Suzhou
A Poetic Journey through China's Venice
Suzhou, a renowned city in eastern China, is celebrated as a pivotal center of culture, history, and modern economic vitality. In recognition of its development, Suzhou has consistently ranked among China's most attractive cities for investment and innovation. However, its rapid modernization seamlessly coexists with a rich, ancient heritage. The poetic charm of classical gardens and the timeless ambiance of ancient canals, as you can imagine, will amaze you while strolling through the Humble Administrator's Garden, savoring the view from the Panmen Gate, or contemplating history on the Pingjiang Road.
Of course, this city has much more to offer than just tourist sites: exquisite Suzhou-style cuisine, vibrant performances of Pingtan, serene boat rides along the Grand Canal, and an immersive experience in its unique watertown lifestyle.
Suzhou gardens
- Humble Administrator's Garden: one of the four famous gardens in China, experience the essence of gardening with "one step at a time"
- The Lingering Garden: Appreciate the exquisite spatial layout and the changing landscapes of the four seasons
- Lion Grove: Feel the Zen and fun in the maze of strange stones
Water town customs
- Pingjiang Road: Stroll along the thousand-year-old canal and feel the artistic conception of "small bridges and flowing water with people's homes"
- Shantang Street: Take a boat tour at night and enjoy the night view of the ancient street illuminated by red lanterns
- Zhouzhuang/Tongli: One-day round trip to experience the most authentic Jiangnan water town life
Cultural experience
- Listen to Pingtan: Appreciate Suzhou Pingtan in an antique teahouse and feel the charm of Wu Nong’s soft language
- Learn Su Embroidery: Experience this exquisite skill that is listed as an intangible cultural heritage
- Visit the Silk Museum: Learn about Suzhou’s 2,000-year silk weaving history
Food recommendations
- Subang cuisine: classic dishes such as squirrel mandarin fish and eel paste are not to be missed.
- Yangcheng Lake hairy crabs: a must-try seasonal delicacy when visiting in autumn
- Su style noodles: Zhu Hongxing and Tong Dexing’s time-honored noodle restaurants are worth a special visit
- Tea and Food Culture: Enjoy Biluochun and Dingsheng Cake at the teahouse next to the garden