"苏州市，人间天堂 | Suzhou, Paradise on Earth"
About:
Suzhou, a city in eastern China's Jiangsu province, has a rich history dating back over 2,500 years. Established as a part of the Wu Kingdom during the Spring and Autumn period (770-476 BC), it flourished as a center of trade and culture. Suzhou experienced significant growth during the Ming and Qing dynasties (1368-1912), renowned for its beautiful gardens and silk production. Despite modernization in the 20th and 21st centuries, it retains its historical charm, attracting tourists worldwide.
When to visit:
Suzhou, located in eastern China, experiences all four seasons distinctly throughout the year. The best time to visit this picturesque city is during the spring season, from March to May, when the weather is mild and the famous gardens are in full bloom. Autumn, from September to November, is also a great time to visit as the temperatures are pleasant and the fall foliage adds a colorful backdrop to the city's scenery. Summer can be hot and humid, while winter tends to be cold and damp, so it is recommended to avoid these seasons if possible for a more enjoyable holiday experience in Suzhou.
When to avoid:
The worst time to travel to Suzhou, China on a holiday is during the peak tourism seasons, which typically occur during the Chinese national holidays such as Golden Week in early October and Chinese New Year in late January to early February. During these times, the city experiences a surge in domestic tourists, leading to overcrowding at popular attractions, long queues, and higher prices for accommodations. Additionally, the weather can be unpredictable during these peak seasons, with potential for heavy rainfall and high humidity, which may not be conducive for outdoor sightseeing. To avoid the crowds and enjoy a more relaxed travel experience in Suzhou, it is advisable to plan your visit during the shoulder seasons of spring (March to May) or autumn (September to November) when the weather is pleasant and the tourist numbers are lower.
"Winter Season (Dec-Feb)"
In Suzhou, China, the coldest and wettest period is in January. Average temperatures range from 1-8°C (34-46°F), making it chilly but not freezing. Rainfall is highest, approximately 50mm, contributing to the city's damp atmosphere. Cloud cover is significant, with few sunny days, and daylight lasts for about 10 hours. An average day for a visitor during this period would likely involve overcast skies with intermittent rain showers. Indoor activities are advisable due to the cold and wet conditions. Despite the weather, Suzhou's indoor attractions like its classical gardens and silk factories remain inviting.
"Suzhou Summer (June-August)"
In Suzhou, China, the warmest part of the year typically falls between June and September, with July being the hottest month. During this period, the average high temperatures can range from 28°C (82°F) to 32°C (90°F), and average low temperatures can range from 20°C (68°F) to 26°C (79°F).
Rainfall is relatively high during these months, with June usually being the wettest month. The region experiences an average of 150-200mm of rainfall per month during this period. The high humidity, often above 80%, coupled with the high temperatures, can make the weather feel quite hot and sticky.
Sunlight is abundant, with an average of 5-6 hours of sunshine per day. However, cloudiness is also common due to the high humidity and frequent rainfall, leading to partly cloudy to overcast skies on many days.
For a visitor, a typical day in Suzhou during the warmest part of the year would feel hot and humid, with a good chance of afternoon showers or thunderstorms. Despite the heat and humidity, the abundant greenery and beautiful water towns in Suzhou can make for a picturesque and enjoyable experience. It would be advisable to carry light, breathable clothing, a good sunscreen, and an umbrella or raincoat.
Language:
Mandarin Chinese, particularly the Suzhou dialect of Wu Chinese, is the most commonly spoken language in Suzhou, China. This dialect, also known as Suzhounese, is traditionally spoken in the city and its surrounding area. However, with the city's development and influx of migrants, Standard Mandarin has become increasingly prevalent. English is also spoken among the expatriate community and in the tourism and international business sectors.