Helu City

Introducing Helu City

The Helü City Ruins, located between Chengli Village, Xueyan Town, Changzhou City, Jiangsu Province, and Hushan Village, Hudai Town, Wuxi City, are the remains of a city wall dating back to the Spring and Autumn Period. It served as a strategic military outpost guarding the northern part of Lake Taihu. Construction began in the sixth year of King Jing of Zhou (514 BC), making it over 2,500 years old. The site is rectangular, with remnants of a city wall separating the central section, forming two square urban areas, east and west. The eastern city is smaller and located within Wuxi; the western city is larger, with most of it located within Wujin. The remaining city walls stand 3-4 meters high, with a foundation approximately 20 meters thick, both constructed of rammed earth. The moat stretches approximately 4,000 meters. Remains of land and water gates, large buildings, and a moat have been discovered. The western city retains a training ground and a generals' platform, and a mound is believed to be the remains of an armory. Xushan, northeast of the city, is said to have been the site of Wu Zixu's garrison.

Unearthed at the site are Neolithic grit-tempered pottery and red pottery, as well as broken pottery with geometric patterns, such as zigzag patterns, spiral patterns, and diamond-shaped line patterns, popular from the Western Zhou to the Spring and Autumn Period. These provide valuable information for the study of the history of the Wu Kingdom in the late Spring and Autumn Period and Wu culture in Wuxi.

In March 1982, the Jiangsu Provincial People's Government announced it as a provincial cultural relic protection site. In May 2013, it was approved by the State Council as the seventh batch of national key cultural relic protection sites.

Climate and best time to travel

Subtropical monsoon climate; Helu City is the remains of a city in the Spring and Autumn Period. It is a strategic military station guarding the northern part of Taihu Lake and is suitable for travel in all seasons.

Recommended number of days and locations for visiting

Remains of land and water gates, large building complexes, moats, training grounds, and command platforms;

It is recommended to play for 2-3 hours

Tickets

Free and open

Attraction opening hours

Open all day

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Most Popular FAQs for Helu City

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

Helu City is an ancient city that holds significant historical value as it was once the capital of the state of Wu during the Spring and Autumn period. It showcases the rich cultural heritage and architectural prowess of ancient China.

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

Helu City is located in Changzhou, Jiangsu. You can reach the site by taxi or local bus from Changzhou’s city center. The site is also accessible via private car.

What are the opening hours and best times to visit?

The city is open from 8:00 AM to 6:00 PM daily. The best times to visit are during the spring and autumn months when the weather is pleasant for exploring outdoors.

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

The entrance fee is approximately 50 RMB. Tickets can be purchased at the entrance or online through local platforms like WeChat or Alipay.

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

It is not mandatory to book tickets in advance, but it is recommended during peak tourist seasons. Booking 1-2 days before your visit should suffice.

How much time is needed to fully explore it?

You will need around 2-3 hours to explore the city, depending on your pace and interest in the historical exhibits.

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

The must-see highlights include the ancient ruins, traditional city gates, cultural exhibitions, and the beautiful surrounding landscapes that reflect the architecture of ancient Wu.

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

Guided tours are available in Mandarin, and audio guides may be available in English for international visitors.

What are the best viewpoints or photography spots?

Great photography spots include the old city walls, the main entrance gate, and scenic areas near the water. The traditional buildings and serene landscapes make for picturesque settings.

What is the recommended route or itinerary inside?

Start at the entrance gate, then explore the city ruins and key historical sites. Finish by walking along the scenic pathways to enjoy the view of the surrounding area.

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

Currently, night visits or light shows are not available at Helu City, but special cultural events may take place during certain festivals.

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

The site can get crowded during weekends and public holidays. The least crowded times to visit are on weekdays, especially in the early morning or late afternoon.

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

There are clean toilets, rest areas, and small food stalls selling snacks and drinks. There are also souvenir shops selling traditional crafts and items related to the city’s history.

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

The site is mostly accessible, with some paths and areas being suitable for elderly or disabled visitors. However, some parts of the historical site may have uneven terrain.

Is cash needed or are cards/mobile payments accepted?

Mobile payments (WeChat Pay, Alipay) and credit cards are accepted. Cash is also accepted at some vendors, though mobile payments are more commonly used.

What restaurants or cafes are available inside or nearby?

There are several local restaurants near the site offering Jiangsu cuisine. You can find both casual eateries and some upscale dining options in the area.

Are there vegetarian/vegan/halal food options?

Vegetarian and vegan options are available at local restaurants. Halal food options may be limited but are available in the broader Changzhou area.

What hotels or accommodations are close to the site?

There are several hotels near the city center of Changzhou, ranging from budget to mid-range accommodations. Some options include the Crowne Plaza and local guesthouses.

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

Nearby attractions include the China Dinosaur Park, the Tianning Temple, and the Changzhou Museum. These sites are within a short drive and can easily be visited together in one day.

Are there souvenir shops and what are the typical souvenirs?

Souvenir shops near the site sell traditional Chinese crafts, local art, and replica artifacts from the ancient city. Popular items include silk products, pottery, and miniature replicas of the city’s landmarks.

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

After visiting, taxis or buses are the most convenient options for continuing your journey. You can also use ride-hailing apps to get around, or take a train from Changzhou's railway station to other cities in Jiangsu.