Suzhou, a city in southern Jiangsu Province in the center of the Yangtze Delta, is a beautiful area of China that has preserved much of its history. Bordered by the Yangtze River in the north, Shanghai in the east, Zhejiang Province in the south, and Lake Taihu in the west, Suzhou is a major city that’s easy to get to and hard to leave. This beautiful city is known for its stunning Chinese gardens, ancient architecture, and rich cultural heritage.
If you’re planning a trip and looking for a comprehensive travel guide or simply want to learn about this pulchritudinous city, you’ve come to the right place. In this article, we’ll provide you with all the information you need to plan your trip, including the must-see attractions and historic sites, suggested itineraries, and travel tips.
Click here for a packing guide for China
Table of Contents
Getting to Suzhou
By Air
The nearest airport to Suzhou is Shanghai Hongqiao International Airport (SHA), about 80 km away. You can take a taxi or train to Suzhou from there. Alternatively, you can fly into Shanghai Pudong International Airport (PVG), about 120 km away, and take a taxi or train to Suzhou. Several airlines operate flights to both these airports from major cities worldwide.
By Train
The most convenient way to reach the city is by train. The city has four main railway stations for passengers: Suzhou Railway Station, Suzhou North Railway Station, Suzhou Xinqu Railway Station, and Suzhou Yuanqu Railway Station. High-speed trains operate from Shanghai, Beijing, and other major cities in China, making it easy to reach Suzhou from anywhere in the country.
By Bus
Several long-distance buses operate from major cities in China to Suzhou. The city’s bus station is located in the city center and is well-connected to other parts of the city. However, traveling by bus can be time-consuming, and it is not the most comfortable mode of transportation.
By Car
You can also reach the city by car, renting a car, or hiring a taxi. However, traffic in China can be chaotic, and driving can be challenging for foreigners not accustomed to the local driving style. Hiring a local driver familiar with the roads and traffic conditions is recommended.
Top Attractions
Suzhou is known for its beautiful gardens and water towns. Here are some of the top attractions to visit:
- Humble Administrator Garden: This is one of the most famous gardens in China and a UNESCO World Heritage site. It is a classical Chinese garden with beautiful landscapes, pavilions, and water features.
- Lingering Garden: Another UNESCO World Heritage site, the Lingering Garden is a classical Chinese garden with stunning rock formations, pavilions, and water features. It is known for its unique architecture and landscape design.
- Tiger Hill: This historic hill in Suzhou has a leaning pagoda, beautiful gardens, and scenic views. It is a popular place for tourists to visit and take pictures.
- Tongli Water Town: This is a picturesque water town near Suzhou with beautiful canals, bridges, and traditional architecture. It is a great place to experience traditional Chinese culture and architecture.
- Zhouzhuang Water Town: Another water town near Suzhou, Zhouzhuang is known for its beautiful canals, bridges, and traditional architecture. It is a popular tourist destination and a great place to experience traditional Chinese culture.
Gardens
Suzhou is known as the “Venice of the East” due to its numerous ponds, streams, and canals. But what makes the city genuinely unique is its classical gardens. Suzhou’s gardens are a symphony of rocks, water, trees, and pavilions that reflect the Chinese appreciation of balance and harmony. Nine of these gardens have been designated as UNESCO World Heritage Sites, and two (Lingering Garden and Humble Administrator’s Garden) are considered China’s most famous.
One of the must-visit gardens is the Humble Administrator’s Garden. This garden is the largest in the city and is divided into three parts: the central, eastern, and western. The garden features a variety of pavilions, bridges, and rock formations, as well as a large lake. Visitors can spend hours wandering the garden’s paths and admiring the scenery.
Another garden worth visiting is the Lingering Garden. This garden is divided into four parts: the central garden, the east garden, the west garden, and the north garden. The garden features a variety of buildings, such as a teahouse, a theater, and a study. Visitors can also see a variety of plants and trees, including bamboo, plum, and peach trees.
In addition to these two famous gardens, many other gardens are worth exploring. The Lion Grove Garden is known for its unique rock formations, while the Master of the Nets Garden is known for its small size and intricate design. Visitors can also explore the Couple’s Retreat Garden, which features a variety of water features and rock formations, or the Retreat & Reflection Garden, which was designed to be a place of meditation and contemplation.
Water Towns
The city is famous for its beautiful water towns, characterized by their ancient architecture, arched stone bridges, and picturesque canals. The water towns are a must-visit for anyone traveling to this part of China, as they offer a glimpse into China’s rich cultural heritage.
Two of the most popular water towns in Suzhou are Zhouzhuang and Tongli. Zhouzhuang is known as the “Venice of the East” and is famous for its well-preserved ancient buildings, beautiful gardens, and winding canals. Visitors can take a boat ride through the canals, explore the traditional homes of residents, and sample local delicacies at the many food stalls and restaurants.
Tongli is another popular water town known for its peaceful atmosphere and beautiful scenery. The town is home to numerous ancient bridges, temples, and gardens, and visitors can take a stroll along the canals or rent a boat to explore the town from a different perspective. Tongli is also famous for its traditional handicrafts, such as embroidery and woodcarving, which make great souvenirs.
Other water towns include Xitang, Luzhi, and Wuzhen, each with their own unique charm and attractions. Xitang is known for its beautiful night scenery, while Luzhi is famous for its ancient stone bridges and well-preserved Ming and Qing dynasty architecture. Wuzhen is a larger water town that is home to numerous museums, galleries, and cultural centers.
Overall, Suzhou’s water towns offer a unique and unforgettable travel experience. Visitors can immerse themselves in the rich history and culture of China while enjoying the beautiful scenery and delicious local cuisine.
Local Cuisine
Suzhou is a city in China that is known for its unique cuisine. The food here is famous for its delicate flavors and sweet taste. The cuisine is a part of the Jiangsu style, one of China’s eight famous cuisine styles. The local chefs are proud to say that the flavors of “su bang cai” (Suzhou cuisine) are far more delicate than Shanghai cuisine.
The cuisine features fresh and seasonal vegetables as one of its raw materials. The vegetable and fish dishes of that region are especially famous. The Squirrel-shaped Mandarin Fish is a traditional dish that is a must-try. The fish is first deboned and then shaped like a squirrel, then deep-fried and served with a sweet and sour sauce. It is a perfect blend of sweet and savory flavors.
Here are the top 10 foods you should try:
- Pan-Fried Bun
- Yangcheng Lake Crab
- Crispy Eel
- Lotus Root Starch Noodles
- Sweet and Sour Mandarin Fish
- Osmanthus Rice Cake
- Eight Treasures Duck
- Crab Roe Tofu Soup
- San Bei Chicken
- Stir-Fried Shrimps with Longjing Tea Leaves
Authentic notable local dishes and snacks can be found in Guanqian Street. You’ll never forget the delicious food and friendly service. There are also many restaurants in Suzhou that serve traditional Suzhou cuisine. It is recommended to try different places to get a taste of the city’s diverse culinary offerings.
Where to Stay
When planning a trip to Suzhou, finding the right place to stay is important. Fortunately, Suzhou offers a variety of accommodation options ranging from budget-friendly hostels to luxurious hotels. Here are some of the best areas to stay in Suzhou:
Downtown
If you want to be in the heart of the city, downtown Suzhou is the place to be. This area is home to many of Suzhou’s top attractions such as Humble Administrator’s Garden, Suzhou Museum, and Pingjiang Road. It is also where you can find a wide range of hotels, from 5-star to 3-star, as well as plenty of restaurants, malls, and snack streets. Plus, the area is well-connected to public transportation, making it easy to get around.
Jinji Lake
If you’re looking for a more upscale experience, consider staying near Jinji Lake. This area is known for its luxury hotels, such as the Crowne Plaza, and its beautiful waterfront views. It’s also close to Suzhou Industrial Park, which is home to many international companies and a popular spot for business travelers.
Dushu Lake
If you’re on a budget, Dushu Lake is a great option. This area is home to many mid-range hotels, such as the Oakwood Hotel & Residence Suzhou, and is known for its peaceful atmosphere. It’s also close to Suzhou Industrial Park and Suzhou University, making it a popular spot for students and business travelers.
No matter where you choose to stay, be sure to book your accommodations in advance, especially during peak travel season. With the right planning, you can find the perfect place to stay and make the most of your time in this beautiful city.
Conclusion
Suzhou is a city that can pique the interest of history lovers, culture enthusiasts, or those who simply enjoy beautiful scenery. With its many canals, gardens, and historic landmarks, Suzhou will leave a lasting impression on any traveler.
During your visit take a stroll along the canals and explore the many gardens the city is famous for. You can also visit historical landmarks such as the Humble Administrator’s Garden and the Suzhou Museum to learn more about the city’s rich history and culture.
If you’re a foodie, you’ll love the cuisine, known for its delicate flavors and use of fresh, local ingredients. Be sure to try some of the city’s specialties, such as Suzhou-style mooncakes and sweet and sour Mandarin fish.
Overall, Suzhou is well worth a visit, whether you’re traveling to China for the first time or have been there many times and are now looking for a new adventure. With its unique blend of history, culture, and natural beauty, this city is sure to captivate and inspire you.