Hangzhou Travel Forum

Please recommend a cheap & clean hotel/hostel near the west lake. I'm also planning to go to Suzhou by boat from Hangzhou. Is it easy to get the boat ticket?

In May 2007 I tried to go from Hangzhou by boat but I was told at the passenger wharf that there were no boats going on this route. There was a lot of construction underway. Boats were at the dock. The old ticket office was abandoned. Another ticket office that sold short boat ferry rides said the boat to Suzhou was not operational; and she knew of no plans to re-start service.

I just bought the new 1977 Lonely Planet guidebook and it still describes the boat trip you want to take.

Maybe someone can give you more up to date information. Maybe service has been resumed. good luck, bob

"1977 Lonely Planet China guidebook"
In the wrong century, pal. :) I think you mean 2007!
What's your budget for accommodation? Are you looking for a dorm bed or private room? When are you staying?
AFAIK the Hangzhou -- Suzhou boats no longer operate.

Opps. I typed the wrong date and apparently the Lonely Planet has the wrong information. Thanks.

Well, China changes too fast for any printed guidebook to keep up!

Ok.....so no boat. What about train? Is there any direct train going to Suzhou? How long is it? How much?

Don't take train, take a bus. All the trains will take longer since they all have to detour to Shanghai and make a lengthy stop there.