Criss-crossed by canals and blooming with exquisite landscaped gardens, Suzhou is a delightful destination only an hour by train from Shanghai.
The waterways and tree-lined avenues lattice an area famed for silk weaving, with techniques brought to vivid life at its famous Silk Museum.
Around Suzhou
In the region there are picturesque water towns such as Tongli, Zhouzhuang and Zhu Jia Jiao, where ancient stone bridges cross winding canals and old merchants’ houses line narrow cobbled streets.
At their best these small towns offer a rare and fascinating insight into a bygone China, but can be busy in the high season; we plan early starts to avoid the crowds.
Speak to someone
who's been there
Start planning your tailor-made trip to Suzhou by contacting one of our China specialists
- 01993 838 220
- Make an enquiry
Places near Suzhou
- Shanghai 54 miles away
- Moganshan 64 miles away
- Hangzhou 77 miles away
- Nanjing 119 miles away
- Huang Shan 162 miles away
Photos of Suzhou
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![Caged bird at riverside, Suzhou]()
Caged bird at riverside, Suzhou -
![Humble Administrator's Garden]()
Humble Administrator's Garden -
![Chinese garden, Suzhou]()
Chinese garden, Suzhou -
![Suzhou gardens]()
Suzhou gardens -
![Canal, Suzhou]()
Canal, Suzhou -
![Canal, Suzhou]()
Canal, Suzhou -
![Master of the nets garden, Suzhou]()
Master of the nets garden, Suzhou -
![View of the town alongside the Suzhou canals]()
View of the town alongside the Suzhou canals
Our expert guides to exploring Suzhou
Written by our specialists from their own experiences of visiting Suzhou, these guides will help you make the most of your time there. We share both our practical recommendations and the best ways to appreciate Suzhou at its best.
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China’s modern cities: Shanghai and Hong Kong ![Pudong, Shanghai]()
China’s modern cities: Shanghai and Hong Kong
China’s modern cities: Shanghai and Hong Kong
Mixing Chinese and European cultures, Shanghai and Hong Kong bridge the gap between East and West and often mark the start or finale to a China holiday. Specialists Susan and Kara outline the best ways to take in their shimmering skylines and quieter corners.
Read this guide
