If you are a museum lover, Suzhou Museum and Suzhou Garden Museum are great options. Designed by Leoh Ming Pei, Suzhou Museum features the style of Suzhou Garden. You’ll be amazed at the precious exhibits, jade, paintings, ceramics, Buddhist items, etc. The traditional tools used in the construction of Suzhou Garden are also on display. Suzhou Garden Museum is located in the Humble Administrator’s Garden. It introduces the landscape techniques, and garden history as well as culture.
If you love old temples, it is suggested that you visit Hanshan Temple. It was originally built between 502 and 519. The existing buildings there were rebuilt in the Qing Dynasty (1644 – 1912). You can find old steles and enjoy the delicious vegetarian meal in the temple. Compared to Hanshan Temple, Xiyuan Temple, Xuanmiao Temple, and Lingyanshan Temple are less crowded with visitors.
Suzhou also features gorgeous natural views to appreciate. You can just hike or ride a bike along Taihu and Yangcheng Lakes as well as explore the historical and cultural spots nearby. Tianping Mountain is a paradise for photographers in autumn due to red and golden leaves across the mountain.
Stroll around Suzhou Pingjiang History Cultural Quarters and you’ll find several classical gardens. In addition, you can explore the local market and old local unknown lanes to see the local life there.