With winding canals, romantic water towns, gorgeous Chinese gardens, heritage architecture and ancient temples, it’s no wonder poets, scholars, writers and artists have waxed lyrical about Suzhou for centuries. Here’s how to spend a day in the ‘Venice of the East’:
Coffee and pastries
Coffee addict? You’re in luck – a proper flat white can be found at Baker & Spice walking distance from the W. Not only is the coffee good, but so are the pastries.
Ancient scenes
Brekky sorted, taxi up to Tiger Hill and make a beeline for the wonky Yunyan Pagoda while the morning light is still good, then stroll to historic Shantang Street, with its photogenic scenes of Ming and Qing-era architecture and ancient canal bridges.
Stroll down pedestrianised Guanqian Street, browsing shops and stopping at ancient Xuanmiao Temple, before grabbing piping-hot pan-fried pork buns nearby at cheap and cheerful YaBa Shengjian.
Gardens and museums
Continue the retail and sightseeing along picturesque Pingjiang Road. Here you’ll find more local street food, tea shops, and traditional Kun opera performances at the China Kunqu Opera Museum.
Next, head over to the Humble Administrator’s Garden and fall in love with one of the prettiest classical Chinese gardens in all the land. Standing out among all the historic buildings is the striking geometry of the Suzhou Museum. The I.M Pei-designed landmark houses a terrific collection of antiques and relics, including jade, porcelain, calligraphy, paintings and handicrafts.
Cruising to dinner
We know what you’re thinking: “river cruise, no!” But the Gusu River Cruise is a great way to admire the city’s beauty, especially in the evening as the red lanterns come on at sunset. Hop on at Baijuyi wharf Ganjiang East St & Moye St.
Starvin’, Marvin? Book dinner at the original branch of Songhelou, a restaurant renowned for its delicious local cuisine, and order the squirrel-shaped deep-fried Mandarin fish. Imbibe in post-prandials at laid-back cocktail bar Qi Whisky Lounge and finish with a late-night foot massage at clean, no-frills Shoujia Blind Person Massage.
See the full 24-hour itinerary on W Hotels!
This article features the W Suzhou and is part of the ‘W Hotels Unleash Your Curiosity campaign in partnership with LUXE.’ Head to W Hotels for more of our 24 hour itineraries featuring the hottest hangouts, best eats and greatest to-do lists across Asia Pacific.
