- Humble Administrator’s Garden – Bask in the beauty of one of the largest and finest gardens in southern China. A UNESCO World Heritage Site located in downtown Suzhou, feel at peace in this classically designed private garden as you wander through the picturesque landscape in which traditional architecture, hills, lawns, flowers, and meandering streams harmonize with the natural and built environment in poetic elegance.
- Master of the Nets Garden – Be enchanted by this wondrous garden synthesizing in the design, residences, and buildings with lakes, grottoes, gardens of flowers and ancient trees. See what inspired China’s ancient philosophers, poets, and intellectuals in the past.
- Tiger Hill – Learn about the legends behind the tiger-shaped hill with its leaning pagoda and temples, set in extensive scenic gardens and pools to delight the eye and bring peace to the soul.
- Grand Canal – Step into a wooden boat and cruise Suzhou’s Grand Canal, which reaches all the way to Beijing. Enjoy scenes of local life passing through peaceful residential quarters and a bustling commercial zone, featuring a harmonious blend of ancient and modern architecture along the banks of the canal.
- Visit the Panmen Gate – Constructed during the Yuan Dynasty (1271-1368 AD) you’ll have a chance to learn about this historical landmark and its importance in the defense system of Suzhou throughout its rich and interesting history.
- Take a rickshaw ride – Pingjiang Road is a well preserved historical block stretching along Pingjiang River and a rickshaw ride will take you back in time to its origin during the Tang and Song dynasties. Reflect on the lifestyle of locals as you meander through the small alleys, ancient residences, rivers and bridges of this pocket of history.
- Savor a silk souvenir – Suzhou is the origin of China’s silk trade and China’s capital of silk. A visit to one of Suzhou’s silk museums or numerous silk stores is essential. Time your visit to the Suzhou Silk Festival held in September and you’ll be hard-pressed to resist acquiring your own silken treasure.
The best way to experience China is taking a tour that suits your specific needs, budget, and schedule. The good news is: ChinaTours.com can help you do that. While we offer numerous small group tours which can be taken as private tours, we also love designing individual tours for travelers wanting a real experience of China.