Suzhou's Hidden Paradise: A Healing Experience at the Mountain and Lake Inn

On this trip to Suzhou, I deliberately avoided the popular tourist spots and chose the "Mountain and Lake Inn" tucked away by the shores of Taihu Lake. It turned out to be a delightful surprise! The inn is located halfway up Dongshan Mountain, offering a stunning view of lush greenery through the windows and a distant glimpse of the shimmering Taihu Lake. The main building is a renovated old residence from the Republic of China era, blending traditional charm with modern design. I particularly loved the study area with its floor-to-ceiling windows. When sunlight streams in, enjoying a cup of Biluochun tea while reading here feels like pure bliss. The rooms are themed around the "Four Seasons." I stayed in the "Autumn Twilight" room, which features tatami flooring, wooden furniture, and handwoven rugs. The bedside table even had dried osmanthus flowers picked by the owner. The rooftop terrace was the highlight of my stay. At night, they served freshly made snow fungus and lotus seed soup, allowing guests to sip tea under the starry sky while listening to the sounds of nature. All the stress from city life melted away instantly. Breakfast included freshly made Suzhou-style soup dumplings and Biluochun shrimp. The thoughtful owner also provided bicycles, and a ten-minute ride took me to the ancient village of Dongshan. If you're looking to experience the true essence of Suzhou's slow-paced lifestyle, this inn is absolutely worth a special visit!