Suzhou, China-3-day-itinerary

Suzhou 3-Day Itinerary

Day 1: Classical Gardens and Canals

Morning

  • Humble Administrator’s Garden (9:00 am - 10:30 am)
    • Address: 178 Dongbei St, Gusu District
    • Take a leisurely stroll through this UNESCO World Heritage Site, one of China’s four most famous classical gardens.
  • Breakfast
    • Try some traditional Suzhou dishes at Bai Tang Lou (178 Dongbei St, Gusu District) or Song He Lou (133 Taijian Lane, Gusu District)

Afternoon

  • Grand Canal (11:00 am - 1:00 pm)
    • Take a boat ride along the ancient Grand Canal, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the oldest canals in the world.
  • Lunch
    • Enjoy some local street food at Guangqian Street or try Suzhou-style dim sum at Din Tai Fung (Shop 101, 268 Wang Dun Road, Gusu District)

Evening

  • Shantang Street (6:00 pm - 8:00 pm)
    • Explore this ancient street lined with traditional shops, tea houses, and restaurants.
  • Dinner
    • Savor some local seafood at Xiangxuehai Restaurant (188 Taijian Lane, Gusu District) or try Suzhou-style noodle soup at Lao Chang Ji (133 Taijian Lane, Gusu District)

Accommodation

  • Hotel: Suzhou Renaissance Hotel (located in the city center)
  • Alternative: Book a traditional Chinese courtyard house on Airbnb

Day 2: Temples and Water Towns

Morning

  • Tiger Hill (9:00 am - 11:00 am)
    • Visit this famous hill with a leaning pagoda, a symbol of Suzhou.
  • Breakfast
    • Try some traditional Chinese breakfast at Yang Yang Dumpling Restaurant (178 Dongbei St, Gusu District)

Afternoon

  • Zhuozheng Yuan (12:00 pm - 2:00 pm)
    • Explore this beautiful water town with canals, bridges, and traditional architecture.
  • Lunch
    • Enjoy some local snacks at Zhuozheng Yuan Food Street

Evening

  • Hanshan Temple (5:00 pm - 7:00 pm)
    • Visit this ancient Buddhist temple famous for its beautiful gardens and peaceful atmosphere.
  • Dinner
    • Savor some traditional Chinese cuisine at Song He Lou (133 Taijian Lane, Gusu District)

Day 3: Modern Suzhou

Morning

  • Suzhou Industrial Park (9:00 am - 11:00 am)
    • Explore the modern side of Suzhou and visit the famous Suzhou Museum.
  • Breakfast
    • Try some international breakfast options at Starbucks or Costa Coffee

Afternoon

  • ** Jinji Lake** (12:00 pm - 2:00 pm)
    • Take a leisurely walk around this beautiful lake and enjoy the scenic views.
  • Lunch
    • Enjoy some modern Chinese cuisine at Bistro 7 (Shop 101, 268 Wang Dun Road, Gusu District)

Evening

  • Suzhou Shopping Outlet (5:00 pm - 7:00 pm)
    • Go shopping for souvenirs or international brands.
  • Dinner
    • Try some fusion cuisine at The Kitchen (Shop 101, 268 Wang Dun Road, Gusu District)

Things to Know

  • Language: Mandarin Chinese is the primary language spoken in Suzhou. English is not widely spoken, so it’s a good idea to learn some basic Chinese phrases or download a translation app.
  • Currency: Chinese Yuan (RMB) is the local currency. Credit cards are widely accepted in tourist areas.
  • Weather: Suzhou has a humid subtropical climate with four distinct seasons. Be prepared for hot summers and cold winters.

Transportation

  • Airport: Suzhou is serviced by Sunan Shuofang International Airport (WUX). Take a taxi or bus to the city center (around 30 minutes).
  • Taxi: Taxis are widely available, but be prepared to show your destination in Chinese characters.
  • Metro: Suzhou has a convenient metro system with English signs and announcements.
  • Bus: Bus services are available, but may not have English signs or announcements.

Tips

  • Respect local customs: Remove your shoes when entering temples or traditional houses, and avoid public displays of affection.
  • Bargain: Expect to bargain at traditional markets and souvenir shops.
  • Try local food: Be adventurous and try some traditional Suzhou dishes, such as Dongpo pork and biluo chun wine.

Other Things of Interest

  • Suzhou Silk Factory: Learn about the history of silk production and buy some high-quality silk products.
  • Suzhou Opera: Watch a performance of this traditional Chinese art form.
  • Hot Springs: Relax at one of Suzhou’s many hot springs resorts.