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In Luzhi Ancient Town, explore the well-preserved ancient water town, famous for its canals, traditional architecture, and stone bridges. Take a boat ride along the canals to experience the town's charm from the water. Visit the ancient temples and traditional residences to learn about the town's history. Don't miss the chance to try local delicacies and shop for handmade crafts.
Suzhou, known as the "First Water Town in China," boasts a 2,500-year history. Its ancient culture, scenic spots, historic sites, ancient bridges, streets, houses, and the 1,300-year-old ginkgo tree are particularly impressive.
Today, a statue of Luduan still stands in Luzhi Ancient Town, serving as the town's guardian deity. Luduan is a legendary mythical beast with rhino horns, a lion's body, a dragon's back, bear claws, fish scales, and an ox's tail. Legend has it that Luduan could travel 18,000 miles a day, was fluent in all four languages, and only accompanied wise emperors, delivering letters and protecting them.
The river here is very narrow, with many places only wide enough for one boat to pass, making it more exquisite and memorable. Of course, there are also many delicious foods there. The most recommended delicacy in Luzhi is the small green rice dumpling. There is an authentic green rice dumpling shop on the street that was even featured on CCTV.
The "Eight Scenic Spots of Fuli" include the refreshing breeze of Yamazawa, the clear spring of Fenshu, the snowy waves of Wusong, the sound of the bells of Haizhi, the sunset of Futu, the lanterns of Yulianfu, and the dawn market of Xihui.
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The all-inclusive ticket costs 78 yuan and includes admission to Xiao's Residence, Shen's Residence, Baosheng Temple, Wansheng Rice Shop, and Wang Tao Memorial Hall.
Ancient town development time: 8:00-17:00
Cruise time: 8:30-16:00
Luzhi Ancient Town is one of the oldest water towns in Suzhou, with a history dating back over 1,000 years. It is known for its well-preserved traditional architecture, ancient temples, and waterways. Luzhi is often referred to as "the Venice of the East" due to its picturesque canals, and it has been an important center for trade and culture during the Song, Yuan, and Ming dynasties.
Luzhi is located in the southern part of Suzhou, Jiangsu Province. The town is about 18 km from Suzhou city center. You can take a bus or taxi from Suzhou Railway Station or the city center. Alternatively, private cars or guided tours are also popular options. The town is small, so walking around is an excellent way to explore.
Luzhi Ancient Town is open year-round. The best time to visit is during the spring and autumn months (April to October), when the weather is mild and the town is less crowded. Avoid visiting during national holidays, such as Chinese New Year and Golden Week, as the town can become crowded.
The entrance fee for Luzhi Ancient Town is around 50 RMB. Tickets can be purchased on-site at the entrance to the town or in advance through some online platforms or travel agencies.
Booking tickets in advance is not necessary for most visitors, but during peak tourist seasons, it is recommended to book at least a few days in advance to avoid long queues.
A visit to Luzhi Ancient Town typically takes about 2-3 hours to explore the main attractions. If you plan to take a boat ride or visit several temples, you may need a bit more time.
Must-see highlights include the Wanshou Temple, the ancient water canals, the stone bridges, and the traditional residences. The town's numerous tea houses and craft shops are also worth a visit. A boat ride along the canals is a highlight for many visitors.
Guided tours are available in Mandarin, and some local guides may speak English. Audio guides are also available for rent in several languages, including English. It's advisable to book a guided tour if you want to learn more about the history and culture of Luzhi.
The best photography spots are the stone bridges and the canals, especially during sunrise or sunset. The traditional houses and the tranquil waterways also provide excellent photo opportunities. A boat ride offers unique views of the town from the water.
Start by exploring the main street of the town, then visit Wanshou Temple. After that, take a boat ride along the canals, followed by a visit to the ancient residences and craft shops. Conclude your visit with a stop at one of the local tea houses to relax and enjoy the surroundings.
While night visits are possible, the town is relatively quiet after dark. There are no major light shows or special tours at night, but the town's traditional architecture looks charming under the evening lights. Special cultural performances may be held during festivals.
Luzhi can be crowded during weekends and public holidays. The best times to visit for a quieter experience are early mornings on weekdays or during the off-season (late autumn or early spring).
There are toilets, food stalls, water stations, and rest areas in the town. Several souvenir shops and local craft stores are scattered throughout, selling traditional products like silk and handmade goods. There are also local restaurants offering regional dishes.
The town has narrow streets and cobblestone paths, which might be difficult for elderly or disabled visitors to navigate. However, most attractions are accessible for children and families, with some areas having ramps or shorter walking distances.
Mobile payments such as Alipay and WeChat Pay are widely accepted, and some restaurants and shops may accept credit cards. It's advisable to carry some cash, especially for smaller shops or in more rural areas.
There are several local restaurants serving traditional Suzhou and Jiangsu cuisine. You can also find cafes offering tea and snacks in the town. Nearby, there are more dining options in Suzhou city, where you can find both local and international cuisine.
Vegetarian food is available at some restaurants in the town, particularly at vegetarian-friendly places. Halal options are limited, but you may find some restaurants in Suzhou city catering to Muslim visitors.
There are several hotels and guesthouses near Luzhi Ancient Town, ranging from budget accommodations to more luxurious options. For a unique experience, consider staying in a traditional-style guesthouse within the town.
Nearby attractions include the famous Suzhou gardens, such as the Humble Administrator's Garden and the Lingering Garden. You can also visit the ancient Pingjiang Road or explore other water towns like Zhouzhuang and Tongli for a more comprehensive day trip.
There are souvenir shops in the town selling traditional crafts, silk products, and handmade jewelry. Popular souvenirs include Suzhou embroidery, silk scarves, and local tea.
The best way to continue your trip is by taking a taxi or bus back to Suzhou city. From there, you can easily access other nearby attractions or continue your journey to Shanghai, which is about a 1.5-hour drive away.
