Suzhou Travel Guide
Suzhou, located in southeastern Jiangsu Province, has long been celebrated by poets as a “paradise on earth” and marveled at by Marco Polo as the “Venice of the East.” This ancient city is nestled within a network of waterways, with streets built alongside rivers and canals. Buildings are constructed near the water, creating a distinctive landscape of “small bridges, flowing water, and charming homes.”
The beauty of Suzhou mirrors its people—reserved and gentle. There’s no need to retreat to the mountains for tranquility; a stroll through Suzhou’s gardens can captivate and soothe the soul. The picturesque scenery of Taihu Lake just outside Gusu City and the enchanting water towns, rich with Jiangnan charm, add a touch of elegance and vitality to this land of fish and rice. Walking along Pingjiang Road or Shantang Street, one can sense the artistic vibe of this two-thousand-year-old city.
The gardens and waterways of Suzhou offer just a glimpse of its splendor. To truly experience the essence of Jiangnan, one must listen to the melodic strains of Kunqu opera, chat with the locals, and leisurely explore the city’s nooks and crannies. This is the authentic taste of southern China, where history and culture blend seamlessly with modern life.
Most Popular Suzhou Attractions
The Humble Administrator’s Garden, also known as Zhuozheng Garden, is a renowned classical Chinese garden located in Suzhou. Its history dates back...
Lion Grove Garden (狮子林), situated in the northeastern part of Suzhou city, is a masterpiece of classical Chinese private garden architecture. Its origin...
Suzhou‘s Pingjiang Road (平江路), nestled to the south of the renowned Humble Administrator’s Garden, boasts a history spanning over 2,500 years,...
Zhouzhuang Ancient Town (周庄古镇), nestled in the heart of Jiangsu Province, China, is a picturesque gem that embodies the rich history and charm of ancient...
Suzhou Museum (苏州博物馆), located in the picturesque city of Suzhou, consists of two parts: the new museum, opened in 2006, and the historic Taiping Heavenly...
Tongli Ancient Town (同里古镇), nestled in the heart of the Jiangnan water region in Wujiang, Suzhou, is a picturesque town surrounded by interconnected lakes...
Suzhou Hanshan Temple (寒山寺), originally named “Miaoli Puming Pagoda Monastery,” was established during the Tianjian era of the Southern Dynasty...
Shantang Street (山塘街), with its ancient charm and historical significance, weaves through the heart of Suzhou, extending from the northwest near Huqiu...
Tiger Hill, or Huqiu in Chinese (虎丘), is a renowned scenic spot situated in Suzhou, China, boasting an elevation of 34.3 meters and covering an area of...
Other Attractions in Suzhou
Shangfangshan Forest Animal World (上方山森林动物世界), located at the southern foothills of Shangfang Mountain with an area of approximately 67 hectares, is a...
Xishan Island (西山岛), nestled in the picturesque Taihu Lake in Suzhou, China, is a captivating natural and cultural gem that spans an expansive 79.8 square...
The Confucian Temple in Suzhou (苏州文庙), originally established in 1035 during the North Song dynasty, stands as a testament to the enduring legacy of Fan...
Nestled in the heart of Suzhou‘s picturesque Luzhi Ancient Town, Baosheng Temple (保圣寺) stands as a venerable testament to China’s rich cultural...
Xietang Old Street (斜塘老街), located in Suzhou, is a remarkable blend of commercial vitality and the enchanting charm of a water town. This historic street...
Xingfu Temple (兴福寺), located in Changshu, Suzhou, China, boasts a rich history that dates back to the South Qi Dynasty (479-502 CE). Originally known as...
The Suzhou Folk Custom Museum (苏州民俗博物馆), spanning over 500 square meters, is a captivating tribute to the rich tapestry of local traditions and cultures....
Sanshan Island (三山岛) is a captivating gem nestled in the serene embrace of Southeast Taihu Lake in Suzhou. Comprising of three distinct parts, it unveils...
Shihu Lake (石湖), nestled in Suzhou, is a captivating branch of the renowned Taihu Lake. This picturesque waterbody is intricately divided into three distinct...
Luxiang Ancient Village (陆巷古村), nestled in Suzhou, Jiangsu Province, is a remarkable testament to China’s rich history. Its origins can be traced...
Nestled in the picturesque city of Suzhou, China, the Taipingtianguo Zhongwang Mansion (天平天国忠王府) stands as a remarkable testament to the rich historical...
The Suzhou Silk Museum (苏州丝绸博物馆), spanning an area of 9,500 square meters, officially opened its doors to the public on September 21, 1991. Comprising...
Tinglin Garden or Tingling Park (亭林园), nestled in the charming city of Kunshan, is a captivating cultural gem that seamlessly blends nature’s beauty...
Chongyuan Temple (重元寺, Zhongyuan Temple), originally known as Chongxuan Temple, is a historic Buddhist monastery located on the picturesque Yangcheng Lake...
Yiyuan Garden (怡园, Yi Garden), located in Suzhou, spans an area of 6,270 square meters and was built during the Qing Dynasty’s Guangxu period (1874-1882)....
Changmen Gate (阊门), one of the eight gates of Suzhou Ancient City, is situated in the northwest part of the city, leading towards the direction of Huqiu...
Huayi Brothers Movie World (华谊兄弟电影世界) in Suzhou is a renowned entertainment venture under the umbrella of Huayi Brothers, one of China’s leading...
Xuanmiao Temple (玄妙观), with its rich history spanning over 1700 years, stands as a testament to the cultural and architectural heritage of China. Established...
Dushu Lake Christian Church (独墅湖教堂), named after its picturesque location beside the scenic Dushu Lake in Suzhou, stands as a testament to architectural...
The Suzhou Garden Museum (苏州园林博物馆), initially located within the confines of the Humble Administrator’s Garden, was inaugurated in the autumn of...
Shajiabang Scenic Area (沙家浜景区), located just over 10 kilometers south of Changshu City, Jiangsu Province, lies on the northern shores of Yangcheng Lake....
XiYuan Temple, also known as West Garden Temple (西园寺), nestled in the picturesque city of Suzhou, China, is a timeless sanctuary that weaves spirituality...
Yipu Garden (艺圃, Yi Garden, Garden of Cultivation), originally established in the year 1541, underwent significant transformations before adopting its...
Ouyuan Garden (耦园), originally named Sheyuan, underwent significant transformation during the reign of Emperor Tongzhi in the Qing Dynasty when Shen Bingcheng...
Yangcheng Lake (阳澄湖), nestled in the picturesque city of Suzhou, is a captivating natural gem renowned for its unique charm. Spanning across approximately...
Shiquan Street (十全街), nestled in the heart of Suzhou, Jiangsu Province, is a captivating blend of ancient charm and modern vibrancy. Renowned for its rich...
The Yunyan Pagoda (云岩寺塔), also known as the Tiger Hill Pagoda, is a prominent historical structure located on Tiger Hill in Suzhou, Jiangsu Province, China....
Shangfang Mountain (上方山), nestled in the picturesque city of Suzhou, is a captivating natural wonder that seamlessly blends tranquility and grandeur. Renowned...
The Suzhou Kunqu Opera Museum (苏州昆曲博物馆) is a cultural gem nestled in Suzhou, China, celebrating the exquisite artistry of Kunqu opera. With a rich history...
Suzhou City God Temple (苏州城隍庙, Chenghuang Temple), located in the heart of Suzhou, is just a few hundred meters away from the bustling Guanqian Street,...
Nestled in the heart of Jiangsu‘s bustling city of Suzhou, Dushu Lake (独墅湖) stands as a testament to the harmonious blend of urban development and...
Nestled within the enchanting city of Suzhou, Jiangsu Province, the Gate of the Orient (东方之门) stands as a remarkable fusion of architectural brilliance,...
The Suzhou Pingtan Museum (苏州评弹博物馆), covering an area of 839 square meters, is a cultural gem dedicated to the preservation and promotion of the traditional...
Tianping Mountain (天平山), as known as Baiyun Mountain (白云山) or Ci Mountain (赐山) nestled in the charming city of Suzhou, is a captivating natural haven that...
Luzhi Water Town (甪直水镇, Luzhi Ancient Town), nestled in the charming city of Suzhou, is a picturesque ancient town with a rich history and cultural heritage....
Guanqian Street (观前街), nestled in the heart of Suzhou, is a captivating blend of history and modernity. Spanning a rich heritage of centuries, this bustling...
Nestled in the heart of Kunshan, Suzhou, Jinxi Ancient Town (锦溪古镇) boasts a history spanning over two thousand years. Revered as the “Hometown of...
Taihu Wetland Park (太湖湿地公园) is a harmonious blend of nature and culture, serving as a pristine and fashionable leisure destination. This park seamlessly...
Canglang Pavilion (沧浪亭), nestled in the heart of Suzhou, China, spans an expansive 1.08 hectares and boasts a rich history dating back to the Northern...
The Master of the Nets Garden, known as Wangshi Yuan in Chinese (网师园), has a rich history dating back to the Southern Song Dynasty (1127-1279 AD). Originally...
Jinji Lake (金鸡湖), located in the enchanting city of Suzhou, China, is a captivating urban lake that weaves together natural beauty and modern allure. Spanning...
Mudu Ancient Town (木渎古镇), also known as Duchen, Xujian, is located in the southeast of Jiangsu Province, in the western part of the ancient city of Suzhou....
Liuyuan Garden (留园, Liu Garden), also known as “Lingering Garden,” is a prominent classical private garden located in Suzhou, China. Its origins...
Tuisi Garden (退思园), located in the ancient town of Tongli in Suzhou, China, has a rich history dating back to the years 1885-1887 during the Qing Dynasty,...
Which Suzhou garden should you visit? – First time in Suzhou: Don’t miss out on Zhuozheng Garden (拙政园), Liuyuan Garden (留园) is also recommended. – Explore together with Pingjiang Road: Zhuozheng Garden, Lion Grove (狮子林), Couple’s Retreat Garden (耦园). – Explore together with Shantang Street: Liuyuan Garden, Yipu Garden (艺圃). – Explore together with the water town: Tuisi Garden (退思园) in Tongli Ancient Town. – Best for scenery: Liuyuan Garden, Tuisi Garden. – Best for photography with people: Canglang Pavilion… Read more »
Suzhou two-day-one-night comprehensive guide 1⃣️(七里山塘街, Qili Shantang Street) – It’s true that there are a lot of people, but the sunset, evening glow, and night view are really beautiful! Taking a ride on a Wupeng boat is truly romantic ✨ 2⃣️(平江路, Pingjiang Road) – So many delicious eateries here! It’s impossible to finish exploring this street in just half an hour – we ate and drank our way through it all (also, don’t miss out on Guanqian Street) 3⃣️(寒山寺, Hanshan… Read more »
Reasonably plan your itinerary: Humble Administrator’s Garden (拙政园) and Lion Grove Garden (狮子林) are very close, only about a 10-minute walk away from each other, so you can visit both places in the morning. The Suzhou gardens are quite similar, so it’s recommended to choose two gardens to visit. Note the regulations in the attractions: No matter how early you go, there will be many visitors at Humble Administrator’s Garden, consider renting an electronic audio guide that automatically identifies your… Read more »
☁Itinerary Day1: Tiger Hill (虎丘) → Shantang Street (山塘街) → Lingering Garden (留园) → Xiyuan Temple (西园寺) Day2: Pingjiang Road (平江路) → Fuxing Road (葑门横街) → Humble Administrator’s Garden (拙政园) → Suzhou Museum (苏州博物馆) → Lion Grove Garden (狮子林) Day3: Shuangtang Market (双塔市集) → Shiquan Street (十全街) → Canglang Pavilion (沧浪亭) Accommodation Suggestions in Suzhou For those looking to stay close to attractions and have convenient transportation, it’s recommended to choose hotels near Guanqian Street and Pingjiang Road. Lion Grove… Read more »
I went to Suzhou in the last two days of the Labor Day holiday. The crowds were not too many, and the shopping was good. The most enjoyable part was eating at (Party R). I was most satisfied with my itinerary on the second day, not doubling back, making it a complete loop, super enjoyable! Sharing with everyone! Route: Wanshan R Hotel (bus) – Xiyuan (bus) – Liuyuan (bus) – Tiger Hill (by boat) – Qili Shantang (on foot) –… Read more »
✅Suzhou Garden Guide: 1. For first-time visitors to Suzhou, do not miss out on Zhuozheng Garden (Humble Administrator’s Garden), and Liuyuan Garden is also highly recommended. 2. Pingjiang District: You can visit Zhuozheng Garden, Lion Grove Garden, and Couple’s Garden Retreat together. 3. Shantang Street: Combine a visit to Liuyuan Garden and Yipu Garden. 4. Water towns: Consider visiting Tongli Ancient Town together with Tuisi Garden. 5. Best spots for photography: Liuyuan Garden and Tuisi Garden. 6. Lesser-known gardens: Canglang… Read more »
Once you arrive in Suzhou, you are immersed in the scenery of Jiangnan. Here is Suzhou. Transportation: ✈️ Plane: Wuxi Shuofang Airport (not recommended) High-speed train: Suzhou Station/Suzhou North Station Subway: Use “Jiangsu Public Transport Card” app or “Beijing-Tianjin-Hebei Public Transport Card” to scan QR code or use NFC Bus: Zfb/Suzhou to Zhou ️ Itinerary: ◆ Day 1: Suzhou Museum ➡️ Humble Administrator’s Garden (Zhuo Zheng Yuan)/Lion Forest Garden ➡️ Pingjiang Road ➡️ Guanqian Street ◆ Day 2: Hanshan Temple… Read more »
Travel route: Beisi Pagoda➡️12min walk➡️Suzhou Museum➡️3min walk➡️Humble Administrator’s Garden➡️9min walk➡️Lion Grove Garden➡️14min walk➡️Pingjiang Road➡️50min by bus➡️Lingering Garden➡️12min walk➡️Xiyuan Temple➡️10min bike ride➡️Qili Shantang Specialty foods: 1️⃣Plum Blossom Cake: I prefer the red bean flavor, the freshly made plum blossom cake is very hot, don’t be too impatient when eating. 2️⃣Xiyuan Temple Noodles: Suzhou-style red soup noodles, I ordered RuYi noodles. RuYi noodles and GuanYin noodles only differ in the vegetarian toppings. Xiyuan Temple’s buns are also highly recommended by many, but… Read more »
✅Regarding the temperature: Currently, the average temperature in Suzhou is 25-30°C, it might get a bit hot during the Dragon Boat Festival. ✅Regarding transportation: By plane: There is no airport in Suzhou. Suzhou Station: Located in the city center, it is convenient for transportation, with Line 2 and Line 4 accessible right outside. Suzhou North Station: A high-speed railway station relatively far in Xiangcheng district, reachable by taking Line 2 of the subway. Suzhou New District Railway Station and Industrial… Read more »
✅Suzhou Itinerary: DAY1: Zhouzhuang Ancient Town or Tongli Ancient Town DAY2: Guanqian Street → Tiger Hill (虎丘) → Xiyuan Temple (西园寺) → Shantang Street (山塘街) DAY3: Humble Administrator’s Garden (拙政园) → Suzhou Museum (苏州博物馆) → Lion Grove Garden (狮子林) → Pingjiang Road (平江路) → Jinji Lake (金鸡湖) ✅Food recommendations: – Xin Zhen Yuan: Big Shrimp Pan-fried Buns, Paper-wrapped Shao Mai – Shuang Ta Market: Da Nang Nang (Taro Mochi), Lao Keman (Egg-stuffed Pancake), Tang Zhifang (Camellia Cake), Qing Nian Chun… Read more »