Hotel Pick-up, Transfer to Suzhou
Your private IslamiChina Travel guide will greet you with a clear sign in your hotel lobby (or designated meeting point) at the scheduled time. Transfer to Suzhou in a comfortable air-conditioned private vehicle (approx. 1.5 heures).
Visit the Humble Administrator’s Garden
The Humble Administrator’s Garden, a masterpiece of Suzhou’s classical garden design, reigns as the largest and most celebrated in southern China. Originally constructed in the 12th century and extensively rebuilt in the 16th, this enchanting oasis is renowned for its masterful integration of water, rock, and architecture. The garden’s centerpiece, the Hall of Distant Fragrance, derives its name from the nearby lotus pond that perfumes the summer air. A UNESCO World Heritage Site, Humble Administrator’s Garden offers a serene escape into a world of elegance and tranquility.
Lunch at a Halal Restaurant, Salat at Taipingfang Mosque
Visit Panmen Gate
Porte de Panmen, a historic landmark with over 2,400 years of history, stands as a testament to Suzhou’s ancient fortifications. Initially built to defend the city’s moat, it uniquely features both land and water entrances. While the current structure dates back to the Yuan Dynasty, its foundations are much older. The gate is part of a larger complex that includes Wumen Bridge, once Suzhou’s tallest, and Ruiguang Pagoda, the city’s first pagoda.
Wander through the Shantang Street
Shantang Street, a living testament to Suzhou’s heritage, offers a captivating glimpse into the city’s thousand-year-old history. This pedestrian thoroughfare stretches from the ancient city’s west gate to the iconic Tiger Hill, lined with charming old residences and shops selling traditional crafts and delectable snacks. As you stroll along the riverbank, watch wooden boats glide beneath quaint arched bridges, creating a picturesque scene reminiscent of the Tang Dynasty.
Transfer Back to Your Hotel
After visiting Shantang Street, your private guide and driver will transfer you back to your hotel. Despite a busy schedule, we’ll incorporate a visit to a silk factory to observe the silk-making process, from the silkworm’s life cycle to the creation of exquisite textiles.
