Step into Tiger Hill Sword Pond and be transported to ancient Wu Kingdom! This 2,500-year-old landmark hides the legendary tomb of King Helü beneath its emerald waters. The leaning Yunyan Pagoda offers breathtaking views of the cliffside pool, earning its title as 'First Scenic Spot in Wu Region'. Don't miss the Sword-Testing Stone by the pond - cracks from legendary swordsmiths Ganjiang and Moye are still visible! Visit during spring or autumn for the Tiger Hill Flower Festival, when azaleas and camellias blanket the slopes in riotous colors.

This hotel boasts a prime location—just steps from the subway and a short walk to Zhuozheng Garden and Pingjiang Road! Blending traditional Chinese style with Suzhou cultural elements, it offers a unique stay. Enjoy executive lounge, outdoor pool, and fitness center—perfect for both business and leisure. With attentive service, friendly staff, and perks like free parking and airport transfers, it’s a great value. Don’t miss out!

This hotel boasts a prime location in the heart of Suzhou's Shilu商业区, surrounded by shopping malls, restaurants, and just steps away from Metro Lines 1 and 2 for easy access. Explore nearby attractions like the historic Shantang Street, Liu Garden, and Hanshan Temple—all within walking distance. The spacious rooms, well-equipped gym, and Western restaurant cater to both business and leisure travelers. With a professional service team ensuring a comfortable stay, it's a great value choice for your Suzhou getaway!






Everything you need to know about Sword Pool
Stay at Suzhou Tiger Hill Garden Hotel, a boutique retreat nestled within classical Chinese gardens just a 5-minute walk from the Sword Pool. The hotel blends traditional Suzhou architectural aesthetics with modern comfort, featuring courtyards with flowing streams and rock formations. Many rooms offer panoramic views of the pool, while on-site guided tours reveal legends of King Helü’s burial and ancient Wu Kingdom lore—perfect for immersing in authentic Suzhou culture.
From the Sword Pool, walk to the Tiger Pagoda in just 8 minutes along shaded stone paths, or take a short electric shuttle. For destinations like Cold Mountain Temple or Pingjiang Road Historic District, hop on Metro Line 4 (Tiger Hill Station) or rent an e-bike—both options take about 20 minutes. The area is well-connected via scenic pedestrian trails, ideal for leisurely exploration and experiencing the quiet elegance of Suzhou’s ancient cityscape.
Don’t miss the Sword Pool Exploration Tour—descend the stone steps to the pool’s edge where inscriptions like "Thousand-Fathom Sword Pool" by Tang Dynasty calligrapher Li Yangbing remain visible. In the morning mist, the scene becomes ethereal, resembling a classic ink painting. During seasonal events, join the Night Walk at Sword Pool, where storytelling brings to life tales of the Warring States era, enhanced by ambient lighting. Some months also host Guqin Recitals by the pool, offering a profound cultural immersion in ancient Chinese music traditions.
Families should consider Suzhou Garden-Style Homestays located just outside the Tiger Hill entrance. These homes feature child-friendly rooms, themed activities like paper-cutting and Suzhou embroidery workshops, and free garden tour passes. Weekend programs include Garden Storytime Sessions, where kids learn history through interactive storytelling. With serene courtyards and traditional décor, these stays combine fun and education in a tranquil setting.
The Sword Pool is named after the legendary burial of King Helü of Wu, who supposedly placed his finest sword in the depths upon death. Inscribed on the pool wall is "Thousand-Fathom Sword Pool," attributed to renowned Tang calligrapher Li Yangbing. Ancient texts describe the pool as bottomless, with tales of three days without sunlight—a testament to its mystique. Poets like Bai Juyi and Su Shi wrote odes here, turning it into a symbolic heart of Wu culture, embodying courage, legacy, and historical depth from the Spring and Autumn period.
Visit before 7 AM for the most magical experience: soft morning mist floats above the pool, creating a dreamlike atmosphere reminiscent of classical Chinese paintings. For photography and clear views, spring to early summer (April–June) offers mild weather and lush greenery. During Mid-Autumn Festival, enjoy the Sword Pool Light Show, where dynamic projections reenact King Helü’s funeral procession with immersive sound and light—transforming history into a breathtaking sensory journey.
See what other travelers say about Sword Pool

My week-long stay at Wyndham Garden Suzhou was truly exceptional. The front desk team stood out—especially baggage attendant Kong Qingchao, who went above and beyond from check-in assistance to smooth luggage handling upon departure. Concierge manager Chen Xiao was incredibly helpful, offering thoughtful recommendations on local attractions and authentic dining spots that made our trip so much more enjoyable. In-room service was equally impressive—the housekeeping staff member was warm and attentive, even noticing our extended stay and kindly providing extra toiletries. Rooms were immaculate, with fresh linens and towels changed daily. The Chinese restaurant served authentic Anhui cuisine—rich in flavor and true to tradition—and the Western buffet breakfast offered a wide variety of options. One small suggestion: rotating the daily menu would keep things fresher and more exciting. Waitstaff Liu Shunyi was energetic and proactive, always ready to clear plates without being asked. Overall, the attention to detail, genuine hospitality, and consistent quality make this hotel a standout choice. I’ll definitely return.

Staying at this hotel was an absolute highlight of our trip to Suzhou! The location is unbeatable—just a two-stop high-speed train ride from Suzhou Station, and it’s literally steps away from the subway entrance. We walked to Shantang Street and Pingjiang Road in no time, and the night views were absolutely breathtaking. The room’s window offered a stunning panorama of the ancient city—so peaceful and romantic under the lights. What really blew us away was the price: we booked last minute during National Day, and the rate was incredibly affordable for such a prime spot. This place offers incredible value and comfort. If you're visiting Suzhou, don’t miss this gem—it’s worth every penny.

We booked late and only had a windowless room available, so we decided to give it a try. To our surprise, the stay turned out to be excellent! The bedding was clean and very comfortable—perfect for a good night’s sleep. Surprisingly, the lack of windows actually helped with noise reduction, making the room extra quiet and peaceful. The location is fantastic: just a short walk from the South Gate Metro Station, and less than 15 minutes on foot to Canglang Pavilion—faster than taking a taxi and more scenic too. What really stood out was the spacious, free parking lot, which made life much easier for us as a self-drive traveler. With so many attractions nearby and such a pleasant room, we ended up extending our stay by one more day. If you’re visiting Suzhou and want convenience, comfort, and value for money, this hotel is definitely worth considering.

From the moment we stepped in, the atmosphere was instantly calming and immersive. My mom absolutely loved the traditional guzheng—it produced such a clear, ethereal sound that filled the space with quiet elegance. The writing desk came with an elegant incense burner, paper, and brush—though someone had already left a few scribbles on the parchment, adding a charming touch of authenticity. A stunning mural of a reclining beauty adorned the wall behind the instrument, subtly telling its own story. What truly surprised us? There was actually a bathtub—perfect for relaxing after a long day, especially during the hot weather. The ground floor featured a beautifully crafted round table with traditional stools, plus a fridge stocked with cold drinks—such a thoughtful detail. Upstairs, the room itself felt like stepping into a living museum: a wooden floor with a classic boudoir bed, a delicate Tianqing glaze vase holding dried flowers, an antique cabinet hinting at hidden blue-and-white porcelain, and a uniquely designed dressing table by the window. Every corner reflects a deep respect for heritage, yet seamlessly blended with modern comfort. It’s not just a stay—it’s a cultural journey, and honestly, one of the most memorable experiences I’ve had in a boutique guesthouse.

I stayed here for one night and was thoroughly impressed! The room was spacious, spotless, and well-equipped with everything I needed—especially the toiletries, which were thoughtfully provided. The location is fantastic: just a short bike ride away from Shantang Street and Liu Yuan Temple, and only 10–15 minutes by taxi to Pingjiang Road and the famous Humble Administrator’s Garden. Taxis are affordable here, which is a big plus. The host was incredibly friendly and welcoming—always happy to chat and help out. My favorite part? Getting to hang out with their adorable silver tabby cat. It’s such a relaxing touch to the stay. The room itself was very clean, though the soundproofing isn’t perfect—slightly noticeable if someone walks by or talks loudly next door. But honestly, that didn’t ruin the experience at all. For the price, this place offers great value and charm. I’d definitely come back and highly recommend it to anyone visiting Suzhou.

Staying here was an absolute delight! The location is unbeatable—within a 10-minute walk from Guanqian Street, and all the top attractions like Bao'en Temple, Qili Shan Tang, Suzhou Garden, and the Suzhou Museum are within a 2-kilometer radius. I didn’t have to rely on taxis or public transport at all—everything was so accessible. The room was spotless, which was a huge relief since I always worry about bugs when traveling in southern China. Not a single bug in sight! The air conditioning worked perfectly, cooling the room quickly and quietly, making it super comfortable even during the humid summer evenings. The staff were friendly and helpful, and there was hot water available at the lobby for tea or coffee in the evening—such a thoughtful touch. If you're visiting Suzhou and want a convenient, clean, and well-located place to stay without overspending, this hotel is definitely worth considering.

Checked in on December 20, 2025, after a quick train ride from Shanghai Station to Suzhou Station—just a regular green-skinned local train, super convenient. It took about 25 minutes to walk from the station to the hotel, and the Beisi Temple Metro Station is literally right outside, making transit effortless. Arrived around 10 PM, left a $20 deposit—simple and straightforward. The hotel has an elevator, and the room key card even includes handy transportation tips to nearby attractions—small touches that show real thoughtfulness. The single room is compact but surprisingly comfortable: the bed is spacious, and the bedding was clean and fresh. The shampoo and shower gel come in one pressurized dispenser with a pleasant, light scent—nice little upgrade. All disposables are provided: slippers, towels, bath sheets—everything new and hygienic, which gives peace of mind. One minor downside: the air conditioner unit outside the window is a bit noisy, and room sound insulation isn’t great. But honestly, it didn’t affect my sleep much—I still slept well overall. Across the street is a local favorite, Zangshu Lamb Restaurant, offering delicious food at very reasonable prices—perfect for a budget-friendly dinner. All in all, this Bestay Express Hotel offers excellent value for money, especially considering its central location near both the metro and major sights. If you’re visiting Suzhou for a short stay, this is a solid choice with no major drawbacks.

Staying at Hongye Business Hotel (Suzhou Guanqian) was a great experience overall. The room was spotlessly clean with no unpleasant odors—every corner felt fresh and well-maintained, which made me feel really comfortable. The location is unbeatable: right next to Guanqian Street, so shopping, dining, and public transportation are just steps away. Ordering food delivery was super easy and fast, perfect for a relaxing evening in. The staff were friendly and attentive, always ready to help with a smile. The surrounding area was tidy and well-kept, with no signs of clutter or mess. It’s clear the hotel takes pride in maintaining a clean, welcoming environment. I’d definitely recommend this place to others and would stay here again if I’m back in Suzhou.

This stay exceeded all my expectations! The location is unbeatable—just a short walk from the metro station and surrounded by great restaurants, shops, and local charm. The hotel itself is spotless and thoughtfully designed, with a clean, modern vibe that instantly makes you feel at home. One of the coolest features? The delivery robot that brings your food right to your door—fun, efficient, and such a nice touch of innovation. I also loved the laundry service: staff came to pick up my clothes, sorted them, washed and dried everything, and returned them neatly folded—all without any hassle on my end. Super convenient and thoughtful. Every employee I interacted with was friendly, helpful, and genuinely attentive, even offering to carry luggage. From start to finish, the experience felt personal and seamless. If you're visiting Suzhou, this is definitely a top choice—highly recommend for anyone who values comfort, convenience, and a little bit of magic in their stay.

Staying at Moonytree Hotel (Suzhou Zhuozhengyuan Store) was an absolute delight. The location is unbeatable—right next to the famous Suzhou Garden, and just a short walk from Pingjiang Road. As soon as I stepped into the room, I noticed how clean and well-maintained it was. The heating was already on, and the power card was conveniently placed—perfect after a long day of sightseeing in the chilly weather. It felt like coming home, warm and cozy. Parking was super easy too—just a quick turn down the small alley beside the entrance, no hassle at all. The room itself is spacious, with extra bedding and cushions upstairs, making it ideal for families traveling with kids. Everything about this stay felt thoughtfully designed, from the comfort to the convenience. This hotel offers excellent value for money and truly delivers on every front. I’ll definitely be back.

Staying at ONE Hotel (Suzhou Guanqian Street Pingjiang Road) was an absolute delight! The room was clean, quiet, and beautifully designed—perfect for a relaxing getaway. Located right in the heart of Suzhou’s historic district, it’s just steps away from Guanqian Street and Pingjiang Road, making exploration super convenient. The front desk staff were incredibly friendly and welcoming—the team went out of their way to help, even offering a complimentary room upgrade with no extra charge. I was impressed by how well-insulated the rooms were; despite being connected, there was zero noise from neighboring units, which made for a peaceful night’s sleep. Plus, the laundry area at the back was easy to access and fully equipped—so practical! Overall, this hotel delivers exceptional value, warm hospitality, and a great location. I’d definitely come back and highly recommend it to anyone visiting Suzhou.

Staying at Atour Hotel Suzhou Bao'en Temple Taohuawu Street was an absolute delight. The room had excellent soundproofing—no noise from the street or neighboring rooms, which made for a peaceful night’s sleep. The bedding was incredibly comfortable, with just the right firmness, and the breakfast was fresh and delicious, especially the warm congee served late at night—such a thoughtful touch! The hotel is perfectly located right at the entrance of the scenic area, with the Tang Bohu Former Residence just downstairs. It’s quiet and charming, far less crowded than places like Pingjiang Road, giving you a genuine sense of old Suzhou living. The room itself was spotless, modern, and well-equipped. I loved the local atmosphere and the attention to detail in service. This place truly offers a unique stay in the heart of history. I’d definitely come back and highly recommend it to travelers looking for authenticity and comfort.
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