Suzhou, China-day-trips

Suzhou, China: Top Day Trip Destinations

Located in the Jiangsu province of eastern China, Suzhou is a city known for its beautiful gardens, canals, and historic architecture. While it’s definitely worth exploring on foot, there are also plenty of day trip destinations to explore beyond the city limits. Here are some of the best:

1. Tiger Brook Garden

  • Distance from Suzhou: 15 km (9 miles), about 30 minutes by car or taxi
  • Description: This garden is a tranquil oasis with stunning views, water features, and an impressive collection of peonies.
  • Must-see: The tranquil lake and island in the center of the garden

2. Xuanhua Ancient Town

  • Distance from Suzhou: 30 km (19 miles), about 45 minutes by car or taxi
  • Description: This ancient town offers a glimpse into traditional Chinese architecture, with many preserved Ming- and Qing-dynasty buildings.
  • Must-see: The beautifully restored courtyard houses and the old city gate

3. Shishang Garden

  • Distance from Suzhou: 25 km (15 miles), about 40 minutes by car or taxi
  • Description: A charming garden with a mix of Chinese and Western architectural styles, featuring beautiful flowers and trees.
  • Must-see: The picturesque lake and the impressive collection of cypresses

4. Zhongguang Ancient Town

  • Distance from Suzhou: 35 km (22 miles), about 50 minutes by car or taxi
  • Description: This ancient town has a rich history, with many preserved buildings from the Ming and Qing dynasties.
  • Must-see: The old city gate and the beautifully restored courtyard houses

5. Hanshan Temple

  • Distance from Suzhou: 25 km (15 miles), about 40 minutes by car or taxi
  • Description: A historic temple dedicated to the famous Chinese monk Hanshan, with a beautiful garden and scenic views.
  • Must-see: The tranquil atmosphere and the impressive collection of Buddha statues

Tips for visiting these day trip destinations:

  • Make sure to book your transportation in advance, as traffic can get congested during peak season.
  • Wear comfortable shoes and bring plenty of water, as you’ll be doing a lot of walking.
  • Try local cuisine at each destination for an authentic experience.

Getting there:

Most day trip destinations from Suzhou are accessible by car or taxi. You can also use public transportation, such as buses or taxis, to get around.

Language:

While Mandarin Chinese is the official language, many locals in these areas speak some English. It’s still a good idea to learn basic phrases and carry a translation app on your phone.

Best time to visit:

The best time to visit Suzhou and its surrounding day trip destinations is during spring (March to May) or autumn (September to November), when the weather is mild and comfortable.