Suzhou One Day Tour: A Leisure Trip of Picturesque Landmarks with Boat Ride & Lunch

Tour Itinerary

In the morning, you will be picked up by your local Suzhou tour guide at your hotel lobby in Suzhou downtown or Suzhou train station with a welcome signage “Your Way Holiday”. And your highlights trip start.

Firstly, you will visit the Lion Grove Garden, renowned for its impressive labyrinth of Taihu (Lake Tai) rocks at its center. These rocks, shaped in a way that resembles lions, give the garden its name. Lion Grove Garden is one of the four most famous classical gardens in Suzhou, alongside the Surging Wave Pavilion, Lingering Garden, and Humble Administrator’s Garden. Covering an area of approximately 1.1 hectares, the garden is a perfect destination for sightseeing, with its richly decorated pavilions, towers, and various architectural styles, each with its own history and story. The name "Lion Grove" is inspired by a Buddhist tale that mentions a rocky place in a bamboo forest, much like the layout of this garden. As your guide, I will share the fascinating history and symbolism of the garden’s design, offering insights into the stories behind its unique features.

Next, we will visit the Garden of Cultivation, one of the best-preserved examples of a Ming Dynasty classical garden in Suzhou. The garden's design follows a clear north-to-south axis, creating a harmonious flow between its three main elements: rockery, pool, and hall. This arrangement is similar to the design found in the Mountain Villa with Embraced Beauty, reflecting the typical style of Ming Dynasty garden architecture. The Garden of Cultivation embodies the elegance and simplicity that characterize the period’s aesthetic, with its well-balanced composition and unpretentious beauty. The layout is thoughtful, offering a peaceful atmosphere where each element is carefully placed to create visual harmony. As your guide, I will explain the symbolism and historical significance of each part of the garden, providing you with a deeper understanding of Ming Dynasty garden design.

Lunch will be arranged at a local Chinese restaurant, where you’ll have the opportunity to enjoy authentic Suzhou cuisine. Our Suzhou tour guide will be on hand to offer excellent recommendations based on your preferences, ensuring you experience the best of the local flavors. You’ll have the chance to taste classic dishes such as Squirrel-shaped Mandarin Fish, known for its crispy texture and sweet-and-sour sauce, and Suzhou-style Pork Ribs, tender and rich in flavor. The restaurant uses fresh, locally sourced ingredients to prepare dishes that reflect the region’s culinary heritage. As you dine, your guide will provide insights into the history and significance of Suzhou cuisine, offering a deeper appreciation for the food you’re enjoying.

The next stop is the Grand Canal, where you will enjoy a private boat ride. The Suzhou section of the Grand Canal stretches approximately 82.35 kilometers, from Wuqi Bridge (the border between Suzhou and Wuxi) to Yazi Ba (the border between Suzhou and Zhejiang Province). This section is a vital waterway for freight transport, facilitating the delivery of coal, construction materials, rice, oil, and various agricultural products to the city, towns, and villages along its route. As the canal flows through Suzhou, it has been the lifeblood of commerce for centuries, with numerous historical sites lining its banks. The canal also offers an easy and scenic route for travelers heading to Hangzhou by boat, allowing you to admire the sights along the way. As your guide, I will provide you with fascinating stories about the canal’s rich history, its role in shaping the region’s economy, and its cultural significance. You’ll also learn about the ancient engineering techniques used to construct this impressive waterway, which has connected Suzhou to the rest of China for over a thousand years.

Continue your trip to Shantang Street, also known as Seven-mile Shantang. Located in the northwest of Suzhou, this historic street stretches about seven li (3.5 kilometers). Shantang Street is a popular spot for both domestic and international tourists, many of whom enjoy leisurely walks along the canal, taking in the picturesque scenery. Thanks to its strategic location and easy access by both water and land, Shantang Street became one of the most prosperous commercial and cultural centers during the Ming and Qing dynasties, earning the title of “The No.1 Ancient Street in China.” As your guide, I will provide you with fascinating insights into the street's vibrant history, its role in Suzhou’s commercial boom, and the cultural heritage that has shaped this lively area. I will also point out notable landmarks along the street and share intriguing stories about local traditions and famous figures who have walked these paths over the centuries.

The final stop is the Suzhou No.1 Silk Factory, a place that offers a fascinating glimpse into Suzhou's rich silk heritage, which dates back over 2,000 years. Suzhou has long been known for its expertise in cultivating mulberry trees, raising silkworms, and turning raw silk into luxurious fabrics. At the Suzhou No.1 Silk Factory, you’ll learn about the entire silk-making process, from the cultivation of silkworms to the delicate extraction of silk threads from cocoons. You will see firsthand how silk is reared, dyed, and woven into stunning fabrics, and experience the craftsmanship that goes into creating each exquisite piece. This stop is a unique opportunity to immerse yourself in Suzhou’s silk culture, a tradition that has shaped the city's identity for centuries. Not to be missed!

After the tour of Suzhou No.1 Silk Factory, drive you back to your hotel lobby in Suzhou downtown or Suzhou train station and your tour in Suzhou ends.

Price Per Person in US Dollars