Suzhou Ultimate Travel Guide | Capture the Ancient Charm and Modern Style in One Go

Travel lovers, if you’re still undecided about your next travel destination, be sure to add Suzhou to your list! This ancient city in Jiangnan is like a slowly unfolding ink painting, with every corner hiding stories of time and the gentle charm of Jiangnan. Now, let me take you on an unforgettable journey to Suzhou!

Preparation

● Documents: ID card, student ID (don’t forget if you have discounts).

● Clothing: In spring and autumn, bring a light jacket for the big temperature difference between morning and evening; summer is hot, so prepare sun protection and wear light, breathable clothes; winter is damp and cold, so keep warm.

● Others: Camera to capture beautiful scenes, charger and power bank to keep your devices fully charged, and common medicines like stomach medicine and cold medicine.

Transportation Guide

● External transportation: Suzhou is very convenient to reach. You can fly into Shanghai Hongqiao or Pudong Airport, then transfer by high-speed train or bus to Suzhou; trains can arrive directly at Suzhou Station or Suzhou North Station.

● Internal transportation: Suzhou’s public transport is well developed, with the subway reaching most attractions. Also, shared bikes are a great choice to enjoy the scenery along the way and flexibly navigate the alleys 🚲.

Food Recommendations

● Su-style Soup Noodles: You must try a bowl of Su-style soup noodles in Suzhou, with thin noodles and clear broth, topped generously. Recommended places are Zhuhongxing and Yuxingji; their braised meat noodles and fried fish noodles are amazing 😋.

● Shengjian Bao (Pan-fried Pork Buns): Crispy on the outside, golden on the bottom, with juicy soup inside. Yaba Shengjian is a local old brand with long queues, showing how popular it is.

● Squirrel Mandarin Fish: Unique shape, crispy outside and tender inside, sweet and sour taste, one of the representatives of Su cuisine. Deyuelou and Songhelou serve authentic versions.

● Osmanthus Cake: Emits a light osmanthus fragrance, soft and glutinous texture, sweet but not greasy, available at snack stalls on Guanqian Street.

Attraction Guide

Day 1: Classical Garden Tour

● Humble Administrator’s Garden: A representative of Jiangnan classical gardens and the largest classical garden in Suzhou. The garden centers around water, with pavilions and towers arranged harmoniously, as if stepping into the poetic world of ancient scholars. It’s recommended to book tickets online in advance to avoid holiday crowds 🌳.

● Suzhou Museum: Designed by master architect I.M. Pei, with a unique architectural style that perfectly combines tradition and modernity. The museum’s rich collection lets you deeply understand Suzhou’s history and culture. Remember to make a reservation in advance 🎨.

● Lion Grove Garden: Famous for its rockeries, winding caves, like entering a maze. Here you can enjoy the fun of the “rockery kingdom” and appreciate Yuan Dynasty architectural style.

Day 2: Water Town Experience

● Zhouzhuang Ancient Town: Known as “China’s No.1 Water Town,” preserving many Ming and Qing dynasty buildings. You can take a boat tour along the canals to feel the tranquility and leisure of the water town. Zhouzhuang is brilliantly lit at night, with stunning night views 🏮.

● Shen Hall: The most representative residential building in Zhouzhuang, grand in scale and exquisite in layout. Here you can learn about the life and family culture of wealthy Jiangnan merchants.

Day 3: Historic Street Stroll

● Pingjiang Road Historic District: One of the best-preserved ancient streets in Suzhou. Stroll along the bluestone path, with flowing water on one side and quaint shops on the other. You can taste various snacks and buy unique souvenirs.

● Guanqian Street: Suzhou’s busiest commercial street, with many old-brand shops and restaurants. Here you can experience the clash of modern and traditional, satisfying your shopping and dining needs 🛍️.

Accommodation Suggestions

● To experience the charm of Jiangnan water towns, choose to stay in a guesthouse on Pingjiang Road or Zhouzhuang Ancient Town, where you can also enjoy beautiful night views.

● For convenient transportation and comfortable accommodation, choose hotels in the city center near subway stations for easy travel.

Friends, the beauty of Suzhou needs to be experienced in person. Hurry up and pack your bags to start this poetic Suzhou journey! Don’t forget to share your travel stories in the comments 😘.