SUZHOU
I spent four months in Suzhou during a university exchange and I loved it. Smaller and quieter than Shanghai, it’s known for its canals, classical gardens, and relaxed atmosphere. Just an hour away by high-speed train from Shanghai, it’s the perfect destination for a day trip or a weekend getaway.
🚄 Getting There
High-speed train from Shanghai, about 30 minutes. Trains run frequently throughout the day, no need to book far in advance.
To visit
Canals
- Pingjiang Road – quieter with whitewashed houses, tea shops, boats drifting by.
- Shantang Street – longer (7km), more animated, magical at night with red lanterns reflected on the water and food stalls everywhere
Humble Administrator’s Garden
Hanshan Temple
Guanqian Street
The main commercial pedestrian street in the old city, lined with restaurants, tea houses, and shops.
Tongli Ancient Town
⏱ Full half day
A water town about 30 minutes from Suzhou by bus or taxi, canals, stone bridges, old houses, and very few tourists.
Lakes & Modern Suzhou
The modern side of Suzhou is very different from the old town:
- Jinji Lake – a big lake in the Suzhou Industrial Park, good for a walk or bike ride. Beautiful at sunset.
- Suzhou Center – right next to it, it is one of the largest malls in the region
- Dushu Lake – further south in the university district, quieter and more local.
FOOD
Suzhou has very good local food, don’t miss the street food stalls around Guanqian Street and Shantang Street. Food centers are also a great option for a cheap, varied meal, pick whatever looks good from different stalls. For something different, Mammamia is a solid pizza spot with a beautifull view.
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