Suzhou, China

Suzhou

JiangsuChina

Why You'll Love Suzhou

Suzhou is a charming city located in eastern China, known for its picturesque canals, classical gardens, and rich cultural heritage. With a history dating back over 2,500 years, Suzhou is often referred to as the 'Venice of the East' due to its beautiful waterways and elegant stone bridges. The city boasts numerous UNESCO World Heritage Sites, including the renowned Humble Administrator's Garden and the Master of the Nets Garden, showcasing the exquisite art of Chinese landscape design. Visitors to Suzhou can explore the historic Pingjiang Road, lined with traditional houses and artisan shops, or take a leisurely boat ride along the ancient canals. Suzhou is also famous for its silk production, and tourists can learn about the silk-making process at the Silk Museum. With its unique blend of history, nature, and culture, Suzhou offers a delightful travel experience for all.

Getting to Suzhou

To reach Suzhou, you can fly into Shanghai Pudong International Airport (PVG), which is the closest international airport. From there, you can take a high-speed train or a bus to Suzhou, which is approximately 100 kilometers away. Alternatively, you can also take a direct train from major cities in China, such as Beijing or Shanghai, to Suzhou.

The closest city to Suzhou is Suzhou, in Jiangsu.

Travelling from Shanghai Pudong International Airport to Suzhou

When to Visit

The best time to visit Suzhou is during spring (March to May) and autumn (September to November), when the weather is pleasant and the gardens are in full bloom. Summers in Suzhou can be hot and humid, while winters can be chilly.

Weather and Climate

In spring, temperatures in Suzhou range from 10-20°C (50-68°F), with occasional rain showers. Summer temperatures can reach 30-35°C (86-95°F), with high humidity. Autumn is mild and comfortable, with temperatures ranging from 15-25°C (59-77°F). Winter temperatures range from 0-10°C (32-50°F), and occasional snowfall may occur.

Costs When Visiting

In China, the currency is the Chinese yuan.
Some sample costs when travelling around Suzhou are:

Sample Accommodation Costs

Accommodation options in Suzhou range from budget guesthouses to luxury hotels. A budget guesthouse or hostel can cost around 100-200 CNY per night, while mid-range hotels range from 200-500 CNY per night. Luxury hotels and resorts can cost upwards of 800 CNY per night.

Sample Food Costs

The cost of food in Suzhou can vary depending on where you eat. A meal at a local street stall or small eatery can cost around 20-50 CNY, while a mid-range restaurant meal can range from 50-100 CNY per person. Upscale dining options can cost upwards of 200 CNY per person.

Safety Rating

Suzhou is generally considered safe for tourists. However, like any other city, it is always advisable to take precautions and be aware of your surroundings. The crime rate in Suzhou is relatively low, and the city is known for its friendly and welcoming atmosphere. As with any travel destination, it is recommended to take appropriate safety measures and follow local laws and customs.

Local Population

Suzhou has a population of approximately 11 million people. The majority of the population is of Han Chinese ethnicity, and the main language spoken is Mandarin Chinese. Suzhou is known for its cultural diversity, religious tolerance, and equal rights for all individuals.

Things to Do

Some popular activities for tourists in Suzhou include visiting the classical gardens, exploring the historic Pingjiang Road, taking a boat ride along the canals, learning about silk production at the Silk Museum, and enjoying traditional Chinese opera performances. Suzhou also offers opportunities for shopping, dining, and experiencing local festivals and events.