2025 Tongli Ancient Town Travel Guide: Must-see attractions, popular food, hotels, transportation routes (updated in May)

#ancienttown China is renowned for its numerous ancient towns, making it difficult to choose just one. After much thought, we decided on Tongli in Suzhou. The journey was quite smooth, taking about an hour by metro, followed by a short uber ride from the station. When we arrived in Tongli, we were pleasantly surprised by how quiet it was, almost as if we had the entire town to ourselves. The sprawling compound, filled with dynasty-era pavilions, small bridges over the flowing emerald green water, gardens, charming old shops gave us a fascinating glimpse into life during the olden days. It felt like stepping back in time. #myhiddengems #100waysoftravel #suzhou

Location: Tongli ancient town in Jiangsu province. Getting there: A one hour drive from Suzhou or Shanghai. Tongli costs about 130 RMB entrance fee. It is worth the money. Spend the day walking along the narrow streets admiring the wonderful traditional architecture. Take a boat ride down the canals and feel like you're in the Venice of the east. Try the many delicious local snacks and buy some souvenirs too. It's really picturesque here and worth the day trip. #tongli

On this day I took quite a long trip to the ancient town of Tongli. and as usual I went there with my drone. one thing I love about Tongli is how all the buildings are very random , but at the same time uniform. the black rooftops with the white walls are also a beautiful characteristic to the ancient Chinese architecture. Tongli is actually a town that is located in Wujiang district, on the outskirts of Suzhou, Jiangsu province. It is known for a system of canals, and it is because of this reason that Suzhou is popularly known as the Venice of the east. There are also so many amazing stalls and shops that you can be able to buy some merchandise or food 🥘 #momentsmission #scenicspotguide #travelinspiration #suzhou #unforgettableexperiences #unforgettableexperiences

On this day I took a trip to the distant and ancient town of Tongli. this district is located at the far south area of Suzhou. and in this place you can see so many beautiful sights. This town is actually a really old town and one thing I appreciate about this place is that the buildings and structures still retained the old Chinese aesthetic. You haven’t experienced the real and authentic Suzhou if you haven’t visited this places. there are many different shops, restaurants and bars where you can try out the Suzhou cuisines. and the whole area has many water canals so you can have a little boat tour of the area! definitely a place I recommend #scenicspotguide #travelinspiration #unforgettableexperiences #momentsmission

Exploring the streets of Tongli Ancient Town. #suzhou #tongli #travels #china

I highly recommend Tongli whis located in Suzhou, China. It is also called the venice of China. This ancient city will take you hundred years back and the view is absolutely breath taking. I enjoyed my time being here and I will definetely come back for more. #wintergetaway #wintergetaway

Suzhou | Guzhen Tongka Tongli This ancient town is a national AAAAA level tourist attraction, one of the six ancient towns in the south of the Yangtze River, has long been famous. Before entering the center of the scenic spot, I saw a lot of floor tiles engraved with the names of the film and television dramas at the door. I looked at the names and remembered that the Dream of Red Mansions was also used here. The most famous attractions here are Yiyuan (Retreat Garden), Ertang (Jiayintang, Chongbentang) Sanqiao (Taiping Bridge, Geely Bridge, Changqing Bridge). The retreat park is very beautiful. In the end, it is the residence of a large family. Many people take pictures inside. Jiayintang, the owner of this garden, Liu Bingnan, is the same as the famous patriotic poet Liu Yazi. Built in the early years of the Republic of China, there are four entrances, the doors and windows are well carved, and the crescent-shaped door is very distinctive. Walk around and go to Chongbentang, now it has become a wedding customs hall in Jiangnan Water Village, showing the ritual process of marriage and marriage and customs items in ancient times. After visiting one park and two churches, just stroll around the Third Bridge and see the boating. I also went to a place called "wearing the heart", which is quite suitable for taking pictures of art.

"Retreat Garden" is a must-see for visiting the ancient town of Tongli! Retreat to the Garden, built in the 11th to 13th year of the Guangxu reign of Qing Dynasty, is a red glimpse from the south of the corridor. In the retreat garden, the most popular is the most exciting. Retreat Garden gathers the length of the Qing Dynasty gardens, small and exquisite, light and elegant, pavilions and fun, and is a classic of Jiangnan classical gardens.

There is no free scenic spot in Tongli, the whole Tongli is a scenic spot vacation in Suzhou and Hangzhou. By the way, I went to Suzhou Tongli. I didnt expect that there is no free big scenic road in Tongli. At the beginning of the archway, all the intersections and bridges that can enter the size are wearing a uniform like a security guard, and they are not allowed to enter. It is said that if you dont enter the scenic spot, you have to buy a big ticket of 100 yuan. The whole place is the attraction... Some people did not buy the ticket and went in, saying

The ancient houses in Tongli "Retreat Garden" was built in the Qing Dynasty, with the pool as the center. The buildings in the garden are like floating water, exquisite and compact. Its layout is unique, although small, but pavilions, terraces, buildings, pavilions, corridors, squares, bridges, plaques, halls, halls, houses, and Xuan are all available, and the personality of the garden owners is also integrated. Compared with the retreat garden, it is more quiet. Jiayintang was formerly known as Liu Zhai, and the owner Liu Bingnan was a relative of the famous patriotic poet Liu Yazi.

Tongli Ancient Town was absolutely amazing! 🤩 The buildings were incredibly beautiful, truly a sight to behold. Each one, with its classic Chinese design and old details, felt like it had a story to tell. Walking along the narrow streets, surrounded by these ancient structures, made me feel like I had stepped right into a history book. It was so cool to see how well everything has been kept up. And the views? Oh, they were just wonderful! Everywhere you looked, there was something pretty to see. The calm canals winding through the town, the elegant stone bridges arching over the water, and the reflections of the old houses in the peaceful surface – it was all so picturesque. Every corner offered a new, stunning scene that just begged to be photographed. The whole place had such a calm and charming feel to it. It was a really peaceful and visually rewarding trip, making it a perfect escape. ✨💖

In Tongli, you can enjoy the full hanfu experience without breaking the bank. For just around 100 RMB, you’ll get everything — the traditional outfit, makeup, accessories, and even a short photoshoot around the charming old streets. Most studios will even print out one photo as a keepsake for you to take home. It’s an easy, affordable way to step back in time and capture beautiful memories during your visit. Don’t miss it when you’re in Tongli!

#discoverchina Tongli Ancient Town, located in Suzhou’s Wujiang District, is a picturesque water town with over a thousand years of history. Often referred to as the “Venice of the East,” Tongli is renowned for its intricate network of canals, ancient stone bridges, and well-preserved architecture from the Ming and Qing dynasties. The town’s highlights include the UNESCO-listed Retreat & Reflection Garden (Tuisi Garden), the iconic Three Bridges—Taiping, Jili, and Changqing—which symbolize peace, luck, and celebration, and the tranquil Luoxing Zhou island, where Buddhism, Taoism, and Confucianism coexist. Visitors can enjoy leisurely boat rides along the canals, explore historic residences, and immerse themselves in the rich cultural heritage that Tongli offers.   

It is also one of the most beautiful attractions in Tongli Ancient Town. There are flowers, grass, pavilions, towers, bridges and flowing water here. It is a humanistic design full of Jiangnan beauty. It is definitely a must-visit check-in spot, bringing you a visual feast. 🎈 ✅Key Information Opening hours: 08:00 - 20:30 all year round Tickets: 30 yuan, combined ticket 80 yuan (included) Recommended playing time: 1-2 hours [Bus] Transportation [Tramcar]Bus: You can take Songfen Bus No. 261, Songfen Bus No. 263, Songling Bus No. 203, etc. [Island]Main attractions 1. Water Pavilion: Walk along the winding corridor. 2. Tuisi Thatched Cottage: Located on the north bank of the lotus pond, the platform extends into the water. 3. Naohong Yige: A stone boat, facing Tuisi Thatched Cottage across the water. 4. Guyushengliangxuan: Built by the water, it is a great place to enjoy flowers and rain. 5. Lansheng Pavilion: Humanistic care in ancient garden design. [House][Bed] Selected B&B 1. Tongli Hanshe B&B: Located at No. 19 Dongxi Street, Tongli Ancient Town, 50 meters north of Tuisi Garden. 2. Tianyiju Courtyard Inn (Suzhou Tongli Ancient Town Branch): In the old house of the inn, you can think about the past, calm your mind, drink tea and read books, and get together with friends to talk about the past and the present. 3. Jiuqi Tongli Wanfu Caotang Boutique Inn: Located at No. 54 Dongxi Street, Tongli Ancient Town, 30 meters north of Tuisi Garden, it was renovated and reopened in February 2021.

#earthdayjourney #tongliwatertown #china During my recent trip to Tongli Ancient Town in Suzhou, I had the opportunity to explore one of China’s most charming and historically rich water towns. Nestled in the heart of Jiangsu Province, Tongli is renowned for its picturesque canals, ancient architecture, and tranquil atmosphere. As I wandered through its narrow, stone-paved streets and took in the serene views of the canals, I couldn't help but feel a deep connection to the past and to the environment that has helped preserve this stunning town. During my visit, I noticed various efforts to preserve the town's cultural heritage while minimizing its ecological footprint. From promoting eco-friendly tourism practices to preserving the natural beauty of its waterways, Tongli stands as an inspiring example of how ancient towns can live in harmony with the environment.

Grandpas and grandmas, let's go! This magical 10-yuan island has no stairs - take a boat ride and shoot your own martial arts movie scenes~ 🗺️【One-Day Leisure Itinerary】 Morning: Subway Line 4 Tongli Station → Luoxing Island Dock → Boat ride to island Afternoon: Stroll through Camellia Path → Picnic in Cherry Blossom Grove → Willow Shore Breeze → Return journey 🚢【Senior-Friendly Transportation Guide】 ✅For subway users: ▪️Choose Car 8 of Line 4 (near accessible elevator) ▪️Take taxi from Exit 3 of Tongli Station to "Luoxing Island Dock Bus Stop" ✅For drivers: ▪️Navigate to "Luoxing Island parking lot" - accessible parking spots in third row ▪️150m flat ground from dock to boarding point 🌿【Must-Visit Spots for Seniors】 1️⃣Century-Old King Camellia ♿️Circular pathway with anti-slip particles 📸Photo spot: Stone table under flowers (bring your own folding fan) ⏰Off-peak tip: Have the whole tree to yourself on working day mornings 2️⃣Cherry Blossom Grove Picnic Area 🌸Thoughtful facilities: ▪️Wooden platform with backed chairs ▪️Free picnic mat rental (50 yuan deposit) ⚠️Note: Strong lake breeze after 2pm 3️⃣Willow Shore Corridor 🚶Optimized accessibility: ▪️Lakeside boardwalk with vintage-style handrails ▪️Emergency call buttons every 50m 📸Photo tip: Ask your partner to stand on opposite shore for reflection shots 🛶【Boat Ride Details】 ✅Choose window seats! Perfect lake views ⏰Schedule: 8:30-17:00 (departures every half hour) 💺Seating: Right front seats are most stable (motion sickness bags provided) 👵Priority: Special access for guests over 70 🏨【Accommodation Recommendations】 ✔️Tongli Lake Hotel: ▪️Floor heating + smart toilets ▪️Fresh cooked fox nut sweet soup for breakfast ✔️Tongli Ancient Town Guesthouses: ▪️Priority for waterfront rooms with elevator ▪️Confirmed bathroom with shower chairs 🍜【Dining Tips for Seniors】 ✅"Grandma's Teahouse" at dock: ▪️Biluochun tea with 3 free refills ▪️Can request softer steamed rice balls ✅Bring your own: ▪️Thermos with red date and goji berry tea ▪️Individually wrapped shortbread cookies ⚠️【Experienced Tips】 ❶Wear cloth shoes with layered soles! Stone paths can be slippery when damp ❷Bring foldable fishing stool (for resting while waiting for boat) ❸Avoid harsh midday light for cherry blossom photos ❹Pack berberine tablets (for preventing stomach issues) Tested with parents last week - super comfortable! Boat crew helped with wheelchair, teahouse owner offered hot water refills, even the cleaning staff taught us how to pose with scarves~

Traveling solo to Tongli Water Town was one of the most peaceful and rewarding experiences I’ve had. After a short ride from Suzhou, I checked into a charming guesthouse tucked beside the canal. I spent the afternoon exploring the serene Retreat & Reflection Garden (Tuisi Garden) and walked across the iconic Three Bridges, soaking in the ancient charm. As the sun dipped low, I took a tranquil sunset gondola ride—the water reflecting the fading light like a dream. Often called the Venice of the East, Tongli becomes even more magical at night, with lantern-lit reflections dancing in the canals. Serene, relaxing, and utterly tranquil. I wandered down Fuguan Street, passing friendly locals and the graceful Fuguan Bridge, before enjoying a quiet dinner at the well-known Jiu Tan Zi Fan Tong restaurant. The highlight? White fish from Taihu Lake—delicate, fresh, and full of authentic flavor. This solo trip gave me space to reflect, slow down, and truly connect with a timeless corner of Jiangsu. #SoloTravel #Tongli #WaterTownWanderings #TuisiGarden #ChinaAdventures #GondolaVibes #PeacefulPlaces #CulturalHeritage #FuguanStreet #TravelDiaries

#discoverchina Tongli Ancient Town (同里古镇). If you are going to visit Suzhou, don’t miss a side trip to Tongli. Tongli Town is one of the well-known ancient water towns in the Yangtze River Delta, which are specifically scattered around the large river and crisscross the triangle area of Suzhou, Huzhou, Hangzhou and Shanghai.

A while ago, I visited Tongli Ancient Town, one of China's Top Ten Historical and Cultural Towns. Open from 08:00 to 17:00, tickets cost 100 RMB per person, with a discounted rate of 80 RMB if purchased in advance. There is free entry after 17:00 on non-holidays. The Retreat and Reflection Garden, a classical Jiangnan garden, offers intricate layouts and poetic charm, perfect for photos. Walking the Three Bridges—Taiping, Jili, and Changqing—is a traditional custom symbolizing good luck. Ming and Qing Street is lined with charming shops, snack stalls, and restaurants. The ticket is valid for 48 hours, allowing one entry per attraction. For a memorable experience, prioritize the ticketed attractions first. Tongli Ancient Town's beauty and history make it a must-visit destination.

#ancienttownvibes 📍 Tongli Ancient Town, one of China's Top Ten Historical and Cultural Towns and one of the six ancient towns of Jiangnan. ⏰ Open: 08:00 - 17:00 🎫 Tickets: 100 RMB per person, 80 RMB if purchased one day in advance. Free entry after 17:00 on non-holidays. 🏮Must-Visit Attractions: 🔹Retreat and Reflection Garden: A classical Jiangnan garden with intricate layout and poetic charm, perfect for photos. 🔹Three Bridges: Comprising Taiping, Jili, and Changqing Bridges. The traditional custom of "walking the three bridges" symbolizes good luck. 🔹Ming and Qing Street: A historical street lined with charming shops, snack stalls, and restaurants. Stroll, shop, and savor the local delicacies. 💡Travel Tips: 🔸Priority Visits: If short on time, visit the ticketed attractions first, notably the "one garden, two halls, three bridges, and one tower." 🔸Ticket Validity: The ancient town ticket is valid for 48 hours, with each attraction requiring a ticket for entry and allowing only one entry per attraction. Explore the beauty and history of Tongli Ancient Town! 🌉🌸😊 #travel #china

Step into a living canvas of ancient China at Tongli Ancient Town, a captivating water town nestled in Suzhou. With a history spanning over a thousand years, Tongli offers a glimpse into the past with its well-preserved Ming and Qing dynasty architecture, intricate canal systems, and charming stone bridges. Wander along the narrow flagstone streets, lined with traditional houses adorned with red lanterns, and soak in the tranquil atmosphere. Explore the town's iconic landmarks, such as the Tuisi Garden and the Three Bridges, each symbolizing good fortune and prosperity. Immerse yourself in the local culture by taking a leisurely boat ride along the canals, passing under picturesque bridges and admiring the reflections of the ancient buildings in the water. Indulge in local delicacies and browse through quaint shops offering traditional crafts and souvenirs. Whether you're a history buff, a culture enthusiast, or simply seeking a peaceful escape, Tongli Ancient Town promises an unforgettable journey through time, leaving you with cherished memories of ancient China's charm and beauty. #chinatrip

If you’re visiting Suzhou, don’t miss Tongli (同里), the most beautiful canal town in the region. Just a short trip away, this hidden gem offers a peaceful escape from the city’s hustle and bustle. 🚣 Strolling through Tongli, you’ll find yourself surrounded by stunning waterways, ancient bridges, and charming alleyways. The calm atmosphere, paired with the beauty of nature, makes it a perfect place to unwind. 🌿✨ Small local eateries line the canals, offering delicious meals with a view—perfect for a relaxed dinner by the water. 🍜 One of the best experiences? Taking a boat ride through the canals. The gentle flow of the water, the reflections of the old houses, and the quiet surroundings make it truly unforgettable. 🏯💙 If you’re exploring China and looking for a magical stop, Tongli is a must-visit in your itinerary. It’s the perfect way to experience the timeless beauty of China’s water towns. 🚶🌅 #chinatravelitinerary

#newyearnewtrip Ily Coffee in Tongli Ancient Town is a cozy little Western style cafe located right opposite the tourist center. It’s warm and inviting but the space is quite small. When we visited, it felt full with just one family there ! It is a nice spot for a coffee break, though the prices are on the higher side, likely due to its touristy location. You can enjoy coffee, at the same time people-watch from the cafe's large windows. 📍 By the Wudjin Bridge, Tongli, Suzhou.

#familytravel

Sanya is a tropical paradise on Hainan Island, famous for its beautiful beaches and delicious dining options. Start your day by relaxing on the sandy shores of Sanya Bay, where you can enjoy swimming or sunbathing. For lunch, try local seafood dishes at one of the many beachfront restaurants. Afterward, visit Tianya Haijiao for stunning ocean views and great photo opportunities. Return to Sanya Bay to spend more time on the beach or engage in water sports. In the evening, enjoy dinner at a local eatery, savoring authentic Hainan cuisine or fresh seafood. Don’t miss Dadonghai Beach, known for its vibrant atmosphere, water sports, and nearby dining options. Enjoy the sun and great food in Sanya! 🏠 Accommodation Luoke Platinum Sea View Hotel 🍝 Restaurant Cucina Italian Restaurant 古奇那意大利餐厅 🍝 Restaurant Casa Dolphin 两只海豚西班牙餐吧 💡 Tips Use meituan app delivery to the hotel to explore more food. Use Dianping app to search for a restaurant and get the best deals.

🗺️🗺️ [Itinerary] Day 1: Day 2: Day 3: Day 4: Day 5: Day 6: Day 7: 📍📍 [Must-Visit Attractions] 🥘🥘 [Must-Try Food] 🏠🏠 [Accommodation ] 1.Haiyue Bay Seaview Holiday Apartment 📷📷 [Photo Spots] 📣📣 [Tips]

📍Overview: ▪︎Day 1: Sun bathing and swimming at Sanya Bay Bathing beach ▪︎Day 2: Breakfast and water activities in Dadonghai and an afternoon walk in Luhuitou Scenic Area ▪︎Day 3: Shuttle bus to Sanya Duty-free and an evening at Sanya Haichang Fantasy Town 🚇 Transportation ▪︎taxi, e-bike or bus (all are convenient) 🏠 Accommodation ▪︎We stayed at Sanya Xicheng Hotel (Mangrove Tree Resort) 💡 Tips ▪︎Bring a hat, sunscreen, umbrella and plenty of water!

Tongli Water Town, located about 18 kilometers southeast of Suzhou in Jiangsu Province, China, is a well-preserved ancient town renowned for its picturesque canals and traditional architecture. Here’s a guide for visiting Tongli: ### **Key Highlights:** 1. **Canals and Bridges:** - Tongli is famous for its network of canals, which crisscross the town and are spanned by traditional stone bridges. The most iconic bridges include the "Five Eye Bridge" (Wuzhenqiao) and the "Duck Neck Bridge" (Yaziqiao). 2. **Traditional Architecture:** - The town features well-preserved Ming and Qing Dynasty architecture, including ancient residences, pagodas, and ancestral halls. Explore the narrow streets and old buildings to experience the charm of historical Suzhou-style homes. 3. **Tongli Scenic Area:** - The scenic area encompasses several attractions, including gardens, museums, and historic sites. Notable places include the "Pearl Pagoda" and the "Jinze Ancient Town," which offer a deeper understanding of the area's history and culture. 4. **Gongyuan (Confucian Temple):** - This temple is dedicated to Confucius and provides insight into traditional Chinese education and philosophy. 5. **Local Crafts and Cuisine:** - Visit local shops to find traditional crafts and souvenirs. Tongli is also known for its regional cuisine, including local snacks and dishes. 6. **Boat Rides:** - Take a boat ride along the canals to fully appreciate the scenic beauty and get a unique perspective of the town. Gondola-style boats offer a tranquil and immersive experience. ### **Practical Tips:** - **Entrance Fee:** There is usually an entrance fee for the main scenic areas. Check for current prices and ticket options. - **Best Time to Visit:** Spring and autumn are ideal due to pleasant weather and fewer crowds. Summer can be hot and humid, while winter might be less crowded but cooler. - **Getting There:** Tongli is accessible from Suzhou by bus, taxi, or private car. It takes about 30-40 minutes to reach the town from Suzhou city center. ### **Conclusion:** Tongli Water Town provides a picturesque escape into China’s rich cultural and historical heritage. Its canals, ancient architecture, and traditional atmosphere make it a rewarding destination for visitors interested in experiencing traditional Chinese water towns. #traveldiaries #tongli