2025 Taicang Travel Guide: Must-see attractions, popular food, hotels, transportation routes (updated in June)

As spring arrives, Beijing Garden Expo Park transforms into a magical ocean of flowers and greenery. Here, you can experience the unique charm of gardens from all over while immersing yourself in the romance of spring. Below is a detailed guide to help you explore the park. Best Viewing Time The best time to visit is from late March to May. In late March, the mountain peach blossoms take center stage, adorning the park in shades of pink. April brings vibrant cherry blossoms and tulips, while May showcases the elegant beauty of peonies and tree peonies. Each period offers unique scenery. Must-See Gardens Jiangnan Garden Area: This area includes the Suzhou Garden and Yangzhou Garden. The Suzhou Garden features winding paths, picturesque rockeries, and ponds. In spring, weeping willows, peach blossoms, and apricot blossoms create a scene reminiscent of a traditional Chinese painting. The Yangzhou Garden is known for its exquisite layout, with pavilions and towers scattered throughout. When the azaleas and wisteria bloom, the atmosphere is truly captivating. Beijing Garden: This garden captures the essence of old Beijing, incorporating elements of courtyards and hutongs. In spring, the crabapple blossoms bloom within the courtyard, contrasting beautifully with the red walls and gray tiles, evoking memories of springtime in old Beijing. Taiwan Garden: This garden exudes a subtropical charm, with lush betel nut trees and bougainvillea. In spring, the vibrant bougainvillea blossoms add a splash of color to the traditional Minnan architecture, making it a worthwhile visit. Special Activities Spring Flower Show: Near the main exhibition hall, a variety of flowers are on display, including rare varieties. Floral artists also demonstrate their skills on-site, making this a must-see for flower enthusiasts. Cultural Experience Activities: On weekends and holidays, some gardens host traditional tea ceremonies, guzheng performances, and other activities, allowing you to experience the charm of traditional culture while enjoying the beautiful scenery. These activities are especially educational for children. Route Planning - One-Day Highlights Tour: Enter through Gate 3 and start with the Jiangnan Garden Area, strolling through the Suzhou and Yangzhou Gardens. Then, head to the Beijing Garden, followed by the Taiwan Garden. Finally, visit the main exhibition hall for the flower show to conclude your day. - Two-Day Leisure Tour: On the first day, enter through Gate 1 and explore the International Garden Area, experiencing different garden styles from around the world. Enjoy dinner and the sunset at one of the park's restaurants. On the second day, enter through Gate 5 and visit the specialty botanical gardens, observing various plant species. Relax in the children's play area in the afternoon. Food Recommendations Park Restaurants: The park restaurants offer a variety of simple meals, including Beijing Zhajiangmian and Yangzhou Fried Rice, at reasonable prices. They're a great place to recharge after exploring the park. Snack Stalls: Located along the main roads, these stalls offer snacks like sausages, candied hawthorns, and cotton candy, bringing back childhood memories. Enjoy these treats as you stroll through the park. Travel and Ticket Information - Tickets: General admission is 20 yuan per person. Purchase tickets in advance through the official WeChat account or online travel platforms to avoid queues. - Transportation: Take Subway Line 14 to Garden Expo Park Station. Exit B2 leads directly to Gate 3. Alternatively, drive and park in the spacious parking lot for 10-20 yuan per day. Photography Tips Clothing: Wear Hanfu or cheongsam in the Jiangnan Garden Area, simple Guofeng clothing in the Beijing Garden, and light-colored clothing in the Taiwan Garden. Angles: Use windows and doorways as natural frames to create depth in your photos. Use flowers and plants as foreground elements with people in the background to capture the romance of spring. Beijing Garden Expo Park is full of surprises this spring. Invite your family and friends to experience the beauty of the season!

Actually, there is also a Shaxi ancient town in Kunming, but this Shaxi ancient town is far away yet close at hand. It's visible and tangible. It is located at No. 142 Baiyun Middle Road, Taicang City, Suzhou City, Jiangsu Province. Navigate to the nearby Dongan Road parking lot, about a 10-minute walk away, parking fee is 3 yuan/hour, and 1 yuan for each additional hour. Ancient town ticket: Free (Tour time requires 1~2 hours) Here I found a small shop of hand-painted fans, the fans are hand-painted by the boss on the spot, 15 yuan each, the price is reasonable. The surrounding area is full of small shops owned by locals, there are also pickles made by the old lady herself, small tea houses, and you can also find some old items, etc. There are many merchants selling local specialties in the middle, such as freshly fried meat floss, cloud cake, lard rice candy, pine nut candy, sugar painting, etc. There are also many intangible cultural heritage handcrafts hidden in the ancient town, such as wood carving, bamboo weaving, etc. They are all made by the master on the spot, and you can buy them directly if you are interested. This ancient town has not been fully developed, there are many original residents, basically all in the West Market Street, where the prices are very cheap, locals set up small stalls, 5 yuan/large skewer of candied haw, 10 yuan a large bag of egg rolls, 10 yuan/jin of strawberries, basically no one on weekdays, it feels like having the whole place to yourself. The ancient architecture here is well preserved, mainly the layout of 'one river, two streets, three bridges, one island', the pace of life in the ancient town is very slow, many residents around sit at the door to chat, far from the tranquility of the city, those who like quiet can come for a walk, suitable for leisure travel! Shaxi Ancient Town

Can you believe it, with an average of only 200, you can check in at Suzhou·Wild Neighbor LINE FRIENDS Beauty House + Mita Sen Wild Park tickets! Asia's first LINE FRIENDS themed resort It has everything, Mita train, Sen Wild Park, Solar Terms restaurant, Xiangtang bookstore, camping lawn. Here I found a scene close to a fairy tale world ✔Diverse entertainment: Balloon field, non-powered park, cat stroking lounge, wild pub, camping experience area...... ✔Different themed accommodation styles: LINE FRIENDS theme, courtyard style LOFT, the room hides a whole park, the cute LINE FRIENDS family image can be seen everywhere in the park Xiangtang Mita train ✔Four-story large LINE FRIENDS theme park, Dream Island, Mole's House, Pine Cone Whirlwind, Honey Tower... Every corner of the room is almost filled with LINE FRIENDS elements, the pink and blue walls look even more playful, slides, rope nets, blackboards.... It's like moving the park into Brown's house ✔Brown Bear themed restaurant Mita train restaurant Ecological garden western restaurant

I had high expectations for my first stay at Clubmed, but the actual experience was average. I checked in on Sunday. There was only one counter for handling snow tickets, and the speed was relatively slow. There was no GO at check-in. The check-in time is 3 pm and the check-out time is 11 am (T3 members can delay for 1 hour). In fact, there were no rooms available at 3 pm and I had to wait. The hotel is very close to Taicang South Station and the Alps Snow World. You can cross the road to the Snow World or go through the corridor on the second floor of the hotel. Children under 4 years old eat free at the buffet dinner. There are two snack sets available at the U bar: fried chicken + sandwich/nut platter + fries. You can follow Clubmed on WeChat in advance to get the daily activity schedule. Activities marked with a small hand symbol are free to participate. Childcare is available for children over 4 years old.

It is said that Harbin is almost crowded by the little potatoes from the south this year🤣 Actually, you don't have to run so far, Jiangsu, Zhejiang, and Shanghai also have their own 'Ice and Snow World'☃️ 🔹Super large indoor ski resort🏂🏻 🔹Dream ice and snow park, ice sculpture maze, snow carousel🎠... Sisters who want to take big ice and snow shots, just rush!❄️ · 📍Taicang Alps International Resort 🚘 1h drive from Shanghai, 3h self-driving from Hangzhou 🚄 You can take the high-speed rail to Taicang South Station, and you will arrive right across the station! It is very suitable for a short trip around the weekend and holidays~ Feel the French ice and snow romance of the Alps❄️ · ❄️ 'Alps Snow World'❄️ ☑️ Ice and Snow Park Unlike ordinary indoor ski resorts, in addition to 🏂🏻, there is also a super fun and good-looking ice and snow amusement park in the snow world~ 📸The super French forest cabin scenery🌲, the Christmas tree in the snow is just like Finland❄️ ☑️ Ski Resort Both beginners and veterans can have fun⛷️ (There are professional ski instructors! Beginners must carry out activities under the guidance of professionals~) ☑️ Warm Area As soon as you enter the hall, there is a snow-view restaurant with super large floor-to-ceiling windows, where you can rest and replenish energy🍔 There is also a coffee shop next to the snow storage area, where you can rest and warm up when you are tired of skiing☕ Instantly get the atmosphere of the ice and snow festival🎄 · 🌲'Alps Camp'⛺ You can go to the commercial street for a stroll at night. Eating, drinking, playing, shopping and leisure can all be satisfied~ If you love photography, don't miss the Alps camp🏕️ The natural ecological camping arrangement with French style, and the bonfire🔥 is also very photogenic📸

Hello~ Everyone! Today I'm going to share with you a super comfortable parent-child self-driving tour guide, the place we're going to is Yunnan! Yunnan's tourism development is very mature, all kinds of facilities are very complete, so here is definitely an ideal place for parent-child travel. Our itinerary is as follows: D1: Fly from Hangzhou to Kunming, after a short rest, you can stroll around Kunming city and feel the beauty of this spring city. D2: Take a high-speed train from Kunming to Lijiang (about 3.5 hours), rent a car and go directly to Shuhe Ancient Town and Tiger Leaping Gorge Scenic Area, this place is really beautiful! D3: Lijiang. Stroll leisurely in Shuhe Ancient Town in the morning, and in the afternoon we will go to Yak Meadow, where there are super cute yaks! D4: Lijiang. In the morning we will go to Pearl Sea, find a shepherd's house by a lake, children can experience horse riding, feeding lambs, in the afternoon we will go to Lijiang Ancient City to feel the charm of the ancient city. D5: Lijiang-Shaxi Ancient Town. After enjoying the hotel's breakfast, we drive to Zhongyi Market for a stroll, then set off for Shaxi Ancient Town, about 1.5 hours drive, the scenery along the way is really beautiful! D6: Free activities in Shaxi Ancient Town, here has simple architecture and quiet environment, is a good place for children to play. D7: Shaxi-Shangri-La, about 2 hours and 40 minutes drive, the scenery along the way is also magnificent. After arriving in Shangri-La, we will first go to Dukezong Ancient City for a stroll. D8: Shangri-La. Set off in the morning to Pudacuo National Forest Park and Tiger Leaping Gorge Scenic Area, return to the hotel for rest around 4 pm, and go to Dukezong Ancient City in the evening to feel the charm of the world's largest prayer wheel. D9: Shangri-La-Lijiang. We choose to take the national road, along the way you can enjoy the beautiful scenery of Yunnan Plateau, it takes about 6 hours drive, but it's absolutely worth it! D10: Fly back to Hangzhou from Lijiang, ending this wonderful journey! I will share with you the detailed photos and itinerary of each day later! Our whole journey was very relaxed and pleasant, we will stay two nights in each place, the arrangement of scenic spots is not many, most of the time is free activities, children and we do not feel tired, this trip is really perfect~ I hope this guide can help you, if you have any questions or need to recommend more fun places, feel free to contact me! Wish you a pleasant journey~ 🚗🌴

ClubMed has built a 91,000 square meter indoor ski resort, which is the largest in East China. Now the sisters in Jiangsu, Zhejiang and Shanghai don't have to go far to ski, they can arrange it directly on the weekend. The Snow World contains a cold area of 28,000 square meters, with a constant temperature of 1 to -1°C all year round, so students in Jiangsu, Zhejiang and Shanghai can ski all year round, and they can also enjoy skiing in summer. There are 5 ski trails, 7 magic carpets, 8 ski items and 14 snow entertainment activities to ensure you have fun. The longest ski trail can reach 280m, whether you are a beginner or a player with a foundation, you can find your own fun. Rooms The rooms are designed based on the European wooden cottages in the snow mountain village. It has more of the taste of a snow village, as if you have really traveled to the Nordic in fairy tales. The interior uses a log color scheme with lively and bright geometric elements, perfectly blending fashion and nature, and the warm-toned room makes people feel comfortable and warm. Food Snowflake International Buffet Restaurant: The overall design is inspired by snowflakes, with variable geometric elements and bright colors complementing each other, creating a French elegant dining environment; serving French and local flavored three meals buffet, with Club Med's characteristic 7 themed food islands, fully satisfying guests' taste buds. U BAR: Located on the first floor of the resort, it combines a French pub and a fashionable life bar. The overall use of bright and lively tones, combined with natural wood elements, creates a relaxed and leisurely atmosphere. Snow Peak Lounge: Located on the top floor of the resort, the overall design is inspired by the snow mountain cabin pub, and you feel like you are in the Alps cabin pub. Facilities The resort also has a wealth of entertainment activities, gym, yoga room, boxing room, table tennis, spinning bike and other fitness activities for guests to choose freely. The resort is adjacent to the Alps Snow World, and guests can enter through the exclusive corridor to enjoy the fun of skiing and snow entertainment. Parent-child Taicang Clubmed has created a brand new mini club, retaining the essence of 'sports, games, performance shows', and adding a series of new activities. Children aged 4-11 can be entrusted, freeing parents' hands. Amazing Family also has many family activities, where you can enjoy wonderful parent-child time with your children.

I went to Taicang, China. A friend introduced me to a newly opened Pullman and I stayed there. Perhaps it's because prices are cheap, but it wasn't too expensive, costing about 15,000 yen per night. The lobby was very spacious and clean, and the locals were very enthusiastic, recommending me some kind of set, saying "Would you like to buy this?", which made me laugh🤣 This is a new hotel in Taicang, and the breakfast is apparently delicious, so young people tend to choose this one, and since there aren't many Pullman hotels in Japan, please try it if you have the chance. #gourmet

A delicious cafe in Taicang City. It's always bustling even on weekdays, so why not enjoy a leisurely drink surrounded by greenery? A coffee costs 18 RMB, and a cafe latte is about 24 RMB, so you can enjoy either for just 3,400 yen. It's very stylish, especially the interior and the fact that you can drink outside. They also have cakes, so why not stop by for a light meal? That's all. #gourmet

This time, I was invited by a local friend and went to Taicang in Suzhou, Jiangsu Province, China. It's a very comfortable place, just under an hour's drive from Shanghai Hongqiao Airport. This time I stayed at a hotel in the Marriott group. Once you leave, you're within walking distance of Wanda Plaza (where you can shop) and Civic Park, so it was very convenient. Above all, it's great value for money. It cost less than 10,000 yen per night, but the king-size bed and wide ceilings were very helpful. I'd like to stay here again if I have the chance. That's all ~ #couplestrip

#passionpassport This is a small old town and has many things to visit and enjoy it small market place. This place small but yet hold lot of old China History. Old houses, Old streets and wooden architecture all looks so nice and is well maintained. There are many small souvenirs shops and restaurants which serves traditional Chinese Food. There are also many massage parlors which is very famous for traditional Chinese massage and is very good. This village looks really beautiful. There is also a photograph studio which gives traditional Chinese costumes and gets you click photos in traditional Chinese dresses. #passionpassport #beautifuldestinations #travelinspiration

#passionpassport Taicang gets beautiful when spring arrives. City gets green, With flowers around and beautiful plays and trees turn green. When spring approaches, Taicang natives start "eating" spring, that is , to eat seasonal vegetables. There is a saying in Taicang that says one may get to know the taste of spring after eating bamboo shoots. Seasonable bamboo shoots feature thin outer skin and thick flesh and is better to braise or pickle it. Fiddlehead is renowned as the king of mountain vegetables. When its leaves are still curled and not yet spread, it's the best time to pick them up and stir-fry them together with shredded meat after being salted. #passionpassport #beautifuldestinations #travelinspiration

#passionpassport Jingcang Lake is around 5 Kms from Taicang downtown. This lake has surrounding area with greenery and forest. There are many activities one can do in this. There is a tree house, Boating in lake are available on Motor Boat or self peddling boats. Cycle are available in lake on rent. There is also a restaurant in lake park and many people visit it to spend time on weekend and holidays. There is also area where people can camp and do picnic. A large open ground is available where kids and adult fly kites. It’s a good place to relax and enjoy. #passionpassport #beautifuldestinations #travelchina #travelinspiration

Located in Taicang City, Jiangsu Province, China, Shashi Old Town is a classical village that was formed during the Tang Dynasty and has been around for 1,300 years. Now, it is a village that only shows the old architectural complex of Taicang City, north of Shanghai, but this place was at the forefront of fashion even during the Qing Dynasty ^^ When you enter the village, you can see everything from the late Ming Dynasty to the styles of the Republic of China. The roofs of the houses built along the waterways and the waterways are filled with wasong. I recommend it to those who want to feel the untouched charm of the water town. #ChinaTravel #Watertown #ShashiOldTown #Jangsu

The historical and cultural heritage of Shaxi Ancient Town is rich, and it preserves the unique Ming and Qing dying buildings, the deep ancient alleys, the ancient bridges and the former residences of historical and cultural celebrities. The Qipu River, which was excavated in the Song Dynasty, runs through the town. The river is wide and there is an island in the river. It is a major feature of the ancient town of Jiangnan. The ancient houses on both sides of the river are patchwork and row upon row. The streets along the river stretch for 1.5 kilometers, telling the prosperity of Shaxis former trade. There are three ancient stone arch bridges on the river (both Taicang City cultural relics protection units): Liji Bridge, Yongqiao Bridge, and Yixing Bridge, all with typical Qing Dynasty architectural style. Shaxi is also a place where humanities gather. Wu Xiaobang, an outstanding dance master of our country, was born here. He blended dance and life ingeniously and became one of the pioneers of Chinese new dance art. Combined with the traditional culture of the ancient town, Shaxi has carefully created poetry museums, woven pavilions, dance halls, and children's funhouses, so that visitors can enjoy leisure and entertainment as well as some knowledge and culture.

Shaxi is located in the middle of Taicang City, Jiangsu Province, 50 kilometers away from Shanghai Hongqiao Airport. The Shanghai-Nanjing Expressway has opened an exit here, only two hours from Shanghai to Shaxi. The ancient town of Shaxi has a long history, unique scenery and rich products. It is known as the Southeast Eighteen Town, Shaxi First Town.

Shaxi Ancient Town, the first thing that comes to mind is Dali, Yunnan, which is a major town on the ancient tea-horse road. However, in Taicang, Jiangsu, not far from Shanghai and Suzhou, there is also an ancient town of Shaxi. Not very famous, there are not many tourists, and no tickets are accepted. Shaxi Ancient Town is already a village in the Tang Dynasty, and it has a long history than many ancient towns. In the Yuan Dynasty, it became a marketplace, and the Ming Dynasty merchants became a major commercial and trade town. At present, there are more than 600 houses and more than 4,200 houses in the Qing Dynasty and the Republic of China, which are contiguous and fragmented. Alleys are narrow and long, and from time to time there are local old people living in the alleys slowly coming out. By the time of the Ming and Qing Dynasties, with the development of industry and commerce, a large number of merchants came into being, and it became a famous commercial and trade town. The Song Dynasty Fan Zhongyan presided over the Qiputang that runs through the town. The river is wide and there is an olive island in the river. It was cut off when the Xinqipu River was excavated in 1954. There are three ancient stone arch bridges on the river: Liji Bridge, Yongqiao Bridge and Yixing Bridge, all with typical Qing Dynasty architectural style. Meizu years, the town is booming. Supervising Yu Shi Su Zan's "Yu Shi Fu", Shanxi Road Yu Shi Cao Yu, the Criminal Department Langzhong Ye Yuchun and other officials, have built a government here, the street scene is good, "Shaxi Eight Views", far and near famous. The stone arch bridge is a good place to enjoy the scenery. There are no cruise ships in the river and the water is calm.

🐻🌿 A 1-hour self-drive from Jiangsu, Zhejiang, and Shanghai to encounter the Brown Bear fairy tale village! This is a family-friendly village enveloped by the cuteness of LINE FRIENDS🎠, with slide houses, forest playgrounds, themed mini trains... even the air smells like honey🍯! A happy planet for kids, moms, save this quickly～✨ ⛺【Local Highlights】: 🐻 "Brown Bear Themed Room": A standalone villa with a slide and climbing frame, kids can play inside the room and never want to go out! The room also has a projector, perfect for adults to relax and watch movies～ 🐻 "Mita Forest Wild Park": A four-story non-powered playground with climbing frames, big slides, trampolines, full of LINE FRIENDS elements, super cute for photos! 🐻 "Mita Mini Train": Ride the Brown Bear themed mini train around the village, passing through fields and enjoying the scenery, a 30-minute healing journey～ 🐻 "Xiangtang Bookstore": Read picture books by the floor-to-ceiling windows, paired with a cup of coffee, enjoy a leisurely afternoon with your kids☕ 🛬【Travel Tips】: 🐻 Recommended playtime: 2 days 1 night, let the kids burn off energy! 🐻 Itinerary: Day 1: Check in to Brown Bear themed room → Play wildly in the forest park → Take the mini train sightseeing → Check in at the train restaurant Day 2: Parent-child reading at the bookstore → Visit nearby ancient towns → Have a second round at the park before heading back! 🏨【Accommodation Tips】: 🐻 Recommended room type: LOFT family room, open courtyard suitable for families, decorated with Brown Bear elements, kids will be so excited they’ll scream! 🐻 Hotel services: 24-hour butler on call, can also help watch the kids, freeing your hands is no longer a dream! 🧡【Tips】: 🐻 Must-bring items: Kids’ swimsuits (there’s a bubble party in summer!) + non-slip socks (required for indoor playground) 🐻 Best photo time: 6-7 AM (morning mist + Brown Bear sculptures = fairy tale vibe) 🐻 Nearby food: Recommend the farmhouse courtyard, tastes good but remember to check the bill～ 🎁 Click me to customize your Brown Bear fairy tale trip～

Pullman Hua Fa Taicang Suzhou Review A high-end business hotel invested by Huafa Group and managed by France's Accor Group. Located in Taicang Science & Education New Town with prime location adjacent to Huafa commercial area, offering unparalleled views of Tianjing Lake. Convenient transportation with just one-hour drive to Shanghai Hongqiao Airport and Hongqiao Railway Station. The lobby, buffet restaurant, lobby bar, swimming pool, and gym are all on the first floor with stylish decoration, making it arguably the best hotel in Taicang. Within 10-minute drive from the hotel, there are numerous free attractions: Tianjing Lake Park with exhibition halls and sandy beaches (perfect for picnics and windbreaks), the exquisite Nanyuan Garden (a former Ming Dynasty prime minister's backyard and Taicang's finest classical garden offering ever-changing seasonal views), and Taicang Museum (the only local comprehensive museum converted from granaries, great for edutainment). Choosing this hotel as your base is absolutely ideal. The hotel boasts exceptional views of Tianjing Lake, with designs inspired by and blending with the unique local water town ambiance. Simply draw the curtains to enjoy the shimmering waters of Tianjing Lake - the open view creates a truly relaxing vacation vibe. The spacious 45m²+ rooms feature elegant decor, 55-inch 4K projection TV, comfortable sofa and bedding, with Pullman elements throughout. #HotelRecommendation #Hotel #PullmanHuaFaTaicangSuzhou #Taicang #ResortHotel #HotelRecommendation #ResortHotel

During the holiday, our family drove to Liuhe in Taicang for a visit. The area wasn't too crowded with tourists, making it very relaxing. Strolling along the Liuhe River was truly enjoyable. For dinner, we chose this 80s-style tea restaurant in Rothenburg Style Street, which was quite popular. The menu was surprisingly extensive, offering dim sum, snacks, Cantonese-style stir-fries, as well as various drinks and desserts—plenty of options. ✅ For dim sum, we ordered steamed tofu skin rolls, crispy red rice rolls, durian puff, and rice noodle rolls. Honestly, the quality was just average—the presentation in the photos speaks for itself. One of the tofu skin rolls was burnt, though the taste was passable. The outer layer of the red rice rolls wasn't great and didn't hold its shape well. The rice noodle rolls were decent, and while I didn't try the durian puff, my family had no complaints. ✅ The stir-fried dishes were better than the dim sum. The fermented red bean curd pork knuckle was flavorful, the shrimp with cashew nuts was refreshing, and there was another sizzling plate dish—I forgot the name, maybe Bombay duck fish? It was tasty, crispy outside and tender inside, with good seasoning. The poached choy sum in superior broth was generously portioned and flavorful. ✅ We also ordered milk tea, iced lemon 7-Up, herbal jelly, and mango pomelo sago. ❗️【Final Thoughts】❗️ 1️⃣ The location is great, with convenient parking. 2️⃣ The Hong Kong-style dim sum was mediocre but much cheaper than in Shanghai—you get what you pay for. 3️⃣ The stir-fries outshone the dim sum and offered great value for money. ------------------ 📌 80s Hong Kong-Style Tea Restaurant 📍 Address: No. 86-8, Haiyundi Road, Taicang City, Suzhou, Jiangsu Province 80s Hong Kong-Style Tea Restaurant

Weekend Escape for the 9-to-5 Crowd🎉 Stop #30📍 Taicang, Jiangsu✅ 🚘 Transportation Train🚂: Shanghai Hongqiao to Taicang, ticket price 23 yuan, duration: 30 minutes. Travel tips: 🚌, 🗺️, 🚖 🏠 Accommodation Recommendation: Boman Hotel (Suzhou Taicang Wanda Plaza Museum Branch) 195 yuan. 📮 CityWalk Itinerary DAY1⃣️: Taicang Station - Taicang Museum - Haiyundi Scenic Area - Shaxi Ancient Town. DAY2⃣️: Nanyuan Garden - 72 Ideal Village - Liuhe Ancient Town - Shanghai. 🔸GD:📍 Shaxi Ancient Town. 👍 Must-visit: Shaxi Ancient Town 🎫 Free This is a large-scale ancient town with low commercialization. On sunny days, every snapshot looks picturesque📷. Local snacks worth trying: Caotou pancakes, radish cake, pork floss qingtuan, and Taicang's specialty pork floss. A casual stroll takes about 2 hours. 🔸GD:📍 Taicang Museum. 👍 Must-visit: Taicang Museum 🎫 Free, no reservation needed. Friendly reminder💖 The museum closes at 16:30, so plan your time wisely to avoid missing out! The museum features a massive ancient ship and exhibitions across four floors that will immerse you for hours. 🔸GD:📍 Haiyundi European Style Street. 👍 Must-visit: Haiyundi European Style Street 🎫 Free Quiet during the day but transforms into a stunning spectacle when night lights illuminate the area. Filled with European architecture and graffiti, it's perfect for photos! Best visited at night to enjoy the enchanting lights. 🔸GD:📍 Nanyuan Garden. 👍 Must-visit: Nanyuan Garden 🌳 A beautiful garden lush with flowers and plants. Previously ticketed, this 3A-rated scenic spot now offers free admission. It rivals Suzhou's famous gardens and is absolutely worth visiting. 🔸GD:📍 72 Ideal Village. 👍 Must-visit: 72 Ideal Village 🎫 Free The most photogenic spot💖 offering breathtaking riverside views. Home to the Sanlian Bookstore, with windmills, lakes, and lighthouses creating picturesque scenery. Activities include riding a mini train, crab digging, and picnicking. The full loop takes 2-3 hours. Walk further to Liuhe Military Parade Platform for better photo opportunities📸. 🔸GD:📍 Liuhe Ancient Town. 👍 Must-visit: Liuhe Ancient Town 🎫 Free Less charming than Shaxi with heavier commercialization and smaller size, but surrounded by great food options. ✅🍽️ Food Recommendations 🎀1️⃣ Gege Yuan A local institution famous for Taicang's specialty pork floss ribs - sweet-flavored spare ribs at just 13 yuan each, absolutely delicious😋. 🎀2️⃣ Nanyuan Noodle House Authentic Suzhou-style noodles with rich toppings, another longstanding establishment🍜 🎀3️⃣ 80s Tea Restaurant Locals' favorite for the most authentic Hong Kong-style cuisine in Taicang, always packed during meal times🚶‍♂️🚶‍♀️! 🚗 Recommended to drive🅿️ Parking fees are very affordable, around 4-6 yuan.

| Xiangwang Gusu Homestay, immersing yourself in the poetic charm of Jiangnan. For those traveling to Suzhou and wanting a fully immersive experience of Jiangnan's allure, Xiangwang Gusu Homestay (Suzhou Beisi Pagoda Taohuawu Street Branch) is absolutely the top choice! Nestled in the heart of the ancient city, every brick and tile here exudes Suzhou's millennia-old heritage, making it a place you won't want to leave. 📍【Prime Location】 The homestay is located on Taohuawu Street near Beisi Pagoda, right in the center of Suzhou's ancient district. 🚇 Just a short walk away is Beisi Pagoda Station on Metro Line 4, making it super convenient whether you're heading to Suzhou Railway Station or any of the popular attractions! 🛏【Fully Equipped】 The rooms are well-appointed with modern amenities, including smart toilets and oversized bathtubs 🛁. After a long day of exploring, coming back to a relaxing bath while enjoying the night view of Beisi Pagoda through the window is pure bliss! The homestay also thoughtfully provides high-quality toiletries, with even the hand cream and shower gel smelling amazing—attention to detail is impeccable. 🧹【Spotless Cleanliness】 The cleanliness here is beyond reproach! The bedding is snow-white and immaculate, with every corner of the room meticulously cleaned, ensuring a super comfortable and worry-free stay. 👍【Why We Recommend It】 ✔ Exceptional value for money—getting this level of quality in such a prime location is rare. ✔ Ultra-thoughtful service: Before check-in, the butler creates a group chat to promptly answer any questions and even helps plan your itinerary, making everything hassle-free! ✔ Rich cultural experiences: Here, you can try your hand at intangible cultural heritage crafts, like making a Suzhou embroidery bookmark, and take home a unique piece of Suzhou. 🎈【Nearby Attractions】 • Suzhou Museum: Just a short distance away, this modern building designed by I.M. Pei seamlessly blends with classical gardens 🌺. Its rich collections could keep you browsing all day. • Humble Administrator’s Garden: One of China’s four most famous gardens, every step reveals the pinnacle of Jiangnan garden beauty. 😍 • Pingjiang Road Historic District: Stroll along the canal and soak up Suzhou’s slow-paced life, with plenty of charming shops to explore 🚶‍♀️ and delicious snacks to try. 😘 • Shantang Street: The "Seven-Mile Shantang" nightscape is breathtaking. A boat ride at night feels like traveling back in time. • Beisi Pagoda and Bao'en Temple: Located nearby, this ancient temple with a thousand-year history is solemn and majestic, well worth a visit. 💐 💕【Personal Experience】 Staying here feels like coming home to your own place in Suzhou. In the morning, wake up to birdsong and open the window to see the classic whitewashed walls and black-tiled roofs of Jiangnan. In the evening 🌆, take a leisurely walk along Taohuawu Street 🥰, soaking in the old-world charm of Suzhou—it’s an utterly enchanting way to live. At night, enjoy live music in the homestay’s lobby with a drink in hand, soaking up the cozy, tipsy ambiance 😌🥳~ If you want to experience authentic Jiangnan culture in Suzhou, don’t miss Xiangwang Gusu Homestay! 💕

Location Situated at No. 118 Qimen Road in Gusu District, Suzhou, within the Pingjiang Road and Humble Administrator’s Garden historical preservation area, the hotel is just a few minutes' walk 🚶‍♀️ to the Humble Administrator’s Garden and Lion Grove Garden, and only 300 meters from the Suzhou Museum. It’s also a mere 260 meters from the Humble Administrator’s Garden-Suzhou Museum subway station, making transportation 🚗 incredibly convenient. Facilities The hotel is a renovated century-old mansion that retains the architectural charm of Suzhou while featuring modern amenities like smart toilets, high-speed Wi-Fi, and central air conditioning. It also offers a tea room, game room, conference hall, and laundry facilities, along with complimentary luggage storage and free Hanfu 💐 experiences, catering to families and travelers with accessibility needs. 😌 Cleanliness The hotel is meticulously cleaned daily, with floors mopped and every corner—from beds to furniture to bathrooms—thoroughly sanitized 🧽. Public areas, including courtyards and corridors, are kept spotless, blending the ancient charm of Jiangnan with a pristine and comfortable living environment. 🌺 Why We Recommend It • Historical Legacy: Originally the Pan Residence from the Qing Dynasty’s Guangxu era, the hotel carries a century of history. Its intricate carvings, square pavilions, and boxwood trees evoke a bygone era. 🥰 • Prime Location: Nestled in the heart of the scenic area, it’s surrounded by attractions yet offers a peaceful retreat, allowing guests to easily explore the lively surroundings or unwind in tranquility. 🥰 • Thoughtful Service: The warm and attentive staff ❤️‍🔥 provide smiling service, assist with luggage, deliver meals to rooms, and offer personalized travel tips and route planning. 😌 • Diverse Dining: The Chinese restaurant serves authentic Suzhou cuisine, such as Squirrel-Shaped Mandarin Fish and Eel with Garlic Sauce, blending traditional flavors with modern aesthetics. Breakfast options cater to varied tastes. Nearby Attractions • Humble Administrator’s Garden: A masterpiece of Jiangnan classical gardens, featuring exquisite pavilions, terraces, and water features at every turn. 💐 • Lion Grove Garden: Famous for its labyrinthine rock formations, harmonizing with elegant water scenes and ancient architecture. 🌺 • Pingjiang Road Historic District: A millennia-old street with cobblestone paths, ancient bridges, and riverside homes, brimming with Jiangnan charm, boutique shops, and local delicacies. 🎆 • Suzhou Museum: Designed by I.M. Pei, it fuses tradition and modernity, housing a rich collection of cultural artifacts. 😌 Personal Experience Stepping into Zhuojian Sijitang Hotel feels like entering a Jiangnan ink painting 😃. The century-old mansion’s charm is palpable—white walls, black tiles, and upturned eaves whisper tales of history. The rooms are elegantly furnished and equipped with modern conveniences, ensuring a comfortable stay. Here, I savored delicious Suzhou dishes, donned Hanfu for courtyard photos 📷, and felt transported to ancient times. The staff treated me like family, their warmth ❤️‍🔥 making me feel at home far away. The nearby attractions—the Humble Administrator’s Garden’s 🥳 refinement, Lion Grove’s whimsy, Pingjiang Road’s vibrancy, and Suzhou Museum’s uniqueness—left me enchanted. This stay was truly exceptional, a memorable Jiangnan journey. Next time in Suzhou, I’ll choose this hotel again. 💕

There are many charming free 🆓 ancient towns hidden around Shanghai. Which ones have you visited? I recommend 🌟 Shaxi Ancient Town in Taicang, a Jiangnan water town with over 1,300 years of history, famous for its unique "one river, two streets, three bridges, one island" layout and rich historical cultural heritage. 🚌 Transportation Guide Self-driving: From Shanghai: Shenhai Expressway (G15) → Taicang City exit → Drive west along Provincial Road 339 for about 15 kilometers. Public transportation: Take high-speed rail to Taicang Station → Transfer to Taicang Bus Route 501 to "Shaxi Station" → Walk 10 minutes to the ancient town. 🅿️ If driving, navigate to the North Gate entrance where there's a free 🆓 parking lot 💰 The ancient town is open all day with free 🆓 entry However, some attractions inside require tickets. There's a 30 yuan combo ticket that includes four sites: Shaxi Cultural and Historical Museum, Hongjing Memories, Tang Dynasty Research Institute, and Yahang. Worth considering if you're interested in history and culture. My recommended route is: North Gate entrance ➡️ Hengli River Historical District ➡️ West Market Street ➡️ Central Market Street ➡️ East Market Street 👍 Best photo spots: When walking from West Market Street to East Market Street, be sure to visit these three Ming Dynasty bridges: ✅ Xin Bridge, ✅ An Bridge, and ✅ Yixing Bridge, which span across the old Qipu River in sequence and are Shaxi's iconic landmarks. The white walls, black-tiled roofs, and wooden structures of houses along the river create perfect spots for capturing the essence of Jiangnan water towns. While there are many food stalls on the old street, many seem to sell wholesale items from elsewhere without unique local characteristics. 👍 I personally recommend two shops that make fresh pastries on-site: ✅ Yam Rice Cake and ✅ Muzi Su Baked Flatbread, both freshly made and delicious 😋. The teahouses on the old street have a traditional ambiance, perfect for enjoying a cup of tea. Other attractions: 📍 Leyin Garden: A private garden built by the late Yuan Dynasty recluse Qu Xiaozhen, featuring typical Jiangnan garden style. 📍 Gong Family Ancestral Home (Carved Hall): Built during the Qianlong period of the Qing Dynasty, with exquisite wooden carvings on the beams. 📍 Wu Xiaobang Former Residence: Home of the father of modern Chinese dance, where you can learn about his life and artistic achievements. 📍 Xinhua Bookstore: A representative 1960s building selling books, postcards, bookmarks, fans, and other cultural products. 📍 Jiangnan Folk Poetry Gallery: Experience the poetic culture of Jiangnan. 📍 Traditional Craft Workshops: Try bamboo weaving, blue calico fabric making, and other traditional crafts (some require advance booking). Fun Facts 🌟 Historical Evolution: Shaxi Ancient Town began in the late Yuan Dynasty, gradually formed markets in the mid-Ming Dynasty, and saw the beginnings of modern industry and education during the Qing Dynasty. This area has produced many talented individuals throughout history, including 30 imperial scholars and 48 provincial scholars from the Song Dynasty to the early Qianlong period of the Qing Dynasty. In modern times, it continues to produce outstanding talents. 🌟 Intangible Cultural Heritage: The town has shops like "Zitan Fang" that preserve four generations of woodcarving craftsmanship, with award-winning works.

Taicang was originally one with the sea until about ten thousand years ago when it gradually became part of the mainland due to crustal subsidence and climate influences. The Neo-Cathaysian tectonic system that developed during the middle and late Mesozoic era created Taicang's unique topography with its "rice" character-shaped structure. The only natural mountain in the area—Mount Chuan, located in Fanshan Village of Shaxi Town—stands as evidence of its former existence as part of the sea. Shen Zhou, one of the "Four Masters of the Ming Dynasty," wrote in a poem: "Of all the mountains in the world, Mount Chuan is the smallest." Through the passage of time, this ancient town that rose from the sea changed its name from Shatou to Yinxi, Tuanxi, and finally settled on Shaxi, never forgetting its origins despite weathering many changes. Taicang Shaxi, also known as Yinxi and Tuanxi, was established during the Tang Dynasty and has over 1,300 years of history. The ancient town preserves numerous traditional buildings from the late Ming Dynasty, Qing Dynasty, Republican era, and post-liberation periods. Compared to the bustling East Market Street, I prefer West Market Street with its rich historical atmosphere and vibrant everyday life.

| Shaxi Ancient Town in Taicang: Where Time Slows Down. Located in the northwest suburbs of Shanghai, just a 40-minute drive from Jiading, Shaxi Ancient Town in Taicang is a hidden gem of Jiangnan favored by time. For Shanghai residents living in the bustling city, there's no need to travel far to touch the texture of Ming and Qing architecture and listen to stories of bygone days told by flowing waters in this thousand-year-old town built along rivers. I. Arrival: Where Convenience Meets Poetry From Jiading North subway station in Shanghai, head north along Shenhai Expressway. At the Shaxi exit, the archway inscribed with "Among the Eighteen Towns of the East, Shatou Ranks First" welcomes you with a nod in the breeze. Several free parking lots surround the core area of the ancient town, and the underground garage at Leyinyuan Hotel offers ample parking spaces, so drivers need not worry about parking fees. If you prefer public transportation, take the Shanghai-Taicang Express Line and transfer to Taicang Bus Route 205 to reach the town directly, with the entire journey taking about 1.5 hours. II. Strolling: Measuring History on Bluestone Slabs Passing through the archway on New North Street, you'll be greeted by the magnificent sight of over 4,000 Ming and Qing dynasty residences along the three-li-long street. Among white walls and dark tiles, carved flower windows reflect in the ripples of the Qipu River, and copper bells at the eaves chime gently with the breeze, as if transporting you back to the prosperous canal transportation era when "boats came and went, and merchants gathered like clouds." Architectural Code: The buildings in the ancient town are mostly two stories high. Though appearing low, they conceal ingenious craftsmanship. To cope with the humid climate, Ming and Qing Jiangnan residences adopted a "high eaves, deep courtyard" design—raised ground floors to prevent dampness, extended second-floor eaves for shade, working with river breezes flowing through to create a natural air-conditioning system. The wooden "ox leg" carvings under the eaves and the "ice crack pattern" window panels perfectly blend practicality with aesthetics. River Narrative: The Qipu River was once the "golden waterway" connecting Suzhou Prefecture to the Yangtze River. When Fan Zhongyan dredged the waterway, Shaxi became "the first town in eastern Taicang." Today, boats glide gently on the river, with boatwomen's soft Wu dialect and oar sounds intertwining. The stilt houses and wharves sway in the ripples along both banks, reminiscent of the waterside towns in Shen Congwen's writings about western Hunan. III. Tasting: Ancient Town Memories on the Tip of Your Tongue The homey atmosphere of Shaxi is hidden in the time-honored establishments throughout its streets and alleys: • Zhu Hongxing Noodle House: A favorite of the "Gourmet" in Lu Wenfu's writing, featuring stir-fried eel noodles with robust wok hei and pork rib fish noodles with broth simmered for 6 hours using shin bones. • Taicang Meat Floss: Golden and fluffy meat floss that melts in your mouth, still made in traditional iron cauldrons by intangible cultural heritage inheritors, perfect with rice porridge or rice balls. • Lu Family Pastries: White sugar osmanthus cake that's sweet but not greasy, wild vegetable pancakes wrapped with seasonal herbs, paired with a cup of iced mung bean soup to instantly dispel summer heat. IV. Immersion: Multi-dimensional Experiences of Time Cultural Codes: • Leyinyuan Garden: A private garden of Yuan dynasty recluse Qu Xiaozhen. Though only 15 mu in size, it uses the "small mountains within reach" landscaping technique to condense rockeries, corridors, and lotus ponds within white walls, sharing the same origin as the Humble Administrator's Garden. • Tang Tune Research Institute: The melodious recitation of the national intangible cultural heritage "Tang Tune" fills the air. Scan the QR code to use AR technology to "revive" Ming and Qing buildings, making dialogue between past and present accessible. • Wu Xiaobang's Former Residence: The childhood home of the modern dance pioneer, with old photos and dance scores recording his legendary journey from the water town to the world. Poetic Night Tour: As dusk falls, lanterns light up one after another in the Square Street, the ancient stage presents Kunqu Opera "The Peony Pavilion," and pingtan music echoes through the alleys. It's recommended to stay at a guesthouse by the Qixi River, where you can open your window to a view of bridges and flowing water, and fall asleep under the starry sky. V. Tips: N Ways to Understand Shaxi • Best Seasons: Flowers bloom from March to May, and foliage changes color from September to November. Don't miss the literary gathering on World Book Day in April and the parade during the Intangible Cultural Heritage Week on May Day. • Hidden Activities: Visit Yujin Bridge at 7:30 AM to see the morning mist covering the river; go to Shaxi Market on Fridays to find handmade tie-dye, Bai ethnic embroidery, and other unique crafts. • Transportation Tips: When driving, navigate to "Shaxi Ancient Town Parking Lot"; for public transportation, use the "Taicang Bus" app to check real-time schedules. While other ancient towns have been swept up by commercialization, Shaxi maintains its original state where "bridges lead to front doors, and boats float in front of houses." Here, time is not a hurried visitor but the slowly flowing Qipu River water, settling into the most authentic form of Jiangnan in the moss on the embankments, in the rhythm of old people fanning themselves, and in the aroma of oil-fried rice balls. Friends in Shanghai, why not choose a leisurely day to visit this "ancient town at your doorstep," let the thousand-year-old water town's breeze blow away the urban hustle and bustle, and awaken the Jiangnan dream in your heart.

Liuhang is a town under the jurisdiction of Taicang, Suzhou, located on the south bank of the Yangtze River estuary, facing Chongming across the river. During the Yuan Dynasty, Liuhang Port was known as Liujia Port. At that time, merchant ships gathered here, and it was known as the "Pier of Six Countries". Zheng He's voyages to the West during the Ming Dynasty started from here. Liuhang Ancient Town is one kilometer away from Liujia Port. There are not many tourists in the ancient town, but its reputation should not be underestimated! Liuhang is a place with outstanding people. In ancient times, it was a gathering place for merchants due to its waterway port, and its commerce was prosperous. Today, it can be seen from the ancient buildings in the ancient town. Liuhang celebrities include Wu Jianxiong, a famous American female nuclear physicist known as the "Oriental Madame Curie", and many famous painters from the Taicang Loudong School of painting. Although Liuhang is small, it is quite famous! CCTV has broadcasted a special feature on Liuhang, which is worth a visit! Attraction 1: Pictures 1–2: Jiangtan Xiandi Park, Liujiagang Ruins; Attraction 2: Pictures 3–6: Street view of Liuhang Ancient Town, Picture 7: Intangible cultural heritage performance, Picture 8: Guangfu Bridge, Picture 9: Former residence of Wu Jianxiong; Attraction 3: Pictures 10–11: Tianfei Palace. Tickets: Free; Food: Puffer fish, knife fish wontons, osmanthus cake; Play time: One day.

It is luxurious, has good service, and the room condition is good. It is right next to Pangyo Station, so it is perfect for the surrounding amenities. The floor is not carpeted, so it is clean and nice.