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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!
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 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 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!
Nestled in an ancient village by Taihu Lake, this homestay embodies the charm of Suzhou. Perfect for families, it features a children's play area, home theater, and even a barbecue spot for evening gatherings. Nature lovers can enjoy the garden, go fishing, or simply relax with tea. With convenient laundry service and shuttle options, every detail is taken care of. As the locals say, "Sheyi" means comfort—and here, you’ll truly experience that slow, peaceful vibe.
Looking to escape the hustle and bustle of the city? This is your ideal getaway! Nestled in Taihu Scenic Area on Yushan Island, this homestay blends Zen, modern Chinese, and contemporary styles for a unique stay. Whether you're sipping tea by the stove, playing board games, or swimming in the heated pool, you'll find total relaxation. There's also a 3D stereo KTV and multi-functional media room, perfect for family gatherings or corporate retreats. The homestay offers airport transfers and is pet-friendly, making it incredibly convenient. Bring your kids to the playground or take a stroll among the fruit-laden hills to soak in nature's beauty. Come and experience it for yourself!
This is a hidden paradise by Taihu Lake, blending natural beauty with modern design. Dive into the natural pool in the front yard or enjoy fishing by the lake. Rooms are equipped with premium appliances and smart amenities, plus a warm host who can recommend local travel routes. Whether it's a family gathering or a friends' party, there's a giant projector and game room for fun. Nearby activities include fruit picking and water sports, making it the perfect spot to unwind!
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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