Weekend Getaway｜Suzhou Museum (Main Building)

Designed by world-renowned architect I.M. Pei, the Suzhou Museum (Main Building) officially opened to the public in 2006. Its design blends traditional Suzhou architectural styles with modern architectural art. The museum boasts a rich collection of ancient artifacts, including pottery, jade, bronze, gold and silver, and lacquerware. It also houses a large number of precious ancient Chinese paintings and calligraphy, as well as traditional crafts such as Suzhou embroidery and Suzhou fans. Among the museum's treasures are the Secret-color Porcelain Lotus Bowl, the Ginkgo Wood Carving of the Four Heavenly Kings, and the Northern Song Dynasty Pearl Sarira Stupa, all of which are exquisite examples of Song Dynasty art. The recommended visiting route starts with the permanent exhibition on the first floor, followed by the various exhibition halls. The second floor usually hosts temporary exhibitions of calligraphy and painting, while the basement level features special exhibitions. The central courtyard showcases a classic Suzhou garden with water features and stone bridges. I have a particular fondness for Chinese calligraphy and painting, jade, and Suzhou embroidery, and the photos mainly reflect these interests. Experience a thousand years in a single glance. In the museum, you can truly feel the wisdom and pioneering spirit of the nation throughout history. The entire museum is compact yet exquisite, its architectural layout integrating the classical elegance of gardens with a modern, minimalist style. The reflecting pool and the swimming koi are particularly picturesque, offering photo opportunities at every turn. Just outside the museum is the Prince Zhong's Mansion, which you can visit at your leisure. It also houses some craft exhibits or special exhibitions. Tips: 1️⃣Suzhou Museum (Main Building): 204 Northeast Street, Gusu District, Suzhou; Real-name, timed-entry reservations are required. Entry is permitted within 15 minutes before or after your reserved time slot. Please do not be late. (Reservations can be made through the Suzhou Museum official WeChat account) 2️⃣Suzhou Museum (West Building): 399 Changjiang Road, Huqiu District, Suzhou; No reservation is required. 3️⃣Transportation: From Suzhou Railway Station, take the train to Beisita Station. Walk 900m northwest along Northwest Street to reach the Suzhou Museum (Main Building). 4️⃣Nearby attractions: Beita Bao'en Temple, the Humble Administrator's Garden, the Lion Grove Garden, Pingjiang Road Historical Block, and Guanqian Street are all within walking distance.