Tongli Ancient Town: A Must-See in Jiangnan

👍️ Why Visit: Tongli Ancient Town is a dazzling gem of the Jiangnan water towns ✨, with its crisscrossing waterways and numerous bridges earning it the nickname "Venice of the East." The town preserves many authentic Ming and Qing dynasty buildings, walking through which feels like traveling back in time. Here, you can admire exquisite garden art, experience rich cultural heritage, and enjoy the leisurely watertown lifestyle, making it an ideal place to relax and immerse yourself in the charm of Jiangnan. 🗺️ Address: No. 1 Zhongchuan South Road, Wujiang District, Suzhou, Jiangsu Province. 🔢 Suggested Itinerary: In the morning, visit Retreat and Reflection Garden to appreciate the delicate Jiangnan garden design, then take a gondola ride to enjoy the river scenery, followed by a visit to Wang Shao'ao Memorial Hall to learn about local history and culture. In the afternoon, explore Pearl Pagoda scenic area, Three Bridges scenic area, Chongben Hall, Jiayin Hall, and Gengle Hall, before relaxing at Nanyuan Teahouse. In the evening, head to Luoxing Island to enjoy the beautiful "Buddhist Kingdom on Water." 📅 Must-Visit Attractions: Retreat and Reflection Garden, one of China's four famous gardens with exquisite design; Three Bridges (Taiping Bridge, Jili Bridge, and Changqing Bridge), the town's iconic structures and carriers of the "crossing three bridges" folk tradition; Pearl Pagoda scenic area with its unique architecture and mysterious legends; Nanyuan Teahouse, a century-old teahouse offering authentic Jiangnan tea culture; and Chen Qubing's Former Residence to experience the living atmosphere of a historical figure. 🚗 Transportation Tips: Take Metro Line 4 to Tongli Station, then transfer to Bus 725 and get off at Shipaifang Station, or take Suzhou Metro Line 4 to Tongli Town North Parking Lot. Tourist coaches are also available. 🏨 Accommodation Tips: Stay in characteristic inns within the ancient town, such as Blossom Hill·Lize Women's School, to experience the quiet nights of the ancient town; or choose hotels outside the town, such as Tongli Lake Hotel, which offer more comprehensive facilities. 🎫 Tickets: Combo ticket costs 40 yuan (low season)/60 yuan (peak season), including Retreat and Reflection Garden, Exhibition Hall, Chongben Hall, Jiayin Hall, Gengle Hall, Luoxing Island, Pearl Pagoda, and other attractions. 🍔 Nearby Food Recommendations: Try Min Cake with its dark green color and smooth, fragrant texture; Wadi Su (sock-bottom pastry), which is crispy and has a perfect balance of sweet and savory; and Zhuangyuan Ti (Top Scholar's Pork Trotter), tender and delicious. 📷 Photography Tips: Take costume photos in Retreat and Reflection Garden; use Three Bridges as a backdrop for ancient town scenery and portraits; capture gondolas passing under bridges by the river; or photograph the sunset glow at Luoxing Island in the evening. 🏬 Shopping Souvenirs: Purchase Tongli's characteristic handicrafts such as Suzhou embroidery and silk products; also consider local pastries and tea as gifts. 💗 Other Tips: Some paths in the ancient town are narrow, so be careful when touring; mosquitoes are common in summer, so bring insect repellent; if you want to watch the "New Legend of Pearl Pagoda" performance, check the schedule and ticket information in advance.