Spend a wonderful day in Suzhou (Private)

Suzhou , China

Spend a wonderful day in Suzhou (Private)

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About this experience

Suzhou is famous for its spectacular gardens and prosperous streets and blocks. Suzhou is the reflection of ancient Chinese architecture and economy. This is a typical watery town of the Yangtze River, a place you must visit to learn more about Chinese gardens and the history of the Yangtze River.
• 8-hours tour is enough for you to fall in love with Suzhou
• You will be amazed by one of the best oriental gardens in China
• Visit the Suzhou Museum, designed by Ieoh Ming Pei known as the last master of high modernist architecture
• Visit the Millennium Ancient Stree Pingjiang Road, enjoy Chinese tea and listen to Chinese stories
• Travel to the famous “Huqiu” mountain, which has more than 2,500 years of history

Available options

Spend a wonderful day in Suzhou (Private)

Pickup included

What's included

Hotel Pick-up & drop-off service (hotels in Suzhou city center)

Bottled water

Memorial gift

Private air-conditioned comfortable car

Lovely English speaking Guide

Detailed itinerary

Stop 1

The Humble Administrator's Garden is a Chinese garden in Suzhou, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the most famous of the gardens of Suzhou. The garden is located at 178 Northeast Street, Gusu District. It is the largest garden in Suzhou and is considered by some to be the finest garden in all of southern China.

Stop 2

The Suzhou Museum is a museum of ancient Chinese art, situated in Suzhou, Jiangsu, China. The current building where the Suzhou Museum is located, was designed by the prize-winning Chinese-American architect I.M. Pei. Admission is free. The Folk Branch of Suzhou Museum is located in the Bei family ancestral temple near Lion Grove Garden.

Stop 3

Pingjiang Road is located along Pingjiang He and is 1,606 meters in length. It stretches from Ganjiang Dong Road in the south to Baita Road East in the northwest, near the Humble Administrator's Garden and Suzhou Museum. The entire historic district covers an area of 0.4 square kilometers. The city of Suzhou was known as Pingjiang during Southern Song Dynasty. As a major thoroughfare of eastern Suzhou back then, the street carries on the former name of the city. It was featured in the map Pingjiang Tu, produced in the year 1229. There are 51 smaller alleys intersecting the street. There are also about 3 kilometers of canals within the historic district.
In 2009, Pingjiang Road was listed as a Zhongguo Lishi Wenhua Mingjie, one of the first nine streets with such title across China. Along with Shantang Street.

Stop 4

The Tiger Hill is known for its natural environment and historical sites. The hill is so named because it is said to look like a crouching tiger. Another legend states that a white tiger appeared on the hill to guard it. The hill has been a tourist destination for hundreds, if not thousands of years, as it´s evident from the poetry and calligraphy carved into rocks on the hill. The Song Dynasty poet, Su Shi said, "It is a lifelong pity if having visited Suzhou you did not visit Tiger Hill."

What's not included

Teahouse expenses (order tea at liberty)

Other items except "Inclusions"

Lunch/Dinner (recommended by the guide)

Gratuities

Personal expenses

Available languages

Guide guide

CMN EN

Important information

Public transportation options are available nearby

Specialized infant seats are available

Suitable for all physical fitness levels

Children must be accompanied by an adult

Operates in all weather conditions, please dress appropriately

Vegetarian, please advise at time of booking if required

This tour is NOT wheelchair friendly

The duration of transfers are approximate, the exact duration will depend on the time of day and traffic conditions

Please wear comfortable walking shoes

About Suzhou

Suzhou, often referred to as the 'Venice of the East,' is renowned for its classical gardens, silk production, and intricate waterways. This historic city offers a blend of traditional Chinese culture and modern amenities, making it a unique destination for travelers.

Top Attractions

Humble Administrator's Garden

One of the most famous classical gardens in China, the Humble Administrator's Garden is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. It features beautiful pavilions, ponds, and intricate rockery work.

Historical/Garden 2-3 hours ¥100 (Moderate)

Suzhou Museum

Designed by renowned architect I.M. Pei, the Suzhou Museum houses a vast collection of ancient artifacts, including ceramics, paintings, and calligraphy.

Museum 1-2 hours Free (Entry is free, but advance booking may be required)

Pingjiang Road

A well-preserved ancient street in Suzhou, Pingjiang Road offers a glimpse into the city's rich history. It features traditional architecture, shops, and teahouses.

Historical/Shopping 1-2 hours Free (Shopping and dining costs vary)

Tiger Hill (Huqiu Mountain)

A historic site and scenic area, Tiger Hill is known for its ancient pagoda, caves, and beautiful views. It's a popular spot for hiking and sightseeing.

Historical/Nature 2-3 hours ¥50 (Moderate)

Suzhou Silk Museum

Dedicated to the history and art of silk production, the Suzhou Silk Museum offers insights into the city's renowned silk industry. Visitors can learn about the silk-making process and see beautiful silk products.

Museum/Cultural 1-2 hours ¥30 (Budget)

Must-Try Local Dishes

Squirrel-Shaped Mandarin Fish

A signature dish of Suzhou cuisine, this dish features mandarin fish cooked in a sweet and sour sauce, arranged to resemble a squirrel.

Main dish Contains seafood

Suzhou Style Braised Pork

A tender and flavorful dish made with pork belly braised in a savory sauce, often served with rice or noodles.

Main dish Contains pork

Sweet and Sour Yangzhou Fried Rice

A popular fried rice dish featuring a balance of sweet and sour flavors, often made with shrimp, ham, and vegetables.

Main dish Contains seafood and pork

Bilayer Cake (Double-Skin Milk)

A traditional Suzhou dessert made with milk, sugar, and eggs, creating a creamy and smooth texture with a slightly crispy top layer.

Dessert Vegetarian

Popular Activities

Hiking in Tiger Hill (Huqiu Mountain) Boat tours in ancient water towns Tea ceremonies in Suzhou tea houses Strolling along Pingjiang Road Visiting classical gardens and historical sites Exploring local markets and street food Fishing in local lakes and rivers Visiting historical sites and museums

Best Time to Visit

March to May, September to November

These months offer pleasant weather with mild temperatures and lower humidity, making it ideal for sightseeing. The city's gardens and waterways are particularly beautiful during these times.

15-28°C 59-82°F

Practical Information

Language

Official: Chinese (Mandarin)
Widely spoken: Wu Chinese (local dialect), English (limited)
English: Limited

Currency

Chinese Yuan (CNY)

Time Zone

GMT+8

Electricity

220VV, 50HzHz

Safety Information

Overall Safety Rating: Generally safe

Suzhou is generally safe for travelers, with low crime rates and a safe environment for tourists. However, it's always important to stay vigilant and take precautions to ensure a safe and enjoyable trip.

Important Precautions:

• Use licensed taxis or ride-hailing apps
• Keep valuables secure and out of sight
• Be cautious of strangers offering unsolicited help or services

Getting there

By air

Sunan Shuofang International Airport • 20 km from city center

By train

Suzhou Railway Station, Suzhou North Railway Station

By bus

Suzhou Long-Distance Bus Station, Suzhou North Bus Station

Getting around

Public transport

The metro system is efficient, clean, and easy to navigate. It consists of multiple lines connecting key areas of the city.

Taxis

Available • Apps: Didi Chuxing

Rentals

Car, Bike, Scooter

Neighborhoods

Pingjiang Road Shiquan Street Surging Wave Bridge (Langshan) Area Xuanmiao Temple Area

Day trips

Tongli Ancient Town

30 km from Suzhou • Half day to full day

A well-preserved ancient water town featuring traditional architecture, canals, and bridges. It offers a glimpse into the rich history and culture of the region.

Zhouzhuang Water Town

40 km from Suzhou • Full day

One of the most famous water towns in China, Zhouzhuang features ancient architecture, canals, and bridges. It's a popular destination for tourists seeking a glimpse into the region's rich history and culture.

Huzhou

100 km from Suzhou • Full day to overnight

A city known for its beautiful lakes, mountains, and tea plantations. Huzhou offers a variety of outdoor activities, cultural experiences, and scenic views.

Festivals

Suzhou Lantern Festival • Mid-February (Lunar New Year) Suzhou Culture and Arts Festival • September to October Suzhou International Comedy Festival • October

Pro tips

Visit the Suzhou Museum early in the morning or on a weekday to avoid crowds and enjoy a more peaceful experience
Explore the city's canals and waterways by taking a boat tour, which offers a unique perspective on Suzhou's ancient architecture and scenic landscapes
Try local snacks and street food at the Shiquan Street Night Market, a bustling and vibrant destination for food lovers
Experience Suzhou's rich tea culture by visiting a traditional tea house, such as Louisa Tea House or Yun Xian Lou Tea House, and participating in a tea ceremony
Purchase high-quality silk products at the Suzhou Silk Market, where you can find a wide variety of fabrics, garments, and accessories at competitive prices