flat door

Introducing Flat Door

Pingmen, located in the north of Suzhou City, is named after Wu Zixu, who led his army to conquer Qi. Upon his return to the capital, he entered through this gate, hence the name. Long blocked, Pingmen's restoration not only reflects the ancient city's character, but also provides a new destination for sightseeing, leisure, and entertainment, further enhancing the railway station area's image as the northern gateway.

Climate and best time to travel

Suitable for all seasons

Recommended number of days and locations for visiting

Recommended play time: 1-2 hours

Tickets

free

Attraction opening hours

6:00-22:00

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Most Popular FAQs for flat door

What is the history and significance of this attraction/city?

The flat door in Suzhou is a traditional architectural feature, often found in old houses and buildings in the area. It holds historical value as a symbol of Suzhou’s architectural heritage and cultural identity, reflecting local craftsmanship and design.

Where is it located and how do I get there (metro, bus, taxi, walking)?

The flat door is located in the historic districts of Suzhou. You can reach it by taking a taxi, bus, or walking from central Suzhou. It’s located in close proximity to the city’s traditional neighborhoods, making it easily accessible.

What are the opening hours and best times to visit?

The flat doors are an open-air feature, so they are accessible at all times. However, it’s best to visit during daylight hours to fully appreciate the architecture. Early mornings or late afternoons are ideal for avoiding crowds and capturing good photographs.

What is the entrance fee/ticket price, and how to buy tickets (online/offline)?

There is no entrance fee to visit the flat doors as they are located in public areas. You may need to pay for guided tours if you wish to learn more about their history and significance.

Do I need to book tickets in advance, and how far in advance?

Since the flat doors are located in public spaces, no ticket booking is required. However, if you want a guided tour, it’s advisable to book in advance, especially during peak tourist seasons.

How much time is needed to fully explore it?

Exploring the flat doors can take anywhere from 30 minutes to an hour, depending on how much time you spend admiring the architecture and learning about its history.

What are the must-see highlights or main areas inside?

The main highlight is the flat door itself, with its intricate design and craftsmanship. Also, nearby traditional houses and shops contribute to the historical atmosphere of the area.

Are guided tours or audio guides available (and in which languages)?

Guided tours may be available in Mandarin, with some tours offering English-speaking guides. You can inquire at nearby visitor centers for availability.

What are the best viewpoints or photography spots?

The best photography spots are directly in front of the flat doors, especially when the sunlight hits the intricate carvings and designs. The surrounding old streets also provide a charming backdrop for photos.

What is the recommended route or itinerary inside?

There is no set route for exploring the flat doors, but it’s recommended to start from the main street and walk through the historic district, stopping at the flat doors and other nearby architectural landmarks.

Are night visits, light shows, or special tours available?

Currently, there are no night visits or light shows available at the flat doors. However, the area is beautifully lit at night, and a stroll through the historic streets can be a unique experience.

Is it crowded, and when are the least crowded times/days to visit?

The flat door area can get crowded on weekends and public holidays. For a quieter experience, visit on weekdays, particularly early in the morning or later in the evening.

What facilities are available (toilets, food, water, rest areas, shops)?

There are several small shops selling snacks and drinks nearby. Public toilets and rest areas can be found in the surrounding streets or at the nearest visitor centers.

Is the attraction accessible for elderly, children, or disabled visitors?

The flat door area is in a historic district with cobbled streets, which may be challenging for visitors with mobility issues. However, the area is accessible to children and elderly visitors, though it may require some effort to navigate.

Is cash needed or are cards/mobile payments accepted?

Cash is accepted, but mobile payments such as Alipay and WeChat Pay are more commonly used, especially for purchasing snacks and souvenirs.

What restaurants or cafes are available inside or nearby?

There are several traditional Suzhou-style restaurants and teahouses nearby offering local delicacies such as sweet-salty mooncakes, dumplings, and tea. The famous “Suzhou Soup Dumplings” are a must-try!

Are there vegetarian/vegan/halal food options?

Vegetarian and vegan food options are available in many local restaurants. Halal food options may be available in specific restaurants catering to Muslim visitors.

What hotels or accommodations are close to the site?

There are many hotels and guesthouses within walking distance of the flat door area, ranging from budget accommodations to luxury hotels. The central district offers the best selection of places to stay.

What other attractions or landmarks are nearby and easy to combine in a day trip?

Other nearby attractions include the Lingering Garden, the Humble Administrator’s Garden, and the Suzhou Museum. These can be combined in a day trip to explore Suzhou’s traditional architecture and gardens.

Are there souvenir shops and what are the typical souvenirs?

Souvenir shops nearby offer Suzhou-style silk products, handicrafts, and traditional paintings. Local specialties such as Suzhou embroidery and tea can also be purchased as souvenirs.

What are the best transportation options to continue the trip after visiting?

After visiting the flat door area, taxis, buses, and the metro can be used to explore other parts of Suzhou. The city’s well-connected public transport system makes it easy to continue your journey.