The Great Wall, Beijing’s Forbidden City, the city lights of Shanghai and the Terracotta Warriors are frequently on travellers’ must-sees when it comes to China itineraries. Step outside these international tourist favourites and you can find fascinating culture, ancient traditions and glimpses into the country’s true charm. This is also what you can expect from a trip to Suzhou in China. Happily, the fab new M Social Hotel Suzhou offers a luxury stay inspired by the past and future of the city. Here’s a guide to the hotel and some things to see in Suzhou.
The Old Town of Suzhou in China
Situated in the Yangtze River Delta and just a short transfer from Shanghai, this unique city of canals has ancient roots more than 2,500 years old. Said to have been visited by Marco Polo, Suzhou developed a reputation as a centre of silk, traditional handicrafts, calligraphy, carving and embroidery.
The old town is one of the most popular things to see in Suzhou. Today, you can get lost crossing hundreds of arched bridges and floating down buzzing waterways lit by lanterns at night. You can also explore crumbling stone alleyways, UNESCO World Heritage Sites, classical gardens and tranquil temples.
M Social Hotel Suzhou
Located at the east waterfront of Jinji Lake, M Social Suzhou’s location is vibrant and modern. Here you’ll find the Suzhou industrial park right outside, with its distinctive skyscrapers, a Sky Wheel Park (currently under construction) and plenty of shopping malls.
To reflect this position, the hotel’s design combines classical and modern elements. For example, there are artworks with electronic screens and changing lighting effects. The ustom-made floors are made from brass with garden path patterns. M Social Suzhou also has a ballroom space, fitness centre, swimming pool and spa.
This design impressed during its inaugural year, resulting in the hotel receiving a number of accolades. These included the “Annual Excellent Newly Open Hotel 2023” from Starlight Awards.
Room highlights
There are 294 guestrooms and suites with views of Jinji Lake and Suzhou’s landmark building, the Gate of the Orient. (See more on this, below.) The top pick among the rooms is the Mega Cool Suite, which has a 270-degree view of the lake and luxurious furnishings, including a 75-inch ultra-high-definition TV, impressive open bathroom, large kitchen and bar space.
Where to eat at M Social
The hotel has three restaurants and bars, all of which make the most of the property’s riverside location with the view taking centre stage.
Beast & Butterflies Restaurant is located on the 25th floor. It has an open kitchen and a menu combining Chinese and Western cuisines with traditional Suzhou and Southeast Asian flavours. At the Beast & Butterflies Bar, you can look over the city landscape while sitting down for a lovely afternoon tea. Meanwhile, Canton 8 Chinese Restaurant is the go-to venue for classic dishes and also has five floral-themed private rooms for larger groups.
Things to see in Suzhou
M Social Suzhou is located in the city’s modern industrial park, not far from Jinji Lake. The lake’s shoreline is ideal for a leisurely stroll. Wait until evening and you’ll get the added bonus of seeing sunset with the city skyline in view.
Another drawcard of the area is the Gate of the Orient. This modern landmark – Suzhou’s second tallest building – has been architecturally designed to look like a gateway to the city.
For something a bit more off the beaten track, browse the shelves of Suzhou’s distinctive and beautiful bookstore, Eslite Spectrum. You can immerse yourself in the world of literature, while getting a sense of the cultural and artistic atmosphere of Suzhou through architecture and design.
Celebrating one year!
This April, M Social Suzhou is marking its one-year anniversary with a line-up of events and a special package for two guests. For 2024 RMB (around S$385) enjoy a two-night stay in a Signature Lake View Room with complimentary breakfast, spa treatment and in-room minibar. If you’re a My Millennium member, you’ll get upgraded to a Stylish Suite and triple My Millennium Points!
Book a holiday to Suzhou in China at msocial.com/en/suzhou/m-social-suzhou
This article about Suzhou in China and staying at the M Social Hotel Suzhou first appeared in the April 2024 edition of Expat Living. You can purchase the latest issue or subscribe so you never miss a copy!
