Discover Changshu: A Tranquil Treasure Hidden in Jiangnan, the Perfect Alternative to Suzhou

Are you longing to escape the crowds and find a secret haven filled with Jiangnan charm? Changshu, a city whose name may sound familiar yet few have personally explored, is your ideal choice. It's not suited for rushed "commando-style" tourism, but rather deserves a leisurely pace as you stroll through its streets. Here, time seems to stand still, and life's rhythm slows to the extreme, allowing your restless heart to find complete healing. Changshu, named for its "fertile soil that suffers neither flood nor drought," is an important birthplace of Wu culture where the essence of "Jiangnan water town" is displayed in its fullest glory. Unlike heavily commercialized scenic areas, Changshu's water towns remain authentic. Walking through the old town, you'll unexpectedly encounter ancient streets and towns reminiscent of Shantang Street or Zhouzhuang. These historically rich places aren't merely tourist attractions but continue to be home to residents—stepping into them feels like traveling back in time. As a county-level city of Suzhou, Changshu perfectly preserves the essence of Suzhou's classical gardens. Eleven of Changshu's gardens are listed in the "Suzhou Gardens Directory." More remarkably, visitors here are few, creating a stark contrast to the crowded and noisy gardens in Suzhou. Here, you can truly appreciate the unique charm of Suzhou gardens, where scenes change with every step. All you see is pure beauty, without bustling crowds and noise—the gardens return to their most authentic state. 3-Day 2-Night In-Depth Tour Guide Day 1: Experience the Ancient City's Heritage Visit the Ancient City Scenic Area in the morning to explore historical traces. In the afternoon, stroll through Fangta Park to admire the Xingfu Temple Pagoda (Square Pagoda), a national key cultural relic protection site and Changshu's iconic landmark, as well as a precious example of early Chinese feng shui towers. In the evening, enter Yan Garden to experience peaceful moments in a classical garden. Day 2: Embrace Lake Views and Mountain Scenery Dedicate the entire day to Shanghu Scenic Area. Enjoy the lake and mountain views along the Shanghu Lake Road, where the 800-hectare lake with its rippling waters complements the ten-mile Yushan Mountain, creating a stunning three-dimensional landscape painting. Don't miss visiting Fushui Mountain Villa, which witnessed the moving love story between Qian Qianyi and Liu Rushi, the foremost of the "Eight Beauties of Qinhuai" during the late Ming and early Qing dynasties. The Water Forest is another must-see, with over 300 acres forming the largest ecological wetland forest in East China. Ride bamboo rafts through it to witness the magical sight of "fish swimming above trees and birds flying in water," far from worldly noise. Afterward, head to Qinhu Xili to experience the unique atmosphere where modern and classical styles merge. Day 3: Climb Yushan Mountain for Panoramic Views Head to Yushan Scenic Area and climb Yushan Mountain for a panoramic view of Changshu. Explore the Western City Tower Scenic Area, one of the famous "Eighteen Scenes of Yushan," featuring attractions like Zhidao Temple, Dashishan House, and Dongyue Temple. The Ming Dynasty city walls and battlements stand tall, creating an extraordinary atmosphere. Recommended Key Attractions - Fangta Park: ★★★★★ The Xingfu Temple Pagoda, as the core structure in the park, carries rich historical and cultural significance and offers an excellent window into Changshu's ancient cityscape. - Shanghu Scenic Area: ★★★★★ Whether it's the stunning mountain and water scenery, the story-filled Fushui Mountain Villa, or the magical Water Forest, all will captivate you. - Western City Tower Scenic Area of Yushan: ★★★★ Numerous ancient relics complement the majestic city walls, displaying historical changes and cultural heritage. Special surprise: Recently, by participating in the "Meeting Song Dynasty Trends" Mid-Autumn Festival sharing activity and entering the mini-game "Moon of the Song Dynasty," completing the quiz to light up Yucheng during the Mid-Autumn night gives you a chance to win tickets to the Yushan City Wall Night Garden, adding a special highlight to your Changshu journey!