In ancient dynasties, the city of Suzhou attracted emperors, scholars, and the cultural elite to its picturesque landscapes, fine arts, and relaxed yet refined way of life. Today, travelers come from around the world to see the city’s enduring artistic endeavors such as intricately designed classical gardens; delicate silk embroideries; Kunqu, the “mother of Chinese operas;” unique museums; and world-renowned architecture. Those seeking to revel in Suzhou’s cultural heritage can choose from a number of brand new exclusive arts-focused tours including the following:
Celebrate Chinese Art, From Classical to Contemporary, with Arrangements Abroad
From March 22 to March 31, 2019, Page Knox of the Metropolitan Museum of Art will guide art enthusiasts on an curated tour of Shanghai, Suzhou, and Hong Kong including visits to private collections, galleries, and museums. The trip begins in Shanghai where participants will meet a fashion designer to learn about textiles and current trends and visit the M50 arts district. Time in Suzhou features a visit to the Suzhou Museum and nearby classical gardens. The trip concludes with an afternoon at Art Basel Hong Kong, Asia’s premier showcase for contemporary art; lunch in a private club, and a special viewing at Christie’s Hong Kong. Rates start at US $9,499. More information can be found here.
Uncover Chinese Culture with Remote Lands
Remote Lands exposes China’s mystical heritage through classic and contemporary art on a 10-night tour of Beijing, Suzhou, and Shenzhen. During two nights in Suzhou, travelers take in the serenity of the UNESCO-listed Humble Administrator’s Garden, stroll alongside the charming canals of Pinjiang Road and Shantang Street, and stop for a cup of tea in a calligrapher’s studio. Artistic establishments on the itinerary consist of Suzhou Museum, the last project of Pritzker Prize-winning architect I.M. Pei; Jinji Lake Art Museum; Lan Art Gallery; and the new True Color Museum, home to contemporary art spanning painting, sculpting, photography, video, music, and more. Accommodations in Suzhou are at the exquisite Lamborghini Hotel Suzhou located on the shores of Jinji Lake where amenities include the relaxing Ocean Spa, a well-equipped gym, a classical Chinese garden, and a luxury boutique. Rates start at US $9,400 per person. More information and a complete itinerary can be found here.
Join an Architecturally-minded Tour via Viator
Suzhou’s architecture plays as much of a role in its identity as its art, and this tour hits the highlights while also serving as an easy daytrip from Shanghai. Start the day with a stroll through the Suzhou Museum and observe the Suzhou style of whitewashed plaster walls, dark grey tile roofs, and intricate garden architecture from the building’s exterior. Visit the Lingering Garden, a site that combines traditional Chinese architecture with natural beauty, and the ornate Master of the Nets Garden. End the day learning about Suzhou’s top luxury export at the No. 1 Silk Factory. Hotel or train station pick-ups are available. Rates start at US $64. More information can be found here.
About Suzhou
Suzhou, the “Venice of China,” is known for its elegant stone bridges, canals, flowing water, and noteworthy architecture. Located in the center of the Yangtze River Delta, approximately 60 miles west of Shanghai, Suzhou is one of the oldest cities in the Yangtze Basin dating back more than 2,500 years. The city boasts the beautifully manicured Classical Gardens of Suzhou, nine of which have been designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Each year, millions of tourists travel to Suzhou to experience the destination’s more than 400 attractions, ranging from pagodas and temples to historical districts and world-class museums. As the largest industrial city in China, Suzhou continues to develop, such as the Suzhou Industrial Park (SIP), which boasts five-star hotels, the iconic Lake Jinji, and China’s largest overwater Ferris wheel.
Travel to Suzhou is easily accessible via three convenient area airports with non-stop flights from North America: Shanghai Hongqiao International Airport (SHA) offers bullet train service to Suzhou, which is approximately a 50-mile, 30-minute trip; Pudong International Airport (PVG) is approximately 65 miles from Suzhou, an hour and half drive; and Sunan Shuofang International Airport (WUX) is approximately 14 miles from Suzhou, a 30-minute drive.
For more information on Suzhou please visit http://www.TravelToSuzhou.com.
