Shajiabang

Introducing Shajiabang

The Shajiabang Reed Marsh Scenic Area is located on the shore of Yangcheng Lake in Changshu City, Jiangsu Province, with convenient transportation. It is more than 10 kilometers north of Changshu City, 40 and 50 kilometers south of the Suzhou and Wuxi interchanges of the Shanghai-Nanjing Expressway, and 85 kilometers east of the Changkun Line to Shanghai. The Sujiahang Expressway, built in 2003, has an interchange within the area, and the 205 Provincial Highway and Xitai Road are connected to it. It is an important node in the Yangtze River Delta Expressway Network.

The Shajiabang Reed Marsh Scenic Area is a National Patriotic Education Demonstration Base, one of the 100 National Red Tourism Classic Scenic Spots, a National 5A-level Tourist Area, and one of the largest ecological wetlands in East China. The first zone covers over 1,000 mu, and the scenic area spans over 6,000 mu. Boasting unique historical, cultural, and natural ecological resources, it has developed a revolutionary tradition education area, a red stone folk culture village, a national defense education park, a military training base, a reed water and land maze, the Hengjing Old Street Film and Television Base, the Shajiabang Wetland Park, the Hengjing Theater, and a food and shopping district. In December 2017, it was designated a National Research and Practice Education Base for Primary and Secondary School Students.

Shajiabang's "Four Colors Tour" has long been renowned: a "Red Education Tour" focused on traditional education; a "Green Ecological Tour" featuring sightseeing and leisure; a "Golden Gourmet Tour" featuring seafood tasting; and a "Film and Television Culture Tour" highlighting ancient town culture. In 2004, the Hengjing Old Street (Shajiabang Water Village Film and Television Base) was restored with an investment of over 15 million yuan. This restoration has revitalized a number of revolutionary sites, including Shajiabang Old Street, Diaozhai Courtyard, Chunlai Teahouse, and Jiangnan Fishing Village, further enhancing the capacity of red tourism and enhancing the appeal and educational value of these revolutionary sites. The Shajiabang Revolutionary History Memorial Hall, completed in 2006 with an investment of over 20 million yuan, utilizes high-tech techniques such as sound, light, and electricity, as well as modern artistic expressions such as sculpture, painting, and woodcuts, enhancing the vividness and artistic appeal of the exhibits. The National Defense Education Park, completed in 2008, covers an area of ​​130 mu.

Climate and best time to travel

The subtropical monsoon climate is suitable for all seasons.

Recommended number of days and locations for visiting

Memorial Square, Red Stone Village, and Reed Activity Area.

It is recommended to play for about 5 hours.

Tickets

100 yuan/person

Attraction opening hours

08:00-16:30

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Most Popular FAQs for Shajiabang

What is the history and significance of this attraction/city?

Shajiabang is historically significant as a revolutionary base during the Second Sino-Japanese War. It was a key location for the resistance forces, and its beautiful waterways were used as strategic routes during the war. Today, it is a symbol of the region's historical resilience.

Where is it located and how do I get there (metro, bus, taxi, walking)?

Shajiabang is located in the Wujiang District of Suzhou, Jiangsu Province. It is accessible by taxi or bus from the Suzhou city center. The area is also walkable, but using public transportation or taxi is more convenient for tourists.

What are the opening hours and best times to visit?

Shajiabang is open from 8:30 AM to 5:00 PM daily. The best time to visit is during the spring and autumn months, when the weather is pleasant, and the area is less crowded during weekdays.

What is the entrance fee/ticket price, and how to buy tickets (online/offline)?

The entrance fee for Shajiabang is typically around 50 CNY. Tickets can be purchased at the site or online via local Chinese ticketing platforms. It’s recommended to buy tickets in advance during peak seasons.

Do I need to book tickets in advance, and how far in advance?

Booking tickets in advance is not necessary unless visiting during a peak holiday season (such as National Day or Chinese New Year). It is advisable to book at least a few days in advance if visiting during these busy times.

How much time is needed to fully explore it?

Plan for 2 to 3 hours to fully explore the Shajiabang area, especially if you intend to take a boat tour and visit the historical sites.

What are the must-see highlights or main areas inside?

Must-see highlights include the historical museum, the lakeside boat tours, and the lush marshlands surrounding the area. Don’t miss the memorial site dedicated to the revolutionary movement in the region.

Are guided tours or audio guides available (and in which languages)?

Guided tours are available in Mandarin. Audio guides in Mandarin and English may be available, but it is recommended to check in advance if you require a guide in other languages.

What are the best viewpoints or photography spots?

The best photography spots include the serene lake views, the historical sites along the waterway, and the surrounding lush greenery. The boat tours also offer great photo opportunities of the scenic landscape.

What is the recommended route or itinerary inside?

Start your visit by exploring the museum, then take a scenic boat ride along the marshes. Afterward, visit the memorial and walk around the historic area to understand its significance during the war.

Are night visits, light shows, or special tours available?

Night visits are not typically available. However, some special events or performances may occur during holidays, so it’s best to check the official website for any nighttime activities or special events.

Is it crowded, and when are the least crowded times/days to visit?

Shajiabang can get crowded during public holidays, especially on weekends. The least crowded times are weekday mornings and off-peak seasons such as early spring or late autumn.

What facilities are available (toilets, food, water, rest areas, shops)?

Shajiabang has basic facilities such as toilets and rest areas. There are also small shops selling souvenirs and local snacks, as well as restaurants nearby offering traditional Jiangsu cuisine.

Is the attraction accessible for elderly, children, or disabled visitors?

Yes, the attraction is generally accessible, with ramps and wide paths. However, the boat tours may be less suitable for elderly or disabled visitors, so it's best to check for special assistance if needed.

Is cash needed or are cards/mobile payments accepted?

Mobile payments like WeChat Pay and Alipay are widely accepted. Cash is also acceptable, but cards are not commonly used for small transactions in the area.

What restaurants or cafes are available inside or nearby?

There are a few local restaurants and cafés near the Shajiabang area, offering regional Jiangsu dishes. The restaurants near the lake offer scenic views with your meal.

Are there vegetarian/vegan/halal food options?

There are some vegetarian options available, but halal food may be limited. It is best to check with the restaurant staff for specific dietary requirements.

What hotels or accommodations are close to the site?

Nearby accommodations include the Shajiabang Hotel, which is a popular option for visitors. Other hotels in Wujiang District also offer convenient access to the site.

What other attractions or landmarks are nearby and easy to combine in a day trip?

Nearby attractions include the Zhouzhuang Water Town, a famous ancient water town, and the Suzhou Museum, which can be easily combined into a day trip.

Are there souvenir shops and what are the typical souvenirs?

There are souvenir shops near the site selling local handicrafts, such as silk products, traditional Chinese teas, and historical memorabilia related to the region.

What are the best transportation options to continue the trip after visiting?

After visiting, taxis or buses are the best options for continuing your trip. You can also take a local bus to nearby attractions or the city center for further exploration.