Take a leisurely stroll along the canal with traditional culture in Suzhou's Pingjiang Road.

Pingjiang Road in Suzhou, Jiangsu Province, is a historical tourist spot with charming streets and waterways that seem to have stopped in time. Located in the northeastern part of Suzhou's ancient city, this area features cobblestone paths and canals stretching for about 1.6 km. The buildings from the Ming and Qing dynasties line the streets, allowing visitors to fully experience the traditional water town atmosphere. In 2009, it was selected as a 'Famous Historical and Cultural Street of China,' and its serene beauty and historical cultural value are highly regarded both domestically and internationally. As you start your stroll along Pingjiang Road, the first thing that catches your eye is the cluster of white-walled, black-tiled buildings. Numerous small stone bridges span the canals flowing between them, and the willow trees cast beautiful shadows on the water's surface. This scenery is unique to Suzhou, often referred to as the 'Venice of the East.' Walking along the canal, you might feel like you've wandered onto the set of an old Chinese movie. Local young women rent Hanfu (traditional Chinese clothing) from nearby shops and take their favorite photos at picturesque spots. In this area, you can also enjoy Suzhou's unique cuisine and shopping. It's recommended to buy local specialties like 'Meihua Cake' and 'Crab Roe Soup Dumplings' and enjoy them while walking. Additionally, there are many cafes and teahouses in traditional houses where you can spend a relaxing time with Chinese tea or milk tea. Moreover, there are plenty of souvenir shops selling handmade crafts and Suzhou embroidery, making it hard to resist stopping by during your stroll. Pingjiang Road is also a place where Suzhou's culture thrives. This area has long been known as a gathering place for cultural figures, and even today, you can enjoy traditional performing arts such as 'Pingtan' (a form of storytelling and ballad singing). It's a place reminiscent of Kyoto in Japan. At night, Pingjiang Road takes on an even more romantic atmosphere. The red Chinese lanterns and illuminated buildings reflect on the canal, creating a magical scene that captivates visitors. You can enjoy a leisurely stroll in a nostalgic atmosphere different from the daytime. With many active stalls, it's also recommended to buy lovely trinkets while chatting with the shopkeepers. Located in the city center, it is conveniently accessible, just a 5-minute walk from 'Lindun Road Station' on Metro Line 1 and Line 6. You can also walk from Suzhou's premier pedestrian street, 'Guanqian Street.' While the main street of Pingjiang Road is being developed as a tourist destination, stepping into the back alleys reveals areas where local residents live, offering a glimpse into daily life. This contrast is also part of its charm. Of course, be sure to enjoy it while respecting local manners, such as not making noise early in the morning or late at night to avoid disturbing the residents. Pingjiang Road is a special place where you can not only enjoy its beautiful scenery but also touch Suzhou's history, culture, and the daily lives of its people. Walking through this town will surely refresh your mind and provide you with new discoveries and moving experiences. Be sure to include it in your itinerary when traveling to Suzhou.