Suzhou
Exploring Suzhou, often dubbed as the "Venice of the East," offers a delightful immersion into serene classical gardens, charming water canals, and a rich silk industry history, providing a captivating contrast to the bustling metropolis of Shanghai.
Suzhou is a city located in Jiangsu Province, China, about 100 kilometers (62 miles) west of Shanghai. It is renowned for its beautiful gardens, canals, and classical Chinese architecture. Suzhou is often referred to as the "Venice of the East" due to its intricate canal network and charming water towns.
The city has a long history dating back over 2,500 years and has been a center of culture, arts, and commerce throughout its existence. Suzhou was a prominent city during the Song, Yuan, Ming, and Qing dynasties and played a vital role in trade and silk production. It is still recognized for its silk industry and is known for producing high-quality silk products.
Best Time to Visit
The best time to visit Suzhou, China, largely depends on the weather and specific interests of the visitor. Here's a breakdown of what to expect throughout the year:
Spring (March to May): This is generally considered the best time to visit Suzhou. The weather is comfortable with average temperatures ranging between 10°C (50°F) to 20°C (68°F). Spring also marks the blooming season for many flowers in the city's famous classical gardens. Particularly in April and May, the blossoming azaleas, cherry blossoms, and peonies provide a vibrant display.
Summer (June to August): Summers in Suzhou are hot and humid, with temperatures often above 30°C (86°F). Despite the heat, this is also the peak tourist season, and the city can be crowded. Summer can also be rainy, especially in June, which is the plum rain season. However, this is the best time to visit if you're interested in witnessing the Lotus Festival in July when the lotus flowers in the Humble Administrator's Garden are in full bloom.
Autumn (September to November): Autumn is another excellent time to visit Suzhou. The weather is pleasant, similar to spring but with less rainfall. The city's gardens offer a lovely display of autumn foliage, especially in late October and November. The Osmanthus flowers are also in bloom around this time and the city holds an Osmanthus Festival, usually in September.
Winter (December to February): Winters are cold, with temperatures often dropping below freezing, and there can be occasional snow. However, the city is less crowded, and the classical gardens offer a different kind of beauty, especially when dusted with snow.
How to Get There
Getting to Suzhou from Shanghai:
Suzhou is conveniently located about 100 kilometers northwest of Shanghai, making it easily accessible.
Train: The most convenient way to get to Suzhou from Shanghai is by train. High-speed trains connect Shanghai and Suzhou and the journey takes about 30 minutes to an hour, depending on the specific train. Trains run frequently from both Shanghai Railway Station and Shanghai Hongqiao Railway Station.
Bus: Buses run from various stations in Shanghai to Suzhou. While they are cheaper, the journey takes longer, usually around 2 to 3 hours.
Car: If you choose to drive or hire a private car, the journey takes about 2 hours via the expressway.
Getting around Suzhou:
Public Bus: Suzhou has an extensive bus network that covers nearly all parts of the city, including many of the tourist sites. The fare is relatively cheap but understanding the bus routes can be a bit complex if you're not familiar with the city or the Chinese language.
Metro: Suzhou's metro system is a convenient way to get around. It currently has four lines that connect different parts of the city, and they are particularly useful for longer distances.
Taxi: Taxis are readily available and reasonably priced. However, not all taxi drivers speak English, so it's a good idea to have your destination written in Chinese.
Bicycle: Suzhou is a very bicycle-friendly city. You can rent a bike to explore the city at your own pace, which is especially pleasant in the old town area.
Boat: Since Suzhou is known for its canals, you can also take a boat ride. This is not so much a mode of transport as it is a way to sightsee and experience the city's traditional waterway culture.
Most Popular Attractions and Activities to See and Do in Suzhou, China
Top 11 Attractions in Suzhou
Suzhou, often referred to as the "Venice of the East," is renowned for its classic gardens, canals, and traditional Chinese architecture. Here are some of the top attractions:
Humble Administrator's Garden (Zhuozheng Yuan): As one of the largest classical gardens in Suzhou and a UNESCO World Heritage site, this garden is known for its delicate design that harmoniously integrates water, plants, and pavilions.
Lingering Garden (Liu Yuan): Another UNESCO World Heritage site, it's famous for its ingenious layout and the seamless blend of natural beauty and artful architecture.
Master of the Nets Garden (Wang Shi Yuan): Though smaller than other Suzhou gardens, this UNESCO site is considered one of the finest with a clever design that creates an illusion of larger space.
Panmen Gate: A historic city gate with a well-preserved water gate and defensive watchtowers. The Panmen Scenic Area also includes gardens, pagodas, and a large lake.
Tiger Hill (Huqiu Shan): Known for its natural beauty and historical sites, including the Yunyan Pagoda (leaning more than the Leaning Tower of Pisa) and the Sword Pond where it's said that King Helu's treasure is buried.
Suzhou Museum: Designed by renowned architect I.M. Pei, this museum showcases the art, culture, and history of Suzhou, including ancient paintings and calligraphy, porcelain, and jade artifacts.
Pingjiang Road: A historic street along a canal, lined with old houses, teahouses, and shops. It's an excellent place for a leisurely walk and to experience local life.
Shantang Street: Another historic street perfect for strolling, shopping, and dining. At the end of the street, you can find the beautiful Tiger Hill Pagoda.
Suzhou Silk Museum: This museum details the history of silk production in Suzhou, which dates back over 4000 years. You can also watch silk being produced from silkworm cocoons.
Kunqu Opera Museum: This museum is dedicated to Kunqu Opera, one of the oldest forms of Chinese opera, and originated in the Suzhou region. You can often see live performances here.
Boat Tour on the Grand Canal: Don't miss a boat tour on the Grand Canal, the world's longest man-made waterway, to enjoy the view of traditional houses and experience the city's ancient charm.
Top 10 Activities to do in Suzhou
Suzhou is a city steeped in history, culture, and natural beauty, providing a multitude of engaging activities for visitors. Here are some top activities:
Visit a Silk Factory: Suzhou is known as the 'City of Silk.' You can visit a silk factory to see the entire silk-making process, from silkworms to weaving.
Take a Boat Ride on the Canals: Suzhou's historic canals are a key feature of the city. Enjoy a boat ride to appreciate the historic buildings, stone bridges, and everyday scenes of life along the canals.
Attend a Kunqu Opera: Kunqu Opera, a UNESCO-designated Masterpiece of the Oral and Intangible Heritage of Humanity, originated from the Suzhou region. You can watch a performance at the Suzhou Kunqu Opera Museum.
Enjoy Tea Tasting: Suzhou is located in one of China's most famous tea regions. Visit a local tea house, where you can learn about the tea-making process and enjoy a tasting.
Explore Pingjiang Road: Walk along this historic road for a taste of old Suzhou. The narrow lanes, traditional houses, teashops, and eateries along the canal offer a glimpse into the local lifestyle.
Stroll through the Classical Gardens: Suzhou's classical gardens are a must-visit. Each garden has its own charm and a walk through these tranquil, beautifully landscaped gardens is a memorable experience.
Visit Suzhou Museum: Explore the Suzhou Museum to learn about the city's history and culture. The building, designed by the renowned architect I.M. Pei, is a masterpiece itself.
Try Local Cuisine: Suzhou's local cuisine is one of the eight traditional cuisines of China. Try local dishes like squirrel-shaped mandarin fish, Suzhou-style mooncakes, and steamed Taihu white fish.
Night Tour of the Gardens: Some of Suzhou's gardens open at night for special tours. The illuminated landscapes provide a different perspective and a magical atmosphere.
Shopping for Suzhou Embroidery: Known for its exquisite craftsmanship, Suzhou embroidery is a beautiful souvenir. Visit an embroidery shop or studio to see artisans at work and buy a piece to take home.
Best Shopping
Suzhou offers a variety of shopping experiences, from bustling markets to modern shopping malls, and traditional handicrafts to luxury brands. Here are some top shopping spots and what you might find there:
Guānqián Street: One of the four most famous shopping streets in China, Guanqian Street is a great place to shop for local products, fashion, and more. It's a lively pedestrian street lined with stores, restaurants, and teahouses.
Shāntáng Street: This historic street is known for its small shops selling traditional Chinese products such as silk, tea, and snacks. It's also a great place to try local street food.
Pingjiāng Road: This ancient canal-side street is filled with unique boutiques, souvenir shops, teahouses, and cafes. It's a great place to find unique and artsy items.
Suzhou Silk Market: Suzhou is famous for its silk, and you can find a wide variety of silk products here, from clothing to bedding and souvenirs. The market is also home to a number of shops selling Suzhou's famous embroidery.
InCity Shopping Mall: For a more modern shopping experience, head to the InCity Mall, one of the largest shopping malls in Suzhou. Here you can find a mix of international and Chinese brands, a large food court, and a cinema.
Sūzhōu Village: This high-end outlet mall offers luxury brands at discounted prices. It's designed in the style of a traditional Suzhou village and is a nice place to stroll around.
Taohuawu Woodcut New Year Pictures Shop: This shop specializes in Taohuawu woodcut prints, a traditional Chinese folk art. These prints make for unique souvenirs or gifts.
Humble Administrator's Garden Market: Located near the famous garden, this market offers a variety of souvenirs, crafts, and local products. It's a good place to shop for traditional Chinese items like teapots, jade, and art.
Remember to bargain in markets or smaller shops, as it's a common practice in China. Also, make sure to check the quality of the items you buy, especially for silk and embroidery products. Some shops offer demonstrations of silk making or embroidery, which can also be an interesting cultural experience.
Entertainment & Nightlife
Suzhou has a vibrant nightlife and entertainment scene, offering a variety of options from traditional performances to modern clubs and bars. Here are some suggestions:
Traditional Performances: Experience Chinese culture at a performance of Kunqu Opera, one of the oldest forms of Chinese opera, at the Suzhou Kunqu Opera Theatre. Other traditional shows, like those featuring Chinese orchestras or acrobats, can also be found in various theaters around the city.
Night Cruise on the Canals: A night cruise along Suzhou's canals is a magical experience. The city's historic architecture is lit up and reflected on the water, creating a romantic atmosphere.
Shantang Street: This historic street comes alive at night, with the shops, restaurants, and bars bustling with activity. Enjoy a leisurely stroll, dine at a local restaurant, or simply sit and watch the world go by.
Pingjiang Road: Another charming ancient street, Pingjiang Road is also lively in the evening. You'll find a variety of bars, cafes, and teahouses where you can relax and enjoy the night.
Bars and Clubs: For a more modern nightlife experience, head to the areas around Li Gong Di or Shiquan Street, where you'll find a collection of bars, clubs, and lounges. Whether you're looking for a quiet place to have a drink, a trendy cocktail bar, or a club to dance the night away, you'll find it here.
Night Market: If you're a foodie, don't miss the Suzhou night markets, such as the one on Guanqian Street. It's a great place to try local snacks and street food.
Garden Tours: Some of Suzhou's famous gardens offer special night tours. The illuminated landscapes create a peaceful and romantic atmosphere.
Jinji Lake: This modern area of Suzhou has a beautiful waterfront promenade, lined with restaurants and bars. It's a popular spot for an evening stroll, and there are often events such as light shows on the lake.
Local Cuisine
Suzhou cuisine, also known as Suzhou-style cuisine or Su cuisine, is one of the Eight Culinary Traditions of China. It's characterized by its sweet taste, delicately crafted presentation, and emphasis on preserving the original flavors of the ingredients. Here are some signature dishes and snacks:
Squirrel-Shaped Mandarin Fish (Songshu Guiyu): This iconic Suzhou dish features a deep-fried mandarin fish, served with a sweet and sour sauce. Despite its name, there's no squirrel involved—it's named for the shape the fish takes when it's prepared, which vaguely resembles a squirrel's tail.
Steamed Whitebait (Bai Yu): Light and delicate, this dish features steamed whitebait (young fish) typically served with a mixture of vinegar, soy sauce, and ginger.
Braised Duck with Green Onions (San Xian Ya): This dish is famous for its rich flavors, created by slow-cooking duck with green onions and other seasonings.
Sweet and Sour Yellow River Carp (Tang Cu Li Yu): A dish that requires a high level of culinary skill, the yellow river carp is presented in a way that the fish's body bends upward, with a crispy exterior and tender meat inside, served with a sweet and sour sauce.
Suzhou-Style Mooncakes: Unlike the sweet mooncakes found in other regions, Suzhou-style mooncakes are usually savory, filled with pork mince and featuring a crispy and flaky crust.
Biluochun Tea: One of China's famous teas, Biluochun is a green tea characterized by its delicate aroma and mellow flavor. It's often enjoyed with meals.
Pan-Fried Pork Bun (Shengjianbao): A popular breakfast food, these buns are filled with juicy pork and gelatin that melts into soup when cooked. The bottom of the bun is pan-fried to a delicious crispness.
Suzhou Noodles (Su Mian): Suzhou-style noodles are characterized by their broth, made from fresh fish and shellfish, paired with springy noodles and various toppings.
Accommodations
Choosing where to stay in Suzhou largely depends on your preferences and what you want to do during your visit. Here are some popular areas to consider:
Guanqian Street Area: This bustling pedestrian street in the center of the city is surrounded by shops, restaurants, and a number of attractions including temples and gardens. Hotels in this area provide easy access to these attractions as well as to public transportation.
Pingjiang Road Area: This is a historic area characterized by its ancient canal, cobbled streets, and traditional architecture. Staying here, you'll get a taste of old Suzhou. There are several boutique hotels and guesthouses that offer charming accommodations.
Shantang Street Area: Another historic area, Shantang Street is one of Suzhou's oldest streets and is famous for its traditional buildings, teahouses, and street food. Accommodations here range from budget guesthouses to more luxurious hotels.
Suzhou Industrial Park (SIP): If you prefer a more modern setting, the SIP area might be for you. Located by the Jinji Lake, it's filled with skyscrapers, modern hotels, shopping malls, and western restaurants. It also offers beautiful lake views and a vibrant nightlife.
Suzhou New District: This area is a high-tech zone with a number of gardens and attractions, including the Suzhou Amusement Land. Accommodations here are often quieter and can offer good value for money.
Suzhou Railway Station Area: If you plan to travel to other cities by train, staying near the Suzhou Railway Station might be convenient. This area offers a range of accommodations and easy access to public transportation.
