" A Mind That is Stretched by A New Experience Can Never Go Back to Its Old Dimensions."
SuZhou (苏州)
Suzhou is a historic city located in Jiangsu Province, China, often referred to as the "Venice of the East" due to its intricate network of canals and waterways. Suzhou is a city with a rich history and cultural significance, dating back over 2,500 years. It was founded in 514 BC during the Spring and Autumn Period by He Lu, the king of the Wu State. The city's layout, resembling a double chessboard with streets and buildings along the rivers, has been preserved to this day.
The city is also famous for its silk industry, traditional architecture, and cultural heritage, including Kunqu Opera, which is the oldest forms of Chinese opera and Guqin art which is known as seven-stringed zither. Additionally, Suzhou played a vital role in China's economy and culture during the Song Dynasty, earning the nickname "Heaven on Earth" alongside Hangzhou.
Modern Suzhou blends its historical charm with contemporary development, featuring landmarks like the Suzhou International Finance Square and a thriving urban environment. It's truly a city where history meets modernity.
During the Zhou dynasty, a settlement known as Gusu after nearby Mount Gusu (姑苏山), became the capital of the state of Wu. The name "Suzhou" was first officially used for the city in AD 589 during the Sui dynasty. After the Qing occupied the area in 1644 and 1645, it was reorganized as Jiangnan Province, Emperor Qianlong of the Qing Dynasty had a deep admiration for Suzhou. He visited the city multiple times during his famous southern inspection tours, appreciating its cultural richness, exquisite gardens, and refined lifestyle.
During World War II, Suzhou experienced significant turmoil and hardship. In 1937, Japanese forces captured the city during the Second Sino-Japanese War, which was part of the broader conflict of WWII. The occupation led to widespread suffering, including massacres and destruction of cultural heritage.
Suzhou today has a population of 8.6 million, it is a vibrant city blending its rich historical heritage with modern development. It remains a hub for foreign investment, hosting major events like the 2025 Suzhou Global Investment Promotion Conference, where over 340 billion yuan in investments were signed. The city is also advancing in innovative industries, such as biopharmaceuticals and sustainable energy projects like the fishery-photovoltaic complementary initiative.
We boarded the HSR from Shanghai Station to Suzhou Station, completing the journey in just 25 minutes.
Upon arriving at Suzhou Station, we transferred to the metro and headed to ShanTangJie Station (山塘街站). Suzhou's metro system consists of 9 lines covering 350 kilometers and serving about 280 stations. The metro is known for its punctuality and reliability, handling over 1.8 million passenger journeys per day. The trains are clean, spacious, and air-conditioned, providing a comfortable ride. Stations are well-maintained, with clear signage in both Chinese and English, making it easy for visitors to find their way.
Ma Dong Pei Shaomai(马栋佩烧麦) Located just along the street above ShanTangJie Station (山塘街站), we headed for this immediately.
Ma Dong Pei is a well-known spot in Suzhou for shaomai (烧麦), a type of steamed dumpling. It's often praised for its large size and flavorful fillings, which typically include glutinous rice (糯米) , shiitake mushrooms (香菇) , diced meat (肉丁) and dried shrimps ( 开洋).
Shaomai itself has a long history in China, dating back to the Yuan Dynasty (1271–1368), when it was a popular snack among travelers and merchants. Over time, different regions developed their own variations, with Suzhou’s version emphasizing glutinous rice and savory fillings.
2 original shaomais at CNY7!
Just less than 10 minutes by foot, this view greeted me..... wowowowowow...
ShanTang Street (山塘街)
Shantang Street, situated in Suzhou, Jiangsu Province, China, spans approximately 3,600 meters, running from Changmen in the southeast to Tiger Hill in the northwest. This historic street parallels the Shantang River and is celebrated for its ancient charm, traditional architecture, and cultural significance.
Located in Jiangnan, a region famed for its picturesque water villages, Shantang Street embodies the essence of such towns. 
With a remarkable history of 1,200 years, its old arched bridges, riverside paths, and stone-paved streets create an atmosphere that feels like stepping into a "time tunnel" and being transported to a bygone era.
Shantang Street perfectly embodies the serene charm of small bridges overflowing water, whitewashed walls with black tiles, and riverside living.
Whether wandering through antique shops, enjoying regional snacks, or sipping tea in traditional tea houses while listening to Pingtan (talkshows) performances, this street offers a nostalgic glimpse into the timeless beauty of Suzhou's Jiangnan water towns.
Key landmarks include the street's archways, ancestral halls, and guild halls—over a dozen built during the Qing Dynasty, serving as offices for commercial associations.
Both sides of the street are adorned with historic houses featuring whitewashed walls and black tiles, complemented by numerous shops. When night falls, red lanterns illuminate the scene, their reflections dancing beautifully on the river—ideal for photography enthusiasts.
Visitors can enjoy boat rides, relax in charming teahouses, savor tea, and listen to Suzhou Pingtan (talkshows) performances.
WanHe Riverview Inn (挽河·河景客栈山塘街石路店)
This is the first look, and we felt deeply impressed: The entrance design was so cleverly conceived that stepping inside felt like a journey back to the Jiangnan of the good old days.
The WanHe Riverview Inn (挽河·河景客栈山塘街石路店) is a charming riverside retreat near Shantang Street in Suzhou, China. Offering a tranquil stay with picturesque canal views, the inn provides various room options, including bay-window suites, private bathrooms, and modern amenities such as free Wi-Fi, air conditioning, and smart toilets in select rooms.
Its cozy and elegant ambiance seamlessly blends traditional Chinese aesthetics with contemporary comforts. The staff are very polite and enthusiastic to assist, especially the owner: Xiao Gu who is humble and "do-it-all" for his guests.
Located just steps from Shantang Street and next to Changmen, the inn boasts an exceptional location, perfect for exploring Suzhou’s historic surroundings.
With three floors and six intimate rooms, the inn ensures a quiet and peaceful atmosphere. It showcases a mix of retro and Zen styles, featuring a courtyard, tea room, and a second-floor terrace perfect for photography. The third-floor sightseeing terrace includes a pavilion with breathtaking panoramic views of Suzhou's scenic beauty.
The Room
The room was an absolute delight, exuding the timeless charm of Jiangnan. Every detail was meticulously designed, creating an atmosphere of tranquility and refinement. Opening the window unveiled a serene water town landscape, reminiscent of an elegant ink painting—a scene that felt both peaceful and poetic.
The inn’s atmosphere truly embodied the essence of "small bridges, flowing water, and homes", immersing guests in a picturesque Jiangnan setting. With its retro-inspired design, the space radiated warmth, nostalgia, and comfort, making the entire experience unforgettable.
One standout feature was the bay window tea table, adding a unique touch to the experience. The stay itself was exceptionally pleasant, offering a clean, cozy, and inviting environment.
Thoughtful amenities, including disposable toiletries, provided extra reassurance for guests prioritizing hygiene. The room was impeccably maintained, with hygienic and plush bedding ensuring restful sleep. Additionally, the ample charging outlets catered perfectly to modern travelers’ needs.
The Veranda
This charming roofed, open-air veranda extends along the exterior of the building, creating a seamless connection between indoor comfort and outdoor tranquility. It provides much-needed shade and a welcoming space to unwind.
A beautifully arranged tea set sits on the veranda, making it an ideal spot for a peaceful tea-drinking session, where one can savor the aroma and warmth of a freshly brewed cup.
Above, at level 3, a smaller rooftop veranda offers an inviting space, furnished with a large table and chairs, perfect for gatherings beneath the sheltering roof.
Ancient Theater Stage (古戏台)
The Ancient Theater Stage on Shantang Street, Suzhou, is a historic site showcasing the city's rich cultural heritage. Dating back to the Tang Dynasty (618–907 AD), Shantang Street has long been a hub for traditional performances and commerce. The two-tier opera stage, rebuilt during the Kangxi period, hosts occasional spectacular shows. Visitors can experience Kunqu Opera (昆曲) and Suzhou Pingtan (评弹) in a setting adorned with intricate wood carvings and classic Chinese architecture. Often called the "Miniature of Old Suzhou," Shantang Street and its theater play a key role in preserving local artistic traditions. Catch a live performance for a glimpse into Suzhou’s vibrant history.
Tong Gui Bridge (通贵桥)
Tonggui Bridge (通贵桥) in Shantang Street, Suzhou, dates back to the Tang Dynasty (618–907 AD). It was originally built as part of the Shantang Canal project, initiated by the famous poet Bai Juyi in 825 AD. This makes the bridge over 1,200 years old, standing as a testament to Suzhou’s rich history and architectural heritage.
It is one of the iconic landmarks in the area, offering a picturesque view of the ancient water town. The bridge is known for its elegant arch design, which reflects the traditional architectural style of Suzhou.
stunning visual effect.
The bridge, made of stone, arches gracefully over the water, creating a moon-like reflection that enhances the beauty of the scene
At sunrise, the soft morning light illuminates the old canal and traditional houses, offering a peaceful and serene atmosphere. During sunset, the bridge becomes a lively gathering place, with visitors enjoying live music, scenic boat rides, and vibrant street life.
The golden hues of the setting sun cast a magical glow over the water, making it a perfect spot for photography and relaxation. Whether you're looking for tranquility or a lively ambiance, Tonggui Bridge delivers both at different times of the day.
Xunsheng Imperial Stele Pavilion (寻胜御碑亭)
Xunsheng Imperial Stele Pavilion) in Shantang Street, Suzhou, is a historical site associated with Emperor Qianlong of the Qing Dynasty. During his visits to Suzhou, he inscribed the "Shantang Xunsheng (“山塘寻胜”)" stele, which remains well-preserved today. The phrase "山塘寻胜" can be translated as "Seeking Scenic Beauty in Shantang". It refers to the act of exploring and appreciating the picturesque landscapes and historical charm of Shantang Street in Suzhou.
The pavilion serves as a cultural landmark, reflecting the emperor’s admiration for Shantang Street’s beauty and historical significance. The area is known for its ancient bridges, traditional houses, and vibrant commercial atmosphere, making it a key attraction for visitors exploring Suzhou’s rich heritage
Shang Tang Sheng Ji(山塘胜迹)
The phrase "山塘胜迹" translates to "Shantang’s Famous Scenic Spots" or "Historic Landmarks of Shantang" in English.
The "Shantang Shengji" (山塘胜迹) plaque is a notable landmark at the entrance of Shantang Street in Suzhou, near Changmen. It is mounted on a stone archway, with its golden characters prominently displayed, marking the beginning of the historic Shantang district.
Bai Juyi (白居易), a renowned poet of the Tang Dynasty (618–907 AD), played a significant role in the development of Shantang Street in Suzhou. In 825 AD, while serving as the governor of Suzhou, he initiated the construction of Shantang River to improve transportation and commerce. The street was later built along the riverbanks, becoming a bustling hub of trade and culture.
Sun Sheng Xing Aozao Noodles Restaurant (孙盛兴奥灶面馆）
Sun Sheng Xing is a well-known noodle shop in Shantang Street, Suzhou that has more than 100 years of history. It specializes in Kunshan Aozao Noodles (昆山奥灶面), a famous dish featuring rich, flavorful broth and tender noodles.
Aozao Noodles (奥灶面) is a famous traditional noodle dish from Kunshan, Jiangsu Province, China. It is considered one of China’s top ten noodles and is a signature dish of Suzhou cuisine.
Rich, flavorful broth – The soup is made using crucian carp (青鱼), fish bones, and pork bones, creating a deep, umami taste.
Thin, delicate noodles – Known as "dragon beard noodles" (龙须面), they are made from high-quality white flour and cooked to a perfect texture.
"Five Heats" technique – The dish is served piping hot, ensuring the bowl, soup, oil, noodles, and toppings are all heated properly
This restaurant is considered a must-visit spot for noodle lovers, offering an authentic taste of Suzhou cuisine in a simple yet memorable setting
The restaurant reflects a traditional and cozy atmosphere, staying true to its Suzhou heritage. The interior features classic wooden furnishings, creating a warm and inviting ambiance for diners.
Sitting by the window, overlooking the river, there's a tranquil charm in the air. The gentle flow of water, shimmering under sunlight or moonlight, sets a serene rhythm. Occasional ripples form as boats pass, blending into the peaceful scene.
We ordered Scallion Oil Noodles with Shredded Pork is the English translation of 葱油肉丝拌面. This dish features aromatic scallion-infused oil, tender shredded pork, and perfectly tossed noodles, creating a savory and fragrant meal that's both simple and delicious.
Topped side dish - braise pork bellies : Suzhou-style stewed pork belly is a rich and flavorful dish that embodies the essence of Jiangnan cuisine. It features tender, slow-cooked pork belly infused with a sweet and savory glaze, creating a melt-in-the-mouth texture.
BaiJuYi Jetty (白居易码头)
This is a historical dock located in Shantang Street, Suzhou. It is named after Bai Juyi, a renowned Tang Dynasty poet and statesman, who once served as the local governor of Suzhou. The jetty symbolizes his deep connection with Suzhou’s waterways and his poetic reflections on life and nature. The jetty offers picturesque canal views, making it a peaceful spot for visitors to stroll and reflect. Nearby, the Tang Shaofu Baigong Ancestral Hall commemorates Bai Juyi’s contributions to literature and governance.
Tonight, we will come back here again for our boat ride.
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| Tang Shaofu Baigong Ancestral Hall |
ChangMen (阊门)
Changmen (阊门) in Suzhou is an ancient city gate with a history dating back over 1,000 years. It was one of the eight main gates of Suzhou’s old city and played a crucial role in commerce and transportation.
The gate was originally designed to symbolize prosperity and connection to the heavens, reflecting Suzhou’s cultural significance.
During the Taiping Rebellion (1851–1864), parts of Changmen were destroyed, leaving only the inner-city gate and some structural remnants. In 1927, the municipal government dismantled additional sections and later reconstructed the gate in 1934, incorporating a Roman-style design with three passageways
At night, ChangMen (阊门) takes on a mesmerizing glow, blending ancient charm with a lively atmosphere. The historic gate, once a vital entrance to Suzhou, is softly illuminated, casting golden reflections onto the nearby canal.
Ma Ji Baked Chinese Cakes (马记祥烧饼)
This small, south-facing shop, run by a hardworking lady, offers a variety of affordable snacks, about 50% cheaper than market rates. The crispy batter, thin and crunchy at 20 cm in diameter, turns golden brown after frying, with green scallions tucked inside. A fresh one cost just 3 yuan, bringing back childhood memories of after-school treats.
The crab shell pastry (蟹壳黄) is even cheaper—1 yuan, whether sweet or savory. The sweet version, long and oval-shaped, bursts with flavor and scallion aroma. Many customers are loyal regulars, drawn to the owner’s warm hospitality.
The Sesame and White Sugar Shao Bing (芝麻白糖烧饼), priced at 2.5 yuan, boasts a delicious filling and crust, making this shop a hidden gem. Other treats, like meat floss cake (肉松饼) and fried dough sticks (油条), are both tasty and budget-friendly, worth trying.
Spice Shop (山塘辣壹年)
The phrase "山塘辣壹年" translates roughly to "Shantang Spicy for One Year" in English. Shantang Street is full of amazing shops, and stumbling upon this chili sauce store was a delightful surprise. The variety of sauces on display was impressive, each offering a distinct level of heat and flavor. The store’s interior is lively and vibrant, creating a welcoming atmosphere.
The price is CNY100 for three bottles, and CNY38 for one bottle which seems quite reasonable, but I only bought one as I am afraid three bottles is too much. I ordered my MR to around for spice tasting and, in the end, he got the one he likes which is pretty spicy!
Shen Yun Ya She(神韵雅舍)
My translation that it should be refer to "spiritual charm in an elegant residence"
A tea house beneath the ancient Changmen city wall, this place exudes a rich historical charm with a Republican-era aesthetic, offering a peaceful and elegant atmosphere. 
Guests can choose between indoor and outdoor seating, with the outdoor area providing scenic riverside views and a chance to experience Suzhou’s unique ambiance.
Spending two hours here in this serene escape, surrounded by the gentle hum of the city, made it hard to leave. A wonderful place, definitely worth returning to.
Rose tea is a fragrant, floral infusion made from dried rose petals or buds. It has a delicate, slightly sweet taste with subtle earthy undertones. Known for its calming properties, rose tea is often enjoyed for its ability to reduce stress, improve digestion, and promote healthy skin. It contains vitamin C and antioxidants, making it a popular choice for beauty and wellness.
Chrysanthemum tea is a traditional Chinese herbal tea made from dried chrysanthemum flowers. It has a light, floral aroma with a mildly sweet and slightly herbal taste. This tea is valued for its cooling effects, helping to reduce inflammation, lower blood pressure, and soothe the eyes. It is often consumed to relieve stress, detoxify the body, and improve circulation
A charming yellow pet bird, nestled in its cage near our table, kept chirping eagerly for attention. We took turns playing with it, amused by its lively spirit. Wherever our fingers moved, it followed with a cheeky, curious gaze, as if longing for interaction. Perhaps, being confined makes it crave company even more.
Song He Tower (松鹤楼)
One of Suzhou’s most famous restaurants, with a history dating back to 1757 during the Qing Dynasty under Emperor Qianlong's reign, It is renowned for serving authentic Suzhou cuisine, making it a must-visit spot for food lovers.
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| This premium BiLuoChun cost more than a dish here : SGD22! |
Bean Curd with Crab Roe (蟹粉豆腐) – Silky tofu topped with fresh crab roe, creating a creamy, umami-rich flavor.
Due to it's strong and old background, it frequently appears in movies and literary works. The recognition of this century-old establishment largely comes from reading about it in novels numerous times. So upon seeing the original shop of Songhe Tower, it was an irresistible moment to capture its image.
Sidetrack: In the novel of The Demi-Gods and Semi-Devils (天龙八部), this is the restaurant where Qiao Feng (乔峰) and Duan Yu (段誉) form their brotherly bond, but the branch of the restaurant is at Wuxi.
Boating
There are two types of boat rides: daytime and nighttime. During the day, there are four scheduled trips at 10:00 AM, 11:00 AM, 1:00 PM, and 3:00 PM, each lasting 40 minutes.
A boating experience in Shantang Street offers a serene journey through one of Suzhou’s most picturesque waterways.
As you glide along the Shantang River, you’ll pass under ancient stone bridges, alongside white-walled, black-tiled houses, and past bustling traditional shops lining the bank.
Many boat rides are guided by skilled boatmen, who share Suzhou folk songs and stories about the area.
As evening falls, red lanterns illuminate the water, making the experience even more enchanting.
The boat ride offers a unique perspective of Shantang Street, allowing you to appreciate its rich history and vibrant atmosphere.
Adding to the excitement, we encountered an unexpected scene onboard. The boat ride last night began in joy and tranquility, with the town beautifully illuminated. However, tension arose when a middle-aged woman opened the entire window for herself, refusing to share it with the passenger behind her. This led to a heated argument, with sharp, loud shouts echoing across the boat.
The Night View
Under the night sky, Shantang Street takes on an enchanting allure. The soft glow of red lanterns reflects elegantly on the tranquil river, creating a dreamlike setting perfect for photographers and curious wanderers alike.
Echoing poetic descriptions of old—"A thousand lanterns illuminate the night market as azure clouds drift above, and red-sleeved hosts welcome guests in grand towers"—Shantang Street truly embodies the magical essence of Suzhou’s historic charm.
Starbucks (星巴克)
In places like Shantang Street, Starbucks blends modern coffee culture with traditional Chinese architecture. The exterior feature whitewashed walls, dark wooden beams, and sloping tiled roofs, reflecting the Suzhou-style aesthetic. Inside, the ambiance is likely warm and inviting, with a mix of contemporary furnishings and local design elements, such as lattice windows or decorative lanterns.
Pork Belly Bun (梅干菜扣肉烧饼)
According to Baidu Maps, the shop, Pork Belly Bun (梅干菜扣肉烧饼), is situated along the main street of 西市 (West Market). It operates solely as a shopfront offering takeaway services.
Seeing that this shop had it, we decided to order one, adding bacon and pork meat as extra fillings.The pancake was so large that it had to be cut in half, making it perfect for sharing. At just CNY10 (less than SGD2), it was a great find!
See this fulfilling video, only to be spoilt by a loud rough voice of another customer.. 😒
XinZhenYuan (鑫振源 - 苏式大虾生煎)
This is a well-known pan-fried dumpling shop in Shantang Street, Suzhou, specializing in Suzhou-style shrimp Shengjian bao.
The prawn paste filling offers a delicate, ocean-fresh sweetness, complemented by subtle garlic and ginger notes. The smooth, slightly bouncy texture of the prawn paste enhances the crispy exterior, creating a perfect balance between crunch and tenderness. The dumpling is light yet flavorful, with a savory richness that makes it incredibly satisfying.
Chinese sour plum juice, (酸梅汤 is a traditional refreshing summer drink made from smoked plums, rock sugar, and aromatic ingredients like hawthorn berries, licorice root, and sweet osmanthus. It has a sweet, tart, and slightly smoky flavor, with a hint of saltiness due to the preserved plums used in its preparation.
After spending an unforgettable night here in the ancient water village, we checked out after a hearty breakfast in Shangtang Street, we are going to explore the town area - GuanQian Street before heading back to Shanghai later the night.
We have come to the end about this blog, here are the links of the blogs from this trip to Shanghai, Suzhou & Hangzhou:
Here below are some of the trips we have done in 2024:
11) "Sabuy "Mon Jam
12) "Sabuy' Mae Rim
Feel free, you are most welcome to browse through my other blogs to France, Japan, China, Thailand, Malaysia and cruises etc.
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Thanks, and Cheers
"I travel because seeing photos in books and brochures was not good enough for me, To be there, that was everything"
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