Practical Travel Tips

1. Reservations: Suzhou Museum requires 7-day advance booking; popular gardens need online tickets one day early. All scenic spots close every Monday partially or fully.
2. Footwear: Prepare soft flat shoes — most attractions are stone paths with lots of walking.
3. Payment: Alipay & WeChat Pay work everywhere; cash only needed for tiny street stalls.
4. Accommodation Recommendation: Stay near Pingjiang Road or Shantang Street for convenient access to old-town sights.
5. Avoid traps: Ignore street vendors selling “cheap one-day water town tours”; rent Hanfu clothes inside official scenic areas for better quality.
6. Best Travel Seasons:
   • Spring (Mar–May): Peach & cherry blossoms
   • Autumn (Sep–Nov: golden ginkgoes, mild weather, the most beautiful season)
   • Summer (Jun–Aug): Lotus bloom in gardens, but hot & humid