Healing Time in a Jiangnan Old House at Suzhou Xietang Old Street!

The Haner Hotel at Xietang Old Street has a dozen rooms scattered among the historic buildings of the old street. Stepping inside, the herringbone wooden roof and high ceilings make you feel like you've returned to the old house of your childhood—familiar and cozy. Though the rooms are not large, they are full of retro charm, with every detail exuding the elegance of Jiangnan.

In the afternoon, find a teahouse by the water, order a pot of Biluochun tea paired with delicate Suzhou-style pastries, and enjoy the view of small bridges and flowing water while listening to the gentle sound of oars. Sunlight sparkling on the river makes time seem to slow down. Chatting with friends or family is the most delightful way to spend a vacation.

For dinner, we recommend Guixi Shan Mountain Cuisine nearby. The earthenware hot pot stews ingredients to rich and fragrant perfection—stinky mandarin fish and cured meats steamed together are must-orders. At less than 100 RMB per person, you can savor authentic Jiangnan mountain flavors.

At night, the old street grows even quieter. Lanterns along the riverbanks gradually light up, and koi fish swim under the glow in the pond, resembling a flowing ink painting. In the morning, wake up to birdsong and head to a nearby Suzhou-style noodle shop for a bowl of "first broth" noodles—three-shrimp noodles or Fengzhen braised pork noodles—fresh, fragrant, and smooth, a breakfast beloved by locals.

If time allows, visit Jinji Lake or Dushu Lake to experience modern Suzhou's cosmopolitan vibe, or quietly read at Eslite Bookstore, enjoying the slow life in the city.

Travel Tips:
- The hotel doesn’t serve breakfast, but there are plenty of noodle shops nearby.
- Check in in the afternoon to fully experience the slow-paced lifestyle.
- Wearing Hanfu or neo-Chinese-style clothing makes for great photos.
This trip will not disappoint.

Post by The Foodie Globetrotter | Aug 6, 2025