Citywalk route around newly-reopened ancient city gate

Changmen Gate阊门, one of the eight ancient city gates of Suzhou, has reopened to the public for free recently, with the opening hours from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m.

In the Ming and Qing dynasties (1368-1911), the area around Changmen Gate was the most prosperous commercial block in the city. Today, from the top of the gate, one can have a panoramic view of the city - the bustling Shantang Street and the towering Tiger Hill Pagoda in the west, and the modern Gate of the Orient and the ancient Beisi Pagoda in the southeast.

Near Changmen Gate lies a social media sensation: the roses in the Garden of Cultivation, which is hailed as the best spot to appreciate roses in the city. The flower will be in full bloom later this month.

The Garden of Cultivation, a lesser-known classical garden from the Ming Dynasty (1368-1644), is famous for its natural, woodland charm. Key attractions include Ruyu Pavilion, Yanguang Pavilion, and Yu'ou Courtyard.
Opening hours: 7:30 a.m.-5:30 p.m.
Tickets: 10 yuan
There are many scenic and cultural spots around Changmen Gate worth exploring. Here's a citywalk route for an in-depth experience that blends history, culture, and local life.
Xizhongshi (Suzhou breakfast)→Wufeng Garden→Garden of Cultivation→Wu Calligraphy Museum→Taibo Temple→Changmen Gate→North Wharf→Shantang Street (night view)

The street boasts many breakfast shops popular among the locals, such as Changmen Yaoji Soybean Milk阊门姚记豆浆 and Juxinchun Noodle Restaurant聚新春面馆.

Dating back to the Ming Dynasty, this was the private garden of Wen Boren, a famous painter and nephew of Wen Zhengming. The garden is named after its five uniquely shaped stones that resemble old men and are called "Five Elders Peaks."

Opening hours: 8 a.m.-4 p.m.
Tickets: Free

The museum showcases works by prominent Suzhou calligraphers spanning the Wei-Jin Period (220-420), Tang (618-907), Song (960-1279), Yuan (1271-1368), Ming, and Qing (1644-1911) dynasties.

Opening hours: 9 a.m.-5 p.m., Tuesday to Sunday, no entry after 4:30 p.m.
Tickets: Free

Built to honor Taibo, the legendary founder of the State of Wu, the temple offers a tranquil atmosphere and insights into Suzhou's cultural roots.

Opening hours: 9 a.m.-4:30 p.m., Tuesday to Sunday
Tickets: Free

Once a hub for the timber and porcelain trade, the wharf is an ideal spot for vintage-style photography as there are many buildings with the features of the Republic of China era (1912-1949).

By night, Shantang Street transforms into a dreamy, glowing wonder. For shutterbugs, don't miss out on the reflections of Tonggui Bridge and boats in the blue hour.

Source: 苏州发布 (WeChat ID: suzhoufabu365), 苏州姑苏发布 (WeChat ID: szgsfb), 方志江苏 (WeChat ID: fangzhijiangsu), Suzhou Historic City Group, Suzhou Tourist Information Center; photos courtesy of Ximalaya Beipodeyu, VC, Baiqiangxiade Huayuan
Source：iSzhou