Weekend Getaways Near Major Cities in Suzhou, Anhui, China

1. Tongli Water Town

A charming, ancient water town with bridges and old houses surrounded by canals.

Rich History: Offers a glimpse into traditional Chinese life dating back to the Ming and Qing dynasties.
Scenic Beauty: Features picturesque landscapes, ideal for leisurely boat rides and photography.
Peaceful Atmosphere: Provides a tranquil escape from the bustling city life of Suzhou.

Another well-known water town showcasing traditional architecture and scenic canals.

Authentic Cuisine: Offers a variety of local delicacies, including sweet osmanthus cake and dumplings.
Artistic Sculptures: Features numerous stone sculptures and carvings along the waterfront.
Cultural Performances: Hosts traditional Chinese performances, such as dragon and lion dances.

A picturesque water town with charming architecture and lively markets.

Thriving Markets: Boasts bustling marketplaces selling everything from souvenirs to local delicacies.
Stunning Performances: Features nightly performances of traditional Chinese music and dance.
Unique Transportation: Transportation is provided by colorful motorized boats navigating the town's canals.

A UNESCO World Heritage Site featuring an intricate garden design and traditional Chinese architecture.

Intricate Design: Showcases a stunning combination of landscaping, architecture, and art.
Tranquil Atmosphere: Provides a peaceful retreat from the city, with serene ponds and hidden corners.
Historical Significance: Dates back to the Ming dynasty, offering a glimpse into the past.

Another UNESCO World Heritage Site with unique architecture and beautiful landscaping.

Iconic Archways: Features iconic, curved archways that symbolize the garden's philosophy.
Natural Scenery: Incorporates natural elements such as trees, ponds, and rock formations into its design.
Philosophical Meaning: Represents the Daoist philosophy of living in harmony with nature.

A beautiful coastal resort offering a variety of water activities and seafood cuisine.

Water Activities: Offers activities such as swimming, surfing, and jet-skiing.
Seafood Cuisine: Features fresh seafood dishes prepared by local chefs.
Relaxing Beach: Boasts a beautiful, sandy beach perfect for sunbathing and relaxation.

A factory offering tours and workshops to learn about the traditional art of silk production.

Artistic Process: Allows visitors to observe and participate in the process of silk spinning.
Historical Significance: Provides insight into Suzhou's rich history of silk production.
Souvenir Shopping: Offers a wide variety of high-quality silk products for purchase.

A quaint, well-preserved ancient town with narrow streets and traditional architecture.

Authentic Cuisine: Features a variety of local dishes, including Xitang's famous wine fish.
Historical Architecture: Showcases traditional Chinese architecture dating back centuries.
Peaceful Atmosphere: Provides a quiet and serene environment to escape the city's hustle and bustle.

A scenic area featuring beautiful lakes, ancient temples, and traditional architecture.

Stunning Landscapes: Offers breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains and lakes.
Historical Sites: Includes numerous ancient temples and historical sites.
Relaxing Atmosphere: Provides a peaceful and relaxing environment for sightseeing and reflection.

A nature reserve offering birdwatching opportunities and scenic walks.

Wildlife Spotting: Offers excellent opportunities for birdwatching and wildlife spotting.
Scenic Walks: Features a variety of walking trails through the wetlands.
Educational Tours: Offers guided tours to learn about the local ecosystem and wildlife.

A traditional theatre offering performances of Chinese opera and folk music.

Traditional Performances: Features authentic performances of Chinese opera and folk music.
Cultural Experience: Provides a unique cultural experience for visitors.
Historical Setting: Performed in a beautiful, traditional theatre setting.

A massive statue of Buddha located on Mount Lingshan.

Impressive Scale: The largest statue of Buddha in China, standing over 208 meters tall.
Spiritual Experience: Offers a peaceful and spiritual experience for visitors.
Panoramic Views: Provides breathtaking panoramic views of the surrounding countryside.

Hot springs located in Haiyan County, offering relaxation and health benefits.

Relaxation: Offers a relaxing and rejuvenating experience for visitors.
Health Benefits: Said to have therapeutic properties, helping with various health issues.
Scenic Beauty: Set in a picturesque location surrounded by mountains and forests.

A large freshwater lake offering water activities, fishing, and scenic beauty.

Water Activities: Offers activities such as swimming, fishing, and boating.
Scenic Beauty: Features stunning landscapes and is perfect for photography.
Seasonal Attractions: Home to various seasonal attractions, such as cherry blossom festivals in spring.

The beautiful night-time scenery of Wuzhen Water Town, featuring lanterns and illuminated buildings.

Romantic Atmosphere: Provides a romantic and atmospheric setting for evenings.
Cultural Experience: Offers a unique cultural experience of traditional Chinese night-time activities.
Photography Opportunities: Provides numerous opportunities for stunning night-time photography.