If you're planning a trip to Suzhou, this guide will keep you from falling into common tourist traps while enjoying the city's hidden gems. Here's my two-day itinerary that'll blow your mind!
1️⃣ Qili Mountain Street is packed with tourists but offers stunning sunset and night views. Renting an ancient-style boat ride on the canal is super romantic!
2️⃣ Pingjiang Road has tons of food stalls! You could spend half an hour just walking through it, eating everything in sight. If shopping is your thing, head over to Guanqian Street.
3️⃣ Hanshan Temple is breathtakingly beautiful. Pro tip: buy incense at the entrance—it’s cheaper there! The koi pond here is absolutely mesmerizing. Start your morning nearby with a famous bowl of vegetarian noodles.
4️⃣ Zhuozheng Garden takes more than 30 minutes to explore fully, though it may not live up to its reputation. Still, it’s great for photoshoots.
5️⃣ Did you know the Suzhou Museum, Zhuozheng Garden, and Lion Grove Garden are all on the same route? Half a day should be enough time to visit them all. Be sure to book tickets for the museum well in advance (a week ahead for the main branch; one day before for the West Wing). The museum itself is incredibly photogenic and worth every second.
6️⃣ Don’t miss out on personalized name drawings by grandpas near Pingjiang Road—but arrive early because lines get ridiculously long!
7️⃣ Stay at a hotel with panoramic views of the city skyline—it’s unforgettable.
8️⃣ If you have extra time, take a short drive to soak in hot springs. One place even has duck-shaped floats—it’s so much fun!
Food Recommendations:
- Try crab roe noodles.
- Popular tea shops like Seiran, Yanwu, and Sanyue are good spots for photo ops, though they can be crowded.
- Visit Xinmeihua restaurant for authentic local cuisine.
- Don't skip the chicken claws sold along Pingjiang Road—there are two popular vendors, both excellent.
Suzhou is known as the 'Venice of China' due to its picturesque waterways and classical gardens. It’s steeped in history and culture, making it a perfect destination for anyone looking to experience traditional Chinese charm.
