Suzhou Museum consists of two parts: the new building opened in 2006 and the ancient building of the Taiping Heavenly Kingdom's Zhongwang Mansion (old building). The entire museum resembles a small garden. In the new building, you can see artifacts such as pottery, jade, and paintings from ancient to modern times. In the Zhongwang Mansion, you can also see the elegant and exquisite 'Suzhou-style paintings'.
The Beita Pagoda stands 76 meters tall, with nine octagonal levels, and is renowned as the tallest in Jiangnan. Originally, one could climb to the top for a panoramic view of the city, but the site is currently under renovation and not open to visitors. Surrounding the pagoda are some remaining halls of the Bao'en Temple, rebuilt during the Ming and Qing dynasties. The Beita Pagoda is a pavilion-style Buddhist pagoda in China, known as the 'First Ancient Temple in Wuzhong.' It was first constructed during the Three Kingdoms period, and it is said that Sun Quan built it to honor his mother, hence the name Bao'en Temple Pagoda.
Pingjiang Road Historical Block is located south of the Humble Administrator's Garden and has a history of over 2,500 years. It is a well-preserved ancient street block. Although it is only an alley away from the bustling Guanqian Street to the west, it exudes a completely different serene and quaint atmosphere. Strolling around here, admiring the architecture and enjoying some snacks, is very pleasant.
Lingyan Mountain
Lingyan Mountain is located 15 kilometers southwest of Suzhou city center, with an altitude of 182 meters, and is known for its peculiar rocks. The Lingyan Mountain Temple on the mountain is said to be situated on the site of the former Guanwa Palace built by King Fuchai for Xi Shi. The Lingzhi Stone in front of the Lingyan Pagoda is the origin of the mountain's name. Every weekend, locals from Suzhou enjoy hiking here and visiting the Lingyan Mountain Temple to burn incense and pray for blessings.
Dongting East Hill
Dongting East Hill, also known as Dongting East Mountain, is about a 2-hour bus ride from downtown Suzhou. It is a peninsula extending into Taihu Lake and includes several small islands in the lake. Enjoying the misty lake views and tasting the lake's fresh seafood are must-do activities here. The attractions on the island mainly consist of ancient buildings, making it a relatively easy and relaxing place to visit, especially suitable for older tourists.
Zhenze, sharing the ancient name of Taihu Lake, is located at the border of Jiangsu and Zhejiang provinces, just 12 kilometers from Nanxun Ancient Town in Huzhou. Historically known as 'Wu's head and Yue's tail,' the town features Jiangnan water town architecture with white walls and black tiles lining the river. The landmark Ciyun Temple Pagoda quietly reflects in the river. Compared to Zhouzhuang and Tongli in Suzhou, Zhenze has fewer tourists, allowing for a peaceful appreciation of the town's gentle beauty. Zhenze is also the hometown of basketball superstar Yao Ming, although his former residence at No. 3 Daxian Lane is not open to the public.
