Suzhou's Best Day Trips

Suzhou’s Renowned Gardens, a Paragon of Landscape Architecture

Suzhou is celebrated for its refined and elegant classical gardens. The Classical Gardens of Suzhou are included on the UNESCO World Heritage List. Among them, the following three gardens are the most representative and are must-sees on a day trip to Suzhou:

The Humble Administrator’s Garden

The Humble Administrator’s Garden was first built in the Ming Dynasty and is one of the largest and most famous classical gardens still standing in Suzhou. The layout of the garden is meticulous and staggered, with pavilions, towers, halls, artificial hills, and ponds complementing each other, embodying the Chinese garden design concept of “seeing the vast in the minute, creating a thousand li within a small space.”

The Lion Grove Garden

The construction of the Lion Grove Garden began in the late Yuan Dynasty and early Ming Dynasty. Its greatest feature is its rockery art. The artificial hills in the garden are rugged, precipitous, and exquisite, resembling a group of lion peaks, hence the name Lion Grove Garden. Strolling through the garden feels like navigating a maze, filled with the joys of exploration.

Hanshan Temple

Hanshan Temple is located in the western suburbs of Suzhou. It is one of the oldest temples in Suzhou and the place where the famous Tang Dynasty poet monk Hanshanzi lived in seclusion. The temple is popular for its incense, ancient trees, ancient pagoda, and flying eaves, presenting a strong historical and cultural atmosphere.

Lingshan Scenic Area, a Buddhist Pure Land

Lingshan Scenic Area is located on the shores of Lake Taihu in Suzhou. It is a tourist destination that integrates Buddhist culture, landscape gardening, and modern technology. The architecture in the park is magnificent and grand, the Buddha statues are solemn and dignified, and the large-scale musical fountain is awe-inspiring, leaving visitors relaxed and refreshed.

Xishan Island, the Pearl of Lake Taihu

Xishan Island is located in the western part of Lake Taihu. It is famous for its beautiful lake and mountain scenery. The island is covered with lush vegetation and has fresh air. It is known as the “Pearl of Lake Taihu.” Climbing the Xishan TV Tower offers a panoramic view of Lake Taihu, with an expansive and breathtaking vista.

Huqiu Tower, a Wu Zhong Landmark

Huqiu Tower was first built in the Northern Song Dynasty and is one of the oldest brick towers still standing in China. The tower body is sturdy,險峻險峻, and imposing, with a magnificent aura. Along with Xishan and Beisi Pagoda, it is known as one of the Three Towers of Suzhou. Climbing the tower offers a distant view of the entire city of Suzhou.

Pingjiang Road, an Ancient Waterside Street

Pingjiang Road is the most well-preserved historical street in the ancient city of Suzhou. Shops line both sides of the street, giving it an antique charm. Canals crisscross, and small bridges span the waterways, creating a quaint and elegant atmosphere. Strolling along the street feels like traveling through time.

Shantang Street, the Bustling Heart of Gusu

Shantang Street is a historically significant commercial street in Suzhou. It was once one of the most prosperous streets in the city. Today, Shantang Street still retains its ancient architectural style. Shops are鳞次栉比lined up side by side, and tourists come in droves, showcasing Suzhou’s prosperity and historical heritage.

Itinerary

For a day trip to Suzhou, the following itinerary is recommended:

Morning: The Humble Administrator’s Garden → Hanshan Temple → The Lion Grove Garden

Afternoon: Lingshan Scenic Area → Xishan Island

Evening: Huqiu Tower → Pingjiang Road → Shantang Street

This itinerary can be adjusted based on personal preferences and time constraints, but it is recommended to plan your time wisely to avoid missing important attractions.