Escape the Crowds! A Hidden Autumn Getaway in Changshu

While Suzhou's popular attractions are always packed with tourists, the small city of Changshu quietly preserves the elegance of classical gardens and the serenity of hidden mountain retreats, becoming especially picturesque in autumn.

2-Day In-Depth Changshu Itinerary

Day 1: Arrive in Changshu by high-speed rail, take an afternoon stroll around Shanghu Lake, and stay overnight at Shanghu Huajianfu Hotel.
Day 2: Ascend Xicheng Tower for panoramic views → explore history at Shimei Square → admire ancient ginkgo trees and red maples at Fangta Garden → immerse yourself in the vibrant autumn colors along Yushan Maple Path.

Must-Visit Spots

Shanghu Lake: A renowned scenic spot in Jiangnan, Shanghu Lake complements Yushan Mountain perfectly. Here, you'll find both the delicacy of gardens and the wild charm of nature. Drifting through the water forest on a bamboo raft feels like stepping into a fairy tale, while a hot air balloon ride offers breathtaking aerial views of the lake and mountains. Shanghu Huajianfu Hotel boasts stunning lake and mountain views, making your stay feel like a tranquil private garden retreat.

Xicheng Tower: Changshu is one of the few cities in Jiangnan that has preserved its ancient city walls. Climbing to the top of the walls rewards you with sweeping views of Changshu, Yushan Mountain, and Shanghu Lake, where historical grandeur and natural beauty blend seamlessly.

Shimei Square: The distinctive "Yishan Tower" not only offers deep insights into Changshu's history but also serves as an excellent photo spot, with every snapshot exuding artistic charm.

Yushan Maple Path: While other parts of Jiangnan resemble delicate ink paintings, autumn transforms Yushan into a vibrant oil painting. Strolling along the maple path, you'll tread on rustling red leaves beneath a canopy of fiery maples. Sipping tea under the trees is both relaxing and romantic—and the entire experience is free!

Fangta Garden: The ancient pagoda here stands tall despite the passage of time, and the garden's scenery rivals that of any famous Jiangnan garden. In autumn, the 800-year-old ginkgo tree and the garden's red maples create a stunning contrast of gold and crimson, painting autumn in its most vivid hues—also free to enter.

Travel Tips

By car, it takes about 1.5 hours from Shanghai and just 1 hour from Suzhou. Alternatively, take a high-speed train. Before your trip, consider purchasing the Changshu Travel Passport for discounts at many attractions, shuttle buses, and local restaurants, with additional perks for stamp collectors. Food lovers shouldn’t miss local specialties like hairy crab, steamed dishes, and beggar’s chicken. The best time to enjoy autumn foliage is from mid-November to early December—don’t miss this seasonal romance!

Post by MATTHEW GONZALES | Jun 18, 2025