Suzhou Lakeside Slow Living Must-See List

A trip to Suzhou wouldn't be complete without immersing yourself in the Chinese garden aesthetic of the Humble Administrator's Garden and strolling through Shantang Street. This time, we'll take you on a classic Suzhou itinerary: a daytime stroll through the gardens, followed by a late-night snack and photo-op on Shantang Street. It's the perfect blend of classic and trendy! Highlight: I recently discovered a small restaurant near the Humble Administrator's Garden. Their spicy shrimp and hairy crab rice cakes are incredible! I never imagined such delicious food could be found right next to a garden! Suzhou's blend of ancient and modern is a must-see!

Recommended Attractions

First Stop: Humble Administrator's Garden
📍Address: No. 178, Dongbei Street, Gusu District, Suzhou
⏰Opening Hours: March 1st - October 31st, 7:30 AM - 5:30 PM; November 1st - February 28th, 7:30 AM - 5:00 PM
💸Admission: 80 RMB
As one of Suzhou's four famous gardens, the Humble Administrator's Garden is a top destination for admiring Jiangnan gardens. A stroll through the garden reveals that its pavilions, towers, rockeries, and ponds resemble scenes straight out of ancient poetry. It's recommended to visit in the morning when the crowds are smaller, allowing for easier capture of tranquil and poetic photos. The garden is particularly captivating—it's full of surprises, allowing you to slow down and savor the beauty of reflections on the water and the lush flora.

Food Recommendations: Spicy Shrimp and Hairy Crab Rice Cake Shop

Just off a small road not far from the Humble Administrator's Garden, there's a hidden gem of a restaurant where you can try their homemade spicy shrimp and hairy crab rice cakes. The freshness and rich flavor completely dispel the misconception that it's a tourist trap. When visiting the Humble Administrator's Garden, be sure to set aside half an hour to explore the surrounding area!

Second Stop: Shantang Street
📍Address: No. 177 Shantang Street, Gusu District, Suzhou City, Jiangsu Province
⏰Opening Hours: All Day
After exploring the Humble Administrator's Garden, it's recommended to walk or take a 10-minute bus ride to Shantang Street. Shantang Street, approximately seven miles long, is one of Suzhou's most vibrant and lively streets. This street is home to ancient bridges, flowing water, old teahouses, various cultural and creative shops, and popular snack stalls. With its strong commercial atmosphere, it's a great place to stroll and browse, making it a great place to buy souvenirs. However, a personal tip: Don't just focus on the snacks along the main road; explore the smaller alleys; the cozy, old shops truly embody the authentic Suzhou flavor.

Practical Tips for Your Itinerary

1. Avoid peak hours between 10:00 AM and 3:00 PM for garden photography to avoid crowds that can disrupt your experience.

2. Restaurants near the Humble Administrator's Garden can be difficult to find, so ask locals or use a map. The spicy shrimp and hairy crab rice cakes are both worth trying.

3. When Shantang Street is crowded, be mindful of your belongings and keep an eye on your wallet and phone.

4. Wear comfortable shoes; Suzhou's pavement is often paved with cobblestones, so avoid wandering around in high heels for extended periods.

Transportation
The Humble Administrator's Garden and Shantang Street are close to downtown Suzhou. You can take a taxi or walk to Xiangmen Station or Shantang Street Station on Suzhou Metro Line 2. During peak season, it's recommended to purchase garden tickets in advance to avoid long lines.

Taste Suzhou:
Besides spicy shrimp and hairy crab rice cakes, Suzhou offers many other must-try dishes like sweet osmanthus lotus root, Suzhou noodle soup, and soy sauce-fried duck. In the evening, relax in a teahouse along Shantang Street and soak up the ancient city's nighttime charm—you won't want to leave.

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