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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

Suzhou canalsIn 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.

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who's been there
Veronica Spann

Start planning your tailor-made trip to Suzhou by contacting one of our China specialists

Map of Suzhou

Places & hotels on the map

    Places near Suzhou

    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

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