Suzhou

I. Must-Visit Attractions 1. Humble Administrator's Garden - A representative of classical Jiangnan gardens, built in the early Ming Dynasty. Follow the route through the East, Central, and West gardens to admire classic scenes like Little Flying Rainbow and Fragrant Isle, experiencing the artistry of classical garden design. - Ticket: 70-80 RMB, recommended visit duration: 2-3 hours. 2. Suzhou Museum - Designed by I.M. Pei, the building itself is a work of art. The museum houses rich collections including calligraphy, paintings, ceramics, and jade artifacts. - Free admission with advance reservation required, recommended visit duration: 1-2 hours. 3. Hanshan Temple - Famous for the Tang poem "Night Mooring at Maple Bridge," with melodious bell chimes. Visit the Mahavira Hall, Scripture Depository, and other structures to experience the ancient temple's charm. - Ticket: around 20 RMB, recommended visit duration: 1-1.5 hours. 4. Zhouzhuang Water Town - Known as "China's No.1 Water Town," featuring Ming-Qing architecture in ancient residences like Shen House and Zhang House, with optional boat tours. - Ticket: around 100 RMB, recommended visit duration: 1 day. II. Food Recommendations 1. Squirrel-Shaped Mandarin Fish: Golden crispy exterior with tender meat, sweet and sour flavor. Authentic versions available at old establishments like Deyuelou and Songhelou. 2. Suzhou-Style Noodle Soup: Thin noodles with flavorful broth, topped with braised pork or fried fish. Try at Yuxingji or Tongdexing. 3. Pan-Fried Buns: Crispy skin with juicy filling. Popular spots include Yaba Shengjian and Da'a Er Shengjian. 4. Plum Blossom Cake: Shaped like plum blossoms with soft, sweet fillings like red bean or jujube paste, available at local street shops. III. Accommodation Suggestions 1. Near Guanqian Street: Convenient transportation with proximity to attractions, shopping malls, and food streets. 2. Pingjiang Road Area: Strong ancient alley atmosphere with characteristic homestays for experiencing Jiangnan water town charm. IV. Transportation Guide 1. External Transportation: - Flights to Sunan Shuofang International Airport (about 40km from Suzhou), with airport shuttles to downtown. - High-speed trains arrive at Suzhou Station (closer to downtown) or Suzhou North Station. 2. Internal Transportation: - Metro covers major attractions (download "Suexing" APP for convenience). - Extensive bus network (cash or QR code payment), some routes offer scenic views. V. Itinerary Planning 1. One-Day Tour: Humble Administrator's Garden → Suzhou Museum → Pingjiang Road → Guanqian Street (Morning: gardens & museum; Afternoon: Pingjiang Road; Lunch at Guanqian Street). 2. Two-Day Tour: Day 1: Humble Administrator's Garden → Suzhou Museum → Hanshan Temple → Shantang Street; Day 2: Zhouzhuang Water Town. 3. Three-Day Tour: Day 1: Humble Administrator's Garden → Suzhou Museum → Pingjiang Road; Day 2: Hanshan Temple → Lingering Garden → Guanqian Street; Day 3: Zhouzhuang Water Town.