Suzhou

Written by Alexander Kopp, Wei Li
18/08/2025
Picturesque moon bridge and canal reflection in Suzhou at dusk depicting urban tranquility.
Budi jainal Mutaqin, Pexels

Suzhou presents itself as a city where ancient traditions thrive, offering visitors a unique experience amidst its renowned classical gardens and picturesque water towns connected by intricate canals.

Visitors often find opportunities to engage with the local atmosphere along Pingjiang Road and Shantang Street, where historic settings host bustling street vendors, inviting tea houses, and artisan shops, fostering a vibrant social environment.

Top 6 Things to do in Suzhou

Suzhou offers a blend of tranquil garden strolls, immersive historical street explorations, and serene canal cruises, providing a deep dive into its rich cultural heritage and picturesque waterways.

1. Humble Administrator's Garden

One of China's most renowned classical gardens, the Humble Administrator's Garden invites visitors to experience a masterpiece of Ming Dynasty design. Exploring its pavilions, winding paths, lotus-filled ponds, and intricate rock formations offers a tranquil escape and a deep appreciation for traditional Chinese landscape art. Arriving early in the morning helps to avoid larger crowds and allows for a more peaceful experience. The garden is expansive, so comfortable walking shoes are recommended.

Cost: CNY 80 per person (Peak Season: March 1 - October 31); CNY 70 per person (Off-Peak Season: November 1 - February 28/29). Children under 1.4 meters or 6 years old, and seniors over 70, enter for free.

Transport: Located in the northeast of Suzhou, near Suzhou Museum and Pingjiang Road. One can take Metro Line 4 to Beisita Station and walk approximately 15 minutes.

2. Lingering Garden

As one of China's four most famous gardens, the Lingering Garden showcases exquisite Qing Dynasty garden design. Visitors can navigate winding corridors, admire the artist's masterful use of space, and discover unique rock formations, notably the Cloud-Capped Peak. The garden is divided into distinct sections, each offering a different landscape theme, from serene pools to natural rockeries and a prized bonsai collection. It provides a rich and complex viewing experience, best enjoyed at a leisurely pace.

Cost: CNY 55 per person (Peak Season: April, May, July-October); CNY 45 per person (Off-Peak Season: January-March, June, November, December). Children under 1.4 meters or 6 years old, and seniors over 70, enter for free.

Transport: Situated outside Changmen Gate. One can reach it by taking Metro Line 2 to Shilu Station, exiting via Exit 1, and walking north on South Guangji Road for about 50 meters, then west along Liuyuan Road for approximately 300 meters.

3. Pingjiang Road

Strolling along Pingjiang Road offers a glimpse into ancient Suzhou, with its well-preserved traditional architecture, stone bridges, and a canal running parallel to the pedestrian street. Visitors can explore artisan shops, traditional tea houses offering Pingtan performances, and local eateries. The atmosphere is particularly enchanting in the evening when lanterns illuminate the street and canal. It is ideal for a leisurely walk, shopping for local handicrafts, and experiencing authentic local life.

Cost: Free to enter and stroll. Canal boat rides are available, with prices varying. Rickshaw tours also offer a unique way to experience the street, with varying costs.

Transport: Located in the heart of Suzhou's Old Town, Pingjiang Road is within walking distance of attractions like the Humble Administrator's Garden and Suzhou Museum. It is also accessible by bus or subway from other parts of central Suzhou.

4. Shantang Street

Shantang Street is a historic pedestrian street that embodies the essence of old Suzhou, known as the 'miniature of old Suzhou.' It features traditional whitewashed houses with black roofs lining an ancient canal, where traditional wooden boats meander under stone bridges. Visitors can enjoy local street food, shop for souvenirs, and experience traditional tea houses, sometimes offering cultural performances. The street is particularly scenic at night when red lanterns reflect in the water. It offers a blend of historic charm and vibrant local activity.

Cost: Free to enter and stroll. Canal boat rides are available, estimated around CNY 80 per person for a night boat ride.

Transport: The eastern end of Shantang Street is near Lingering Garden and is easily reached by Metro Line 2 to Shantang Street Station, followed by a short walk.

5. Suzhou Museum

Designed by the acclaimed architect I.M. Pei, the Suzhou Museum is an architectural marvel that seamlessly blends modern design with traditional Suzhou garden aesthetics. The museum houses a significant collection of over 15,000 cultural relics, including paintings, calligraphy, ceramics, and jade, many dating back centuries. Visitors can appreciate the fusion of ancient artifacts within a contemporary setting, making it a unique cultural experience. Due to its popularity, it is advisable to arrive earlier in the day or consider making an advance reservation, if available, especially during peak times.

Cost: Free admission. Guided tours in English are available for a fee (e.g., CNY 200 per tour), and audio guides can be rented for CNY 35.

Transport: Located in the heart of Suzhou, it is within walking distance of the Humble Administrator's Garden and Lion Grove Garden. It is also accessible by various bus routes.

6. Grand Canal Cruise

Embarking on a Grand Canal cruise offers a unique perspective of Suzhou's historic waterways, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. As the boat glides along, visitors can admire ancient city gates, stone bridges with intricate carvings, and the traditional architecture lining the canal banks. This experience provides insights into Suzhou's long history as a transportation hub and its nickname as the 'Venice of the East.' Some cruises may feature traditional Suzhou opera performances, adding a cultural dimension to the scenic journey.

Cost: CNY 120 per person for a 40-minute to 1-hour cruise.

Transport: Cruise services typically operate from various docks, such as Xinshiqiao Dock or Xumen Dock. One can reach these docks by public transport (e.g., bus routes) or taxi. For instance, Xinshiqiao pier is at No.798 Panxu Road, Gusu District.

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