Suzhou, a Dreamy Journey to the Water Towns of Jiangnan

Dear friends, if you haven’t been to Suzhou yet, you’re really missing out! This city is like a slowly unfolding Jiangnan ink painting, with every corner so beautiful it takes your breath away. Today, I’m bringing you a super detailed Suzhou travel guide to help you easily explore Suzhou!
Preparation
1. Documents: ID card, student ID (don’t forget if you have discounts).
2. Clothing: Prepare appropriate clothes according to the season. Suzhou is cool in spring and autumn, hot in summer, and damp and cold in winter. If you come in spring or autumn, bring a light jacket; in summer, pay attention to sun protection and wear light, breathable clothes; in winter, wear thick cotton clothes and warm pants.
3. Others: Sunscreen, umbrella, camera, charger, a small amount of cash.
Transportation Guide
1. External Transportation
Airplane: You can fly to Shanghai Hongqiao International Airport or Shanghai Pudong International Airport first, then take a high-speed train or bus to Suzhou; the travel time is not long.
High-speed train: Suzhou has Suzhou Station, Suzhou North Station, and other high-speed rail stations, with direct trains from many major cities, making transportation very convenient.
2. Internal Transportation
Bus: Suzhou’s bus routes are well developed and can reach most attractions, with affordable fares, usually 1-2 yuan.
Metro: Currently, Suzhou has multiple metro lines covering major tourist areas, making travel convenient and fast.
Shared bikes: Suzhou is a city perfect for cycling. Riding a shared bike through ancient streets and alleys to experience the slow life of Jiangnan is simply delightful.
Food Recommendations
1. Su-style Soup Noodles: You must try Su-style soup noodles in Suzhou. Thin noodles, clear broth, and toppings make every bite unforgettable. Recommended shops include Zhu Hongxing and Lvyang Wonton.
2. Shengjian Bao (Pan-fried Pork Buns): Crispy on the outside, juicy inside, biting into one releases soup that bursts in your mouth—super satisfying! Yaba Shengjian is a famous local shop.
3. Squirrel Mandarin Fish: A traditional Suzhou dish shaped like a squirrel, with crispy outside and tender inside fish meat, sweet and sour, a must-eat delicacy. Songhelou’s Squirrel Mandarin Fish is very authentic.
4. Plum Blossom Cake: Shaped like a plum blossom, soft and chewy, sweet but not greasy, with various fillings to choose from, available at many street corners.
Attractions to Check In
Classical Gardens
1. Humble Administrator’s Garden: A representative work of Jiangnan classical gardens, with pavilions, towers, and waterscapes full of poetic charm. Be sure to hire a guide to better understand the garden’s history and cultural connotations.
2. Lion Grove Garden: Famous for its rockeries, the garden’s rock formations are intricate like a big maze, perfect for exploring with kids.
Water Town Ancient Towns
1. Zhouzhuang Ancient Town: Known as “China’s No.1 Water Town,” it preserves many Ming and Qing dynasty buildings. Take a small boat through the waterways to feel the tranquility and beauty of the water town.
2. Tongli Ancient Town: Compared to Zhouzhuang, Tongli is quieter and more rustic, with many ancient bridges and deep courtyards, ideal for leisurely strolling.
Historic Streets
1. Pingjiang Road: A street full of artistic atmosphere, lined with many unique shops, cafes, and restaurants. You can also enjoy beautiful night views here.
2. Shantang Street: “Seven Li Shantang to Tiger Hill,” Shantang Street is one of Suzhou’s most representative old streets. Stroll along the riverbank to feel the charm of old Suzhou.
Accommodation Suggestions
1. Near Guanqian Street: This is Suzhou’s commercial center with convenient transportation, many shopping malls, restaurants, and snack streets nearby. You can also visit the night market in the evening.
2. Near Pingjiang Road: Staying near Pingjiang Road lets you better experience the Jiangnan water town atmosphere. You can take morning walks in the ancient streets and alleys and enjoy peaceful moments.
Itinerary
Day 1
Morning: Arrive in Suzhou, check into the hotel, rest briefly, then go to Guanqian Street to taste local food.
Afternoon: Visit the Humble Administrator’s Garden to experience the charm of Jiangnan gardens.
Evening: Stroll along Pingjiang Road, enjoy the night view, and try some snacks.
Day 2
Morning: Head to Zhouzhuang Ancient Town and take a boat tour of the water town scenery.
Afternoon: Continue exploring Zhouzhuang, visiting attractions like Shen Hall and Zhang Hall.
Evening: Return to Suzhou, have dinner on Shantang Street, and enjoy the night view there.
Day 3
Morning: Visit Lion Grove Garden and enjoy the fun of the rockeries.
Afternoon: Go to Tongli Ancient Town to feel its tranquility and rustic charm.
Evening: Have dinner at a riverside restaurant in Tongli Ancient Town and end your pleasant trip.
Friends, quickly save this guide and start a romantic Jiangnan journey in Suzhou! Remember to share your travel stories in the comments~