Your WTF Suzhou Survival Guide

[Bonnie Beatty]

Here we go! This is a specially crafted itinerary for those of you who want to visit Suzhou but are too lazy to look up the travel guide yourself. I stayed up late to dig this information for all of you, so follow it and rest assured, you'll have a comfortable time in Suzhou without getting lost or spending your money in vain!

(By the way, there are plenty of places worth visiting in Jiangzhefu region (Jiangsu, Zhejiang and Shanghai), and Suzhou is undoubtedly one of the best!)

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How to get to Suzhou - transportation guide

• If you're traveling by train, I recommend getting off at Suzhou Station, which is located in the city centre and offers easy access to various sights, saving you both time and energy.

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️ My proposed itinerary - just do as proposed

• Day 1: Experience the elegance and city life of Suzhou:

  • Suzhou Museum
    • "If you want to learn about Suzhou's history and exquisite crafts, this is where you need to start! The building itself is a masterpiece designed by Mr. I.M. Pei."
  • Zhuozheng Garden
    • "One of China's most famous gardens, it's like a study material on how an ancient family built their residential garden! It's beautifully crafted with an endless scenery from every corner—do remember arriving early to avoid crowds!"
  • Pingjiang Road ‍
    • "A street with a peculiar charm. Bridges over rivers, houses along streets, you would find plenty of unique shops and café to take a stroll through."
  • Shuangta Market
    • "Try out local snacks, and taste the life of Suzhou's locals; a must for feeling the warmth of Suzhou’s atmosphere!"
  • Guanqian Street
    • "An old commercial street similar to Nanjing Lu in Shanghai—it's lively and also a nice option for the evening."

• Day 2: Explore famous temples and parks; hike up high

  • Hanshan Temple
    • "The famous line that describes it: ‘A night-time bell sounds from Hanshan temple, reaching the vessels outside Suzhou city’—a highly praised ancient temple."
  • Xiyuan Temple 🧘‍
    • "A peaceful temple where cats roam—fun fact: get a chance to pet these adorable creatures!"
  • Liu Garden
    • "Another classic example of Suzhou’s gardens, distinctly designed which still delivers a jaw-dropping effect."
  • Tiger Hill
    • "Proudly has a tower called the Chinese leaning tower (Tiger Hill Pagoda). One of Suzhou’s most iconic landmarks where you could gain a better view of the city."
  • Shantang Street
    • "A street lined with antique charm; also highly recommended to be visited at night, when the lanterns light up—feels like stepping into ancient times."

• Day 3: Experience local life & modern affluence

  • Fengmen Heng Street
    • "Just a regular local market but full of unique activities. Come here early morning to have a taste of what local folks eat and their way of life."
  • Wangshi Yard
    • "The unique small house of Wangshi is claimed to offer special evening tour services."
  • Jinji Lake
    • "A symbol of Suzhou's contemporary life with big lakes—lots of high-rises and shopping malls make it perfect for walking or biking."
  • Eastern City Gate (or Su-Hu Gate)
    • "A new famous building of Suzhou with the nickname ‘Big Fall Pants’. Very grandiose, must-not-miss photo opportunity."
  • 53 Floor of Eastern City Gate
    • "To see Jinji lake at night. This offers an open view and great scenery."

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Where to stay

• Gusu District (Old city zone):
  • "Feel the deep charm of old Suzhou by setting your accommodation at Guanqian Street, Shantang Street, Pingjiang Road or Stone Bridge—convenient access to most gardens and old streets. There are tons of tasty food."
• Jinji Lake zone (New city zone):
  • "If interested in modern cities, stay at Suzhou Central. More new hotels with plenty of shopping and dining options."

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️ Tourism Facts & tips (very important!)

• Reservations for hot attractions are a must!
  *"Especially at Suzhou Museum and Zhuozheng Gardens, people crowd during holidays and weekends. Make sure to buy tickets in advance via official WeChat platform or website, or else you might end up getting nowhere."
• Be careful in navigating the Suzhou Garden!
  *"Garden design is very complex and easy to get lost while touring. Consider following a tour guide or renting an electronic guide machine."
• Beware of high foot traffic at Pingjiang Road & Shantang Street!
  *"Especially during weekends and nighttime, traffic increases dramatically. If you want a quiet walk, choose weekdays or visit in the morning. Be sure to check prices multiple times for goods and food purchases so as not to get caught in a 'tourist price.'"
• Pay attention to taxi and transportation!
  *"City traffic could get jammed during rush hours; consider using ride-sharing apps like DiDi Chuxing, or plan ahead regarding subway routes (the city has a well-developed metro system)."

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#上有天堂下有苏杭 (A Chinese proverb meaning the paradise on earth can be as beautiful as Suzhou and Hangzhou)
#穷游攻略 (A budget travel guide)
#How & Where To Travel In Suzhou
#Suzhou Tourist Guide