Suzhou: Unveiling the Treasures of the Venice of the East

Suzhou has many places worth exploring in detail, but if you only have 2-3 days, you can choose one of the following itineraries. These 5 routes each have their own themes and encompass places in Suzhou that are well worth visiting.

Route 1: Appreciating Traditional Suzhou Architecture (2 days)

Day 1: Pingjiang Road → Cangjie → Shuangta Market → Suzhou Center → Jinye Qingdian Luzhi

Cruise through Suzhou, guided by the boatwoman along the Pingjiang River, capturing the scenery on both banks. As night falls, immerse yourself in the ancient town of Luzhi, where the story of "Jinye Qingdian Luzhi" unfolds.

Day 2: Luzhi Ancient Town → Tongli Ancient Town

Take a leisurely stroll through Tongli, experiencing the slow life of the water towns in the Jiangnan region.

Route 2: Appreciating Suzhou's Art (2 days)

Day 1: Lion Grove → Guan Yu Study Hall → Old Suzhou Teahouse → Shiquan River Cruise → Master of the Nets Garden (Night Garden)

Experience the magical night garden at the Master of the Nets, where you can enjoy the wonders of garden strolls and performances - everything you desire for a cool summer evening!

Day 2: Suzhou Museum West Wing → Mudu Ancient Town

Visit the West Wing of Suzhou Museum to appreciate the romanticism of the stars and the sea. Take a stroll through the historical dock of Mudu Ancient Town, tracing the footsteps of Emperor Qianlong in Southern Jiangnan.

Route 3: Exploring Suzhou's Cuisine (3 days)

Day 1: Taiping Old Street → Yangcheng Lake 1971 Warehouse → Yangcheng Lake Lotus Island → Zao Wu Yuan Liu Jia Zhuang Handicraft Village

Explore the 1971 Warehouse at Yangcheng Lake, where even old granary warehouses can offer new experiences.

Day 2: Chongyuan Temple (Zen Coffee) → Huayi Brothers Movie World → Suzhou Village Outlet

Relax at Chongyuan Temple's Zen Coffee, where every sip carries a deep sense of Zen.

Day 3: Shantang Historic Cultural District → Haishi Shantang → Tiger Hill

Indulge in Suzhou-style snacks at Haishi Shantang, tasting pan-fried buns and sticky rice cakes, connecting your senses of sight and taste in delight.

Route 4: Experience the Thousand-Year-Old Grand Canal (2 days)

Day 1: Hanshan Temple (Hanshan's Eighteen Slow Movements) → Wu Culture Museum → Baodai Bridge Park

Apart from visiting Hanshan Temple, enjoy a beautiful tea space inside the temple, sitting across from the Maple Bridge, listening to the sound of the bell while sipping tea.

Day 2: Li Li Ancient Town → Liuyue Museum → Jinghang Grand Gathering

Stroll through the ancient town, admire the flowing streams and visit the bustling bookstores, experiencing the quaint beauty of the old town.

Route 5: Ancient and Modern Fusion (2 days)

Day 1: Canglang Pavilion (Mianshui Pavilion) → China Kunqu Opera Museum → Eslite Bookstore → Suzhou Arts and Culture Hub → Jinji Lake Cruise → Jinji Lake Music Fountain

Visit Eslite Bookstore for the latest trendy reads, catch a show at Suzhou Arts and Culture Hub, then take a boat cruise on Jinji Lake to admire its beautiful night views. Finally, enjoy a spectacular music fountain show amidst the changing lights, experiencing the romance of Jinji Lake.

Day 2: Ligongdi (Sino-French Lovers' Wall) → Ming Art Museum → Moonlight Dock

Start at Ligongdi to see the "Most Romantic Wall in the World" - the Sino-French Lovers' Wall, then head to the Ming Art Museum to experience the poetic beauty of Jiangnan and appreciate the chapters of art. Finish by watching the sunset and night views at Moonlight Dock, feeling the European-style architecture against the backdrop of a stunning 270-degree lake view.