Liuhe Ancient Town

Introducing Liuhe Ancient Town

Liuhe Ancient Town lies on both sides of the Licao Pond, with Central Street on the left and Hexi Street on the right. It covers an area of ​​0.39 square kilometers. From south to north, it is connected by Shuidai Bridge, Zhongjin Bridge, Beishi Bridge, and Licao Bridge. Nearly 80 wooden buildings, all dating from the Ming and Qing dynasties, have been preserved in their original appearance along the street.

Climate and best time to travel

Suitable for all seasons

Recommended number of days and locations for visiting

1-2 hours

Tickets

free

Attraction opening hours

8:00-18:00

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Most Popular FAQs for Liuhe Ancient Town

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

Liuhe Ancient Town dates back over 1,000 years and is known for its well-preserved ancient architecture and cultural heritage. It played a significant role in trade and commerce during the Ming and Qing Dynasties. The town is famous for its traditional streets, ancient pagodas, and local arts and crafts.

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

Liuhe Ancient Town is located in Suzhou, Jiangsu Province. It is accessible by taxi from the Suzhou city center or by bus from the main transportation hubs. The town can also be reached by car if you prefer a more direct route.

What are the opening hours and best times to visit?

Liuhe Ancient Town is open daily, from 8:00 AM to 6:00 PM. The best time to visit is during the spring and autumn months when the weather is pleasant and the crowds are smaller.

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

The entrance fee for Liuhe Ancient Town is around ¥50. Tickets can be purchased at the entrance or online through the official website of the attraction.

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

It is not strictly necessary to book tickets in advance, but it is recommended during peak seasons or holidays. Booking at least a few days in advance is ideal.

How much time is needed to fully explore it?

It usually takes about 2-3 hours to fully explore Liuhe Ancient Town, including time for walking around the ancient streets, visiting the pagoda, and enjoying the local food and markets.

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

• The Liuhe Pagoda, a historic and architectural landmark.
• The ancient streets lined with traditional buildings and shops.
• The local market area where visitors can experience traditional Suzhou crafts.
• Canal-side areas offering peaceful views of the town.

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

Guided tours are available in both Chinese and English, and audio guides are offered for visitors to explore the town at their own pace.

What are the best viewpoints or photography spots?

• The top of Liuhe Pagoda offers a panoramic view of the town and surrounding areas.
• Canal-side spots with traditional boats in the background make for excellent photographs.
• The ancient streets with traditional architecture are also ideal for capturing the essence of the town.

What is the recommended route or itinerary inside?

Start by visiting Liuhe Pagoda for the best views, then take a leisurely walk through the ancient streets. Explore the markets and stop for a meal at a local restaurant before finishing with a relaxing boat ride along the canals.

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

There are no special night visits or light shows in Liuhe Ancient Town, but the town's ancient streets are beautifully illuminated at night, making for a pleasant evening walk.

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

The town can get crowded during weekends and national holidays. For a quieter experience, visit on weekdays, particularly in the early morning or late afternoon.

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

• Public toilets are available at key points around the town.
• There are several food stalls and restaurants offering local dishes.
• Water refill stations are available near the entrances and main tourist areas.
• Shops selling traditional crafts, souvenirs, and snacks can be found throughout the town.

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

Liuhe Ancient Town is generally accessible for elderly and children. However, some of the streets may have uneven surfaces. Visitors with disabilities may face some challenges, though the town is largely flat and walkable.

Is cash needed or are cards/mobile payments accepted?

Cash is accepted, but mobile payments like WeChat Pay and Alipay are widely used and accepted at most shops and restaurants.

What restaurants or cafes are available inside or nearby?

There are several local restaurants offering traditional Suzhou dishes, including dumplings and freshwater fish. Nearby cafes provide light snacks and drinks.

Are there vegetarian/vegan/halal food options?

Vegetarian and vegan options are available in some of the local restaurants, especially those offering plant-based dishes. Halal options may be limited but can be found at specific restaurants.

What hotels or accommodations are close to the site?

• Suzhou has a range of hotels, from budget to luxury, such as Suzhou Garden Hotel (10-15 minutes by car).
• There are also guesthouses and boutique hotels near Liuhe Ancient Town for a more traditional experience.

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

• Humble Administrator’s Garden (20 minutes by car).
• Lingering Garden (25 minutes by car).
• Shantang Street, another historic area in Suzhou (15 minutes by car).

Are there souvenir shops and what are the typical souvenirs?

Souvenir shops sell traditional Suzhou crafts such as silk products, hand-painted fans, and pottery. You can also buy local snacks and tea.

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

• Taxis are available to continue your journey to nearby attractions.
• Public buses can also be used to get to other parts of Suzhou or back to the city center.