Pingjiang Ancient Street Travel Guide for Foreigners

General Information

• Location: Pingjiang Ancient Street is located in Suzhou, Jiangsu Province, China. It is a well - preserved historical and cultural district that runs along the Pingjiang River.
• History: With a history dating back to the Song Dynasty, it has witnessed the prosperity and development of Suzhou over the centuries. The street has retained its traditional layout and architecture, offering a glimpse into ancient Chinese urban life.
• Opening Hours: The street is open all day, allowing visitors to explore at any time. However, individual shops and attractions within the street may have their own specific opening hours.
• Access: It is easily accessible by various means of transportation within Suzhou.

Highlights and Attractions

• Traditional Architecture:
  • Ancient Residences: Along the street, there are numerous well - preserved ancient residences. These houses feature traditional Chinese architectural styles, with whitewashed walls, black - tiled roofs, and wooden doors and windows. The exquisite carvings on the wooden elements display the superb craftsmanship of ancient times.
  • Bridges: There are many small bridges spanning the Pingjiang River within the street area. These bridges, with their unique designs and stone structures, add to the charm of the ancient street. Each bridge has its own history and story, and they are an integral part of the street's landscape.
• Cultural and Artistic Elements:
  • Museums and Galleries: The street houses several small museums and art galleries. These include local history museums that showcase the development of Suzhou, as well as art galleries featuring traditional Chinese paintings, calligraphy, and handicrafts. It's a great place to immerse yourself in Chinese culture and art.
  • Street Performances: From time to time, you may encounter street performances such as traditional Chinese music, opera, or folk dances. These performances bring the street to life and allow you to experience the local cultural traditions in an interactive way.
• Food and Shopping:
  • Local Cuisine: Pingjiang Ancient Street is a food lover's paradise. You can sample a wide variety of local Suzhou delicacies. Some must - try dishes include Suzhou - style noodles, sweet and sour pork ribs, and various kinds of pastries. There are also many small restaurants and food stalls along the street.
  • Souvenirs: There are numerous shops selling unique souvenirs. You can find traditional Chinese handicrafts such as silk products, fans, and traditional Chinese clothing. These make great gifts or mementos of your visit.

How to Get There

• By Bus: There are several bus routes that pass by or stop near Pingjiang Ancient Street. You can check the local bus schedules and route maps at the bus station or use mobile apps for public transportation information.
• By Taxi or Ride - hailing Service: Telling the driver to take you to Pingjiang Ancient Street is a convenient option. They are usually familiar with the location.
• By Subway (if available): Depending on the city's subway system, there may be a station within a reasonable distance from the street. You can use subway maps and navigation apps to plan your journey.

Tips

• Navigation: The street can be a bit maze - like with its many alleys and small lanes. It's a good idea to use a map app on your phone or pick up a paper map at local tourist information centers to help you navigate.
• Bargaining: When shopping for souvenirs, bargaining is common in some of the smaller shops. Don't be afraid to negotiate the price a bit to get a better deal.
• Slow Exploration: Take your time to explore the street. Wander around the alleys, visit the small shops, and soak in the local atmosphere. There's a lot to discover at a leisurely pace.
• Respect Local Customs: When enjoying street performances or interacting with locals, be respectful of their customs and traditions. Follow any instructions given by the performers or local guides.