Bacheng Town

Introducing Bacheng Town

Bacheng Town, a renowned historical and cultural town in Jiangsu Province, is part of Kunshan City, with a 2,500-year history. A classic example of a land of abundant fish and rice, Bacheng boasts extensive lakeside orchards and a specialized aquaculture base. It is a major producer of Yangcheng's "Three Treasures": shrimp, crab, and mandarin fish.

Bacheng Old Street, located south of the current Yangcheng Lake Water Park, stretches over 200 meters. A walking tour of the street is best started from the west end, where you'll experience the first glimpse of the old street's charm: the waterside village atmosphere nestled among the old houses. Every autumn, when Yangcheng Lake hairy crabs are in season, Bacheng becomes a popular destination for crabs.

Climate and best time to travel

It has a subtropical monsoon humid climate with distinct four seasons, abundant sunshine, mild climate and a long frost-free period.

Suitable for all seasons

Recommended number of days and locations for visiting

Bacheng Old Street

Located in the ancient town of Bacheng, this street, built during the Guangxu reign of the Qing Dynasty (1875-1908), is lined with buildings dating from the Qing Dynasty to the Republic of China period. Running 200 meters east-west and barely wide enough for three people to walk side by side, it's paved with granite slabs. The old houses on this street, built along the river, are lined up one after another, each with its own window facing the river, its walls painted white and its tiles black. The mottled stone banks and the scattered riverbanks are complemented by the clear waters of the City River (Yanglintang), where boats shuttle back and forth, creating a scene reminiscent of a Jiangnan water town.

Yangcheng Lake Water Park

It covers an area of ​​3.79 square kilometers, of which 1.2 square kilometers are water areas. It is divided into theme areas such as "Crab Garden Spring and Autumn" and "Moonlight in the Pond". The planned landscape axes include riverside sightseeing belts, landscape avenues, and tree-lined avenues. It is a comprehensive ecological leisure place with water as the vein and crabs as the center, integrating tourism, leisure, health care, shopping and other functions.

Hairy Crab Trading Market

Relying on the sales of Yangcheng Lake hairy crabs and the crab-based food industry, Bacheng's characteristic industries are very prosperous. There are four hairy crab trading markets in the district, namely Yangcheng Lake Crab Boat Garden, Fisherman's Lights, Bacheng Lake Market, and Chunqiu Water City, as well as a food street with a construction area of ​​31,770 square meters.

Recommended 1-day tour

Tickets

free

Attraction opening hours

All day

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Most Popular FAQs for Bacheng Town

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

Bacheng Town is a historical town in Suzhou, Jiangsu, with roots tracing back to ancient times. It is known for its well-preserved traditional architecture and its importance in the region's water-based trade and culture. The town is famous for its traditional Suzhou-style gardens and ancient temples, making it a key cultural site in the area.

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

Bacheng Town is located in the Suzhou region of Jiangsu Province. It can be accessed by taxi or bus from Suzhou city center. The town is well-connected by public transport, and you can also reach it by private car. Walking around the town is recommended to fully experience its charm.

What are the opening hours and best times to visit?

Bacheng Town is open year-round, with no specific opening hours as it is a traditional town. The best time to visit is during the spring and autumn months when the weather is mild and comfortable. Weekdays are less crowded, making them ideal for a peaceful visit.

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

There is no general entrance fee for visiting Bacheng Town. However, certain attractions such as temples or boat rides may charge a small fee. Tickets for these can usually be bought on-site, and in some cases, online bookings may be available for boat rides and guided tours.

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

For most visits to Bacheng Town, advance booking is not necessary. However, if you plan to visit specific attractions such as temples or take a boat ride, it’s a good idea to book tickets in advance, particularly during peak seasons.

How much time is needed to fully explore it?

You will need approximately 2 to 3 hours to explore Bacheng Town fully. This allows time to visit the temples, walk around the streets, and enjoy the canals. If you want to take a boat ride, you may need an additional 30 minutes to 1 hour.

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

• Bacheng Temple: A beautiful and historic temple, perfect for cultural exploration.
• The town’s ancient bridges and canals, providing scenic views and a glimpse into the town's past.
• The traditional Suzhou-style gardens, known for their peaceful ambiance and stunning landscaping.
• The old streets of Bacheng Town, lined with historical buildings and local markets.

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

Guided tours are available in Chinese, and some may offer limited English-speaking guides. Audio guides in Chinese are also available at some of the more popular attractions, such as Bacheng Temple.

What are the best viewpoints or photography spots?

• The bridges across the canals provide excellent views, especially during sunset.
• The quiet corners of the traditional Suzhou-style gardens are perfect for capturing the peaceful ambiance of the town.
• Photographing the ancient temples and their intricate architecture is a must for visitors interested in cultural heritage.

What is the recommended route or itinerary inside?

Start your visit by exploring the ancient streets and markets of Bacheng Town, then head towards Bacheng Temple for cultural insights. Afterward, enjoy a boat ride along the canals, and finish by relaxing in the Suzhou-style gardens.

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

Currently, Bacheng Town does not offer night visits or light shows. However, some special events and festivals may feature evening activities or performances, so it’s worth checking the schedule if you visit during peak seasons.

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

Bacheng Town is not overly crowded, but weekends and public holidays can be busier. The least crowded times are weekdays, especially in the morning or late afternoon.

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

Basic facilities, including public toilets, are available throughout the town. You can find small food stalls selling local snacks, and there are rest areas by the canals. Shops in the town sell souvenirs and traditional crafts.

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

Bacheng Town is relatively accessible for elderly and children, though some areas may have uneven terrain. There are no specific accessibility features for disabled visitors, so it may be more challenging for those with mobility impairments.

Is cash needed or are cards/mobile payments accepted?

Mobile payments such as WeChat Pay and Alipay are widely accepted in Bacheng Town. Cash is also accepted, but it's recommended to use mobile payments for convenience.

What restaurants or cafes are available inside or nearby?

• There are several small local restaurants serving traditional Suzhou cuisine, including freshwater fish and dumplings.
• Cafes and tea houses near the town offer a relaxing spot to enjoy a drink while soaking in the town’s atmosphere.

Are there vegetarian/vegan/halal food options?

Vegetarian options are available at some restaurants, especially in local eateries offering traditional dishes. Halal food options may be found in specific restaurants in Suzhou but are not widely available in Bacheng Town.

What hotels or accommodations are close to the site?

• There are a few guesthouses and boutique hotels within Bacheng Town, offering traditional experiences.
• More luxurious hotels can be found in nearby Suzhou city, with a short drive to Bacheng Town.

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

• The Suzhou Museum and the Humble Administrator's Garden are located nearby and are perfect for combining with a visit to Bacheng Town.
• Tiger Hill and Lingering Garden are other must-see attractions in Suzhou that are easy to visit in a day trip.

Are there souvenir shops and what are the typical souvenirs?

Souvenir shops in Bacheng Town sell traditional Suzhou crafts such as silk products, hand-painted fans, and local pottery.

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

• Taxis are readily available for continued trips to other attractions in Suzhou.
• Public buses and the Suzhou Railway Station are good options for onward travel to other cities like Shanghai or Hangzhou.