Suzhou's Hidden Gem Citywalk Route

🖊️The opening chapter of *Dream of the Red Chamber* states: "When the earth sank in the southeast, there was a place in that corner called Gusu, and within it stood a gate known as Changmen—the most prosperous and romantic spot in the mortal world." The mentioned Gusu **Changmen** refers to the city gate near Shilu in Suzhou, while the "prosperous and romantic spot" points to Shantang Street. Many of Suzhou's city gates can be climbed, such as Xiangmen, Panmen, Shemen, and Xumen... but Changmen had always been closed off—until now. Taking advantage of its recent reopening, I rushed over for a visit. 📷Facing west, you can see the Leaning Tiger Hill Pagoda (it really is crooked!), while to the east, Beisi Pagoda, the Gate of the Orient, and the high-rises of Shilu are all visible. The view overlooks the bustling Xizhongshi Street below. After descending the city wall, I strolled along **Xizhongshi Street**. Most buildings here date back to the late Qing and early Republic periods, blending Shanghai-style Western architecture with traditional Chinese designs. You’ll see contrasting styles: arched columns, carved railings, Western-style villas alongside upturned eaves, small bridges over flowing water, and traditional Chinese sloped roofs. The shops are quintessentially local—workwear stores, public bathhouses, even a pawnshop! There are plenty of snack shops, all serving as everyday spots for nearby residents. While the flavors may not be mind-blowing, they’re all time-honored establishments: Jiangnan Crab Shell Pastry (the original location at Xinminqiao Market has long lines, but this branch has none!), Crispy Chestnut Cakes, Wudeju’s White-Cut Chicken, Xiangdewei Pan-Fried Dumplings, Chen’s Zongzi, Eweilin Salted Goose, Ma Jixiang’s Baked Flatbread, Yao’s Soy Milk, Lu Zhenxing, and Old Lu Gaojian... Venturing into the side alleys, you’ll also find the **Taibo Temple** (dedicated to the common ancestor of Suzhou locals and pioneer of Wu culture), **Wufeng Garden** (a classical garden famous for its five Taihu rocks), Wuqufang, and Tangjia Lane (a quintessential old Suzhou alleyway packed with historic snack shops).