If you go to Suzhou,the most important thing to do is to intergrate into the life of local residents.Shantang street, one of the most famous street in Suzhou. Its south part is a busy, prosperous tourist attraction but the north part is a residential area and you will find that the sceneries are totally different. Walking on the ancient flagstones, you can find many historical places and sights on both sides of the road the north part of the steet is an area full of cultural characteristics. Houses were arranged neatly beside the river, various kind of shops were opened on both sides of the road, old people were sitting under the sun talking trifles ,children were playing and chasing in small alley.These lively scenes can make you feel quite cordial. If you feels hungry, the local resturants on the side of the road are good choices. Sitting in these small, busy and oily restaurants, you will feel joyful instead of being uncomfortable. Local residents lined up to buy foods, waiters shuttle back and force in this small space, cooks cooking dishes,these normal scenes can leave deep impression in your mind. And most importantly, you can enjoy different sorts of magnificent local dishes and snacks. From noodles to various kind of pastries, each on these cuisines are delicate and delicious. The local people there are warm-harted. They are glad to give you a helping hand when you're in trouble. When you get lost, they will show you the correct way, if you want to know something about history even childrenwill be glad to tell you. Compare to those indifferent modern citizens these hospitable residents leave deep impression in my mind.In brief the north part of the shantang is a really magnificent place to tarvel. Compare to its south side it still contains a simple hospitable disposit and i strongly recommend you to have a short trip there.