OK, give me the Chinese title.

[Maryann Daniel IV]

Hello! You're planning to visit Suzhou in early June, right? There's a lot going on at this time of the year!

First things first: The weather in early June in Suzhou can be quite fierce. It’s hot and humid—just like what local people call “plum rain season," where everything feels sticky and rains at any moment.

-Tip: Be sure to pack an umbrella or light raincoat along with sunblock. Opt for lightweight, breathable, and quick-dry clothing as well.

When it comes to certain "not-so-fun" attractions that may diminish your experience—especially for students who value both their time and budget—here are a few considerations:

Super famous gardens such as the Humble Administrator's Garden and Liuyuan
-You might run into some issues here: Although these gardens are stunning pieces of UNESCO World Heritage sites designed with intricate aesthetics and are representatives of Suzhou, the crowds are simply overwhelming. On weekends and holidays, you'll end up following the masses, making it difficult to capture a serene photo without anyone else in sight.
-How to get around this:
-> Try visiting midweek, even better, get there just upon opening hours!
-> Alternatively, consider some lesser-known yet equally charming gardens like Wangshi Yuan (evenings at "Wangshi Night Walkthrough" give it a special essence!), Couguan Garden, and Canglang Pavilion. They are less crowded and offer a more tranquil feeling for one to appreciate Suzhou’s traditional gardens.

Some overly commercialized towns/shops in places like the Shan Tang Street, parts of Ping Jiang Lu
-An issue that might arise: While both Shan Tang Street and Ping Jiang Lu are distinct highlights of Suzhou—featuring a central river flanked by historical buildings—the parts nearest to gates and those brimming with bustle have heavy commercial undertones. Vendors selling homogenized traveler items and street snacks fill the air, losing some of the unique Suzhou flair.
-How to get around this:
-> For Shan Tang Street, either venture further into the depths of the place or enter from another side; the commercial atmosphere will be lighter.
-> For Ping Jiang Lu, despite its main path being busy, turn off into adjacent alleyways to find surprises that present quieter atmospheres filled with living ambiance.
-> Consider visiting nearby water town settlements like Tong Li and Zhou Zhen (both still commercialized but vast enough so that careful wandering through them can lead to finding serene corners).

Important Reminder to Avoid Frustrations:

Book tickets in advance! Especially for popular gardens (such as the Humble Administrator's Garden) and museums (like the Suzhou museum, a masterpiece by renowned architect Ieoh Ming Pei). Booking a few days ahead through official apps or mini-programs is essential to avoid facing entry restrictions or long wait lines.
--Why is it significant? These days, many attractions require real-name appointments, and purchasing tickets onsite may result in none available, particularly during peak travel times.

Beware of scalpers and unauthorized tour guides! At stations and entrances of hotspots, enthusiastic individuals may approach offering a lower price ticket or guiding services without waiting in line.
--How to evade this: Such services aren’t reliable; they often take viewers to shopping spots or charge higher prices. Rather, refuse politely and secure your tickets and itinerary planning through official channels.

Prepare mentally for transportation: In the old areas of Suzhou where roads can be narrow, traffic can be congested during holidays.
--Suggestion: Subway is convenient but not all gardens are accessible directly. Combine public transport routes with walking or renting shared bikes.

Consideration for food choices: Stalls within scenic spots are fun for a taste test, but don't raise your expectations too high, since prices could be on the high side without great flavors.
--Suggestion: Use food apps to scout frequently visited eateries by locals or head to age-old ones to indulge in authentic Suzhou flavor.

Overall, Suzhou is still worth visiting! With proper research and a calm mindset, discover plenty of beautiful vistas. Have an amazing trip!

[Glenn Ryan PhD]

I wouldn't recommend coming now. The plum rain season has arrived, and it's been raining every day.

[Kathryn Hermiston]

Sharing some off-the-beaten-path spots in Suzhou : Taiping Old Street's incredibly popular climbing roses... Revisiting Jincheng New Village for its dopamine-boosting balloon wall by the water... Lishu Old Street in Suzhou, a slice of Jiangnan preserved in time... Suzhou's dreamy and colorful corners, so many photo ops... Shanghai West Bund Dream Center, absolutely buzzing with Spring Festival atmosphere... Suzhou's hidden gardens, showcasing niche beauty and the play of light & shadow... Suzhou's orange sunsets: poetic scenes on the water with stunning reflections... Just discovered another hidden gem in Suzhou... A niche spot in Suzhou for admiring trumpet vines | late summer/early autumn vibes...