer: Yes, tourists can buy tickets for Sun Yat-Sen Mausoleum and the Zhongshan (Purple) Mountain Scenic Area either in advance online or directly at the entrance. However, booking in advance is recommended during peak travel seasons or weekends to avoid long queues.

Answer: In China, high-speed train tickets are generally released for sale 30 days in advance, sometimes up to 60 days for certain routes during peak seasons. Websites that allow booking far beyond this period, such as 80 days ahead, should be treated cautiously, as they may be offering a “reservation” service rather than actual confirmed tickets.

Answer: Wuxi, particularly in the Binhu district, has several reputable spas and nail salons where you can enjoy pedicures, manicures, and full spa treatments. Most of these places cater to locals and expatriates, and some have staff with basic English skills. Prices are generally reasonable compared to larger cities like Shanghai or Beijing.