This July, copy and paste this ancient city's ultimate Suzhou Citywalk guide!

Suzhou's most comprehensive travel guide—a must-read for first-time visitors! Suzhou, a poetic and romantic Jiangnan water town, boasts profound historical culture and picturesque natural scenery. Whether it's the refined elegance of classical gardens, the gentle charm of ancient water towns, or the vibrant energy of a modern metropolis, every aspect will captivate you. If you're planning a trip to Suzhou, follow this guide for an unforgettable journey! I. Attraction Recommendations 1. **Humble Administrator’s Garden**: One of China’s Four Great Gardens, Suzhou’s largest classical garden and the pinnacle of Ming Dynasty garden design. Every step reveals pavilions, bridges, and flowing water, showcasing the beauty of Suzhou-style gardens. Peak season ticket: ¥80; off-season: ¥70. Recommended visit: 2–3 hours. 2. **Suzhou Museum**: The masterpiece of I.M. Pei, free entry but requires booking ~1 week in advance. The museum’s design resembles a 3D landscape painting, blending white walls, black tiles, and geometric water features with Suzhou aesthetics. Open 9:00–17:00 (last entry 16:30), closed Mondays. Visit time: 1–2 hours. 3. **Tiger Hill**: Known as the "No. 1 Scenic Spot in Wu" with 2,500+ years of history. Highlights include the Leaning Cloud Pagoda and Sword Pool, said to be the burial site of King Helü of Wu. Ticket: ¥70. Visit time: 2–3 hours. 4. **Shantang Street**: A 1,000-year-old canal street offering old-town charm, historic guildhalls, and night cruises. Free entry, open all day. Visit time: 1–2 hours. 5. **Pingjiang Road**: A historic lane preserving Jiangnan water town vibes with quaint bridges and canals. Free, open all day. Visit time: 1–2 hours. 6. **Hanshan Temple**: Famous for the poem *Night Mooring at Maple Bridge*. Houses the "World’s Largest Buddhist Bell" and a giant poetry stele. Ticket: ¥20. Open 8:00–17:00. Visit time: 1–2 hours. II. Itinerary Ideas **Classic 2-Day Trip** - *Day 1*: Suzhou Station → Humble Administrator’s Garden → Suzhou Museum → Pingjiang Road → Jinji Lake Morning: Check in, then explore the garden. Lunch: Try local dishes like *Squirrel-Shaped Mandarin Fish* or *Eel with Garlic Sauce*. Afternoon: Visit the museum, stroll Pingjiang Road. Evening: Admire Jinji Lake’s skyline and dine nearby. - *Day 2*: Tiger Hill → Lingering Garden → Xiyuan Temple → Hanshan Temple → Shantang Street Morning: Discover Tiger Hill’s legends. Lunch: Taste *Cangshu Lamb* or *Fengzhen Noodles*. Afternoon: Tour Lingering Garden and temples, then night cruise at Shantang. **In-Depth 3-Day Trip** - *Day 1*: Suzhou Museum → Humble Administrator’s Garden → Lion Grove Garden → Pingjiang Road - *Day 2*: Lingering Garden → Tiger Hill → Qili Shantang (nighttime *Pingtan* performances) - *Day 3*: Xiyuan Temple → Hanshan Temple → Taihu Lake (boat ride recommended) III. Food Guide 🍜 1. **Suzhou Noodles**: Silky noodles with rich toppings. Try *Yuxingji* or *Tongdexing*. 2. **Squirrel-Shaped Mandarin Fish**: Crispy, sweet-sour fish at *Deyuelou* or *Songhelou*. 3. **Pan-Fried Buns**: Juicy fillings at *Xin Zhen Yuan* (prawn buns are a hit). 4. **Crab Roe Soup Dumplings**: Delicate skins bursting with broth—*Yaba Shengjian* or *Xishengyuan*. 5. **Suzhou Pastries**: *Plum Blossom Cakes*, *Haitang Cakes* at century-old *Huang Tian Yuan*. IV. Stay Options 1. **Guanqian Street Area**: Budget to luxury hotels (e.g., *LOHAS Huayu Oriental Hotel*). 2. **Pingjiang Road**: Waterfront stays like *Scholar’s Mansion Pingjiangfu*. 3. **Jinji Lake**: Skyline views at *InterContinental Suzhou* or *Hyatt Regency*. V. Tips 1. Book garden/museum tickets early. 2. Follow safety rules on boat tours. 3. Note: Suzhou cuisine leans sweet—adjust to taste. 4. Pack rain gear; summer requires sun/insect protection.