Tieqin Bronze Sword Tower

Introducing Iron Lute and Bronze Sword Tower

The Tieqin Tongjian Tower, one of the four largest private libraries of the Qing Dynasty, is located in Guli Town, east of Changshu City. Built during the Qianlong reign of the Qing Dynasty, the library boasts a floor area of ​​285 square meters. With a history spanning over 200 years, it was originally named "Tianyu Zhai" (Tianyu Zhai). Its founder, Qu Shaoji, and five generations of the Qu family who owned the library were indifferent to fame and fortune, devoting themselves to collecting and reading. Qu Yong, the second generation of the Qu family and Shaoji's son, amassed an eclectic collection of ancient bronze vessels and seals. Amongst their treasured antiques, the Qu family particularly cherished an iron qin and a bronze sword, hence the name Tieqin Tongjian Tower.

Climate and best time to travel

Suitable for all seasons

Recommended number of days and locations for visiting

1 hour

Tickets

free

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Most Popular FAQs for Tieqin Bronze Sword Tower

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

The Tieqin Bronze Sword Tower is a cultural and historical landmark in Suzhou. It has great significance as a relic of the region's ancient military history, and it is one of the few surviving bronze sword towers in China.

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

The Tieqin Bronze Sword Tower is located in the city center of Suzhou. It can be reached by taxi or bus. The nearest metro station is Suzhou Railway Station, from which a taxi or bus will take you to the tower in about 15 minutes.

What are the opening hours and best times to visit?

The tower is open daily from 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM. It is best to visit in the morning or late afternoon to avoid the crowds, especially on weekends and holidays.

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

The entrance fee is around 20 RMB for adults. Tickets can be purchased at the entrance, and in some cases, online booking is available for special events or holidays.

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

Booking tickets in advance is not necessary, except during peak tourist seasons. If you're planning to visit during major holidays, it is advised to book a few days in advance.

How much time is needed to fully explore it?

It will take around 1 to 1.5 hours to fully explore the tower and its surrounding areas. If you plan to visit the exhibits or take a guided tour, allow up to 2 hours.

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

The highlight of the visit is the tower itself, where you can climb to the top for panoramic views of the surrounding area. Don't miss the historical displays that explain the significance of the tower and the region's military history.

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

Guided tours are available in Mandarin, and audio guides are available in English and Chinese for self-guided tours.

What are the best viewpoints or photography spots?

The best photography spot is from the top of the tower, where you can capture a panoramic view of the city and the surrounding landscape. The base of the tower and its intricate bronze details are also great for close-up shots.

What is the recommended route or itinerary inside?

Start by exploring the tower’s base and the surrounding garden, then climb to the top to enjoy the views. Make sure to visit the museum section to learn about the history of the bronze sword tower and its cultural significance.

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

Night visits and light shows are not typically available at the Tieqin Bronze Sword Tower, but special tours may be arranged during cultural festivals or events.

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

The tower can be crowded on weekends and holidays. It is best to visit on weekdays, especially in the early morning or late afternoon for a more relaxed experience.

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

The tower has basic facilities including restrooms, a small café, and souvenir shops. There are also shaded rest areas around the tower for visitors to relax.

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

The site is accessible for elderly and children. However, the climb to the top of the tower may be challenging for disabled visitors. There are ramps for easier access to most areas.

Is cash needed or are cards/mobile payments accepted?

Mobile payments (WeChat Pay, Alipay) and credit cards are accepted at the entrance and in souvenir shops. Cash is also accepted but is less commonly used.

What restaurants or cafes are available inside or nearby?

There is a small café on the premises offering light snacks and drinks. Nearby, you will find a variety of local restaurants serving traditional Suzhou cuisine such as dumplings, noodles, and freshwater fish dishes.

Are there vegetarian/vegan/halal food options?

Yes, vegetarian and vegan options are available at nearby restaurants, and there are some halal options as well.

What hotels or accommodations are close to the site?

There are several hotels near the Tieqin Bronze Sword Tower, including the Suzhou Marriott Hotel, the Garden Hotel Suzhou, and a number of budget hotels within walking distance of the site.

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

Nearby attractions include the Suzhou Museum, Humble Administrator’s Garden, and Pingjiang Road. These can easily be combined into a day trip.

Are there souvenir shops and what are the typical souvenirs?

There is a souvenir shop at the tower selling items like bronze replicas, traditional Chinese arts and crafts, and local Suzhou silk products.

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

After visiting, you can continue your trip by taxi, bus, or metro. Suzhou's metro system is efficient for traveling to other attractions, and taxis are a convenient option for more flexibility.