Suzhou, the side of paradise

What do you find most attractive to visit in Suzhou? The ancient towns, classic gardens, quiet creeks, beautiful lakes, or the refreshing Biluochun tea and a wealth of local snacks? Today we explore the city's charm and find out what could be enchanting for you.

Classical Gardens? Suzhou is a city of gardens. The Ming and Qing dynasties between the 14th and 20th century represent the prime periods for designing beautiful gardens. So much so that at one time, there were more than 200 private family gardens in Suzhou. About a dozen of them are still in good condition today, including the top four classic gardens–the Fisherman's Net Garden, Lion Grove, Humble Administrator's Garden and Lingering Garden.

Classic gardens are among top attractions in Suzhou. [Photo/china.org.cn]

Ancient towns

With a network of numerous lakes and waterways, no wonder there are several ancient waterfront towns scattering in and around Suzhou.

Tongli is one of the most famous and striking of them. The town has not suffered from war since it was inaccessible during the old times. Therefore, more ancient buildings were well- preserved, surviving to present day, among which we can still enjoy the traditional houses densely settled on the sides of the fine banks piled by Jinshan Stone. The winding alleys and streets paved with pebble stones still keep the ancient appearance. There are 24 bridges at the intersections of waterways. The Siben Bridge built in the Southern Song dynasty is simple and archaic. The Fu'guan Bridge built during the Yuan dynasty is grandiose.

Suzhou has several peaceful waterside towns. [Photo/chinadaily.com.cn]

Lakes and canals

There're lakes and canals across the city, giving Suzhou the name of 'Venice of the Orient'. Not only are they beautiful in their vastness and nature, but also hugely significant to China as a whole. Take the example of Xishan, or the West Hill Scenic Zone. It is a national geological park listed as an area of national importance, being the third largest freshwater lake in China. The scenery there, thanks to an array of islands and peaks, is unrivalled. Its history, ecology, life and significance are can make up volumes, offering you an unforgettable experience.

Xishan (West Hill) attracts people with vast and enchanting beauty. [Photo/provided to chinadaily.com.cn]

It is located nearby the Grand Canal and other canals and waterways. They are both inspiration to all for their grandeur and excellence and testament to a colorful and rich history, having served as the cradle of civilizations that lived in Suzhou, whose heritage connects the past with the present.

Suzhou's appeal owes itself to the plentitude of such richness.

In modern Suzhou, waterways continue to flow gloriously.

It all started in ancient times for Suzhou, the Yangtze River, and the Yangtze River delta. Transportation was trouble-free, and commercial activities sprung up unrestrained. The people of Suzhou were wise and built aquatic lanes within the city boundaries, effortlessly moving people and goods around. Historic blocks like Shantang and Pingjiang are living proof to this time. Commercial trade with other cities and regions also grew, bringing further wealth and progress.

Delicious food

The flavor dish in Suzhou is Huaiyang cuisine, which was originated in areas around Yangzhou and prospered in the Ming and Qing dynasties of ancient China. Huaiyang dishes require careful selection of ingredients and good knife work. While locals in Suzhou add some sweet flavor and develop their own feature dishes.

Suzhou and Taihu Lake are also known for its high-quality green tea. Local people use tea leaves in cooking to add flavor. By adding tea leaves into dishes of fresh shrimp, chicken, tofu, beef, fish and vegetable, they create some unique taste with a faint scent that enriches the flavors of the dishes.