Step into Ciyun Temple and discover an oasis of tranquility in Suzhou's bustling streets. This centuries-old monastery with its lingering incense smoke hides stunning details - from the weathered yellow walls to the ancient wooden beams. Follow the flagstone path to the courtyard where a 1,000-year-old ginkgo tree turns into a golden canopy every autumn. Pro tip: Try the legendary vegetarian noodles kneaded with well water, and don't leave without a handmade blessing charm from the resident monks!

Nestled in the heart of Suzhou's Dongshan, this lakeside retreat offers breathtaking views of Taihu Lake and lush mountains. Spanning 450,000 square meters, this garden-style state guesthouse is a perfect getaway. The elegantly designed rooms provide a cozy ambiance with stunning landscapes. Families will love the kid-friendly amenities, including playrooms and a children's乐园. Business travelers can utilize the multi-functional hall and various meeting rooms. Indulge in Wu-style cuisine at the on-site restaurants, or unwind at the tea house and pool—a truly all-inclusive experience!

Nestled by Taihu Lake, this retreat spans 500 acres of orchards with a dedicated kids' zone and heated pool (even children's toothbrushes provided!). Rooms feature floor-to-ceiling windows framing lake-mountain views—perfect for sipping tea on the balcony. Start mornings with local Pingtan opera during breakfast, while on-site restaurants serve both Suzhou delicacies and Western dishes. Explore Dongshan town by bike or unwind at the lakeside lounge. Business travelers will love the grand conference center encircled by intricate wood carvings.

Nestled on the hillside of Suzhou's Dongshan, this Instagram-worthy boutique stay (rated 4.8/5) is pure magic! Unwind in rooms with tatami mats and spa baths, or bring your furry friends to their pet-friendly spaces. Don't forget swimwear for the dreamy outdoor hot tub suites!
The blend of modern Zen aesthetics shines through their in-house café - sip artisan coffee while gazing at Taihu Lake's mountains. Just 5mins drive to the "Little Kamakura" lakeside photo spot, and stroll to ancient Dongshan Town for local delicacies. Families adore the kids' playground, while couples sneak moments in the garden teahouse. With free parking and laundry services, every detail whispers 'escape perfected'.

Escape the hustle and bustle of the city? This hidden gem nestled in the mountains by Taihu Lake is your perfect retreat! With a spacious garden, mountain-view restaurant, and scenic terraces, you’ll truly reconnect with nature. Whether it’s a family getaway, a camping BBQ with friends, or a pet-friendly adventure, this place has it all! The uniquely designed rooms blend classical and modern aesthetics, while amenities like the pool, chic bar, and Instagram-worthy photo spots ensure every moment is memorable. Impeccable service and serene surroundings—don’t miss out!

Tucked away by Taihu Lake, this 6-acre Song Dynasty-style garden villa is a hidden gem with ancient ginkgo trees, stone bridges, and flowing water. The highlight? Dozens of century-old ginkgos that paint the scenery gold in autumn, paired with red maples and sculptures—perfect for photos! Pet-friendly with a kids’ pool, BBQ area, and tea house, it’s ideal for couples or families. Enjoy fruit-picking, cozy movie nights, and warm hospitality. A true eco-retreat to unwind!

Nestled in the heart of Dongshan with lakefront views, this retreat blends Suzhou-style garden artistry with modern comforts. Stroll through landscaped courtyards where every turn reveals poetic bridges and pavilions. Sleep soundly on custom latex-palm mattresses, then pick fresh tea leaves or loquats from the garden—pet-friendly stays mean even furry friends can unwind. With smart toilets and lakeside BBQs, it’s a sanctuary where heritage meets serenity.

This is a hidden lakeside paradise, nestled between mountains and Taihu Lake, offering breathtaking views. The rooms feature organic cotton bedding, 100% formaldehyde-free, ensuring a comfortable and healthy stay. Most rooms have floor-to-ceiling windows, framing the stunning lake scenery—summer blooms with lotuses, winter serenity like a gem. Enjoy the infinity pool, BBQ area, fishing, and fruit-picking activities, or explore the nearby ancient village with well-preserved Ming and Qing architecture. Stroll through bamboo paths with your loved one under twinkling lights—pure romance!

Nestled by Lake Tai, this eco-retreat blends classical gardens with modern comforts for a serene getaway. Perfect for families with kids' club, animal encounters, and fun activities like kayaking or fireside camping. Rooms feature ironing facilities and 24/7 hot water – every detail counts. Instagrammers will love the picnic zones and Jiuyan Bridge night views. Ranked as a 2024 top hotel, their thoughtful service even includes pre-started kettles. Dive into lakeside luxury where quality meets nature!

Nestled in a century-old Ming-Qing mansion by Taihu Lake, this hotel is a perfect blend of tradition and modernity. With 16 boutique rooms and private courtyard options, it offers an intimate escape. Families will love the kid-friendly amenities, while culture enthusiasts can explore the tea house and art exhibitions. Rated 4.8/5, it’s ideal for those seeking pet-friendly stays, scenic gardens, and seamless airport transfers. A true gem for experiencing Suzhou’s charm!

Escape the hustle and bustle at this lakeside paradise nestled in a 2800-acre agricultural park with 500 acres of shimmering water. Perfect for family getaways, you can pick fresh fruits, fish by the lake, or let the kids run wild in the playground. Fancy a campfire barbecue under the stars? They've got you covered! With amenities like pet-friendly policies, free parking, EV charging, and even KTV, it's an ideal spot for team building, weddings, or simply reconnecting with nature. Breathe in the fresh air and let the serene landscape soothe your soul.

Nestled by the stunning Taihu Lake, this charming vintage villa-style hotel blends traditional Jiangnan architecture with modern comforts. Surrounded by gingko trees and lush greenery, the serene environment is part of a national heritage site. Rooms are uniquely decorated and fully equipped, including imported fixtures and air conditioning for ultimate comfort. The lake views are breathtaking, breakfast is delicious, and service is exceptionally attentive. Multiple dining options offer fresh Taihu seafood and local delicacies at various price points. Perfect for both family vacations and business trips!

Escape the hustle and bustle of the city and immerse yourself in this Chinese garden paradise hidden in Suzhou! With pet-friendly policies, you can bring your furry friends along for the holiday. Enjoy the 24-hour front desk service and relax in the beautifully designed garden, where every photo turns out insta-worthy. Unwind at the pool or stay active at the fitness center. Whether it’s a National Day special or a weekend getaway, this is the perfect spot to rejuvenate.

Nestled in the scenic Taihu Dongshan area, this hidden gem blends nature and culture seamlessly. The minimalist yet cozy design features natural wood elements, with rooms equipped with premium bedding and smart bathrooms for ultimate comfort. Unwind in the tea room, garden, or starry terrace, perfect for relaxation. Just a short walk from ancient villages and famous attractions, it’s an ideal retreat for those seeking tranquility and convenience.




This homestay is a hidden gem by Taihu Lake! Blending Suzhou-style architecture with modern amenities, its twin courtyards are shaded by loquat and osmanthus trees. Rooms feature Mi Bluetooth speakers and some even have panoramic terraces—pet-friendly too! Unwind with JBL KTV, garden BBQs on the first floor, or savor authentic private cuisine and drunken crab (a非遗 dish) upstairs. The 90s-born hostess adds a personal touch with her culinary skills. Perfect for family trips or gatherings, with free parking and endless lakeside vibes. Don’t miss out!

Escape the hustle and bustle at this lakeside retreat with panoramic lake views, featuring an infinity pool and a spacious terrace overlooking the stunning S-curve of Daixin Bay. The minimalist yet stylish design offers various room types, including 180-degree lake-view rooms and family suites, along with amenities like KTV, a private cinema, and game consoles—perfect for family trips, couple getaways, or corporate retreats. The host, a 20-year master of Dongting Biluochun tea, serves authentic brews for guests. By day, bask in the sun and lake breeze; by night, enjoy a romantic candlelit dinner. Don’t miss this serene getaway!

Tucked away in a serene garden paradise, this designer retreat offers breathtaking mountain and water views with crisp fresh air. Rooms feature giant smart projectors perfect for family movie nights! Kids love the playground, while adults unwind in the sauna or tea lounge – pure bliss! Pet-friendly policies mean your furry friends can join the vacation too. With attentive butler service, every detail is taken care of for your perfect getaway.

Everything you need to know about Ciyun Nunnery
Stay at Pingjiang Mansion Boutique Hotel, a beautifully restored traditional Suzhou courtyard inn just a 5-minute walk from Chiyun Temple. The hotel blends classical Jiangnan architecture with modern comfort, featuring private courtyards, hand-carved wooden windows, and serene garden views. Guests enjoy complimentary access to local cultural tours, including walking excursions through Pingjiang Road Historic District and guided visits to nearby Cou Garden. Its prime location near Line 4 of Suzhou Metro ensures easy access to other landmarks like Suzhou Museum and Humen Street, making it ideal for travelers seeking authentic heritage experiences with convenience.
Start your day early with a visit to Chiyun Temple, soaking in its tranquil atmosphere and ancient architecture. Then stroll along Pingjiang Road, sampling local treats like Ji Toub Mi (rice ball) and Suzhou-style soup noodles. Head to Shili Shan Tang Street for a relaxing boat ride on the canal, admiring the timeless beauty of stone bridges and white-walled houses. In the afternoon, explore Wangshifu Garden or Humble Administrator’s Garden (a 15-minute drive), marveling at masterful landscape design. End your day with dinner at Fengmen Hengjie, where you can savor authentic Su cuisine. This seamless blend of culture, nature, and history offers a deeply immersive journey into old Suzhou.
Choose Pingjiang Li Hidden Stay, a locally curated homestay that embodies the essence of Suzhou’s leisurely pace. Wake up to the sound of rain on tiles and sip Biluo Chun tea in a quiet courtyard. Participate in hands-on workshops like Suzhou embroidery or Kunqu Opera listening sessions, hosted by resident artisans. Evening walks along the Hucheng River reveal golden reflections and lantern-lit alleys. Try street snacks like Maihua Gao and Yaozhi Yuanzi. Monthly events such as "Night Walk on Pingjiang Road" offer storytelling under glowing paper lanterns, transporting you back to the city’s poetic past. It’s not just travel—it’s immersion in a way of life.
The Chiyun Temple gatehouse with its red walls and golden eaves creates a striking backdrop, especially during golden hour. For dynamic shots, head to Pingjiang Road’s arch bridges—especially Dongwu Bridge and Baodai Bridge—where reflections in the canal form perfect symmetry. Cou Garden’s East Courtyard with its rockery and pavilion offers architectural depth and natural harmony. For a unique perspective, rent a wupeng boat and photograph the temple from below, capturing the layered rooftops and water reflections. These locations provide both classic and creative angles for photography enthusiasts seeking authenticity and beauty.
Take Line 4 of Suzhou Metro from Suzhou Railway Station to Pingjiang Road Station, then walk just 6 minutes to Chiyun Temple. The trip takes about 25 minutes with no transfers. Alternatively, take a taxi (10 km, ~20 minutes, ¥25) for convenience, especially with luggage. For eco-friendly travel, rent a shared bicycle along Renmin Road and Ganjiang Road, covering 2.5 km in about 15 minutes while enjoying scenic greenways and historic sites. All options ensure quick, stress-free access to the temple and the heart of ancient Suzhou.
Yes! Join the Suzhou Traditional Crafts Workshop at Pingjiang Road Cultural Center, where children can make paper umbrellas, weave grass dragons, or paint Su-style New Year pictures. Cou Garden offers a special kids’ exploration trail with treasure hunts and educational games about garden design and ecology. Weekly Family Tea Ceremony Events teach children the art of tea preparation and etiquette. For a memorable outing, book a family wupeng boat ride along the canal, where kids can listen to folk tales told by the boatman. These engaging, culturally rich activities create lasting memories for families while introducing them to Suzhou’s living heritage.
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