Explore Jiangsu | The Top 10 Must-See Attractions in Suzhou, Nanjing, Yangzhou, and Wuxi, Plus Travel and Food Tips
Asia•Mainland China•Jiangsu
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Published at 07/24/2024
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Jiangsu is a go-to spot for travelers seeking both adventure and relaxation, offering a mix of rich history and breathtaking scenery. Our KINNSO editorial team has handpicked 8 must-visit attractions for you. Dive into Suzhou's enchanting gardens, uncover Nanjing's historical treasures, glide along Yangzhou's charming canals, and soak in the beauty of Wuxi's Taihu Lake. Let us be your guide as you explore the cultural and natural wonders that Jiangsu has to offer!
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Suzhou Attractions
1. Humble Administrator's Garden: The Premier of Jiangnan's Four Famous Gardens
When you think of Suzhou, the Humble Administrator's Garden is a must-see. This garden isn't just a highlight of Suzhou; it's also celebrated as the top of China's four renowned gardens. Known for its intricate courtyard layout, stunning architecture, and poetic scenery, the Humble Administrator's Garden is a true masterpiece. Wander through the garden and you'll discover charming spots like the Huabiao Pavilion, Yuanxiang Hall, and Furong Pavilion, each capturing the essence of Jiangnan gardens. Walking through this magical place feels like you're stepping into a traditional ink wash painting, leaving you feeling refreshed and serene.
2. Lion Grove Garden: Embrace the Charm of "Small Bridges and Flowing Water"
Lion Grove Garden may not boast the same grand scale as the Humble Administrator's Garden, but it more than makes up for it with its intricate design and mesmerizing Taihu stones that create a one-of-a-kind landscape. Meandering pathways, stone boats, and graceful gates all come together to reflect the ancient Chinese love for nature's beauty. As you wander through this magical garden, you'll truly understand the feeling of "Scaling the heights to overlook the mountains small" and appreciate the magnificent essence it conveys.
3. Tiger Hill: Discover the Tomb of King Helu of Wu
Not only is Tiger Hill famous for its stunning mountain scenery, but it's also the legendary burial site of King Helu of Wu. The story goes that after handing over his throne, King Helu chose to spend his final days here, and upon his death, he was buried at Tiger Hill, earning it the nickname "Tomb of Military Power." A climb to the summit of Tiger Hill rewards you with not only spectacular views of its 36 peaks but also a chance to delve into the rich history of King Helu of Wu. The Tiger Hill Pagoda, standing tall at 47.5 meters with seven tiers and eight sides, is the site's iconic structure. From the top of the pagoda, you can take in an awe-inspiring panoramic view of the ancient city of Suzhou, a sight that truly takes your breath away.
Nanjing Attractions
4. Nanjing Museum: Discover the Splendor of the Six Dynasties
When you're in Nanjing, a trip to the Nanjing Museum is an absolute must. It's one of China's top three museums and is packed with an incredible collection of cultural treasures. The real showstoppers here are the stunning artworks from the Six Dynasties period. You'll be amazed by the stone carvings from the Great Bao'en Temple site and the luxurious gold and silver artifacts from the Southern Dynasties' tombs. These pieces give you a glimpse into the opulent lifestyle of the elite back then. A visit to the Nanjing Museum is like stepping back in time, letting you soak up the grandeur of the Six Dynasties era.
5. Sun Yat-sen Mausoleum: Experience the Spirit of Revolutionary Martyrs
When visiting Nanjing, a city steeped in history, the Sun Yat-sen Mausoleum is a must-see. This impressive tomb, dedicated to Dr. Sun Yat-sen, the founding father of modern China, is a powerful symbol of respect and admiration. As you climb the 392 steps, you not only pay tribute to this revolutionary leader but also get to enjoy stunning views of the Purple Mountain and the beautiful Zhongshan scenery. The site becomes especially significant during the Qingming Festival and National Day, when people gather to honor Dr. Sun Yat-sen and show their heartfelt respect.
6. Confucius Temple: Dive into Jinling's Cultural Heart and Relish Qinhuai's Allure
If you're in Nanjing, a visit to the Confucius Temple is a must. Nestled along the picturesque Qinhuai River, this cultural hotspot is dedicated to Confucius, the sage behind Confucianism, and serves as a proud emblem of Nanjing's ancient heritage. The temple is always buzzing with activity, and the air is thick with the scent of incense.
Take a walk down the Imperial Path, the best-preserved royal road in Nanjing, shaded by majestic old cypress trees. Don't miss the Wen De Bridge and Tai Bo Bridge on the Qinhuai River—perfect spots to soak in the area's vibrant atmosphere.
Wandering through the Confucius Temple, you'll get a real feel for Jinling's deep cultural roots and Qinhuai's distinct charm. It's a place that invites you to take your time and savor every moment.
Attractions in Yangzhou
7. Ge Garden: Experience the Poetic Charm of "In March, the Flowers Bloom in Yangzhou"
When you think of Yangzhou, the famous line "In March, the flowers bloom in Yangzhou" likely comes to mind. Ge Garden is the ideal spot to soak in the beauty of Yangzhou's gardens. Known for its refined elegance, Ge Garden captures the heart of Yangzhou's landscaping philosophy, emphasizing the idea of "finding greatness in the small and achieving a harmonious balance." The garden boasts several poetic attractions, such as "Listening to the Red-Crowned Crane" and "Facing the Peonies," which invite peaceful reflection. As you stroll through this magical space, you'll surely feel the poetic charm of "In March, the flowers bloom in Yangzhou."
8. Daming Temple: Discovering the Millennium Dream of Emperor Yang of Sui
Step back in time at Daming Temple, a spiritual haven that dates all the way back to the Sui Dynasty. Once one of the four major Buddhist temples in the nation, this sacred site was bustling with devotees. The temple's Thousand Buddha Pagoda stands as the oldest brick pagoda in China, boasting a distinctive eave design that sets it apart. According to legend, Emperor Yang of Sui had recurring dreams about Daming Temple, which inspired him to bring it to life. As you wander through the temple grounds, take in the ancient, majestic architecture and soak up the serene, spiritual vibe. You might just feel a connection to the dreams of Emperor Yang himself.
Wuxi Attractions
9. Lingshan Grand Buddha: Experience the Awe of a Buddhist Sacred Site
Standing tall at an astounding 88 meters, the Lingshan Grand Buddha is the tallest bronze Buddha statue in China, and it's nothing short of awe-inspiring. The surrounding temple is equally impressive, bustling with the energy of countless devotees. This spot is a well-known Buddhist pilgrimage site, and when you climb up to the lotus pedestal at the Buddha's feet, you're treated to a stunning panoramic view of Wuxi city. It's a moment that can truly lift your spirits. Make a sincere wish here, and who knows? Your dreams might just come true.
10. Lingshan Grand Buddha: Experience the Awe of a Buddhist Sacred Site
If you're looking for an awe-inspiring experience, the Lingshan Grand Buddha in China is a must-see. Towering at an astonishing 88 meters, it's the tallest bronze Buddha statue in the country. The sheer size and beauty of this statue are enough to leave anyone speechless. The surrounding temple is equally magnificent, always bustling with devoted worshippers, which adds to its status as a prominent Buddhist holy site. When you climb up to the lotus seat at the base of the Buddha, you're rewarded with a stunning panoramic view of Wuxi city that can lift anyone's spirits. It's said that making a heartfelt wish here can lead to the fulfillment of your desires.
Transportation Guide
Suzhou-Wuxi-Changzhou High-Speed Rail: 30 Minutes Across Jiangnan
Jiangsu's transportation system is top-notch, especially in the Suzhou-Wuxi-Changzhou area. Thanks to the high-speed rail, you can zip from Suzhou to Wuxi in just 30 minutes, and from Wuxi to Changzhou in a little over 20 minutes. This speedy and comfortable train ride through the picturesque Jiangnan region is unbeatable. Plus, with Jiangsu's well-developed road network, driving yourself around is a breeze.
Jiangsu Cuisine
Suzhou Delicacies: Su Bang Cuisine
If you find yourself in Suzhou, you absolutely must dive into the world of "Su Bang Cuisine." Picture this: dishes like Squirrel-shaped Mandarin Fish, Braised Silver Fish with Water Chestnuts, Yellow Soup Dumplings, and Crab Meat Spring Bamboo Shoots. These are the stars of Suzhou's culinary scene! The Squirrel-shaped Mandarin Fish is a real treat—crispy on the outside, tender on the inside, and bursting with a sweet and sour punch. And don't even get me started on the Crab Meat Spring Bamboo Shoots; they're so fresh and crisp, they'll leave a lasting impression. To wrap up your feast, a bowl of steaming hot Suzhou Tangyuan will warm you up from the inside out!
Nanjing Cuisine: Huaiyang Cuisine
If you're a foodie, Nanjing is the place to be, thanks to its famous "Huaiyang Cuisine." Imagine starting your day with a delightful breakfast featuring the "Four Delicacies": boiled salted duck, sesame cakes stuffed with crispy fried dough sticks, duck blood vermicelli soup, and those irresistible soup dumplings. Each bite offers a unique taste of Nanjing's culinary heritage. Come lunchtime, the salted duck is at its best—tender, juicy, and bursting with flavor. Pair it with a hot bowl of vermicelli soup, and you've got yourself a meal to remember! As the sun sets, take a leisurely walk through the Confucius Temple area. The streets come alive with the glow of lanterns, and you can indulge in a variety of local snacks, soaking in the vibrant atmosphere that truly reflects the spirit of Nanjing.
Yangzhou Cuisine: The Culture of Breakfast Tea and Late-Night Snacks
“In the morning, the skin wraps the water, and at night, the water wraps the skin,” sums up the essence of Yangzhou’s famous breakfast tea and late-night snack culture. When it comes to breakfast tea, you can't miss the steamed dumplings, soup dumplings, spring rolls, and siu mai, all enhanced with a splash of fragrant vinegar for that perfect taste. As the evening sets in, the spotlight shifts to the iconic Goubuli buns and crab roe soup dumplings. These treats, with their delicate skins and generous fillings, burst with savory broth in every bite, making your taste buds dance with delight!
Wuxi Cuisine: Wuxi Spare Ribs
Imagine yourself by the stunning Taihu Lake, famous for its "Three Whites": silver fish, white shrimp, and white fish. But if there's one dish that truly represents Wuxi, it's the mouth-watering Wuxi spare ribs. These ribs are a delightful mix of fatty and lean meat, drenched in a rich sauce that makes every bite tender and packed with flavor. Trust me, it's a taste that lingers long after your meal. And don't miss out on another Wuxi specialty – stir-fried fava beans with noodles. The fava bean cores are sautéed in a savory meat broth and paired with fresh noodles, resulting in a dish that's simply divine!
Zhenjiang Delicacies: The Three Oddities
When you think about Zhenjiang, three unique treats come to mind: Zhenjiang fragrant vinegar, Zhenjiang meat floss, and Zhenjiang sweet taro. Imagine mountain yam, peanuts, or shredded chicken tossed in Zhenjiang's signature fragrant vinegar, offering a delightful and tangy taste that dances on your palate. Then, there's the deep-fried sweet taro, which is crispy and aromatic, delivering a sweet flavor that's not too heavy. Pair it with a cup of fragrant tea, and you've got yourself a perfect moment of indulgence!