8 things to do in Suzhou, China

The Venice of the East, as many would call Suzhou, is a beautiful place.  Its' population grew immensely in the past through migration to the North.  It has the oldest canal in the world, beautiful gardens, a unique food scene, opera, and history galore.  You'll love this place.  

1. Enjoy the flavorful and subtle flavors of Suzhou

Suzhou doesn't emphasize bold and daring flavors like Shanghai or Chongqing.  Instead, they are more sweet and mild.  They are more focused on protein and vegetables with fewer rice or noodles like the north and south.  Feeling adventurous? Try pig blood "tofu" or curd.  Bonus: many of the restaurants are built over the water.  

2. Visit some gardens

There are many gardens you can visit in Suzhou such as the Master of Nets Garden, Lion Grove Garden, Suzhou China Flower Botanical Garden, and Gusu Gardens.  Gusu Gardens were very impressive, but The Classical Gardens of Suzhou were recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage site and packed with history and make for a gorgeous stroll through alleys, by ponds and under ancient trees.  Here is more about the gardens.

3. Scout out the perfect souvenir

There are all kinds of artificial cultural artifacts, trinkets, toys, jewelry, clothes and many more things to buy at the markets.  Suzhou is known for its Porcelain white and blue jewelry and pots.  Want something truly unique?  Get your name, ideally Chinese name, carved into a stone stamp.

4. See some really old architecture

Visit Pan Gate (盘门 - Panmen) State Park & The North Temple Pagoda瑞光寺塔 - Ruiguang Baota

The Gate and Pagoda date back to some the earliest architecture in Suzhou.  In fact, the North Temple Pagoda is the earliest pagoda in Suzhou and the surrounding area.  There are really beautiful surrounding areas as well.  Want to know more? Click here

5. Visit the Wu Water and Land Gate & original city wall

The original city wall, meant to keep those inside safe and intruders out, was built in 514 BCE! The Land and Water Gate is complex for both land and water travelers.  Here is more about the land and water gate and city wall.  

6. Take a leisurely gondola boat ride or enjoy the canal from the shore.

Suzhou's grand canal is the oldest and longest water canal in the world.  The Yangtze river is the only most important water way in China before The Grand Canal.  This canal is the reason Suzhou is an important city in China and contributes to its' economy. You can marvel at it with a relaxing ride.

7. Explore the world of Chinese Opera

Suzhou has the oldest form of Chinese opera, also known as Kunqu.  In Suzhou, you'll find Kunqu Opera Museum where you can explore and learn more about this ancient art that dates back to the 16th century.  You can also enjoy the unique music itself.  The Kunqu Opera House has operas that you can enjoy while you eat your meal.  It is definitely not what you think of when you think of Italian Opera.  

8. Wander the cobblestone streets of old town Suzhou near Pinjiang Street 

UNESCO gave Culture Heritage Conservation award to Suzhou for preserving so much of the local culture within the city. As you wander through the winding streets along the water, you'll notice whitewashed walls with traditional roofing and ancient architecture.