Shanghai to Suzhou Day Trip: Ancient Gardens & Modern Marvels

In this video, we take a day trip from Shanghai to Suzhou using China’s ultra-fast bullet train, showing just how easy and affordable it is to travel between these two iconic cities. Often called the “Venice of the East,” Suzhou is famous for its beautiful canals, elegant classical Chinese gardens (UNESCO World Heritage Sites), and its long-standing silk-making history. In contrast, Shanghai represents modern China — a global financial hub packed with skyscrapers, innovation, and nonstop energy. Together, they perfectly showcase the blend of ancient beauty and modern development that makes China so fascinating.

We also dive into local Suzhou cuisine, trying one of the region’s most iconic dishes — Squirrel Fish, served in a sweet and sour sauce and shaped to resemble a squirrel. It’s a must-try food when visiting this part of China and a highlight of our day trip.

If you’re planning to travel China, looking for easy day trips from Shanghai, or want to experience authentic Chinese culture and food, this guide will give you a real feel for what to expect.