My Unscripted Suzhou: Random Roaming & Why It's Definitely NOT Shanghai
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Hey everyone! On a whim, I boarded the high-speed train and came to Suzhou for a visit yesterday!
It's super convenient to travel from Shanghai. The bullet train takes less than an hour, and including the time from leaving home to arriving in Suzhou, it's about an hour and a half in total.
Suzhou Impression vs Shanghai:
I mainly explored around Pingjiang Road and Shiquan Street — famous old districts in Suzhou, where I also delved into smaller alleys and residential areas inhabited by local residents to experience the real Suzhou.- A brief introduction: Pingjiang Road and Shiquan Street are well-known historic cultural zones featuring many ancient buildings, distinctive small shops, and traditional snacks, perfect for strolling leisurely.
- The greatest difference between Suzhou and Shanghai, according to me, is that Suzhou carries more "vitality of daily life."
- By "vitality of daily life," I mean a sense of realism and down-to-earth feel, where every corner of the streets is filled with the essence of everyday life. This is unlike some big cities, which may appear glittering but lack warmth.
- Here, I heard, or rather understood about seven to eight portions of Wu dialect (the dialect spoken in Suzhou and Shanghai, akin to sibling languages), more than in the urban area of Shanghai!
- Plus, in most shops and restaurants, many employees were local residents. Encountering such a warm atmosphere made me feel somehow comforted, truly a feeling of being home.
- Compared to Shanghai "hottest" scenic spots, I thought those of Suzhou were slightly less eye-catching.
- I have no particular preference for classical gardens or natural landscapes, so I won't comment on that (However, note that the classical gardens in Suzhou are world-renowned, with notable ones being the Humble Administrator’s Garden and Liuyuan Garden. Fans of these scenes definitely shouldn’t miss them).
Consumption:
- It feels like eating, drinking, and entertainment costs are a little cheaper than in Shanghai, perhaps around 10% lower.
- However, compared to Shanghai, it seems there're fewer coupons for shopping deals available online.
️Some reminders for you all:- Safety with Electric Scooters:
On the streets, few people ride electric scoots wearing helmets — probably just over half of them, which looks a bit dangerous.
Note: If walking or renting your own e-scoot/bike, pay extra attention to the road conditions and mind avoiding obstacles! - Style of Driving:
Drivers seem rather "bold," somewhat irritated, and enjoy honking a lot. This wasn't what I am used to.
Reminder: If sensitive to noise or plan on taxiing/driving your own vehicle around Suzhou, psychological preparation is key. While crossing the street be aware, and look carefully left and right.
No special plans for tomorrow, just wandering and exploring randomly. Haha!
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Where was One Piece filmed?
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Inside the 'Big Underpants Building' (Gate to the East), just snap a photo and you're good. There's not much to explore, and that goes for Jinji Lake across from it too.
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As a Suzhou local, let me say this: the traffic police here are among the most lenient in the country (their income from fines is one of the lowest nationwide). This leads to quite a few people on e-bikes and in cars not following traffic regulations.
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Just got back from Suzhou. The local delivery riders are a trip! They're all blasting music from speakers and grooving while they ride.
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The feeling of exploring Suzhou's winding little alleys and suddenly stumbling upon a beautiful, unexpected scene—like finding a hidden village—is just wonderful.
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Riding a motorbike on the sly is probably fine there.
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Suzhou traffic police are a joke (euphemism for 'utter crap').
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That's right, true citywalk style!