Suzhou
Venice of the East
Welcome to Suzhou! Known as the "Venice of the East." This 2-day plan covers the world-famous classical gardens, authentic canal streets, serene temples, and the futuristic skyline of the industrial park.
1. Attractions
Tap copy & paste icon at the right side of attraction name and paste in map app to see the location.
Note: Some major attractions require reservations even with tickets. Be sure to use Trip.com to purchase and reserve simultaneously
Day 1: Classical Gardens & Canal Vibes
Suzhou Museum (苏州博物馆)
A perfect blend of modern architecture and traditional aesthetics. Designed by I.M. Pei.
Cost:Free (Reservation required)
Hours:9:00 – 17:00 (Closed Mon)
The Humble Administrator's Garden (拙政园)
The "Mother of Chinese Gardens" and a UNESCO World Heritage site. Features a maze of islands, bridges, and pavilions.
Pingjiang Road (平江路)
The most preserved ancient block in Suzhou. Take a sculling boat to hear folk songs.
Cost:Free
Hours:Open all day
Shantang Street (七里山塘)
Arrive before sunset to watch red lanterns light up along the canal. Classic "Jiangnan" night view.
Cost:Free
Hours:Open all day
Day 2: Zen Peace & Modern Skyline
Xiyuan Temple (西园寺)
A functioning temple with a serene garden atmosphere. Famous for its stray cats and vegetarian noodles.
Hanshan Temple (寒山寺)
Immortalized by the poem "Mooring by Maple Bridge at Night." Strike the bell for good luck.
Eslite Bookstore (诚品书店)
The first flagship Eslite in mainland China. A cultural complex with design shops and cafes.
Cost:Free
Hours:10:00 – 22:00
Jinji Lake (金鸡湖)
The center of modern Suzhou. View the "Gate of the Orient" skyscraper at sunset.
Cost:Free
Hours:Open all day
2. Food Recommendations
Note: Food items may contain allergens. Please confirm with restaurant staff directly
Tap copy & paste icon at the right side of food name and paste in Dianping app to find restaurants.
Classic Su Cuisine
Squirrel Mandarin Fish
松鼠桂鱼
The signature dish! Fried to look like a squirrel, covered in sweet and sour sauce.
Crab Roe Noodles
蟹黄面
A luxury treat. Noodles topped with a generous amount of crab meat and roe.
Pan-Fried Buns
苏式生煎
Crispy bottom, sweet meat filling, and juicy broth inside.
Green Bean Soup
苏式绿豆汤
Refreshing mint-flavored soup with green beans and sticky rice (Summer only).
3. Transportation Guide
Arrival
- Suzhou Station (Recommended): Located right next to the Old Town. Convenient for gardens.Check trains via
- Suzhou North Station: High-speed hub on the Beijing-Shanghai line. Farther from the center.
City Transport
- Subway: Best option. Use Alipay (Transport) to scan QR code.
- Ride Hailing: Use DiDi via Alipay. Avoid illegal "Black Taxis" near stations.
4. Where to Stay
Guanqian Street
Historic and bustling. Walkable to major gardens and museums.
Shantang Street
Authentic Jiangnan atmosphere. Stunning night views with red lanterns.
Jinji Lake
Modern luxury, skyscrapers, and high-end hotels.
5. Essential Tips
💡 Top Tips
- Reservation is King: You MUST book tickets for Suzhou Museum and Humble Administrator's Garden days in advance.
- Garden Strategy: Don't try to see them all. Pick 1-2 (e.g., Humble Administrator's + Lion Grove) to avoid fatigue.
- Best Season: April-May (Spring) and Sept-Nov (Autumn). Avoid the rainy season in June-July.
- Rickshaws: Avoid tricycles offering cheap tours. Stick to official transport.