Shantang Street Shared Suzhou Walking Tour
This journey takes you through Suzhou's timeless charm, from its poetic gardens to vibrant street life. Whether you're passionate about cultural heritage, fascinated by contemporary economic developments and educational advancements, or eager to sample authentic Suzhou street food - including delicate local pastries, seasonal snacks and bustling market bites - this immersive experience offers a delightful treat for both your eyes and taste buds
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Shantang Street Shared Suzhou Walking Tour
What's included in Shantang Street Shared Suzhou Walking Tour
(Subject to Option Inclusions)Itinerary
Xiyuan Temple
For over 700 years, this quiet temple has welcomed visitors seeking calm. The famous Golden Statues Hall contains 500 unique figures - some smiling, some thoughtful - each telling its own story. Young students in simple robes can often be seen walking between classes at the temple's learning center. Many visitors like to pause here to make quiet wishes for good fortune. The on-site kitchen serves delicious plant-based meals prepared using recipes passed down through generations. Their signature noodles and mushroom dishes are particularly popular.
The Lingering Garden
A crown jewel among China's classical gardens, this UNESCO site showcases Ming Dynasty landscape artistry. Its pavilions, covered corridors and moon gates create ever-changing views, anchored by the iconic "Cloud-Capped Peak" rockery. The garden's waterways mirror seasonal blossoms, while bamboo groves frame each vista. These elements harmonize perfectly - from stone bridges to jade waters, all enhanced by whispering bamboos. Built in 1593, it witnessed China's transformation. Later home to Sheng Xuanhuai, the Qing industrialist who pioneered modern banks and universities, it bridges traditional beauty with modern history.
Seven-Mile Shantang
Leaving the tranquil beauty of Lingering Garden, we emerge into the vibrant energy of Shantang Street. This 1,200-year-old thoroughfare, built during the Tang Dynasty, follows the Shantang River - a historic branch of the Grand Canal that once connected Suzhou to Tiger Hill. As we walk along the water's edge, observe the passing wooden boats gliding beneath stone bridges. The traditional Suzhou-style buildings with their white walls and black tiles line the canal, creating postcard-perfect views of this "Venice of the East." The street's lively atmosphere offers a striking contrast to the garden's serenity we just experienced.
Inclusions
- During the tour, we'll serve you 4 different local snacks and 2 drinks along the way. Two of these will be sit-down tastings, while the others are authentic street foods meant to be enjoyed on the go
- Coffee and/or Tea
- Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller
- Public transportation options are available nearby
- Not recommended for pregnant travelers
- Not recommended for travelers with poor cardiovascular health
- Travelers should have at least a moderate level of physical fitness
Meet
Pickup and Dropoff
You will make your own way to the meeting points
Meeting Points
- Our guide will be waiting for you with a sign with the lead travelers name.
- We will collect all travelers in the lobby of Cendre Hotel
