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Panmen Gate

Introducing Panmen Gate
The Panmen Gate is also known as Pan Gate. The Panmen Gate is a historical landmark in Suzhou. The Panmen Gate, originally constructed during the Spring and Autumn period in the state of Wu, boasts an impressive age of approximately 2,500 years. Panmen Gate comprises both a land city gate and a water city gate. This innovative architectural approach allowed for efficient water control and robust defense against potential aggressors.

The existing Panmen Gate Tower was erected in 1986, commemorating Suzhou’s 2,500-year history. Stretching across 300 meters (approximately 328 yards), the city wall stands at a height of 16 feet (5 meters). Walking along the northern slope of the wall provides a breathtaking panoramic view of Panmen City Gate. The Panmen Scenic Area, centered around Panmen Gate, beckons visitors with additional attractions. Notably, the Ruiguang Pagoda, Suzhou’s oldest pagoda, and the Wumen Bridge, an ancient bridge with historical significance, await exploration within this captivating locale.

Panmen Gate Fast Facts
• AKA: Panmen Scenic Area
• Chinese Name: Panmen 盘门
• Best Time to Visit: April to October
• Recommended Visiting Hours: 2 - 3 x hours
• Things to Do: Photography, Architecture, History and Culture
• Opening Hours: 8:30 – 21:00
• Entrance Fee: CNY36
• Address: No. 49 East Street, Gusu District, Suzhou, Jiangsu Province

What to Expect at Panmen Gate

Land-and-Water Gate
Standing as a lone sentinel to Suzhou’s past, Panmen Gate is the only surviving gate of the eight that once encircled the city. Its presence whispers tales of ancient defense systems and a time when walls defined boundaries. While the other seven gates have vanished with time, Panmen Gate boasts a unique and ingenious design: a formidable combination of land and water fortifications. Its inner and outer gates, cleverly concealed troop enclosures, and a portcullis—its iron teeth ready to bite down at a moment’s notice—regulated the flow of people and vessels. This remarkable integration of defensive elements earned it the name “Land and Water Gate,” cementing its status as a site of significant historical and architectural significance in China.

The City Walls
The sheer scale and robust construction of the city walls, crafted from massive granite blocks fitted seamlessly together, are a testament to the place’s dedication to defense. Evidence of past conflicts is etched into their very fabric: battlements line the walkways, while the remnants of cannon emplacements, arrow slits, and firing holes hint at battles long past. Now frozen in time, the sealed gates and fortified entrances stand not just as barriers, but as monuments to the city’s unwavering resilience.

Wumen Bridge
Adjacent to the Panmen Gate lies the Wumen Bridge, gracefully arching over the old grand canal. First constructed during the Song Dynasty (960-1279 AD) and later rebuilt during the Qing Dynasty (1644-1912), this single-arch stone bridge has seen centuries of history go by. 

Now a protected cultural relic, its elegant arch spans 16 meters (52.4 ft) and soars 9.85 meters (32.3 ft) above the water. Visitors traverse the bridge by ascending slate steps framed by beautifully carved stone. The Wumen Bridge is indeed a perfect example of the artistry in the waterside towns dotting the Yangtze River. 

Ruiguang Pagoda
Originally named Bao’en Pagoda, the Ruiguang (Auspicious Light) Pagoda represents both history and faith. Built by Sun Quan during the Three Kingdoms period (220-280 AD) to honor his mother, it holds the distinction of being the earliest Buddhist pagoda in the city. While the original structure has sadly been lost to time, the current seven-story, octagonal pagoda today dates back to the Northern Song Dynasty. Standing tall at 53.6 meters (175.8 ft), its graceful inward slope reflects a harmonious blend of Tang (618-907) and Song architectural styles. The design, while simple, exudes an undeniable sense of delicate strength and elegance.

How to Get to Panmen Gate
• By Bus: Take bus 317 to Panmen Jingqubei Station.
• By Subway: Take subway line 4 to Nanmen Station.

Additional Travel Advice on Panmen Gate
• Tourist Center is at the east entrance of the scenic area, offering multiple services: Information Inquiry, Baby stroller/Phone charger/Wheelchair lending, etc.
• The entrance ticket includes boating (about 10 minutes) for sightseeing.

Grid  List 

Set Descending Direction
  1. Tour Highlights
    • Visit Suzhou, praised by Marco Polo as Venice of the East, famous for its UNESCO World Heritage classical gardens
    • Wander through Humble Administrator's Garden, the finest garden in all of southern China
    • Visit Panmen Gate, the oldest city gate of Suzhou and the only existing water and land gate in China
    • Admire Tiger Hill, the oldest pagoda in Suzhou (2,500 years old) nicknamed the Leaning Tower of China
    • Stroll along Shantang Street, a window of Wu Culture and a platform to experience the lifestyle of Suzhou
    • Experienced English speaking tour guide
    • Overland round-trip transfers with private chauffeur and in-transport refreshments

    About This Tour
    • Departure: Daily departing from Shanghai.
    • Tour Duration: Approximately 8 hours.
    • Guide Languages: Chinese & English.
    • Pick-up Time: Between 07:00 and 10:00, choose a departure time most suitable for you.
    • Pick-up & Drop-off Place: Your accommodation in Shanghai
    Advice on Meals: Lunch is not included in this tour, please have a big breakfast and pack snacks just in case you get a bit peckish during sightseeing. If you want to try authentic local food for lunch, please feel free to inform your guide who is always ready to help.

    Tour Itinerary at a Glance
    • Pick up from your accommodation in Shanghai
    • Drive to Suzhou (less than 2 hours)
    • Visit Humble Administrator's Garden (1 hour & 30 minutes)
    • Lunch on your own
    • Visit Panmen Gate (1 hour)
    • Visit Tiger Hill (1 hour)
    • Visit Shantang Street  (1 hour)
    • Transfer back to your hotel in Shanghai (less than 2 hours)

    Tailor This Tour to Meet Your Needs and Requirements
    • If you want to modify this itinerary, please feel free to contact GoGrandChina by WhatsApp (+86-18309280878), Wechat (+86-18309280878) or email (info@GrandChinaTravel.com), we will create a tailor-made tour package for you.

    Tour Prices (US$ Per Person)

    1 person 2 people 3 people 4 people 5 people 6 people 7 people 8 people 9 people 10 +
    $298 $178 $138 $118 $108 $98 $90 $88 $82 $76


    Price Remark
    • Prices are not valid during China's Official Holidays (such as National Day & Chinese New Year Festival etc.).

    Price Inclusions

    • Professional English language speaking private tour guide
    • Air-conditioned vehicle with private experienced driver
    • All admission tickets to sightseeing places
    • All government taxes

    Price Exclusions
    • Hotel accommodation.
    • Your personal expenses.
    • Meals are excluded allowing you flexibility on menu.
    • Travel insurance is not included. Please purchase before your trip to provide for any unforeseen circumstances.
    • Gratuities to guide & driver. They are customary and would be of great encouragement and reward for quality service.

    Additional Info
    • Confirmation will be received at time of booking.
    • Operates in all weather conditions, please dress appropriately.
    • The itinerary is subject to change due to traffic conditions or bad weather.
    • The itinerary is flexible; changes can be made upon written request from travelers.
    IMPORTANT: It is required by the government regulations that travelers must provide their name, gender, nationality, passport number and date of birth to their tour operator upon booking a tour. Failure to do so could result in being denied access or admittance to sites and attractions during sightseeing. When you book this tour, please complete all required fields at checkout. Please bring your passport with you on the tour.

    Cancellation Policy
    • You may cancel the booking and receive a full refund up to 24 hours prior to the date of your tour.
    • Cancellation within 24 hours or after the tour begins is non-refundable.
    • Cancellation request will be confirmed in 2-5 business days, you will receive your refund within 14 working days.

    Why Travelers Have to Choose GoGrandChina Private Tours?
    • Choose your most suitable departure time, whether you are an early bird or you prefer sleeping in.
    • GoGrandChina private tours are more flexible, allowing you to adjust everything on your trip to your wishes.
    • GoGrandChina tour guides will be at your service to make sure you get the most from each destination. They are there for you and are responsible for making your journey special – and your needs always come first.
    • GoGrandChina offers comfortable and luxury vehicles with a private & experienced driver who’s always by your side and ready to take you to your next destination.
    • No shopping stops & factory visits, no chance of getting ripped off.
    • No hidden costs, rest assured that there are no nasty surprises.

    Learn More
  2. Tour Highlights
    • Wander through Humble Administrator's Garden, the finest garden in all of southern China
    • Take your time at the Suzhou Museum, designed by the universally well-known architect Mr. Ieoh Ming Pei
    • Visit Panmen Gate, the oldest city gate of Suzhou and the only existing water and land gate in China
    • Admire Tiger Hill, the oldest pagoda in Suzhou (2,500 years old) nicknamed the Leaning Tower of China
    • Stroll along Shantang Street, a window of Wu Culture and a platform to experience the lifestyle of Suzhou
    • Experienced English speaking tour guide
    • Overland round-trip transfers with private chauffeur and in-transport refreshments

    About This Tour
    • Departure: Daily departing from Suzhou
    • Tour Duration: Approximately 8 hours.
    • Guide Languages: Chinese & English.
    • Pick-up Time: Between 07:00 and 10:00, choose a departure time most suitable for you.
    • Pick-up & Drop-off Place: Your accommodation in Suzhou
    • Advice on Meals: Lunch is not included in this tour, please have a big breakfast and pack snacks just in case you get a bit peckish during sightseeing. If you want to try authentic local food for lunch, please feel free to inform your guide who is always ready to help.

    Tour Itinerary at a Glance
    • Pick up from your accommodation in Suzhou
    • Visit Humble Administrator's Garden
    • Visit Suzhou Museum
    • Lunch on your own
    • Visit Panmen Gate
    • Visit Tiger Hill
    • Stroll along Shantang Street
    • Transfer back to your accommodation in Suzhou

    Tailor This Tour to Meet Your Needs and Requirements
    • If you want to modify this itinerary, please feel free to contact GoGrandChina by WhatsApp (+86-18309280878), Wechat (+86-18309280878) or email (info@GrandChinaTravel.com), we will create a tailor-made tour package for you.

    Tour Prices (US$ Per Person)

    1 person 2 people 3 people 4 people 5 people 6 people 7 people 8 people 9 people 10 +
    $328 $188 $148 $118 $108 $98 $88 $78 $76 $75


    Price Remark
    • Prices are not valid during China's Official Holidays (such as National Day & Chinese New Year Festival etc.).

    Price Inclusions
    • Professional English language speaking private tour guide
    • Air-conditioned vehicle with private experienced driver
    • All admission tickets to sightseeing places
    • All government taxes

    Price Exclusions
    • Hotel accommodation.
    • Your personal expenses.
    • Meals are excluded allowing you flexibility on menu.
    • Travel insurance is not included. Please purchase before your trip to provide for any unforeseen circumstances.
    • Gratuities to guide & driver. They are customary and would be of great encouragement and reward for quality service.

    Additional Info
    • Suzhou Museum is closed on Monday tours.
    • Confirmation will be received at time of booking.
    • Operates in all weather conditions, please dress appropriately.
    • The itinerary is subject to change due to traffic conditions or bad weather.
    • The itinerary is flexible; changes can be made upon written request from travelers.
    • IMPORTANT: It is required by the government regulations that travelers must provide their name, gender, nationality, passport number and date of birth to their tour operator upon booking a tour. Failure to do so could result in being denied access or admittance to sites and attractions during sightseeing. When you book this tour, please complete all required fields at checkout. Please bring your passport with you on the tour.

    Cancellation Policy
    • You may cancel the booking and receive a full refund up to 24 hours prior to the date of your tour.
    • Cancellation within 24 hours or after the tour begins is non-refundable.
    • Cancellation request will be confirmed in 2-5 business days, you will receive your refund within 14 working days.

    Why Travelers Have to Choose GoGrandChina Private Tours?
    • Choose your most suitable departure time, whether you are an early bird or you prefer sleeping in.
    • GoGrandChina private tours are more flexible, allowing you to adjust everything on your trip to your wishes.
    • GoGrandChina tour guides will be at your service to make sure you get the most from each destination. They are there for you and are responsible for making your journey special – and your needs always come first.
    • GoGrandChina offers comfortable and luxury vehicles with a private & experienced driver who’s always by your side and ready to take you to your next destination.
    • No shopping stops & factory visits, no chance of getting ripped off.
    • No hidden costs, rest assured that there are no nasty surprises.

    Learn More
  3. Tour Highlights
    • Step into Master of the Nets Garden, a compact garden designed by fengshui masters
    • Visit Panmen Gate, the oldest city gate of Suzhou and the only existing water and land gate in China
    • Wander through Tongli Water Town, nicknamed "Venice of the East" and one of the “Top Six Ancient Towns in the Regions South of Yangtze River"
    • Experienced English speaking tour guide
    • Overland round-trip transfers with private chauffeur and in-transport refreshments

    About This Tour
    • Departure: Daily departing from Suzhou
    • Tour Duration: Approximately 8 hours.
    • Guide Languages: Chinese & English.
    • Pick-up Time: Between 07:00 and 10:00, choose a departure time most suitable for you.
    • Pick-up & Drop-off Place: Your accommodation in Suzhou
    • Advice on Meals: Lunch is not included in this tour, please have a big breakfast and pack snacks just in case you get a bit peckish during sightseeing. If you want to try authentic local food for lunch, please feel free to inform your guide who is always ready to help.

    Tour Itinerary at a Glance
    • Pick up from your accommodation in Suzhou
    • Visit Master of the Nets Garden
    • Visit Panmen Gate
    • Lunch on your own
    • Drive to Tongli Water Town (approximately 30km)
    • Visit Tongli Water Town
    • Transfer back to your accommodation in Suzhou

    Tailor This Tour to Meet Your Needs and Requirements
    • If you want to modify this itinerary, please feel free to contact GoGrandChina by WhatsApp (+86-18309280878), Wechat (+86-18309280878) or email (info@GrandChinaTravel.com), we will create a tailor-made tour package for you.

    Tour Prices (US$ Per Person)

    1 person 2 people 3 people 4 people 5 people 6 people 7 people 8 people 9 people 10 +
    $378 $208 $158 $128 $108 $98 $90 $85 $80 $76


    Price Remark
    • Prices are not valid during China's Official Holidays (such as National Day & Chinese New Year Festival etc.).

    Price Inclusions
    • Professional English language speaking private tour guide
    • Air-conditioned vehicle with private experienced driver
    • All admission tickets to sightseeing places
    • All government taxes

    Price Exclusions
    • Hotel accommodation.
    • Your personal expenses.
    • Meals are excluded allowing you flexibility on menu.
    • Travel insurance is not included. Please purchase before your trip to provide for any unforeseen circumstances.
    • Gratuities to guide & driver. They are customary and would be of great encouragement and reward for quality service..

    Additional Info
    • Confirmation will be received at time of booking.
    • Operates in all weather conditions, please dress appropriately.
    • The itinerary is subject to change due to traffic conditions or bad weather.
    • The itinerary is flexible; changes can be made upon written request from travelers.
    • IMPORTANT: It is required by the government regulations that travelers must provide their name, gender, nationality, passport number and date of birth to their tour operator upon booking a tour. Failure to do so could result in being denied access or admittance to sites and attractions during sightseeing. When you book this tour, please complete all required fields at checkout. Please bring your passport with you on the tour.

    Cancellation Policy
    • You may cancel the booking and receive a full refund up to 24 hours prior to the date of your tour.
    • Cancellation within 24 hours or after the tour begins is non-refundable.
    • Cancellation request will be confirmed in 2-5 business days, you will receive your refund within 14 working days.

    Why Travelers Have to Choose GoGrandChina Private Tours?
    • Choose your most suitable departure time, whether you are an early bird or you prefer sleeping in.
    • GoGrandChina private tours are more flexible, allowing you to adjust everything on your trip to your wishes.
    • GoGrandChina tour guides will be at your service to make sure you get the most from each destination. They are there for you and are responsible for making your journey special – and your needs always come first.
    • GoGrandChina offers comfortable and luxury vehicles with a private & experienced driver who’s always by your side and ready to take you to your next destination.
    • No shopping stops & factory visits, no chance of getting ripped off.
    • No hidden costs, rest assured that there are no nasty surprises.

    Learn More
  4. Tour Highlights
    • Visit Suzhou, praised by Marco Polo as Venice of the East, famous for its UNESCO World Heritage classical gardens
    • Wander through Humble Administrator's Garden, the finest garden in all of southern China
    • Visit Panmen Gate, the oldest city gate of Suzhou and the only existing water and land gate in China
    • Admire Tiger Hill, the oldest pagoda in Suzhou (2,500 years old) nicknamed the Leaning Tower of China
    • Stroll along Shantang Street, a window of Wu Culture and a platform to experience the lifestyle of Suzhou
    • Experienced English speaking tour guide
    • Overland round-trip transfers with private chauffeur and in-transport refreshments

    About This Tour
    • Departure: Daily departing from Shanghai.
    • Tour Duration: Approximately 8 hours.
    • Guide Languages: Chinese & English.
    • Pick-up & Drop-off Place: Shanghai Cruise Port
    Advice on Meals: Lunch is not included in this tour, please have a big breakfast and pack snacks just in case you get a bit peckish during sightseeing. If you want to try authentic local food for lunch, please feel free to inform your guide who is always ready to help.

    Tour Itinerary at a Glance
    • Pick up from Shanghai Cruise Port
    • Drive to Suzhou (less than 2 hours)
    • Visit Humble Administrator's Garden (1 hour & 30 minutes)
    • Lunch on your own
    • Visit Panmen Gate (1 hour)
    • Visit Tiger Hill (1 hour)
    • Visit Shantang Street  (1 hour)
    • Transfer back to Shanghai Cruise Port (less than 2 hours)

    Tailor This Tour to Meet Your Needs and Requirements
    • If you want to modify this itinerary, please feel free to contact GoGrandChina by WhatsApp (+86-18309280878), Wechat (+86-18309280878) or email (info@GrandChinaTravel.com), we will create a tailor-made tour package for you.

    Tour Prices (US$ Per Person)

    1 person 2 people 3 people 4 people 5 people 6 people 7 people 8 people 9 people 10 +
    $298 $178 $138 $118 $108 $98 $90 $88 $82 $76


    Price Remark
    • Prices are not valid during China's Official Holidays (such as National Day & Chinese New Year Festival etc.).

    Price Inclusions

    • Professional English language speaking private tour guide
    • Air-conditioned vehicle with private experienced driver
    • All admission tickets to sightseeing places
    • All government taxes

    Price Exclusions
    • Hotel accommodation.
    • Your personal expenses.
    • Meals are excluded allowing you flexibility on menu.
    • Travel insurance is not included. Please purchase before your trip to provide for any unforeseen circumstances.
    • Gratuities to guide & driver. They are customary and would be of great encouragement and reward for quality service.

    Additional Info
    • Confirmation will be received at time of booking.
    • Operates in all weather conditions, please dress appropriately.
    • The itinerary is subject to change due to traffic conditions or bad weather.
    • The itinerary is flexible; changes can be made upon written request from travelers.
    IMPORTANT: It is required by the government regulations that travelers must provide their name, gender, nationality, passport number and date of birth to their tour operator upon booking a tour. Failure to do so could result in being denied access or admittance to sites and attractions during sightseeing. When you book this tour, please complete all required fields at checkout. Please bring your passport with you on the tour.

    Cancellation Policy
    • You may cancel the booking and receive a full refund up to 24 hours prior to the date of your tour.
    • Cancellation within 24 hours or after the tour begins is non-refundable.
    • Cancellation request will be confirmed in 2-5 business days, you will receive your refund within 14 working days.

    Why Travelers Have to Choose GoGrandChina Private Tours?
    • Choose your most suitable departure time, whether you are an early bird or you prefer sleeping in.
    • GoGrandChina private tours are more flexible, allowing you to adjust everything on your trip to your wishes.
    • GoGrandChina tour guides will be at your service to make sure you get the most from each destination. They are there for you and are responsible for making your journey special – and your needs always come first.
    • GoGrandChina offers comfortable and luxury vehicles with a private & experienced driver who’s always by your side and ready to take you to your next destination.
    • No shopping stops & factory visits, no chance of getting ripped off.
    • No hidden costs, rest assured that there are no nasty surprises.

    Learn More

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Set Descending Direction