Guanqian Street, located in the center of Suzhou, is one of the oldest pedestrian zones in China. Its history spans over 1,500 years. The first mentions of it date back to the Western Jin Dynasty (265-316 AD), when a commercial district began forming here. The street’s name translates to "Street in Front of the Temple" and is linked to the Taoist temple Xuánmiào Guàn located here.
During the Ming (1368-1644) and Qing (1644-1912) dynasties, the street became Suzhou’s main commercial center, a role it retains to this day. Today, Guanqian is a 760-meter-long pedestrian zone combining historical landmarks, modern shops, and traditional restaurants. It attracts around 50,000 visitors daily, with numbers rising to 100,000 on weekends.
Historical Gems
• Taoist Temple Xuánmiào Guàn (entrance fee: 10 yuan) – Built in 276 AD, it covers an area of 12,000 sq.m. and includes 25 pavilions, the main one being the Hall of the Three Pure Ones, dating back to 1179. The oldest temple in Suzhou, where visitors can observe traditional rituals.
• Qing Dynasty-era trading houses with characteristic carved facades.
• Stone arches from the 15th–18th centuries – excellent photo spots.
Shopping and Souvenirs
• "Olè" Shopping Complex – Suzhou’s first department store, opened in 1934. Total area: 48,000 sq.m.
• Silk Market – Operating since 1989, it offers products from 120 local manufacturers.
Here you can buy:
• Silk products from local factory outlets (best prices in the city).
• Hand-painted fans with traditional artwork.
• Suzhou embroidery – a unique local craft.
• Tea sets made from famous Yixing purple clay.
Dining Options
• Restaurant "Sōng Hè Lóu" (founded in 1737) – specializes in freshwater fish dishes.
• "Dé Yuè Lóu" (founded in 1540) – famous for crab dishes.
• 17 traditional teahouses, including a Starbucks branch in a 1920s building.
Cultural Events
• Annual Street Food Festival (April) and Traditional Crafts Exhibition (October).
• Chinese opera performances near the temple every Saturday at 7:00 PM (30-minute shows).
Transportation Access
• Nearest metro station: "Guanqian" (Line 1), 5-minute walk.
• Underground parking available (800 spaces).
Opening Hours
• Shops: 9:30 AM – 10:00 PM
• Restaurants: 10:30 AM – 11:00 PM
• Temple: 8:00 AM – 5:00 PM
