Is the price all-inclusive?
No. The $49 USD (359 RMB) price covers your local host service for the day, including: route planning, easy walking guidance, local recommendations, navigation support, real-time AI translation, and free phone with maps. Not included: train tickets (Shanghai to Suzhou ~30 min, ~80-100 RMB), local metro/taxi transport, attraction tickets (if any), meals, drinks, snacks, shopping, and personal expenses. Most guests spend an additional 150-350 RMB on these items during the day.
Will I know the total cost before booking?
Yes. The host service fee is fixed ($49 USD / 359 RMB per person for the pilot). Here is the typical breakdown: Host service: 359 RMB. Transport during the day: 20-100 RMB. Food and drinks: 80-150 RMB. Optional attractions or extras: 50-100 RMB. Total extra cost typically 150-350 RMB per person, depending on your choices. We do not add any markup to any of these costs — everything is at actual local price.
Can I choose the route?
Yes. You can choose one of the available routes when booking. If you are unsure, pick 'Not sure yet' in the form and we will recommend the best option based on your interests, walking comfort, and schedule.
Can routes be adjusted?
Yes, small adjustments are possible during the pilot stage. The host may also adjust the route for weather, crowding, closed shops, or guest comfort.
Which route is best for first-time visitors?
Old Suzhou Hidden Alley Walk is the easiest first-time route: 3.5–5 hours, easy walking (3–5 km), covers Guanqian Street, hidden alleys, Lion Grove area, and Suzhou Museum area — classic old-town experience without crowded Pingjiang Road. Old Suzhou Local Lifestyle Walk is better if you want more flexibility and local life (cafes, neighborhoods, jade market observation) — 4–6 hours, easy to moderate walking. Silk Factory and South Old Town Walk suits second-time visitors interested in heritage, silk, and Panmen old city-gate area.
Do I need to pay attraction tickets?
Most routes are built around free streets, neighborhoods, markets, and public spaces. If you choose to enter a ticketed garden, museum, or attraction, the ticket is paid separately at actual cost.
Is shopping required?
No. Markets, boutiques, cafes, and shops are included as local-life stops only. There is no required shopping and no commission-based shopping.
Does the host speak English?
Your host is a Suzhou local and does not speak fluent English — but communication is not a barrier. Your host uses real-time AI translation (ChatGPT, Google Translate) on a smartphone for smooth, natural conversation. Plus, you receive a free phone for the day with translation software and maps preloaded. Result: you chat, ask questions, laugh, and learn local stories all day with zero language stress. All pre-trip support (emails, WhatsApp, WeChat) is in English from our team. After the tour, we gather feedback in English and stay in touch.
How do I get from Shanghai to Suzhou?
High-speed train, about 30 minutes from Shanghai Station or Hongqiao. After booking, we send you a simple trip guide plus the exact meeting point at Suzhou station. If you'd like us to book the train ticket for you, just send us your passport info.
What if my credit card doesn't work in China?
Very common — and exactly why we built payment cover into the day. If your card won't link to Alipay or a vendor can't take it, your host pays for you on the spot, keeps a simple record, and you settle the total once at the end of the day. No extra fee for this.
How and when do I pay?
No online payment, no deposit required. Process: (1) Submit booking request on website — include preferred route, date, group size, and contact info. (2) We confirm within 24 hours via email/WhatsApp. (3) You meet your host on Saturday or Sunday at 9:00 AM at your chosen meeting point (Suzhou North High-Speed Station, Suzhou Main Station, Guanqian Street, or Confucian Temple area). (4) Pay the $49 USD (359 RMB) host service fee at the end of the day (4:00 PM) — cash, Alipay, WeChat Pay all accepted. (5) All extra costs (meals, transport, optional tickets) paid at actual cost during the day. Only pay after the day is finished — if you're not happy, tell us and pay nothing.
How does the refund promise actually work?
Since you only pay at the end of the day, the promise is simple: if you're not happy, tell us before you pay and the day costs you nothing — no forms, no debate. Note this covers the host service fee; actual costs the host paid on your behalf (e.g. tickets or meals already consumed) are still settled at cost. If schedules allow, we may also offer to take you on a second tour for free, and you only pay if that one wins you over.
Can you do a private or custom day instead?
Yes. We design fully private itineraries for couples, families, and small groups. Mention it in the signup form; we'll talk through what you want before quoting a price.
Do you take children or larger groups?
The pilot is capped at 4 guests to keep it personal. Kids are welcome if the walking pace suits them. For groups larger than 4, ask about a private day.
What about visas?
Citizens of 40+ countries can currently enter China visa-free for up to 30 days, and many more qualify for the 240-hour visa-free transit. Check your country's current status before booking your flight — we're happy to point you to official sources.
