"When you arrive in Suzhou, you’ll find every home nestled along the rivers."
This verse by Tang Dynasty poet Du Xunhe paints the dream of a Jiangnan water town — serene, poetic, and timeless.
Suzhou is not just a city; it’s a living scroll of riverside homes, arched stone bridges, and tranquil gardens. If you’re planning to visit during the May Day holiday but dread the crowds, don’t worry. I’ve crafted a 3-day Suzhou itinerary that’s beautiful, balanced, and stress-free.
Day 1: Gardens, History, and Lakeside Charm
Humble Administrator’s Garden (Zhuozheng Yuan)
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Opening hours: 7:30 AM – 5:30 PM
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Address: 178 Northeast Street, Suzhou
"Among all gardens in Jiangnan, Suzhou gardens reign supreme." The Humble Administrator’s Garden is a masterpiece of classical Chinese landscape design — refined, elegant, and harmonious. Stroll past lotus ponds, stone bridges, and winding corridors that shift with every step.
Suzhou Museum
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Opening hours: 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM (Closed Mondays, last entry 4:00 PM)
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Tip: Online reservation is required.
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Address: 204 Northeast Street, Suzhou
Designed by the legendary I.M. Pei, this museum is his final architectural masterpiece. Whitewashed walls meet sleek granite, while glass skylights bathe the exhibits in natural light. It’s where tradition and modernity quietly embrace.
Lion Grove Garden (Shizilin)
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Opening hours: 7:00 AM – 5:30 PM
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Address: 23 Yuanlin Road, Suzhou
A playground of stone! Famous for its maze-like rockeries, the Lion Grove Garden feels like a labyrinth of peaks, caves, and pathways. Perfect for a bit of fun — just don’t get lost in its twists and turns.
Pingjiang Road
A living postcard of Suzhou: cobblestone lanes, tea houses, and canals lined with willow trees. Stop for a cup of Biluochun green tea at a riverside teahouse, or wander into a cozy café. Here, time slows to a gentle rhythm.
Jinji Lake
When the sun sets, Jinji Lake comes alive with glittering lights. Don’t miss the bridge waterfall, the giant Ferris wheel, and the fountain shows — a modern contrast to Suzhou’s ancient charm.
Day 2: Culture, Classics, and Nightscapes
Guanqian Street
Suzhou’s bustling shopping street where history meets flavor. From Lu Gaoxie’s marinated duck to Suzhou’s famous rice cakes, it’s a paradise for foodies and souvenir hunters alike.
Hanshan Temple
Immortalized in the poem “A Night Mooring by Maple Bridge”, this ancient temple resonates with the deep toll of midnight bells. It’s a peaceful place to pause, reflect, and feed the fish in its ponds.
Tiger Hill (Huqiu)
"To come to Suzhou and not visit Tiger Hill would be a lifelong regret." — Su Dongpo
Explore the Sword Pool, leaning pagoda, and winding paths. Pause for a Kunqu opera performance near the exit, or take a slow boat ride toward Shantang Street.
Shantang Street
At night, Shantang Street glows with lanterns, reflecting on the water. Take a night boat ride, capture the romance of Suzhou after dark, and end the evening with a feast on local street food.
Day 3: Water Town Escape – Zhouzhuang or Tongli
Option 1: Zhouzhuang Ancient Town
Known as “China’s No.1 Water Town”, Zhouzhuang is all bridges, canals, and Ming-Qing mansions. Glide through the waterways under stone bridges, visit the grand Shen and Zhang houses, and soak in its poetic charm.
Option 2: Tongli Ancient Town
Nicknamed “The Oriental Venice”, Tongli is smaller and quieter than Zhouzhuang. Its “One Garden, Two Halls, and Three Bridges” form the town’s highlights, and its misty mornings and tranquil evenings will make you feel like you’ve stepped into a painting.
Where to Eat in Suzhou
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Suzhou cuisine (Su Bang Cai): Try Songhe Lou or De Yue Lou for classics.
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Street food: Shantang Street for snacks, Guanqian Street for traditional pastries, and Fengmen Street for late-night eats.
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Hidden gems: Check out local spots like Xiangxin for chicken rolls and sweet porridge.
Shopping in Suzhou
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Upscale malls: Times Square, Shin Kong Place, or Jiuguang.
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Outlet deals: Yi’oulai near Yangcheng Lake.
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Local charm: Guanqian Street and Shilu for souvenirs.
Where to Stay
Stay in Gusu District, the heart of old Suzhou. Boutique courtyards near Pingjiang Road or Lion Grove Garden bring you right into the city’s historic charm. Imagine sipping tea on a bamboo-scented terrace, listening to the hum of cicadas at dusk.
Final Thoughts
Suzhou isn’t just a destination — it’s an experience. From tranquil gardens to lively canals, from historic temples to glittering lakes, every corner tells a story. Whether you choose Zhouzhuang’s grandeur or Tongli’s serenity, this 3-day Suzhou itinerary will leave you with memories as timeless as the city itself.
