Step out and you're in the ancient town of Jiangnan Water Village! Suzhou Lili·Straw Hat Girl.
by BS. Heath 40
Oct 4, 2024
— As the hustle and bustle of the prosperous city gradually fades away, do you long to find a peaceful place where your soul can rest? Lili Ancient Town, this poetic paradise hidden deep in Jiangnan, is like a delicate ink painting, waiting for you to unveil its mysterious veil and explore its unique slow time code!
🔥 Why does Lili Ancient Town captivate countless hearts?
❶ The Jiangnan charm of small bridges, flowing water, and riverside homes
Lili Ancient Town is crisscrossed by waterways with ancient bridges spanning across them, and the river water flows gently, shimmering in the light. The Ming and Qing dynasty buildings with white walls and black tiles on both banks are arranged in an orderly manner, as if time has frozen here. Strolling on the bluestone paths, feeling the breeze on your face and listening to the babbling water, it’s like being inside a stunning Jiangnan painting.
❷ Rich historical and cultural heritage
This is the hometown of the famous patriotic poet Liu Yazi. The ancient town preserves many historical and cultural relics, such as the Liu Yazi Memorial Hall and Duanben Garden. Walking into these sites feels like traveling through time, conversing with history, and sensing the wisdom and sentiments of the ancestors.
❸ Authentic Jiangnan lifestyle
Lili Ancient Town has not been overly commercialized and still retains the authentic Jiangnan way of life. You can see local residents washing clothes and vegetables by the river, chatting and drinking tea in the alleys, feeling the tranquility and harmony. The pace of life here is slow, allowing you to let go of fatigue and enjoy leisurely moments.
📍 Insider tips: Unlock the slow time of Lili Ancient Town in 3 days and 2 nights
📅 Day 1: Encounter the first impression of the ancient town
▪️ Morning: Arrive at Lili Ancient Town, check in, then stroll through the streets and alleys, admire the ancient bridges, flowing water, and riverside homes, and experience the unique charm of the Jiangnan water town.
▪️ Noon: Taste local specialties and let your taste buds immerse in the flavors of Jiangnan.
▪️ Afternoon: Visit the Liu Yazi Memorial Hall to learn about Mr. Liu Yazi’s life and revolutionary spirit.
▪️ Evening: Enjoy dinner at a riverside restaurant, admire the night view of the ancient town, and feel the tranquility and beauty of the night.
📅 Day 2: Deeply explore the beauty of the ancient town
▪️ Morning: Tour Duanben Garden, appreciate the pavilions, towers, rockeries, and ponds, and experience the delicacy and elegance of Jiangnan gardens.
▪️ Noon: Sample various local snacks on the ancient town’s snack street, such as begonia cake and Dingsheng cake.
▪️ Afternoon: Take a boat ride to tour the town’s waterways and enjoy the beautiful scenery of the ancient town from the water perspective.
📅 Day 3: Experience the slow life of the ancient town
▪️ Morning: Sit down in a teahouse, drink a cup of tea, read a book, and enjoy a leisurely time.
▪️ Noon: Have lunch at a local restaurant and taste the farmhouse dishes.
▪️ Afternoon: Buy some local specialty souvenirs, such as silk and embroidery, to keep beautiful memories of the ancient town.
▪️ Evening: Pack your luggage and conclude your pleasant trip to Lili Ancient Town.
💡 Must-know for beginners!
✅ Transportation: Lili Ancient Town is conveniently accessible by car or public transport. If driving, there are parking lots around the town; if taking public transport, first arrive at Suzhou or Shanghai, then transfer to a shuttle bus to Lili Ancient Town.
✅ Accommodation: There are many characteristic guesthouses in the ancient town, and it is recommended to book in advance. Choosing a riverside guesthouse is recommended to enjoy beautiful river views.
✅ Dress code: It is recommended to wear comfortable shoes and light clothing for easy walking in the town. You can also choose Jiangnan-style clothing, such as qipao or hanfu, for better photos.
✅ Photography: There are many photo-worthy spots in the town, such as ancient bridges, flowing water, riverside homes, and gardens. It is recommended to take photos in the early morning or late afternoon when the light is softer and the photos will be more beautiful.
Here, there is the poetry of small bridges and flowing water, rich historical and cultural heritage, and authentic Jiangnan life. Here, you can let go of fatigue, enjoy leisurely time, and feel the beauty of life. Lili Ancient Town is like a melodious Jiangnan tune that intoxicates and lingers in your heart.
Post by OutdoorOdyssey | Oct 21, 2025





















