Suzhou China 5 Day Itinerary

Suzhou 5-Day Itinerary

Day 1: Classical Gardens and Canals

  • Morning: Start at the iconic Humble Administrator’s Garden (), a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of China’s four most famous classical gardens. Explore the tranquil ponds, pagodas, and ornate bridges.
  • Lunch: Head to Song He Lou Restaurant () for traditional Suzhou cuisine, including Dongpo pork and steamed fish with pickled mustard greens.
  • Afternoon: Take a leisurely boat ride along the ancient canals (), which offer a glimpse into Suzhou’s rich history and water town culture.
  • Evening: Check-in at Hotel Soul (), a stylish boutique hotel in the heart of the old town. Enjoy a relaxing evening stroll around the nearby Pingjiang Road ().

Day 2: Silk, Pagodas, and Water Towns

  • Morning: Visit the Suzhou Silk Museum () to learn about China’s ancient silk production techniques and admire exquisite silk artifacts.
  • Lunch: Try some local street food at the bustling Guanqian Street (), such as stinky tofu or grilled squid.
  • Afternoon: Explore the picturesque Tonggu Canal (), a popular spot for boating and walking. Stop by the ancient Xuanmiao Temple () and marvel at its intricate carvings.
  • Evening: Enjoy a traditional Chinese dinner at De Yue Lou Restaurant (), known for its refined dishes and elegant atmosphere.

Day 3: Modern Suzhou and Shopping

  • Morning: Visit the Suzhou Museum () to discover the city’s history, art, and culture. The museum’s architecture is a fusion of traditional and modern styles.
  • Lunch: Head to the trendy Ginza West () district, which offers a range of international restaurants and cafes.
  • Afternoon: Shop for souvenirs or luxury goods at the high-end Suzhou Center Mall ().
  • Evening: Relax with a drink at the rooftop bar of The Tonino Lamborghini Hotel Suzhou (), offering stunning views of the city.

Day 4: Zhouzhuang Water Town and Sunset

  • Morning: Take a day trip to Zhouzhuang Water Town (), a charming ancient town famous for its canals, bridges, and traditional architecture.
  • Lunch: Savor local delicacies at one of the many family-run restaurants in the water town.
  • Afternoon: Explore Zhouzhuang’s tranquil alleys, visit the Shen House (), and enjoy a romantic boat ride on the canals.
  • Evening: Return to Suzhou and watch the sunset at the scenic Ligong Causeway ().

Day 5: Ancient City Walls and Departure

  • Morning: Visit the Suzhou City Wall (), a well-preserved ancient wall that offers panoramic views of the city.
  • Lunch: Try some traditional Suzhou snacks at the local markets or food stalls.
  • Afternoon: Last-minute shopping or exploration before departing from Suzhou.

Things to Know

  • Best time to visit: Spring (March to May) and autumn (September to November)
  • Language: Mandarin Chinese, but many locals speak English
  • Currency: Chinese yuan (RMB)
  • Weather: Humid subtropical climate with four distinct seasons

Transportation

  • Suzhou Railway Station: connected to Shanghai and other major cities in China
  • Taxis: readily available, but some drivers may not speak English
  • Metro: convenient and affordable, with English signs and announcements
  • Bike rental: a great way to explore the city’s scenic areas

Tips

  • Respect local customs and traditions when visiting temples or gardens
  • Try to avoid traveling during peak holiday seasons (e.g., National Day, Chinese New Year)
  • Learn some basic Mandarin phrases to show appreciation for the local culture
  • Be prepared for crowds and lines at popular attractions
  • Don’t drink tap water; stick to bottled or filtered water

Other Things of Interest

Enjoy your trip to Suzhou!