Tongluo Ancient Town

Introducing Tongluo Ancient Town

Tongluo, formerly known as Yanmu, is located in the southwest of Wujiang District. The name Yanmu has endured for over 600 years. Historically, Yanmu was a bustling commercial area, boasting a wide, 800-meter-long Old Street, connected by corridors and canopies along the banks of Fengqiao River. Residences were built close to the river, and cultural relics such as the former residence of Ming Dynasty poet Wang Shucheng, ancient residential buildings, Jiale Hall, Fenyang Palace, and the municipally protected Wang Residence are scattered throughout the town.

In addition to the ancient town, ancient streets, wine culture museum, the 280-year-old Jiale Hall, and the 600-year-old Fenyang Palace, Tongluo's other business card is its natural ecological oxygen bar and the unique 35,000-acre ecological garden. Driving in the car, opening the windows, and driving through the tree-lined paths, you can feel how free and easy life is.

Climate and best time to travel

Subtropical monsoon climate;

Suitable for all seasons

Recommended number of days and locations for visiting

It is recommended to play for about 1 hour

Tickets

free

Attraction opening hours

All day

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Most Popular FAQs for Tongluo Ancient Town

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

Tongluo Ancient Town is a historic town with a rich cultural background dating back to the Tang Dynasty. It is famous for its well-preserved traditional architecture, ancient temples, and historical streets. The town has long been a center of commerce and culture in the region and continues to showcase its traditional way of life.

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

Tongluo Ancient Town is located in the Suzhou region of Jiangsu Province. To get there, take a taxi or bus from Suzhou city center, which is approximately 1.5 hours away by car. There is no direct metro line to the town, so taxis or buses are the most convenient transport options.

What are the opening hours and best times to visit?

The town itself is always open to visitors, but most attractions within the town have opening hours from 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM. The best times to visit are in the spring and autumn, when the weather is mild and comfortable for sightseeing.

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

The entrance fee for the main attractions in Tongluo Ancient Town is usually around 30–50 CNY. Tickets can be purchased at the entrance of individual attractions or online through local tourism websites for convenience.

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

Advance booking is not strictly necessary for regular visits, but it is recommended during peak tourist seasons (spring and autumn) to avoid long waits. You can book tickets 1–2 days in advance for popular attractions within the town.

How much time is needed to fully explore it?

You will need about 3 to 4 hours to explore Tongluo Ancient Town, especially if you visit its main historical sites, stroll through the streets, and enjoy some local snacks or tea.

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

Must-see highlights include the ancient streets, local temples, the town's river, and the traditional architecture that defines the town. Be sure to visit the old bridges and historical buildings for a deeper understanding of the town’s heritage.

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

Guided tours are available in Mandarin, and audio guides in Chinese and English are offered for some of the key attractions. It's recommended to check availability at the entrance before starting your visit.

What are the best viewpoints or photography spots?

The best photography spots are along the riverbanks, where you can capture the ancient architecture reflected in the water. The traditional stone bridges and the rooftops of the old buildings also provide great perspectives for photos.

What is the recommended route or itinerary inside?

Start by walking along the ancient streets, visit the local temples, take a boat ride along the river, and end with a visit to the historical buildings. This route provides a comprehensive view of the town’s culture and history.

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

Night visits are available, and the town is beautifully lit in the evening, offering a charming atmosphere for a night stroll. However, light shows or special night tours are not typically offered.

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

The town can get crowded on weekends and during national holidays. The least crowded times are on weekdays, especially early in the morning, when you can enjoy a more peaceful experience.

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

Facilities include public toilets, rest areas, and small shops selling local products and snacks. There are also cafes and small restaurants offering traditional Chinese dishes and beverages.

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

The town has some cobbled streets, so it might be challenging for elderly or disabled visitors to navigate easily. However, children and most elderly visitors will enjoy the town’s historical charm, though some assistance may be needed in certain areas.

Is cash needed or are cards/mobile payments accepted?

Cash is accepted, but mobile payments like Alipay and WeChat Pay are widely used in the town. Some shops may accept credit cards, though it's best to carry some cash for small purchases.

What restaurants or cafes are available inside or nearby?

There are several traditional tea houses and small restaurants within Tongluo Ancient Town offering local delicacies. Nearby, you can find larger restaurants serving Suzhou-style cuisine, such as Suzhou dumplings and other traditional dishes.

Are there vegetarian/vegan/halal food options?

Vegetarian and vegan options are available at local restaurants, especially in the form of vegetable dishes and tofu-based meals. Halal food options are available at a few restaurants offering Muslim-friendly meals, although they may be limited.

What hotels or accommodations are close to the site?

There are several guesthouses and boutique hotels in and around Tongluo Ancient Town. Options range from affordable guesthouses to mid-range hotels. For more luxurious options, you can find higher-end hotels in the Suzhou city center.

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

Nearby attractions include the famous Suzhou Gardens, Humble Administrator's Garden, and Tiger Hill. These can be easily visited in combination with a trip to Tongluo Ancient Town, especially if you have a full day to explore Suzhou’s historical landmarks.

Are there souvenir shops and what are the typical souvenirs?

Souvenir shops sell traditional handicrafts such as silk products, calligraphy, tea, and local snacks. Typical souvenirs include traditional Suzhou silk scarves, teapots, and hand-painted fans.

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

After visiting, you can take a taxi or bus back to Suzhou city center, where you can continue exploring the city’s other famous attractions. Taxis are the most convenient option for further travel.