Suzhou, China

The Ultimate Guide to Travelling in Suzhou, China

Suzhou, a city located in the Jiangsu province of China, is renowned for its stunning natural beauty, rich cultural heritage, and vibrant tourism scene. As one of the most popular destinations in Eastern China, Suzhou has plenty to offer visitors from around the world.

Places to Visit

Classical Gardens

Suzhou is famous for its beautiful classical gardens, which are a testament to the city’s long history as a center of silk production and cultural exchange. Some must-visit gardens include:

  • Humble Administrator’s Garden: A tranquil oasis in the heart of Suzhou, this garden features intricately designed ponds, waterfalls, and pavilions.
  • Lingering Garden: A serene and picturesque garden featuring a stunning rockery, artificial hills, and beautiful flowers.
  • Garden of Cixi: A grand and elegant garden built for the wife of the last emperor of China, featuring beautifully landscaped grounds and historic architecture.

Historic Landmarks

Suzhou has a rich history dating back over 2,500 years, with many historical landmarks to explore:

  • Panmen Gate: One of the oldest surviving city gates in Suzhou, built during the Ming dynasty.
  • Xuanmiao Temple: A ancient Buddhist temple featuring stunning architecture and beautiful gardens.
  • Huangpu River Embankment: A picturesque river embankment offering stunning views of the surrounding countryside.

Modern Attractions

Suzhou is not just about history and culture; it also has a vibrant modern scene with plenty to offer tourists:

  • Suzhou Museum of Art: A world-class art museum featuring an impressive collection of contemporary Chinese art.
  • Tangshan Bay Ecological Park: A scenic park featuring beautiful lakes, gardens, and wildlife reserves.
  • Oriental Metropolitan City: A large shopping mall offering a wide range of high-end stores and dining options.

Activities

Water-based Activities

Suzhou has plenty of water-based activities to enjoy:

  • Canoeing on the Grand Canal: Explore Suzhou’s ancient waterways by canoe or boat.
  • Fishing in the nearby countryside: Try your hand at catching some of China’s famous fish species.
  • Boat tours: Take a leisurely cruise along the Huangpu River and surrounding lakes.

Cultural Experiences

Immerse yourself in Suzhou’s rich cultural heritage with these activities:

  • Traditional silk production workshops: Learn about the traditional silk production techniques that Suzhou is famous for.
  • Chinese calligraphy classes: Try your hand at creating beautiful Chinese characters.
  • Local cuisine cooking classes: Master the art of preparing delicious Suzhou-style dishes.

Outdoor Activities

Enjoy the great outdoors with these activities:

  • Hiking in the nearby mountains: Explore Suzhou’s stunning natural scenery by hiking through the surrounding countryside.
  • Cycling in the city: Rent a bike and explore Suzhou’s scenic cycling trails.
  • Visiting local markets: Browse Suzhou’s bustling markets for fresh produce, souvenirs, and local handicrafts.

Where to Eat

Suzhou is renowned for its delicious cuisine, with plenty of options to suit all budgets:

Traditional Restaurants

Try these traditional restaurants for authentic Suzhou-style dishes:

  • Huang He Restaurant: A high-end restaurant serving a range of traditional Chinese dishes.
  • Yunying Restaurant: A family-run restaurant specializing in local delicacies.
  • Dongfang Restaurant: A modern take on traditional Suzhou cuisine.

Modern Restaurants

Enjoy these modern restaurants for a taste of contemporary Chinese cuisine:

  • Xuanmiao Restaurant: A trendy restaurant featuring innovative takes on traditional dishes.
  • Tangshan Bay Restaurant: A waterfront eatery serving fresh seafood and local specialties.
  • Suzhou Food Street: A bustling street lined with restaurants, cafes, and snack stalls.

Where to Stay

Suzhou has a wide range of accommodations to suit all budgets:

Luxury Hotels

Enjoy these luxury hotels for ultimate comfort and service:

  • Suzhou Marriott Hotel: A high-end hotel featuring modern amenities and stunning views.
  • The Ritz-Carlton, Suzhou: An opulent hotel offering luxurious rooms and exceptional service.
  • InterContinental Suzhou: A stylish hotel featuring beautifully designed rooms and a rooftop pool.

Mid-range Hotels

These mid-range hotels offer excellent value for money:

  • Suzhou Hotel: A comfortable hotel located in the heart of the city.
  • Yunying Hotel: A family-run hotel offering cozy rooms and local charm.
  • Dongfang Hotel: A modern hotel featuring clean and functional rooms.

Budget-friendly Options

Stay within budget with these affordable options:

  • Suzhou Youth Hostel: A budget-friendly hostel offering dorms and private rooms.
  • Local guesthouses: Stay in traditional family-run guesthouses for an authentic experience.
  • Home-stay programs: Live with a local family for an immersive cultural experience.

Things to Know

Language

While many locals speak English, Chinese is the primary language spoken in Suzhou. Consider learning some basic Chinese phrases to enhance your trip:

  • Hello: "" (nǐ hǎo)
  • Thank you: "" (xiè xiè)
  • Goodbye: "" (zài jiàn)

Weather

Suzhou has a humid subtropical climate, with hot summers and cool winters. Pack accordingly:

  • Summer: Lightweight clothing, sun hat, sunscreen.
  • Winter: Warm coat, gloves, scarf.

Currency

The Chinese yuan (RMB) is the local currency in Suzhou. You can exchange your currency at banks or use ATMs to withdraw cash.

Power Adapters

Suzhou uses Type A, C, and D power sockets, which are different from those found in many Western countries. Bring a suitable adapter for charging your devices.

Transportation

Getting There

Fly into Shanghai Pudong International Airport (PVG) or take the high-speed train to Suzhou Station.

Getting Around

Suzhou has an excellent public transportation system, including buses and taxis:

  • Taxi: Hire a taxi for short journeys.
  • Bus: Use buses for longer journeys or to explore the city.
  • Rental cars: Rent a car for more flexibility.
  • Walking: Explore Suzhou’s scenic streets on foot.

Tips

Be Prepared

Research and plan ahead, but also be flexible and open-minded. Remember that unexpected situations can arise!

Respect Local Customs

Respect local customs, traditions, and people. Try your best to learn about and engage with the culture.

Stay Hydrated

Drink plenty of water to stay hydrated in Suzhou’s hot climate.

Don’t Forget Your Camera

Capture memories of your trip by bringing a camera or phone with a good camera.

Other Tips and Reminders

  • Vaccinations: Consult your doctor about necessary vaccinations before traveling.
  • Travel insurance: Consider purchasing travel insurance to cover unexpected medical expenses.
  • Language apps: Download language apps like Google Translate for assistance.
  • Cashless payments: Use cashless payment methods, such as WeChat Pay or Alipay, where possible.

We hope you have a wonderful time exploring Suzhou, China!