A Poetic Journey Through Hanshan Temple

#holidayseason If you're in Suzhou during the new year, why not going to a temple for the New Year blessing~ Among all the temples in Suzhou, I would recommend Hanshan Si or Cold Mountain Temple since it is Suzhou's most iconic historical temple dated back to over 1,500 years. The temple also gained literary fame through Tang Dynasty poet Zhang Ji’s poem, A Night Mooring by Maple Bridge. The poem immortalizes the sound of Hanshan Temple’s midnight bell, resonating across the river and amplifying the poet’s homesickness and introspection. ~ If you decide to go there. Here are the hidden corners in the temple (—I mean, it's really well-hidden) that you wouldn't want to miss: 🍵 Hidden near the entrance is a delightful coffee shop called Hanshan Shibaman (Hanshan Eighteen Slownesses). Tucked away on the right before the main hall, its serene garden and designed interiors create an oasis of relaxation. Once inside, you might find it hard to leave this tranquil corner. 🎨 Towards the end of your visit, you’ll come across exhibition halls featuring traditional Chinese artifacts such as ancient jades, calligraphy, and paintings by contemporary artists. High-end souvenir shops in this area sell unique items like miniatures of the temple’s famous statues or calligraphy of Zhang Ji’s poem, making for meaningful keepsakes. ~ Apart from Hanshan Si, this area of Suzhou has more attractions that will occupy your whole day. After spending 1-2 hours in Hanshan Si, I recommend going on to these places: 🐯 Tiger Hill: Suzhou’s most famous landmark with the Yunyansi Pagoda, which often called the "Leaning Tower of China." Time to Spend: 1.5-2 hours Transportation from Hanshan Si to Tiger Hill: Take a taxi (about 15 minutes, 20 RMB) or Bus No. 31. ~ 🥪 Lunch: There are small eateries near the entrance to Tiger Hill where you can enjoy simple Suzhou-style dishes. Alternatively, pack a snack to eat while exploring. ~ 🎋Lingering Garden: A UNESCO World Heritage Site in Suzhou. Take your time strolling through the garden’s four themed sections—east, west, north, and south—and enjoy the pavilions, rock formations, and ponds. Time to Spend: 1-1.5 hours Transportation from Tiger Hill to Lingering Garden: Take a taxi (about 15 minutes, 20 RMB) or Bus No. 146. ~ 🌁 Shantang Street and Dinner: Shantang Street is lively historical pedestrian street along the canal. Wander through the old-style shops, try local snacks, and enjoy the atmosphere. Choose from one of the many restaurants along Shantangjie. There're a lot of famous locat eatery places. Time to Spend: 2 hours Transportation from Lingering Garden to Shantang Strreet: Take a taxi (10 minutes, about 15 RMB) or Bus No. 1. ~