Suzhou Wuzhong Taihu Tourism Area

Nestled in the southwest corner of Suzhou, the Suzhou Wuzhong Taihu Tourism Area lies along the banks of the enchanting […]

Nestled in the southwest corner of Suzhou, the Suzhou Wuzhong Taihu Tourism Area lies along the banks of the enchanting Taihu Lake. The lake’s misty scenery, the leisurely rural life on the islands, and the diverse fruits throughout the seasons have drawn countless tourists from Suzhou and neighboring cities seeking relaxation and stress relief.
The Wuzhong Taihu Tourism Area encompasses three major scenic spots: Qionglongshang, Wangshan, and Dongshan, totaling eight attractions, including Qionglongshang, Wangshan, Taihu Park, and those belonging to Dongshan such as Luxiang Ancient Village, Diaohua Building, Zijin Temple, Qi Garden, and San Mountain Island.
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Taihu Lake is several kilometers away from Suzhou city center, and although it’s a bit far, there are public buses to each attraction. However, given their dispersed locations, frequent bus transfers can be cumbersome, leading most tourists to prefer driving. To visit all the attractions in the tourism area, a minimum of 2-3 days is required.
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Accommodations by Taihu Lake are very convenient, with numerous hotels, including luxurious resort hotels. If your budget allows, consider a lakeside room. For mountain climbing, Qionglongshang, with an elevation of 341.7 meters, is one of Suzhou’s highest and largest mountains, with extensive forests and a great natural environment. Alternatively, you can drive up the mountain road.
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For a rural experience, visit Wangshan, where you can dine on local dishes in farmhouse restaurants and then stroll through the mountains, surrounded by vast bamboo forests and the historically significant Baohua Temple hidden deep within. Taihu Park is located by the lake and features a large waterwheel as a landmark. Walking along the wooden walkway by the lake is a great way to enjoy the free lake views.


Dongshan, a peninsula jutting into Taihu Lake, is primarily known for its ancient architecture. Luxiang Ancient Village, named after its six ancient alleys, is the hometown of the Ming Dynasty statesman Wang Ao, who successively obtained the titles of Jie Yuan, Hui Yuan, and Tan Hua. The three archways named after these titles are the landmarks of the ancient village.


Diaohua Building is not only known for its exquisite carvings but also for its treasure pavilion, secret passages, and children’s lotus. Zijin Temple, dating back 1400 years, is famous for its clay-colored arhat statues in the main hall. Qi Garden, commonly known as the Xi Garden, is a typical Suzhou garden, characterized by its incorporation of Taihu Lake views. San Mountain Island is a real island in Taihu, accessible only by boat, with regular ferries from Changqi Wharf in Suzhou’s Dongshan Town to Xianji Wharf on San Mountain Island.


Renting a bicycle at the rental point near Xianji Wharf is a good way to explore the island. Local farmhouse restaurants offer the ‘Three Whites of Taihu’ – whitefish, silverfish, and white shrimp, which are definitely delicious! Seasonal fruit and vegetable picking activities are popular, with autumn oranges being particularly famous. Additionally, you can see naturally formed Taihu stones on the island’s mountains and lakes. Opening hours are from 08:00 to 17:00 all year round; 09:00 to 16:00 all year round.


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