Visitor Guide to ShanTang River and ShanTang Street, SuZhou
Overview
ShanTang River and ShanTang Street, located in SuZhou, JiangSu Province, are renowned for their picturesque beauty and historical significance. Often referred to as the "Venice of the East," ShanTang Street is a perfect blend of traditional Chinese architecture, serene waterways, and vibrant local culture, making it a must-visit destination.
Historical Background of ShanTang River
ShanTang River, also known as the "Seven-Li Shantang," was originally constructed in 825 AD during the Tang Dynasty. The construction was overseen by Bai Juyi, a renowned poet and the then governor of SuZhou. The canal was built to connect SuZhou city with HuQiu (Tiger Hill), facilitating trade and transportation while providing a scenic route for travelers.
The project was an ambitious undertaking aimed at promoting economic development and improving water management in the region. The construction of the canal also helped to control flooding and provided a reliable source of water for irrigation, which was crucial for local agriculture.
Over the centuries, ShanTang River became a vital artery for the transportation of goods and people. It also served as a cultural hub, with the development of markets, temples, and residential areas along its banks. The river and the adjacent ShanTang Street became synonymous with prosperity and cultural richness, attracting scholars, merchants, and artists who contributed to the flourishing of SuZhou.
Getting There
By Air: The nearest airport is SuZhou Sunan Shuofang International Airport (WUX), located about 40 kilometers from the city center. From the airport, you can take a taxi or a shuttle bus to reach ShanTang Street.
By Train: SuZhou Railway Station is well-connected with major cities like Shanghai, HangZhou, and Nanjing. From the station, you can take a local bus or taxi to reach ShanTang Street.
By Bus: SuZhou is well-served by long-distance buses from nearby cities. The main bus station in SuZhou is SuZhou North Bus Station, from where you can take a local bus or taxi to ShanTang Street.
Getting Around
Walking: The best way to explore ShanTang Street is on foot, allowing you to fully appreciate the historical buildings, quaint shops, and beautiful scenery.
Boating: Taking a boat ride along the ShanTang River offers a unique perspective of the ancient town and its waterways.
Local Transport: Taxis and local buses are available for traveling to and from different parts of SuZhou.
Main Attractions
ShanTang Street
This ancient street, with a history of over 1,100 years, stretches for about 3.5 kilometers along the ShanTang River. It is lined with well-preserved traditional buildings, charming shops, tea houses, and restaurants, offering a delightful walking experience.
ShanTang River
The ShanTang River is a scenic waterway that flows through the heart of the town. Boat rides along the river provide a tranquil and picturesque journey, showcasing the town's beautiful bridges, ancient buildings, and lush gardens.
Pingjiang Road
Located nearby, Pingjiang Road is another historic street that complements your visit to ShanTang Street. Known for its classical SuZhou gardens, traditional houses, and cultural sites, it offers a deeper understanding of SuZhou's rich heritage.
Baosheng Temple
Baosheng Temple, located along ShanTang Street, is a historic Buddhist temple with beautiful architecture and serene gardens. It provides a peaceful retreat and a glimpse into the town's religious heritage.
Tiger Hill
Just a short distance from ShanTang Street, Tiger Hill is a popular tourist attraction known for its natural beauty, historical sites, and the iconic Yunyan Pagoda, often referred to as the "Leaning Tower of China."
Local Cuisine
SuZhou's cuisine is known for its delicate flavors and emphasis on fresh, seasonal ingredients. Here are some must-try dishes:
Sweet and Sour Mandarin Fish: A signature dish of SuZhou, featuring fresh fish cooked in a sweet and tangy sauce.
Squirrel-Shaped Mandarin Fish: A beautifully presented dish with a crispy exterior and tender meat, often served with a sweet and sour sauce.
SuZhou Noodles: Hand-pulled noodles served in a rich broth with various toppings, including pork, shrimp, and vegetables.
Local Pastries: Try the traditional SuZhou-style mooncakes and other pastries filled with sweet or savory ingredients.
Shopping
Local Handicrafts: ShanTang Street is famous for its traditional handicrafts, including silk products, embroidery, and paper-cutting. These items make for unique souvenirs.
Antique Shops: Explore local antique shops for historical artifacts, vintage items, and collectibles.
Tea Houses: Purchase high-quality Chinese tea from the local tea houses along ShanTang Street.
Accommodation
Traditional Inns: For an authentic experience, consider staying in a traditional inn or guesthouse, which often feature historical architecture and local decor.
Mid-Range Hotels: Options such as the SuZhou Garden Hotel and local boutique hotels provide comfortable accommodations at reasonable prices.
Luxury Hotels: For a high-end stay, consider hotels like the SuZhou Marriott Hotel or the SuZhou Jinji Lake Grand Hotel, both offering excellent amenities and service.
Tips for Visitors
Best Time to Visit: The best times to visit ShanTang Street are spring (April to June) and autumn (September to November) when the weather is mild and pleasant.
Clothing: Wear comfortable walking shoes and dress in layers to accommodate changing temperatures. An umbrella or raincoat is useful during the rainy season.
Respect Local Customs: Be respectful of local customs and traditions. Dress modestly and be mindful of local etiquette, especially when visiting historical and cultural sites.
Language: While Mandarin is widely spoken, learning a few basic phrases or using a translation app can be very helpful.
Plan Your Visit: ShanTang Street is best explored at a leisurely pace. Take your time to wander through the streets, visit local shops, and enjoy the tranquil atmosphere.
Conclusion
ShanTang River and ShanTang Street, with their rich history, traditional architecture, and picturesque scenery, offer a unique and memorable travel experience. Whether you're exploring ancient streets, savoring local cuisine, or taking a serene boat ride along the river, ShanTang provides an unforgettable glimpse into SuZhou's past. Plan your visit carefully to make the most of your trip to this charming destination in JiangSu Province.
The Humble Administrator's Garden, located in SuZhou, JiangSu province, is one of the most famous classical gardens in China. Built in the early 16th century during the Ming Dynasty, this garden is a masterpiece of Chinese landscape design, featuring beautiful pavilions, serene ponds, lush greenery, and exquisite rock formations. It is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and a must-visit destination for anyone interested in traditional Chinese garden art.
History
The garden was originally created by Wang XianChen, a retired government official, who sought to design a peaceful retreat for himself. Over the centuries, the garden changed hands multiple times, undergoing various renovations and expansions. Despite these changes, the garden has retained its original layout and classical elements, reflecting the aesthetics and philosophical principles of traditional Chinese gardens.
Main Attractions
Central Garden
The Central Garden is the heart of the Humble Administrator's Garden, featuring a large pond surrounded by lush plants, winding paths, and elegant pavilions. Key highlights include:
Lotus Pavilion: A beautiful structure overlooking the pond, offering a tranquil spot to enjoy the view of blooming lotus flowers in summer.
Hall of Distant Fragrance: Named after the lotus flowers whose fragrance can be smelled from afar, this hall is one of the garden's main buildings, known for its elegant design.
Eastern Garden
The Eastern Garden features a series of smaller ponds, rockeries, and pavilions, creating a more intimate and secluded atmosphere. Notable features include:
Small Flying Rainbow Bridge: A charming stone bridge that arches gracefully over a small pond.
Hall of 36 Mandarin Ducks: Named after the mandarin ducks often seen in Chinese art, this hall offers picturesque views of the surrounding landscape.
Western Garden
The Western Garden is characterized by its open spaces and carefully arranged rockeries and plantings. Highlights include:
Hall of the Thirty-Six Mandarin Ducks: Featuring beautiful carvings and a serene ambiance.
GuanYun Peak: A striking rock formation representing a mountain peak, showcasing the garden's sophisticated use of stones.
Architecture and Design
The Humble Administrator's Garden exemplifies the principles of traditional Chinese garden design, which seeks to create harmony between nature and human-made structures. The garden's architecture and layout incorporate the following elements:
Water Features: Ponds and streams are central to the garden's design, reflecting the sky and surrounding plants, and adding a sense of tranquility.
Rockeries: Carefully arranged rocks and rock formations symbolize mountains and add a dynamic visual element to the landscape.
Pavilions and Halls: These structures provide spaces for relaxation and contemplation, offering various perspectives of the garden.
Plantings: A diverse array of plants, including bamboo, lotus, and seasonal flowers, enhance the garden's beauty and symbolize different virtues and qualities.
Visiting Tips
Best Time to Visit: The garden is beautiful year-round, but spring and summer are particularly lovely when flowers are in bloom. Autumn offers stunning foliage, and winter provides a peaceful, serene atmosphere.
Opening Hours: The garden is open daily from 7:30 AM to 5:30 PM (hours may vary seasonally).
Getting There: The garden is located in the heart of SuZhou and is easily accessible by public transportation or taxi. The nearest metro station is Lindun Road Station (Line 1).
Guided Tours: Consider hiring a local guide or joining a guided tour to gain deeper insights into the garden's history, architecture, and cultural significance.
Photography: The garden offers countless photo opportunities. Be sure to bring your camera and take your time capturing the beauty of the landscape.
Respect the Environment: Help preserve the garden by not picking flowers, climbing on rocks, or littering. Respect the tranquility of the space and other visitors.
ZhouZhuang, known as the "Venice of the East," is one of the most famous water towns in China. Located in Kunshan, Jiangsu province, it is renowned for its well-preserved ancient residential houses, elegant watery views, and profound cultural background. The town has a history of over 900 years and retains the style and pattern of its ancient past, with many houses built in the Ming and Qing Dynasties.
Attractions
Shuangqiao (Twin Bridges)
Shuangqiao, also known as the Twin Bridges, is the most famous site in ZhouZhuang. The two bridges, Shide Bridge and Yong'an Bridge, are connected at a right angle and have become a symbol of the town.
Fu'an Bridge
Fu'an Bridge, built in 1355, is an architectural gem with a unique combination of a bridge, tower, and pavilion. It offers a picturesque view of the waterways and houses.
Zhang House
The Zhang House, built in the Ming Dynasty, covers an area of over 1,800 square meters. It showcases classic Chinese residential architecture and beautifully decorated interiors.
Shen House
The Shen House, constructed in 1742, is another example of traditional Chinese architecture. It features 100 rooms and a garden, reflecting the life of a wealthy merchant family.
Local Food
ZhouZhuang is not only famous for its scenery but also for its delicious local food. Here are some must-try dishes:
Wansan Pork Hock: A famous dish named after the wealthy merchant Shen Wansan. The pork hock is braised to perfection with a rich, savory flavor.
Sanwei Glutinous Rice Balls: A traditional snack made from glutinous rice with sweet, salty, and spicy fillings, representing the three flavors.
Fish Delicacies: Freshwater fish dishes are a staple in ZhouZhuang, often cooked with local herbs and spices to enhance their natural flavors.
Transport
ZhouZhuang is easily accessible from major cities like Shanghai and Suzhou. Here are some ways to get there:
By Bus: Regular buses run from Shanghai and Suzhou to ZhouZhuang, taking about 1-2 hours.
By Car: You can drive from Shanghai to ZhouZhuang in about 1.5 hours. Parking is available at the entrance of the town.
By Tour: Many travel agencies offer day trips to ZhouZhuang, including transportation and guided tours.
The DaMing Temple (大明寺) in YangZhou, JiangSu province, is a renowned Buddhist temple with a rich history dating back over a thousand years. It is one of the key cultural and historical landmarks in YangZhou and holds significant importance in Chinese Buddhist heritage. Here is more information about the DaMing Temple:
History and Origins:
Establishment: The DaMing Temple was originally built during the Southern Dynasties period in the 5th century AD, making it one of the oldest temples in Jiangsu province.
Significance: It was initially established by the ruler of the Liang Dynasty, Emperor Wu, as a center for Buddhist teachings and practices.
Architectural Features:
Main Hall (Mahavira Hall): The temple's main hall is the Mahavira Hall (大雄宝殿), a grand and majestic structure that enshrines statues of Buddha and other important figures in Buddhism.
Pagoda: The temple complex also includes a historic pagoda, known as the Yunyan Pagoda (云岩塔), which is a designated national treasure and an iconic symbol of Yangzhou.
Cultural Heritage:
Influence: Throughout its history, the DaMing Temple has played a pivotal role in the development of Buddhist culture, attracting scholars, monks, and pilgrims from across China and beyond.
Renowned Monks: The temple has been associated with several influential Buddhist monks and scholars, contributing to the spread of Buddhism and the exchange of knowledge.
Attractions and Highlights:
Yunyan Pagoda: The pagoda within the temple grounds is a must-visit attraction, offering panoramic views of Yangzhou from its upper levels.
Historic Artifacts: The DaMing Temple houses various Buddhist artifacts, scriptures, and relics, providing insights into the region's religious and cultural heritage.
Modern Significance:
Cultural Site: Today, the DaMing Temple remains an active Buddhist temple and a popular destination for tourists, scholars, and pilgrims interested in exploring China's Buddhist traditions.
Tourist Destination: Visitors can immerse themselves in the serene atmosphere of the temple complex, admire its architecture, and learn about its historical significance.
Location:
Address: DaMing Temple, No. 1 Taicheng Road, Hanjiang District, Yangzhou, Jiangsu Province, China.
The DaMing Temple in Yangzhou stands as a testament to China's enduring Buddhist legacy and serves as a living link to the region's ancient past. Its blend of architectural beauty, cultural heritage, and spiritual significance makes it a captivating destination for travelers seeking to explore Jiangsu's historical treasures.
Dr. Sun Yat-sen's Mausoleum (中山陵) - Zhōngshān Líng
Description: Dr. Sun Yat-sen's Mausoleum is a memorial site dedicated to the founding father of the Republic of China, located at the foot of Purple Mountain. ... more ...
JiangSu province.
With China Walking Tour ...
Bonus films - daytime and evening cycle tour ...
Bonus film - with FunFancie - great attractions in NanJing ...
Dream of the Red Chamber or The Story of the Stone is a Chinese novel composed by Cao XueQin in the mid-18th century.
With Middle Kingdom Productions ...
Bonus film - a Vertical Forest architecture in NanJing ...
ShenZhen, GuangDong province, plus ShangHai, including XinTianDi, and SuZhou, JiangSu province.
With Rafa Goes Around ...
BeiJing - Galaxy SoHo (Zaha Hadid, architect) - with For All Life's Adventures ...
BeiJing - Green Park View Mall, CBD area, near RiTan Park (Temple of the Sun) and 'The Place' mall ...
Bonus films ...
Supermarkets ...
JiangSu province.
With Walk East ...
SuZhou's ancient alleys ...
YT comment : I can’t believe this is the country that is portrayed as evil in western media. These people seem so happy, dress nicely, have a smile, and do whatever they want on the street at night.
YT comment : Love the old style architecture. its great how they blend in the old historic buildings with modern culture ... Beautiful !
A beautiful film from JiangSu province, east China ...
Includes scenes from TaiHu Lake Scenic Area, just to the west of SuZhou.
SuZhou - A city for the poetic life 苏州：诗意生活
A wonderful animation in traditional Chinese painting style ...
The classical gardens, temples and canals of SuZhou
SuQian is a city with a cultural history of 2,500 years. The earliest use of the name was in 762 A.D. during the Tang Dynasty.
The city is located on the North JiangSu Plain, with a highest elevation of 71 m over sea level and the lowest 2.8 m only. The elevation is gradually reduces along northwest to southeast. SuQian is abundant in water resources and the water surface area is close one third of its total land mass. There are two freshwater lakes in SuQian, Lake HongZe, which is one of the four largest freshwater lakes in China, and Lake LuoMa. Four rivers run through the city, including the the Grand Canal.
Agriculture, including aquatic produce, accounts for about 25% of the area's economy. The population is around 5 million.
Attractions include :
* LuoMa Lake Scenic Area: Situated in the northwest of the city, it covers a total area of 375 square kilometers (145 square miles), dotted by many natural scenic spots and historical sites.
* QianLong Temporary Palace: Named after the esteemed Qing dynasty emperor, this is a well-preserved building complex on the south bank of LuoMa Lake. It was first built around 1684.
* ZhangShan Forest Park: 7 kilometers (4.3 miles) north of the city, the park has a beautiful mix of mountain and water landscapes.
LiánYúnGǎng's tourist attractions include :
Lian Island Resort, 连岛
A beautiful island connected to LianYun district by a 7 kilometer (4 miles) sea dyke, the longest in China. There are two main beach and swimming areas. Lian Island is also home to an annual music extravaganza that features some of China's most famous pop stars.
Huaguo Mountain, 花果山
WuXi is an old city that lies between Changzhou to the west and Suzhou to the east, not far from ShangHai. It also lies on Lake Tai.
WuXi is well known for being one of the birthplaces of China's modern industry and commerce.
The giant Buddha at LingShan, WuXi ...
The Grand Buddha at LingShan (Língshān Dà Fó) is the largest bronze Buddha In China with a height of 88 meters. It is located in WuXi, JiangSu province.
It was completed in 1996.
TongLi, lies in the outskirts of SuZhou, JiangSu province in east China, about 100 km (62 miles) north-west of ShangHai. This charming water town retains many of the features of the ancient Kingdom of Wu.
Split in half by Lake Tai, WuXi borders ChangZhou to the west and SuZhou to the east. The YangTze (YangZi or Chang Jiang) River lies between the northern half of WuXi and TaiZhou, while the southern half of the city borders the province of ZheJiang.
An exemplary example of classical Chinese garden arts that aspires to the harmony of people and nature. ZhuoZheng Yuan, SuZhou, JiangSu province.
At 52,000 square meters, it is the largest garden in SuZhou.
A beautiful short film ...
NanJing, 'south capital', is the capital city of JiangSu province, east China.
NanJing is one of the Four Great Ancient Capitals of China. The others are Beijing (the current capital), LuoYang, and Chang'An (Xi'An).
SuZhou lies in JiangSu province, just west from ShangHai Municipality, between the ebb of the YangTse river and TaiHu lake.
SuZhou has a history of over 2,500 years. The city's canals, bridges, pagodas, and gardens have contributed to its standing as one of the top tourist attractions in China. The 'classical gardens of SuZhou' were added to the UNESCO World Heritage Sites in 1997 and 2000. SuZhou is sometimes referred to as the 'Venice of the East'.
