🏮 Pingjiang Road: A Timeless Stroll Through Suzhou’s Ancient Soul

Step into the heart of Suzhou’s Old Town and discover Pingjiang Road, a 1.6-kilometer stretch of cobblestone charm that has preserved its layout and spirit for over 2,500 years. Lined with canals, stone bridges, whitewashed homes, and teahouses, this historic street offers a glimpse into the elegance of Jiangnan water towns. 🎟️ Entrance Fee & Operation Hours Entrance Fee: Free Opening Hours: Open 24 hours a day Boat Ride: ¥40 per person for a 40-minute canal cruise 🚗 Transportation By Metro: Take Line 1 to Xiangmen Station, Exit 3, then walk 350 meters west By Bus: Routes 204, 301, 305, or 313 to Pingjiang Road Stop From Suzhou Railway Station: Taxi (~10–15 min) or Metro Line 2 to Shantang Street, then transfer 📜 History Pingjiang Road was once the main thoroughfare of Suzhou during the Southern Song Dynasty. It appears on the famous Pingjiang Tu map from 1229, and its layout has remained largely unchanged. In 2015, it was designated a National Historic and Cultural Street. The area is rich in cultural heritage, with 18 stone bridges, historic alleys, and preserved architecture. It’s also home to the Couple’s Retreat Garden, part of Suzhou’s UNESCO-listed Classical Gardens. 🌟 Must-Do Experiences Canal Cruise: Glide under arched bridges in a wooden boat, serenaded by folk songs Rickshaw Tour: Ride through alleys with a guide sharing stories of Ming and Qing dynasties Tea Tasting: Sip Suzhou’s famous Bi Luo Chun in riverside teahouses Calligraphy Workshop: Learn brush techniques and create your own Chinese art Visit Kunqu Opera Museum: Explore the birthplace of China’s oldest opera form Gourmet Food Tour: Try mooncakes, soup dumplings, and begonia cakes from street vendors 🧳 Travel Tips Visit early morning or evening to avoid crowds Wear comfortable shoes for cobblestone paths Don’t miss nearby attractions: Humble Administrator’s Garden, Suzhou Museum, and Lion Grove Garden #เบิร์ดทั่วไทยไปทั่วโลก #birdjourneyjourneys #pingjiangroad #suzhouoldtown #veniceoftheeast #chineseteaculture #canalcruisechina #ancientsuzhou #kunquopera #jiangnanstyle #historicchina #suzhoutravel