Stay at Suzhou Garden Retreat Hotel, a boutique accommodation nestled in the historic Pingjiang Road district, just a 5-minute walk from Ziqing Temple. This meticulously designed hotel blends traditional Suzhou architecture with modern comfort, featuring courtyard views of rockeries and ancient trees. Many rooms offer serene vistas of the temple’s pagoda and tranquil gardens.

The hotel provides complimentary shuttle service to Ziqing Temple and hosts curated cultural programs including tea ceremonies, Kunqu opera performances, and hand-painted fan workshops. Nearby, Tingyu Residence offers an immersive experience in local heritage, with private calligraphy sessions and guided walks through ancient alleys—perfect for travelers seeking authentic cultural depth.

The easiest route from Suzhou Railway Station is to take Metro Line 4 to "Beisi Ta Station," then walk about 10 minutes to Ziqing Temple. Alternatively, bus routes 70 or 931 stop at "Dongzhongshi Station," just a 5-minute walk away. For those driving, use navigation apps to locate "Ziqing Temple"—on-site parking is available but recommended to book in advance.

As Ziqing Temple lies in the heart of Suzhou’s old town, where car access is limited, cycling or renting an electric scooter is ideal. Suzhou’s shared e-bike system allows seamless travel between attractions, offering scenic views of traditional white-walled, black-tiled alleyways while avoiding traffic congestion—enhancing your journey with authentic local charm.

Near Ziqing Temple, visitors can enjoy authentic intangible cultural heritage activities. Join a Suzhou Embroidery Workshop hosted by "Siyu Studio" just steps away, where participants craft a miniature silk embroidery pendant, learning the intricate techniques of "fine needlework with dense stitches."

Every first Saturday of the month features a Zen Tea Ceremony held outdoors near the main hall, blending Song Dynasty tea preparation methods with guided meditation. Led by the temple’s abbot, guests savor handcrafted green tea while experiencing the philosophy of "one sip, one thought; one moment, one world."

For architecture enthusiasts, the Ancient Temple Restoration Tour offers an in-depth look at Tang Dynasty timber frameworks and traditional polychrome painting. Fully bilingual-guided, this tour is ideal for families and cultural travelers seeking hands-on insight into historical preservation.

Visit Deyuelou Ancient Alley Branch, a century-old establishment located just east of Ziqing Temple in a quiet historic alley. The restaurant preserves Qing Dynasty architectural details, including carved wooden gates and lattice windows, creating a serene dining ambiance.

Must-try dishes include Braised Fresh Perch Fillets (delicate, melt-in-the-mouth texture), Squirrel Mandarin Fish (crispy fried fish glazed in sweet-and-sour sauce), and Suzhou-style Red Broth Noodles (rich broth paired with hand-cut noodles).

The kitchen sources fresh ingredients daily from Tai Lake, and all sauces are handmade by master chefs. Their signature Zen-inspired Set Menu features three vegetarian dishes and a nourishing herbal soup, served with tea ceremony elements—perfect for a mindful, calming meal. Once featured in "A Bite of China," this gem remains a favorite among locals and discerning travelers alike.