Suzhou, Eastern China
Known as the “Venice of the East,” Suzhou is famed for its classical gardens, scenic canals, and silk industry. This guide provides insight into Suzhou’s top attractions, local foods, transportation, and vibrant nightlife.
Top Tourist Attractions in Suzhou
The Humble Administrator’s Garden (Zhuo Zheng Yuan)
- Highlights: One of Suzhou’s most famous classical gardens and a UNESCO World Heritage site, featuring ponds, pavilions, and beautifully landscaped scenery.
- Getting There: Accessible via buses 40, 313, or the metro to Beisita Station.
- Entrance Fee: CNY 80 (low season), CNY 90 (high season).
- Opening Hours: 7:30 AM – 5:30 PM.
The Lingering Garden (Liu Yuan)
- Highlights: Known for its distinctive rocks, winding pathways, and tranquil spaces, this garden is another UNESCO site showcasing traditional Chinese garden design.
- Getting There: Bus 85, 317, or taxi directly.
- Entrance Fee: CNY 55 (low season), CNY 70 (high season).
- Opening Hours: 7:30 AM – 5:30 PM.
Tiger Hill (Hu Qiu)
- Highlights: This scenic hill offers historical pagodas, including the Leaning Pagoda of Suzhou, and beautiful views of Suzhou’s nature.
- Getting There: Buses 32, 146, or a taxi to Tiger Hill Scenic Area.
- Entrance Fee: CNY 70.
- Opening Hours: 7:30 AM – 5:30 PM.
Suzhou Museum
- Highlights: Designed by architect I.M. Pei, the museum houses ancient Chinese artifacts, ceramics, and calligraphy, all set within a modern, architecturally stunning space.
- Getting There: Metro Line 4 to Beisita Station or by taxi.
- Entrance Fee: Free, but you may need to book tickets in advance during peak times.
- Opening Hours: 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM (closed Mondays).
Pingjiang Road Historic District
- Highlights: A charming canal-lined street with traditional shops, tea houses, and bridges. It provides a glimpse into old Suzhou and is perfect for a leisurely stroll.
- Getting There: Accessible via Metro Line 1 to Lindun Road or by taxi.
- Entrance Fee: Free.
- Opening Hours: 24 hours, although most shops are open from 9:00 AM – 9:00 PM.
Shantang Street (Seven Mile Shantang)
- Highlights: This 1,200-year-old street is lined with historic buildings, shops, and restaurants. A nighttime boat ride offers beautiful views of the illuminated canal and architecture.
- Getting There: Metro Line 2 to Shantang Street Station or by bus/taxi.
- Entrance Fee: Free; boat rides cost CNY 40-60.
- Opening Hours: 24 hours (shops generally open 10:00 AM – 10:00 PM).
Getting Around Suzhou
- Metro: The Suzhou Metro is expanding, covering many tourist sites, with fares ranging from CNY 2 to CNY 8.
- Buses: Suzhou has an extensive bus system, with fares generally around CNY 1-2. Tourist information is mostly in Chinese, so using a translation app is helpful.
- Taxis and Ride-Hailing: Taxis and apps like Didi are widely available and convenient for reaching attractions.
- Biking: Suzhou is bike-friendly, with shared bikes like Hello Bike and Mobike available around the city, especially near tourist areas.
Popular Local Foods to Try in Suzhou
- Sweet and Sour Mandarin Fish: A Suzhou specialty, this fish dish is shaped like a squirrel with a crispy coating and tangy sauce.
- Suzhou-style Mooncakes: Filled with red bean paste or sesame, these are slightly crispy and less sweet than other regional varieties.
- Suzhou Noodles: Known for their light and flavorful broth, these noodles are often topped with ingredients like shrimp, pork, or bamboo shoots.
- Braised Duck: A savory dish with a rich, slightly sweet sauce, commonly found in local restaurants.
- Wine-filled Dumplings (Zui Niang Yuanzi): Sweet rice dumplings soaked in rice wine, giving them a unique flavor that’s popular during local festivals.
Top Nightlife Spots in Suzhou
Pan Pacific Suzhou’s Garden Lounge
- Highlights: Located in a beautiful hotel with traditional garden architecture, this lounge offers a serene atmosphere with views of Chinese gardens.
- Location: 259 Xinshi Road, close to Panmen Scenic Area.
- Entrance Fee: Free entry.
- Happy Hours: 5:00 PM – 7:00 PM, discounts on cocktails and wine.
Luna Bar at W Suzhou
- Highlights: A stylish rooftop bar with panoramic views over Suzhou’s skyline and Jinji Lake, offering crafted cocktails in a chic setting.
- Location: W Suzhou, 10th Floor, 1-3 Guangfu Road.
- Entrance Fee: Free entry, but reservations recommended.
- Happy Hours: 6:00 PM – 8:00 PM, selected drinks are discounted.
Momi Cafe & Bar (Pingjiang Road)
- Highlights: Situated in a historic building along Pingjiang Road, this spot offers a laid-back setting perfect for evening drinks.
- Location: 118 Pingjiang Road.
- Entrance Fee: Free.
- Happy Hours: Typically 5:00 PM – 8:00 PM.
Jinji Lake Night Cruise
- Highlights: A night cruise on Jinji Lake provides a relaxing view of Suzhou’s modern skyline. The illuminated waterfront makes for a memorable experience.
- Location: Jinji Lake Pier.
- Entrance Fee: CNY 60 – 80 depending on cruise type.
- Happy Hours: Not applicable, but sunset cruises are popular.
PUB 88
- Highlights: A lively Western-style pub offering a range of beers, cocktails, and live music. Popular with both locals and expats.
- Location: Suzhou Industrial Park, Jinji Lake area.
- Entrance Fee: Free.
- Happy Hours: 5:00 PM – 8:00 PM.
The Camel Sports Bar Suzhou
- Highlights: A popular sports bar offering Western food, beer, and a lively atmosphere for watching sports or socializing.
- Location: 9 Xinghan Street, Suzhou Industrial Park.
- Entrance Fee: Free entry.
- Happy Hours: 6:00 PM – 8:00 PM, discounts on beers and mixed drinks.
Whether you’re exploring its serene gardens, navigating the canals, savoring Suzhou’s distinctive cuisine, or enjoying the nightlife by the scenic Jinji Lake, Suzhou offers a unique mix of traditional and modern Chinese culture. With its well-preserved historical charm and modern amenities, Suzhou provides a fulfilling travel experience for those looking to delve into China’s ancient beauty while enjoying modern comforts.