Top attractions, what to visit in Suzhou

Suzhou, known as the 'Paradise of Gardens,' is home to two of China's Four Great Famous Gardens. Renowned for its classical gardens, intricate canals, and rich cultural heritage, it's a top summer tourist destination. With nearly 500 attractions, including 6 National 5A-level scenic areas (China's highest tourism rating) and 38 National 4A-level scenic areas, Suzhou offers numerous sights—but which are truly unmissable highlights? No visit to Suzhou is complete without exploring the famous Suzhou attractions such as the Humble Administrator's Garden, the Lingering Garden, the Master of the Nets Garden, the Suzhou Museum, and the Tiger Hill Pagoda, offering a blend of natural beauty and cultural richness for visitors to enjoy. Moreover, there are interesting cultural activities those you can experience while traveling in the area.

Here are some highlights to consider. Let us to explore the top places to visit in Suzhou.

Top 1: Humble Administrator’s Garden

The Humble Administrator's Garden (Zhuozheng Yuan) is the largest and most iconic classical garden in Suzhou, covering 52,000 square meters. Recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site and a national 5A-level attraction. Praised as “the finest garden in all of Jiangnan,” it ranks among the Four Great Gardens of China alongside the Summer Palace in Beijing , the Mountain Resort in Chengde, and Suzhou’s own Lingering Garden. With its elegant layout centered on water, seasonal floral displays, and signature features like the “Little Flying Rainbow” corridor and Fragrant Islet Hall, the garden offers the experience of stepping into a living Chinese painting.

Originally the residence of Tang poet Lu Guimeng, the site became a temple during the Yuan Dynasty and was later transformed into a garden in the Ming Dynasty by Wang Xiancheng. Inspired by Pan Yue’s essay On Idle Living, the garden reflects a life of simplicity and contentment. It is home to 48 structures—including towers, pavilions, bridges, and chambers—as well as ancient trees and over 700 bonsai. The garden is divided into Eastern, Central, and Western sections, with the Central Garden renowned for its lotus ponds, artificial islands, bamboo groves, and delicate rockeries.

Tips: It tends to be more crowded in the morning, especially on weekends, while it’s relatively less busy after 3 p.m.

• Address: No. 178, Northeast Street, Gusu District, Suzhou City, Jiangsu Province
• Open Hours: 7:30 AM to 5:30 PM (March 1 to October 31); 7:30 AM to 5:00 PM (November 1 to February 28 of the following year )
• Tour Length: 2-4hours

Top 2: Lingering Garden

Compared to the grandeur of the Humble Administrator’s Garden, the Lingering Garden, one of China’s Four Great Classical Gardens, resembles a refined and elegant Jiangnan lady. Also known as the Eastern Garden or Hanbi Mountain Villa, it is celebrated for its exquisite architecture and abundance of fantastically shaped ornamental rocks. Among them, the Taihu stone named “Crown Cloud Peak” is regarded as a masterpiece of garden rocks. Along with the Nanmu Hall and a 140-million-year-old fish fossil, they are hailed as the 'Three Treasures of the Lingering Garden.' Around 3 p.m., the corridor’s interplay of light and shadow offers an unmissable photo opportunity.

Lingering Garden, dates back to the Ming Dynasty (1368–1644). Originally built by a stonemason named Zhou Shicheng as the East Garden, it was later expanded by Qing Dynasty official Liu Shu, who planted pines and bamboos, added twelve prized Taihu stones, and built the “Celestial Hall of Five Peaks.” The garden was eventually renamed “Liuyuan” (Lingering Garden), reflecting both the owner’s surname and the leisurely atmosphere that makes visitors reluctant to leave. Covering four sections—Central, East, West, and North—the Central Garden is the oldest, featuring hills, ponds, and the iconic Celestial Hall. The East Garden is known for elegant halls and pavilions, the West Garden for massive rockeries and maple trees, and the North Garden for precious bonsai. A 700-meter-long corridor links the entire garden, adorned with calligraphy from renowned masters spanning the Tang to Qing dynasties.

• Address: Liuyuan Subdistrict, Gusu District, Suzhou City
• Open Hours: 7:30 AM to 5:30 PM (March 1 to October 31 ); 7:30 AM to 5:00 PM (November 1 to February 28 of the following year )
• Tour Length: 2-4hours

Top 3: Tiger Hill

The Tiger Hill Scenic Area, located in the northwestern part of Suzhou, is one of the city's most renowned historical and cultural attractions with a history dating back over 2,500 years. Although the hill itself is only 36 meters high and shorter than many of the surrounding trees, it holds great significance due to its legends, natural beauty, and rich cultural heritage. According to folklore, after King Helu of the ancient Wu State was buried here, a white tiger appeared to guard his tomb, giving the hill its name. Today, Tiger Hill is a national 4A scenic area, admired for its seasonal charm, winding creeks, rock formations, and cultural relics.

Highlights include the Yunyan Temple Pagoda, once a symbol of ancient Suzhou, and the Sword Pool, where King Helu is believed to be buried, though the tomb has never been found. The area also hosts traditional events like the Spring Flower Show and the Autumn Temple Fair, making it a vibrant destination year-round.

• Address: Huqiu Subdistrict, Gusu District, Suzhou City
• Open Hours: 07:30-21:00
• Tour Length: 2-4hours

Top 4: Ancient Water Towns

Zhouzhuang Ancient Town

Zhouzhuang, located between Shanghai and Suzhou, is hailed as” China’s No.1 Water Town.” With a history spanning over 900 years, it is often referred to as a “living fossil” of Jiangnan water towns. Surrounded by water on all sides, the town is built along canals, with waterways crisscrossing in a grid-like layout. It retains nearly a hundred well-preserved Ming and Qing dynasty buildings and 14 ancient bridges, perfectly showcasing the charm of a traditional water town—especially enchanting at night.

Among its many historical sites, Fuan Bridge, Twin Bridges, and Shen House are particularly popular with visitors. The Twin Bridges, formed by the intersection of two bridges in a cross shape, resemble an old-fashioned key and are thus nicknamed the “Key Bridge.” Fuan Bridge is notable for housing five rare slabs of Wukang stone. Shen House, the largest and most luxurious residential complex in Zhouzhuang, features exquisite interior décor and intricate wood carvings, offering a vivid glimpse into the lifestyle and cultural sophistication of wealthy Jiangnan merchants during the Ming and Qing dynasties.

• Address: No. 43, Quanfu Road, Zhouzhuang Town, Kunshan City, Suzhou City, Jiangsu Province
• Open Hours: 08:00-20:00
• Tour Length: Half day-one day

Tongli Ancient Water Town

Tongli, located in Wuzhou City of Jiangsu Province near Suzhou and the Grand Canal, is a thousand-year-old water town known as the “Little Venice.” Surrounded by eight lakes and nestled along the banks of Taihu Lake, it retains the charm of a traditional Chinese water town. In 2004, it was recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site for its cultural and historical significance.

Tongli is famed for its serene canals, historic homes, and especially its 49 ancient stone bridges, each with a unique name and story. Life here remains closely tied to the water—residents still use boats for daily transport and gather by the riverside to wash clothes, preserving a lifestyle that reflects the town’s peaceful rhythm and enduring traditions.

• Address: No. 1, Zhongchuan South Road, Wujiang District, Suzhou City, Jiangsu Province
• Open Hours: 08:00-17:15
• Tour Length: Half day

Wuzhen Ancient Water Town:

Although Wuzhen is not part of Suzhou, it lies at the junction of Zhejiang Province and Suzhou, about 60 kilometers away. Compared to other water towns, Wuzhen’s greatest charm lies in its authenticity and well-preserved character, with over 1,300 years of history. Nestled beside the Grand Canal, it became a vital commercial hub during the Ming and Qing dynasties, especially flourishing in the silk and cotton trade. Now, divided into the East and West Scenic Areas, the West Scenic Area is more tranquil and immersive. At night, the canal glows under the soft light of lanterns, creating a gentle and poetic atmosphere.

• Address: No. 18, Shifo South Road, Wuzhen, Tongxiang City, Jiaxing City, Zhejiang Province
• Open Hours: 09:00-22:00
• Tour Length: Half day to One day

Luzhi Ancient Water Town

With a history of over 2,500 years, Luzhi Ancient Town is located in Kunshan, about 18 km east of Suzhou. The town gets its name from the character “甪,” as its six straight waterways resemble the shape of the character. Known as the “Capital of Bridges,” Luzhi is home to 41 ancient bridges, some dating back to the Song Dynasty, making it feel like an open-air museum of bridges.

Luzhi also features rich cultural heritage, including the 1,500-year-old Baosheng Temple, the Tomb of Tang Dynasty poet Lu Guimeng, and the Ye Shengtao Memorial Hall. Its local specialties—Fuli Trotters, Fuli Duck, and Luzhi Radish—carry centuries of tradition. Recognized for its well-preserved canals and streets, Luzhi was named one of China’s “Ten Famous Historical Townships” in 2003 and received a Township Preservation Award from UNESCO in 2004.

• Address: No. 21, Xiaoshi Road, Luzhi Town, Wuzhong District, Suzhou City, Jiangsu Province
• Open Hours: 08:30-17:00
• Tour Length: Half day

Top5: Lion Grove Garden

Lion Grove Garden, originally built during the Yuan Dynasty, is one of the “Four Famous Gardens of Suzhou” alongside the Humble Administrator’s Garden, Lingering Garden, and Canglang Pavilion. Its name, derived from the Buddhist concept of the Lion’s Seat, reflects its Zen heritage. The garden is especially famous for its large and intricate rockeries made of Taihu stones, which form caves, winding paths, and hidden corridors, creating a labyrinth-like experience. Emperor Qianlong admired it so much that he visited several times and even recreated its design in the Summer Palace. Each twist and turn reveals a new, picturesque view, making it an unmissable attraction, especially delightful for families with children.

• Address: No. 23 Yuanlin Road, Gusu District, Suzhou City, Jiangsu Province
• Open Hours: 7:30 AM to 5:30 PM (March 1 to October 31); 7:30 AM to 5:00 PM (November 1 to February 28 of the following year )
• Tour Length: 2-4hours

Top 6: Ancient Street of Suzhou

Pingjiang Road: is the best-preserved area of Suzhou’s ancient city, a historic street that stretches about 1.6 kilometers along a narrow canal. Often seen as a microcosm of the old city, it has retained its original layout with tree-lined waterways, intersecting alleys, and a harmonious blend of rivers and streets. The picturesque scenery perfectly captures the essence of a Jiangnan water town. Strolling along Pingjiang Road, visitors can admire the charm of the ancient Grand Canal while soaking in the rich cultural atmosphere. The street is also home to many traditional handicraft shops, where you can sample authentic Suzhou snacks and pick up unique souvenirs.

Qili Shantang Street: The saying “Hangzhou has West Lake, Suzhou has Shantang” reflects the high regard people have for Shantang Street, often seen as the essence of Jiangnan’s water towns. Stretching 3,600 meters from Duseng Bridge in the south to Tiger Hill in the north, it still preserves the canal layout of the Tang and Song dynasties and the architectural charm of the Ming and Qing periods. Along its length lie 17 unique ancient bridges, each with its own story, culminating in the leaning Tiger Hill Pagoda, which forms a picturesque contrast with the winding Shantang River.

• Open Hours: All day
• Tour Length: 2-4hours

Top 7: Suzhou Museum

The Suzhou Museum is a beautifully designed space that blends traditional Chinese garden architecture with modern materials and minimalist aesthetics. Covering a total area of 26,500 square meters, the museum resembles an ink-washed Jiangnan-style Garden. It consists of two main sections: the new building and the Zhongwang Mansion, the former residence of a Qing dynasty prince. The new building showcases pottery and artifacts from ancient to modern times, while the old mansion features traditional Suzhou-style murals. The museum hosts four permanent exhibitions with strong local character: Cultural Relics of Wu, National Treasures from Wu Pagoda, Elegance of Suzhou, and Paintings and Calligraphy of the Wu School.

• Address: Huqiu Subdistrict, Gusu District, Suzhou City
• Open Hours: Tuesday to Sunday: 9:00–17:00 (last admission at 16:00); Closed on Mondays (except for national public holidays)
• Tour Length: 1-2hours

Top 8: Suzhou Silk Museum

As an important hub along the ancient Silk Road, Suzhou played a key role in the spread of silk to the world, earning it the title “Land of Silk.” To preserve and showcase this legacy, the Suzhou Silk Museum was established. As China’s first professional silk museum, it also embodies the rich heritage of sericulture and silk weaving in the Jiangnan region, offering a fascinating journey through the history of silk spanning thousands of years.

The museum highlights the entire process of sericulture, from silkworm breeding and cocooning to traditional weaving and dyeing and explores the evolution of silk craftsmanship, trade, and cultural significance. Visitors can admire a wide range of exhibits, including Highlights include ancient silk garments, traditional looms, silk fragments, and modern silk products. The museum is not only a treasure trove of silk culture but also a great place to purchase authentic silk souvenirs.

• Address: Huqiu Subdistrict, Gusu District, Suzhou City
• Open Hours: 07:30-21:00
• Tour Length: 1-2 hours

Top 9：Master of the Nets Garden

The Master of the Nets Garden in Suzhou is one of China’s finest classical gardens, renowned for its harmonious blend of architecture, art and nature. Originally built in the Southern Song Dynasty by official Shi Zhengzhi and once called the Fisherman’s Retreat, it was later renamed during the Qing Dynasty by Song Zongyuan. Despite changing hands and undergoing restorations, the garden has preserved its elegant spirit. It consists of three parts: the central part as the main garden, the eastern part with residential quarters, and the western part with a library and study hall. Celebrated for its balanced layout of water, rocks, plants and structures, it exemplifies refined garden design and continues to inspire visitors with its poetic charm and artistic depth.

• Address: No. 11, Kuojiatou Lane, Daichengqiao Road, Gusu District, Suzhou City, Jiangsu Province
• Open Hours: 7:30 AM to 5:30 PM (March 1 to October 31); 7:30 AM to 5:00 PM (November 1 to February 28 of the following year )
• Tour Length: 2 hours

Top 10：Hanshan Temple

Hanshan Temple, first built during the Southern Dynasties over 1,400 years ago, is a shining example of Buddhist cultural heritage and a must-visit landmark in Suzhou. Formerly known as Fengqiao Temple, it rose to fame thanks to the Tang dynasty poem A Night Mooring by Maple Bridge by Zhang Ji, which vividly described the sound of the temple bell on a quiet night.

The temple complex features iconic structures such as the Grand Hall of the Great Sage, Sutra Library, Bell Tower, Stele Gallery, and Fengjiang Tower—together forming a tranquil and picturesque setting. Hanshan Temple is also a popular site for prayer and blessings. Every New Year’s Eve, the temple holds a traditional bell-ringing ceremony, where the bell is struck 108 times to usher in peace and happiness for the coming year. In addition to its religious significance, the temple also hosts a variety of cultural events that celebrate poetry, Buddhism, and traditional Chinese heritage, making it a deeply spiritual and enriching destination for visitors.

• Address: No. 24, Hanshan Temple Lane, Gusu District, Suzhou City, Jiangsu Province
• Open Hours: 07:30-18:00
• Tour Length: 2 hours

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