A group of international students from Soochow University explored key areas of Suzhou on June 17 — including train stations, scenic spots, malls, and hospitals — to experience the city's internationalized services in daily life. The initiative aimed to collect feedback and suggestions for improvement, helping Suzhou further enhance its appeal to foreign residents and visitors.

Suzhou Railway Station has bilingual signs. [Photo/Suzhou Daily]

At Suzhou Railway Station, German student Diana Schollenberger praised the clear bilingual signage: "After exiting the station, it was easy to find directions to the metro. Getting around is very convenient." She later visited the Lingering Garden, where she bought a ticket at the manual counter and accessed the park with ease. "Each courtyard has Chinese and English descriptions, and we could scan a QR code for detailed audio guides," she said.

While walking along Pingjiang Road, the students appreciated the dual-language signs and descriptions that helped them explore the charm of Suzhou's water-town heritage without the need for guides.

Soochow University students learn about tax refund services for foreign nationals at Matro. [Photo/Suzhou Daily]

At Matro, a shopping mall in Suzhou New District, a designated tax refund point for foreign nationals caught the group's attention. "This in-country tax refund service makes shopping much easier for us," said Bolatito Sodiq Korede from Nigeria.

During their visit to the Second Affiliated Hospital of Soochow University, students learned about streamlined international medical services. "There's a dedicated international clinic on the 15th floor with integrated services, so patients don't have to run around," said outpatient director Wang Liquan.

Students give a thumbs up to Suzhou's international services guide. [Photo/Suzhou Daily]

From transport to healthcare, these thoughtful measures left the students with a lasting impression of Suzhou as a welcoming, modern, and globally minded city.