Three quiet days in Suzhou after Shanghai

Just got back from three nights in Suzhou. I was already in Shanghai and grabbed a Suzhou trip package on a whim, tacked it onto the end of my trip, and I'm annoyed I almost didn't. Took the high-speed train into Suzhou Railway Station then taxi to Gusu. I stayed near Guanqian Street which was handy for walking and snacks, less handy when people were still shouting over skewers at 11pm.

Best move was getting out early. Around 7:30 I grabbed a coffee and baozi and walked to Pingjiang Road. It felt like an actual street again. Shutters half up, a woman rinsing the stone path, bridges you could cross without becoming someone's background.

Xiyuan Temple was my surprise favorite. I planned an hour and spent close to two, partly because the cats run the place. One slept on a donation box like payroll staff. Another parked itself in the courtyard and everyone just flowed around it.

I also paired Humble Administrator's Garden with Lion Grove. Humble Administrator's is prettier, all water and framed pavilion views, but Lion Grove was more fun.

BTW Jinji Lake at sunset was worth the metro ride for Gate of the Orient, Ruxi sculpture and the big frame. Whole skyline turns golden and it's one of those views that made me glad I stayed the extra night.