Step out from Qīhé Metro Station Exit 7 and you're holding a backstage pass to Suzhou's local life! This unassuming transit hub is your gateway to hidden alleys with steaming xiaolongbao stalls and old men playing chess under wisteria vines. The real magic starts when you follow the scent of tea leaves to nearby Pingjiang Road, where centuries-old canals glitter just 5 minutes away. Pro tip: Grab a sweet osmanthus cake from a street vendor—your taste buds will thank you!

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