Suzhou/Environs

Tongli

Some 18 km to the west of Suzhou, Tongli is one of the best preserved water towns, featuring an assortment of Ming (1368-1644) and Qing Dynasty (1644-1911) houses situated amidst a network of canals spanned by 49 classic Chinese bridges.Charming scenes abound: willows reflect in waters plied by sampans. Whitewashed walls and black-tiled roofs with graceful upturned eaves shelter elderly couples lingering over tea. Temples and gardens emerge from the mist or glow in the sun, adorned with woodcarvings of figures from classical Chinese literature and folklore.

Zhouzhuang

One of the finest of the water towns within easy day-trip range of Shanghai or Suzhou, Zhouzhuang boasts a stock of Ming, Qing and even Yuan Dynasty buildings that comprise some 60% of its total architectural heritage. Willow-lined canals flow past houses with whitewashed walls shaded by grey-slated roofs and carved, curving wooden eaves. These historic sights, the local folklore, traditions and legends of this water township are the indispensable elements for an unforgettable tour.