After the Rain at Xixi Wetland: The Misty Ink Wash of Wetlands, the Prismatic Art of Wetland Plants
by ISABEL KLEIN
Jun 5, 2025
Suzhou-Hangzhou first line, really will not be bored no matter what! On this short trip, I especially liked the ancient meaning of Suzhou and the natural atmosphere of Hangzhou Wetland. I also tried Zhang Sheng Kee's Old Duck Pot. I seriously recommend it! Take a cruise in the night of Shantang Street, then turn into Hangzhou Xixi Wetland to feel the ecology, the last meal of the dishes, Su Hangzhou trip, perfect ending!
Attraction Inventory Recommendation:
1️⃣ Suzhou Shantang Street
Located at 177 Shantang Street, Gusu District, open all day throughout the year. This ancient street is not only popular for photo spots, but also has many small shops, theaters, and various specialties. At night, lanterns are hung high, and the reflection in the water waves is super feel. When you get tired of walking, you can take a cruise to enjoy the riverside scenery and slowly feel the slow life of the Jiangnan water town. It's really a bit of a crossing. Note that Shan Tong Street is crowded during peak season, so remember to avoid peak hours.
2️⃣ Hangzhou Xixi National Wetland Park
Located at 518 Tianmushan Road, it is open from April to October from 07:30-18:30 (tickets stop at 17:30; admission stops at 18:00) and from October 8 to March 31 next year at 08:00-17:30 (tickets stop at 16:30; admission stops at 17:00). The park is so big that you can’t believe you can walk it all, so we recommend choosing a cruise or walking subdivision tour. Along the way, you can see a large number of birds, aquatic plants and ecological scenery, which is quite suitable for you who love nature and want to stay away from the noise of the city. Note that if you encounter bad weather, there is a chance that the park department will close some areas.
3️⃣ Cheung Sheng Kee (Shuang Ling Branch) Ben Gang Cuisine
Address: 77 Shuangling Road (near Qingchun East Road), the dishes focus on Hangzhou cuisine. Recommended dishes must try his old duck pot, which is full of ingredients to warm the stomach. West Lake vinegar fish, Dongpo meat, and Longjing shrimp are the stars of the menu. The environment of the shop is clean and the service is good, suitable for small gatherings with friends or family. If you don't like old duck pot, you can also try special dishes such as secret leg rings. Earlier lunch or dinner time is recommended for a chance of queues for weekend dinners.
Tips + Real Insight Supplement:
On this trip, I felt the unique charm of Suzhou and Hangzhou: Suzhou is more classical and elegant, while Hangzhou is a new surprise with the fusion of nature and humanity. The night boating atmosphere on Shantang Street is excellent. West Creek Wetland Park is worth reserving at least half a day to explore slowly. As for Cheung Sang Kee's old duck pot, it is really more fragrant and rich than many in the market, and the bite is satisfying. In addition, the transportation in Suzhou and Hangzhou is relatively convenient. Most places in the city can be reached by subway or taxi, so you will not take the wrong path.
Practical Tips:
- Shantang Street is open all day but it is recommended to go in the evening or evening for a more beautiful night view.
- West Creek Wetland is less crowded in the morning and is suitable for slow living.
- Cheung Sing Kee recommends booking in advance, it is easy to be full during holidays.
#Suzhou Guide #Hangzhou Food #Wetland Exploration #Shantang Street Night Tour #SuHang Travel #SuHang Driving Tour
Post by Let’s go go go | Sep 30, 2025























