Arthur

In Arthur's Own Words

I was born in Hong Kong, then our family moved to Singapore and the US due to my father's job. Growing up between cultures means I understand exactly how Western travellers think and feel — and I use that to bridge any cultural disconnect on our tours together. I speak fluent English, Cantonese and Mandarin. I have been a licensed tour guide for three years, specialising in Suzhou's classical gardens, authentic local cuisine, and the intangible cultural heritages most visitors never find.

The most famous gardens like the Humble Administrator's Garden deserve their reputation — they embody the full breadth of Suzhou's landscaping artistry. But I also know where to escape the crowds. The Master of Nets Garden sits hidden within the alleys of a working neighbourhood where locals still zip past on scooters returning from the wet market. It is part of the elite UNESCO World Heritage group of nine gardens, yet feels entirely your own.

For serious foodies, I take clients to Xinjufeng — a restaurant that sits quietly in the shadow of more famous neighbours but has remained true to the spirit of authentic Suzhou cuisine. It was the favourite restaurant of the late Lu Wenfu, the accomplished local author best remembered for his novel Gastronome. That story alone changes how you taste the food.

I have developed a network of workshops and masters spanning various arts, crafts and intangible cultural heritages. During spring tea-picking season, I have access to green tea plantations owned by a temple — not marketed to the public — where clients can immerse themselves in the entire tea harvest and preparation process in a rustic and serene setting.