Suzhou in 24 Hours: The Must-Do List

[Ellis Sauer DVM]

Going with the flow, while on a business trip in Shanghai and having an extra day available, I decided to visit nearby Suzhou.

• This was a spontaneous decision, so I couldn't secure tickets for the main museum of the Suzhou Museum in advance. Instead, I opted to pay a visit to the West Annex.
• Note: The Suzhou Museum’s main museum is extremely popular; it is highly recommended to purchase your tickets online in advance!

• There was plenty to see at the West Museum, but it started around noon. While wandering, I could not help but marvel at how long the history of this region (also known as Jiangzhehu, comprising of Shanghai, adjacent Jiangsu, and Zhejiang Province, one of China's most developed areas) really is.

• I love the explanatory text beside each exhibit. Just a few sentences clearly explained the most important information—very impressive!
• After my stroll, I bought a fridge magnet in the gift shop featuring a replica of King Fou-di Wu’s sword (a king who used the ancient sword). Although I may be able to find it cheaper online, buying it on-site definitely feels different. So I purchased it, hehe.

The next leg of my journey entailed lunch, and my restaurant choice was apparently called Mitao? (I may have remembered this name incorrectly)
• I ordered red soup noodles (a special dish from Suzhou), small steamed buns filled with soup, and glutinous rice balls made using fermented glutinous rice wine (the dessert). It tasted like typical Suhu cuisine (local cuisine in Suzhou), and it was pretty good.

Afterwards, I set off to travel through classical Suzhou Gardens, which are renowned and highly popular.
• Initially, my plan was to visit Liuyuan Garden and Tiger Hill. However, after spending too much time at the museum, along with fearing crowds at Liuyuan due to its popularity, I visited Tiger Hill alone.
• Strolling through Tiger Hill until five PM.
• Mini Tip: I found navigating Tiger Hill rather difficult; the signposts seemed unclear. After feeling like I had just walked a short distance, I looked at the map to find that I was completely off course… If you do not have strong direction sense, check the map beforehand, or go with the flow and don’t worry too much about following every path.
• Regardless, apart from the entrance area, people were not plentiful elsewhere at Tiger Hill. With a comfortable temperature, it was great walking here.

From Tiger Hill, I took a leisurely boat cruise that cost fifty yuan and spent twenty minutes getting to Shantang Street.
• This is highly recommended! It was my first time being in a Southern Waterland. Not only did the houses on both sides of the river look beautiful, but there was a strong flavor of local life permeating the air. As I sat on the boat, I instantly felt that I was integrated into the lives of the locals…

Shantang Street showed strong commercial vibes. I didn’t wish to stay here for too long.
• Note: The main street of Shantang has a very strong commercial atmosphere. If you want to experience the authentic vibe of Shantang Street, follow the smaller alleyways branching out from the main road.
• I turned into one of the smaller streets, suddenly craving a sweet treat! Searching for nearby options, I noted a decent review online regarding an Okra Drink stand and decided to try it.
• There were hardly any people on the streets, it was all quiet and tranquil. These are what I believe to represent the typical Suzhou architectural design (usually white walls combined with black tiles, giving them a special and unique touch). How amazing!

At around 6:30 PM, elderly folks carried baskets of vegetables as they slowly returned home. Living here must truly be blissful…
• I purchased a cup of Okra drink priced at RMB13. The drink contained some red and green threads, and I jokingly expressed dissatisfaction online by saying, “What even is this? It looks like plastic！”However, a taste of it proved my preconceived notions wrong! It featured a subtle minty taste, a cool and refreshing texture that perfectly complemented the dishes which were served earlier at the day; really enjoyable!

I went to Tong Dexing Noodles Restaurant for dinner based on reviews on the phone, which stated that the restaurant closes at seven o’clock.

It was already five minutes past six when I arrived and was concerned about the restaurant refusing service.
• Mini Tip: Later discovering that it was permissible to enter before seven, I proceeded with a bowl of red soup noodles, a bowl of stewed pork leg (a well-known dish here), and a bowl of picked vegetables. Oh wow, yummy!
After a full meal, it was time to catch a high-speed train back to Shanghai.

However, I heard myself say: “I haven’t seen the city at night. I would feel lost if I leave without doing so!” The following then ensued: renting a shared bicycle to make a visit to Wu Ya Chang Pier, snapping a photo of the night view, feeling happy and fulfilled.

Before leaving, hearing a young man singing at a coffee shop above, I listened for a bit. The audience gathered to listen across each side of the river, creating an unforgettable ambience.

That was the end of my trip. Not only did I visit the attractions and indulge in food as planned in my itinerary, but I met some friendly locals along the way. I am certain that once I have the opportunity, I will visit Suzhou again!