2025 Taicang Travel Guide: Must-see attractions, popular food, hotels, transportation routes (updated in April)

As spring arrives, Beijing Garden Expo Park transforms into a magical ocean of flowers and greenery. Here, you can experience the unique charm of gardens from all over while immersing yourself in the romance of spring. Below is a detailed guide to help you explore the park. Best Viewing Time The best time to visit is from late March to May. In late March, the mountain peach blossoms take center stage, adorning the park in shades of pink. April brings vibrant cherry blossoms and tulips, while May showcases the elegant beauty of peonies and tree peonies. Each period offers unique scenery. Must-See Gardens Jiangnan Garden Area: This area includes the Suzhou Garden and Yangzhou Garden. The Suzhou Garden features winding paths, picturesque rockeries, and ponds. In spring, weeping willows, peach blossoms, and apricot blossoms create a scene reminiscent of a traditional Chinese painting. The Yangzhou Garden is known for its exquisite layout, with pavilions and towers scattered throughout. When the azaleas and wisteria bloom, the atmosphere is truly captivating. Beijing Garden: This garden captures the essence of old Beijing, incorporating elements of courtyards and hutongs. In spring, the crabapple blossoms bloom within the courtyard, contrasting beautifully with the red walls and gray tiles, evoking memories of springtime in old Beijing. Taiwan Garden: This garden exudes a subtropical charm, with lush betel nut trees and bougainvillea. In spring, the vibrant bougainvillea blossoms add a splash of color to the traditional Minnan architecture, making it a worthwhile visit. Special Activities Spring Flower Show: Near the main exhibition hall, a variety of flowers are on display, including rare varieties. Floral artists also demonstrate their skills on-site, making this a must-see for flower enthusiasts. Cultural Experience Activities: On weekends and holidays, some gardens host traditional tea ceremonies, guzheng performances, and other activities, allowing you to experience the charm of traditional culture while enjoying the beautiful scenery. These activities are especially educational for children. Route Planning - One-Day Highlights Tour: Enter through Gate 3 and start with the Jiangnan Garden Area, strolling through the Suzhou and Yangzhou Gardens. Then, head to the Beijing Garden, followed by the Taiwan Garden. Finally, visit the main exhibition hall for the flower show to conclude your day. - Two-Day Leisure Tour: On the first day, enter through Gate 1 and explore the International Garden Area, experiencing different garden styles from around the world. Enjoy dinner and the sunset at one of the park's restaurants. On the second day, enter through Gate 5 and visit the specialty botanical gardens, observing various plant species. Relax in the children's play area in the afternoon. Food Recommendations Park Restaurants: The park restaurants offer a variety of simple meals, including Beijing Zhajiangmian and Yangzhou Fried Rice, at reasonable prices. They're a great place to recharge after exploring the park. Snack Stalls: Located along the main roads, these stalls offer snacks like sausages, candied hawthorns, and cotton candy, bringing back childhood memories. Enjoy these treats as you stroll through the park. Travel and Ticket Information - Tickets: General admission is 20 yuan per person. Purchase tickets in advance through the official WeChat account or online travel platforms to avoid queues. - Transportation: Take Subway Line 14 to Garden Expo Park Station. Exit B2 leads directly to Gate 3. Alternatively, drive and park in the spacious parking lot for 10-20 yuan per day. Photography Tips Clothing: Wear Hanfu or cheongsam in the Jiangnan Garden Area, simple Guofeng clothing in the Beijing Garden, and light-colored clothing in the Taiwan Garden. Angles: Use windows and doorways as natural frames to create depth in your photos. Use flowers and plants as foreground elements with people in the background to capture the romance of spring. Beijing Garden Expo Park is full of surprises this spring. Invite your family and friends to experience the beauty of the season!

Actually, there is also a Shaxi ancient town in Kunming, but this Shaxi ancient town is far away yet close at hand. It's visible and tangible. It is located at No. 142 Baiyun Middle Road, Taicang City, Suzhou City, Jiangsu Province. Navigate to the nearby Dongan Road parking lot, about a 10-minute walk away, parking fee is 3 yuan/hour, and 1 yuan for each additional hour. Ancient town ticket: Free (Tour time requires 1~2 hours) Here I found a small shop of hand-painted fans, the fans are hand-painted by the boss on the spot, 15 yuan each, the price is reasonable. The surrounding area is full of small shops owned by locals, there are also pickles made by the old lady herself, small tea houses, and you can also find some old items, etc. There are many merchants selling local specialties in the middle, such as freshly fried meat floss, cloud cake, lard rice candy, pine nut candy, sugar painting, etc. There are also many intangible cultural heritage handcrafts hidden in the ancient town, such as wood carving, bamboo weaving, etc. They are all made by the master on the spot, and you can buy them directly if you are interested. This ancient town has not been fully developed, there are many original residents, basically all in the West Market Street, where the prices are very cheap, locals set up small stalls, 5 yuan/large skewer of candied haw, 10 yuan a large bag of egg rolls, 10 yuan/jin of strawberries, basically no one on weekdays, it feels like having the whole place to yourself. The ancient architecture here is well preserved, mainly the layout of 'one river, two streets, three bridges, one island', the pace of life in the ancient town is very slow, many residents around sit at the door to chat, far from the tranquility of the city, those who like quiet can come for a walk, suitable for leisure travel! Shaxi Ancient Town

Can you believe it, with an average of only 200, you can check in at Suzhou·Wild Neighbor LINE FRIENDS Beauty House + Mita Sen Wild Park tickets! Asia's first LINE FRIENDS themed resort It has everything, Mita train, Sen Wild Park, Solar Terms restaurant, Xiangtang bookstore, camping lawn. Here I found a scene close to a fairy tale world ✔Diverse entertainment: Balloon field, non-powered park, cat stroking lounge, wild pub, camping experience area...... ✔Different themed accommodation styles: LINE FRIENDS theme, courtyard style LOFT, the room hides a whole park, the cute LINE FRIENDS family image can be seen everywhere in the park Xiangtang Mita train ✔Four-story large LINE FRIENDS theme park, Dream Island, Mole's House, Pine Cone Whirlwind, Honey Tower... Every corner of the room is almost filled with LINE FRIENDS elements, the pink and blue walls look even more playful, slides, rope nets, blackboards.... It's like moving the park into Brown's house ✔Brown Bear themed restaurant Mita train restaurant Ecological garden western restaurant

I had high expectations for my first stay at Clubmed, but the actual experience was average. I checked in on Sunday. There was only one counter for handling snow tickets, and the speed was relatively slow. There was no GO at check-in. The check-in time is 3 pm and the check-out time is 11 am (T3 members can delay for 1 hour). In fact, there were no rooms available at 3 pm and I had to wait. The hotel is very close to Taicang South Station and the Alps Snow World. You can cross the road to the Snow World or go through the corridor on the second floor of the hotel. Children under 4 years old eat free at the buffet dinner. There are two snack sets available at the U bar: fried chicken + sandwich/nut platter + fries. You can follow Clubmed on WeChat in advance to get the daily activity schedule. Activities marked with a small hand symbol are free to participate. Childcare is available for children over 4 years old.

It is said that Harbin is almost crowded by the little potatoes from the south this year🤣 Actually, you don't have to run so far, Jiangsu, Zhejiang, and Shanghai also have their own 'Ice and Snow World'☃️ 🔹Super large indoor ski resort🏂🏻 🔹Dream ice and snow park, ice sculpture maze, snow carousel🎠... Sisters who want to take big ice and snow shots, just rush!❄️ · 📍Taicang Alps International Resort 🚘 1h drive from Shanghai, 3h self-driving from Hangzhou 🚄 You can take the high-speed rail to Taicang South Station, and you will arrive right across the station! It is very suitable for a short trip around the weekend and holidays~ Feel the French ice and snow romance of the Alps❄️ · ❄️ 'Alps Snow World'❄️ ☑️ Ice and Snow Park Unlike ordinary indoor ski resorts, in addition to 🏂🏻, there is also a super fun and good-looking ice and snow amusement park in the snow world~ 📸The super French forest cabin scenery🌲, the Christmas tree in the snow is just like Finland❄️ ☑️ Ski Resort Both beginners and veterans can have fun⛷️ (There are professional ski instructors! Beginners must carry out activities under the guidance of professionals~) ☑️ Warm Area As soon as you enter the hall, there is a snow-view restaurant with super large floor-to-ceiling windows, where you can rest and replenish energy🍔 There is also a coffee shop next to the snow storage area, where you can rest and warm up when you are tired of skiing☕ Instantly get the atmosphere of the ice and snow festival🎄 · 🌲'Alps Camp'⛺ You can go to the commercial street for a stroll at night. Eating, drinking, playing, shopping and leisure can all be satisfied~ If you love photography, don't miss the Alps camp🏕️ The natural ecological camping arrangement with French style, and the bonfire🔥 is also very photogenic📸

Hello~ Everyone! Today I'm going to share with you a super comfortable parent-child self-driving tour guide, the place we're going to is Yunnan! Yunnan's tourism development is very mature, all kinds of facilities are very complete, so here is definitely an ideal place for parent-child travel. Our itinerary is as follows: D1: Fly from Hangzhou to Kunming, after a short rest, you can stroll around Kunming city and feel the beauty of this spring city. D2: Take a high-speed train from Kunming to Lijiang (about 3.5 hours), rent a car and go directly to Shuhe Ancient Town and Tiger Leaping Gorge Scenic Area, this place is really beautiful! D3: Lijiang. Stroll leisurely in Shuhe Ancient Town in the morning, and in the afternoon we will go to Yak Meadow, where there are super cute yaks! D4: Lijiang. In the morning we will go to Pearl Sea, find a shepherd's house by a lake, children can experience horse riding, feeding lambs, in the afternoon we will go to Lijiang Ancient City to feel the charm of the ancient city. D5: Lijiang-Shaxi Ancient Town. After enjoying the hotel's breakfast, we drive to Zhongyi Market for a stroll, then set off for Shaxi Ancient Town, about 1.5 hours drive, the scenery along the way is really beautiful! D6: Free activities in Shaxi Ancient Town, here has simple architecture and quiet environment, is a good place for children to play. D7: Shaxi-Shangri-La, about 2 hours and 40 minutes drive, the scenery along the way is also magnificent. After arriving in Shangri-La, we will first go to Dukezong Ancient City for a stroll. D8: Shangri-La. Set off in the morning to Pudacuo National Forest Park and Tiger Leaping Gorge Scenic Area, return to the hotel for rest around 4 pm, and go to Dukezong Ancient City in the evening to feel the charm of the world's largest prayer wheel. D9: Shangri-La-Lijiang. We choose to take the national road, along the way you can enjoy the beautiful scenery of Yunnan Plateau, it takes about 6 hours drive, but it's absolutely worth it! D10: Fly back to Hangzhou from Lijiang, ending this wonderful journey! I will share with you the detailed photos and itinerary of each day later! Our whole journey was very relaxed and pleasant, we will stay two nights in each place, the arrangement of scenic spots is not many, most of the time is free activities, children and we do not feel tired, this trip is really perfect~ I hope this guide can help you, if you have any questions or need to recommend more fun places, feel free to contact me! Wish you a pleasant journey~ 🚗🌴

ClubMed has built a 91,000 square meter indoor ski resort, which is the largest in East China. Now the sisters in Jiangsu, Zhejiang and Shanghai don't have to go far to ski, they can arrange it directly on the weekend. The Snow World contains a cold area of 28,000 square meters, with a constant temperature of 1 to -1°C all year round, so students in Jiangsu, Zhejiang and Shanghai can ski all year round, and they can also enjoy skiing in summer. There are 5 ski trails, 7 magic carpets, 8 ski items and 14 snow entertainment activities to ensure you have fun. The longest ski trail can reach 280m, whether you are a beginner or a player with a foundation, you can find your own fun. Rooms The rooms are designed based on the European wooden cottages in the snow mountain village. It has more of the taste of a snow village, as if you have really traveled to the Nordic in fairy tales. The interior uses a log color scheme with lively and bright geometric elements, perfectly blending fashion and nature, and the warm-toned room makes people feel comfortable and warm. Food Snowflake International Buffet Restaurant: The overall design is inspired by snowflakes, with variable geometric elements and bright colors complementing each other, creating a French elegant dining environment; serving French and local flavored three meals buffet, with Club Med's characteristic 7 themed food islands, fully satisfying guests' taste buds. U BAR: Located on the first floor of the resort, it combines a French pub and a fashionable life bar. The overall use of bright and lively tones, combined with natural wood elements, creates a relaxed and leisurely atmosphere. Snow Peak Lounge: Located on the top floor of the resort, the overall design is inspired by the snow mountain cabin pub, and you feel like you are in the Alps cabin pub. Facilities The resort also has a wealth of entertainment activities, gym, yoga room, boxing room, table tennis, spinning bike and other fitness activities for guests to choose freely. The resort is adjacent to the Alps Snow World, and guests can enter through the exclusive corridor to enjoy the fun of skiing and snow entertainment. Parent-child Taicang Clubmed has created a brand new mini club, retaining the essence of 'sports, games, performance shows', and adding a series of new activities. Children aged 4-11 can be entrusted, freeing parents' hands. Amazing Family also has many family activities, where you can enjoy wonderful parent-child time with your children.

I went to Taicang, China. A friend introduced me to a newly opened Pullman and I stayed there. Perhaps it's because prices are cheap, but it wasn't too expensive, costing about 15,000 yen per night. The lobby was very spacious and clean, and the locals were very enthusiastic, recommending me some kind of set, saying "Would you like to buy this?", which made me laugh🤣 This is a new hotel in Taicang, and the breakfast is apparently delicious, so young people tend to choose this one, and since there aren't many Pullman hotels in Japan, please try it if you have the chance. #gourmet

A delicious cafe in Taicang City. It's always bustling even on weekdays, so why not enjoy a leisurely drink surrounded by greenery? A coffee costs 18 RMB, and a cafe latte is about 24 RMB, so you can enjoy either for just 3,400 yen. It's very stylish, especially the interior and the fact that you can drink outside. They also have cakes, so why not stop by for a light meal? That's all. #gourmet

This time, I was invited by a local friend and went to Taicang in Suzhou, Jiangsu Province, China. It's a very comfortable place, just under an hour's drive from Shanghai Hongqiao Airport. This time I stayed at a hotel in the Marriott group. Once you leave, you're within walking distance of Wanda Plaza (where you can shop) and Civic Park, so it was very convenient. Above all, it's great value for money. It cost less than 10,000 yen per night, but the king-size bed and wide ceilings were very helpful. I'd like to stay here again if I have the chance. That's all ~ #couplestrip

#passionpassport This is a small old town and has many things to visit and enjoy it small market place. This place small but yet hold lot of old China History. Old houses, Old streets and wooden architecture all looks so nice and is well maintained. There are many small souvenirs shops and restaurants which serves traditional Chinese Food. There are also many massage parlors which is very famous for traditional Chinese massage and is very good. This village looks really beautiful. There is also a photograph studio which gives traditional Chinese costumes and gets you click photos in traditional Chinese dresses. #passionpassport #beautifuldestinations #travelinspiration

#passionpassport Taicang gets beautiful when spring arrives. City gets green, With flowers around and beautiful plays and trees turn green. When spring approaches, Taicang natives start "eating" spring, that is , to eat seasonal vegetables. There is a saying in Taicang that says one may get to know the taste of spring after eating bamboo shoots. Seasonable bamboo shoots feature thin outer skin and thick flesh and is better to braise or pickle it. Fiddlehead is renowned as the king of mountain vegetables. When its leaves are still curled and not yet spread, it's the best time to pick them up and stir-fry them together with shredded meat after being salted. #passionpassport #beautifuldestinations #travelinspiration

#passionpassport Jingcang Lake is around 5 Kms from Taicang downtown. This lake has surrounding area with greenery and forest. There are many activities one can do in this. There is a tree house, Boating in lake are available on Motor Boat or self peddling boats. Cycle are available in lake on rent. There is also a restaurant in lake park and many people visit it to spend time on weekend and holidays. There is also area where people can camp and do picnic. A large open ground is available where kids and adult fly kites. It’s a good place to relax and enjoy. #passionpassport #beautifuldestinations #travelchina #travelinspiration

Located in Taicang City, Jiangsu Province, China, Shashi Old Town is a classical village that was formed during the Tang Dynasty and has been around for 1,300 years. Now, it is a village that only shows the old architectural complex of Taicang City, north of Shanghai, but this place was at the forefront of fashion even during the Qing Dynasty ^^ When you enter the village, you can see everything from the late Ming Dynasty to the styles of the Republic of China. The roofs of the houses built along the waterways and the waterways are filled with wasong. I recommend it to those who want to feel the untouched charm of the water town. #ChinaTravel #Watertown #ShashiOldTown #Jangsu

The historical and cultural heritage of Shaxi Ancient Town is rich, and it preserves the unique Ming and Qing dying buildings, the deep ancient alleys, the ancient bridges and the former residences of historical and cultural celebrities. The Qipu River, which was excavated in the Song Dynasty, runs through the town. The river is wide and there is an island in the river. It is a major feature of the ancient town of Jiangnan. The ancient houses on both sides of the river are patchwork and row upon row. The streets along the river stretch for 1.5 kilometers, telling the prosperity of Shaxis former trade. There are three ancient stone arch bridges on the river (both Taicang City cultural relics protection units): Liji Bridge, Yongqiao Bridge, and Yixing Bridge, all with typical Qing Dynasty architectural style. Shaxi is also a place where humanities gather. Wu Xiaobang, an outstanding dance master of our country, was born here. He blended dance and life ingeniously and became one of the pioneers of Chinese new dance art. Combined with the traditional culture of the ancient town, Shaxi has carefully created poetry museums, woven pavilions, dance halls, and children's funhouses, so that visitors can enjoy leisure and entertainment as well as some knowledge and culture.

Shaxi is located in the middle of Taicang City, Jiangsu Province, 50 kilometers away from Shanghai Hongqiao Airport. The Shanghai-Nanjing Expressway has opened an exit here, only two hours from Shanghai to Shaxi. The ancient town of Shaxi has a long history, unique scenery and rich products. It is known as the Southeast Eighteen Town, Shaxi First Town.

Shaxi Ancient Town, the first thing that comes to mind is Dali, Yunnan, which is a major town on the ancient tea-horse road. However, in Taicang, Jiangsu, not far from Shanghai and Suzhou, there is also an ancient town of Shaxi. Not very famous, there are not many tourists, and no tickets are accepted. Shaxi Ancient Town is already a village in the Tang Dynasty, and it has a long history than many ancient towns. In the Yuan Dynasty, it became a marketplace, and the Ming Dynasty merchants became a major commercial and trade town. At present, there are more than 600 houses and more than 4,200 houses in the Qing Dynasty and the Republic of China, which are contiguous and fragmented. Alleys are narrow and long, and from time to time there are local old people living in the alleys slowly coming out. By the time of the Ming and Qing Dynasties, with the development of industry and commerce, a large number of merchants came into being, and it became a famous commercial and trade town. The Song Dynasty Fan Zhongyan presided over the Qiputang that runs through the town. The river is wide and there is an olive island in the river. It was cut off when the Xinqipu River was excavated in 1954. There are three ancient stone arch bridges on the river: Liji Bridge, Yongqiao Bridge and Yixing Bridge, all with typical Qing Dynasty architectural style. Meizu years, the town is booming. Supervising Yu Shi Su Zan's "Yu Shi Fu", Shanxi Road Yu Shi Cao Yu, the Criminal Department Langzhong Ye Yuchun and other officials, have built a government here, the street scene is good, "Shaxi Eight Views", far and near famous. The stone arch bridge is a good place to enjoy the scenery. There are no cruise ships in the river and the water is calm.

## Liuhua Rothenburg: Retrieving the Reflection of a Fairytale Town in the Folds of Time On the north bank of the Yangtze River estuary, there is a German town forgotten by time. When the morning mist rises from the Liuhua River, the red-roofed buildings of Rothenburg gradually emerge from the veil, like building blocks scattered by a child, with an innocent, irregular beauty. The spire of the Gothic clock tower pierces the clouds, and the stained-glass windows shimmer with a honey-like luster in the sunlight, making people feel as if they have fallen into a dream from the Nutcracker. Wandering along the cobblestone road, every step is on a note of history. On the exterior walls of the half-timbered houses, dark brown wooden frames outline geometric patterns, and climbing roses hang from the windowsills like flowing waterfalls of flowers. The aroma of pretzels wafts from the bakery, and around the corner, you might bump into a silversmith holding a leather book, his workbench still bearing medieval design drawings. This deliberate "imperfection" is precisely the most touching texture of life in Rothenburg. As dusk drenches the cobblestone streets, the entire town begins to stage a variation of light. Gas lamps light up one by one, casting diamond-shaped spots of light on the stained glass, and the fragrance of roses in the castle garden floats in the air. Standing on the ruins of the ancient city wall and looking into the distance, the waves of the Liuhua River are crushing the lights into a flowing galaxy. At this moment, you finally understand why German craftsmen wanted to replicate the romance of Bavaria here—it turns out that fairy tales do not need to travel through time and space; they have always been quietly growing in the breath of the Yangtze River. Suggested photo spots: 1. The Renaissance-style arcades of the Town Hall Square (the light and shadow are best at 10am) 2. The double refraction formed by the stained-glass windows of St. James Church and the Liuhua River 3. The iris bushes along the moat (resembling a Monet painting when in bloom in May) 4. The glass display case of the handmade chocolate workshop This prose poem written in brick and stone is waiting for travelers who know how to read it slowly. When you find a rusty knocker on an oak door, you may wish to knock gently—perhaps it will open the echo of another century.

| Free Strolling, Eating, and Photography in Village and Ancient Town. 🚶🏻‍♀️ 🚶🏻‍♀️ Many people know about Suzhou and Kunshan but overlook Taicang in Suzhou. If you're based in Jiangsu, Zhejiang, or Shanghai and enjoy a leisurely, off-the-beaten-path Jiangnan weekend experience, Taicang is an excellent choice! 🗺 Suzhou·Taicang 2-Day Tour 📆 Day 1: Arrive at noon ➨ Enjoy local food ➨ Nanyuan Garden ➨ 72 Ideal Village 📆 Day 2: Shaxi Ancient Town ➨ Rothenburg-style Street ➨ Return trip --- 1⃣ Day ❶ ⤵ ☑️ Noon: Authentic local food in downtown Taicang 🍜 If you want to avoid lines at Nanyuan Noodle Restaurant, just go to any local noodle shop and order Suzhou-style red soup noodles ➕ fried pork cutlet for an authentic experience! 🍘 Snacks: Rice wine cake, Caotou cake, Yellow grass chicken, Taicang pork floss ☑️ Afternoon: [Nanyuan Garden] 🆓 𝐏𝟏𝟒-𝟏𝟕 A Jiangnan-style garden in Taicang with pavilions, rockeries, and ponds. Currently in full bloom, perfect for taking beautiful photos 📷 ☑️ Afternoon/Evening: [72 Ideal Village] 🆓 𝐏𝟏-𝟕 Rainbow road cycling 🚴🏻‍♀️, windmill garden flower viewing 🗼, river views along the embankment 🗾, coffee, camping, farm-to-table dining... This is truly a paradise away from the urban hustle! 𝐏𝟓-𝟕 The village has many homestays. I stayed in the 🏠 Tree Frog Tribe treehouse, like living in a forest fairy tale 🌳 I loved it! All-wood structure + 270° floor-to-ceiling windows, surrounded by rice fields. Every casual photo here looks like a forest-themed photoshoot 📸 --- 2️⃣ Day ❷ ⤵ ☑️ Noon: [Shaxi Ancient Town] 🆓 𝐏𝟖-𝟏𝟐 A serene version of a Jiangnan water town! Ming and Qing dynasty houses built along the river, with bridges and flowing water creating a charming atmosphere 🍵 ☑️ Afternoon/Evening: [Rothenburg-style Street] 🆓 𝐏𝟏𝟖 Feels like you're in Germany! Colorful houses, clock tower... the night view is dreamy 📸 There are several Western restaurants here worth trying! --- 📌 Tips ❶ Taking taxis between attractions is convenient ❷ Consider combining this trip with Shanghai, Suzhou, or Kunshan

Here I am visiting Taicang for another weekend! This hidden gem of a city has endless treasures to discover. Beyond the well-known 72 Ideal Village and Liuhe Review Platform, there are so many fun and photogenic spots to explore. I've put together a two-day self-driving itinerary 🚗 If you don't want to travel too far during the May Day holiday, come here for a spring outing! D1 Shaxi Ancient Town ⇢ Nanyuan Garden ⇢ Rothenburg Themed Street D2 72 Ideal Village 🏘️ Shaxi Ancient Town A Jiangnan water town with over 1,300 years of history, with minimal commercialization. It still preserves ancient waterfront houses and streets from the Ming and Qing dynasties, filled with authentic local atmosphere everywhere. 🍃 Nanyuan Garden My most surprising discovery this time! A 600-year-old Suzhou classical garden full of Jiangnan water town features - zigzag bridges, stone arch bridges, and trailing white wisteria... Every step reveals a new view, and with few tourists, it's a truly pleasant experience. 🏛️ Rothenburg Themed Street A 1:1 replica of German-style architecture where you can also taste German cuisine. It feels like instantly teleporting to Europe. The buildings look especially stunning for photos when lit up in the evening. 🏡 72 Ideal Village Rainbow walkways, riverside lighthouse, windmills in wheat fields, and colorful little trains... Every time I visit, I think: "This really is the ideal vacation life!" Plus, the scenery changes every month. 🏨 Accommodation I recommend staying within 72 Ideal Village. I stayed at Tree Frog Tribe. The next morning, you can take photos before other tourists arrive. 🥢 Dining There are plenty of restaurant options in Rothenburg Themed Street. Shaxi Ancient Town has many specialty snacks.

My artistic genes were in full swing on a cloudy day, and I came across a coffee shop. The owner was multi-talented, and the Japanese-style coffee shop was filled with his own paintings. If the guests are interested, they can also paint a picture. There is also a terrace outside, which has its own flavor whether it is cloudy or sunny. The cat in the store 🐱 The adults are lazy and leisurely, just like me, they can lie down with a book for a whole day.

## **Taicang Yanshan Garden: Whispers of Time in a Jiangnan Garden** Hidden amidst the bustling streets of Taicang's old town lies an underrated gem of garden artistry—**Yanshan Garden**. While it may lack the widespread fame of Suzhou's Humble Administrator's Garden or the exquisite craftsmanship of the Lingering Garden, it possesses a unique tranquility and elegance, resembling a timeworn thread-bound book, waiting to be savored by those who understand its charm. ### **A Garden, Half of Ming Dynasty History** Yanshan Garden's predecessor was the private garden "Yanzhou Garden" of Wang Shizhen, a leading figure in Ming Dynasty literature. This prominent member of the "Later Seven Masters," a literary group as renowned as Tang Bohu, used this space to gather with friends, write, and appreciate stones, pouring his lifelong talents into this landscape. Although the reconstructed garden is smaller than its original scale, it still retains the essence of a Ming Dynasty literati garden—winding bridges over water, verdant rockeries, and scattered pavilions. Every step resonates with echoes of history. ### **Shifting Scenery, Exquisite Aesthetics of Jiangnan** Upon entering Yanshan Garden, time seems to slow down. The waterside pavilion in front of the **Woyun Hall** reflects the upturned eaves, while koi fish playfully disrupt the shimmering water's surface. Outside the **Yicui Pavilion**, the rockery conceals hidden grottos, where children gleefully play hide-and-seek. The most enchanting feature is the Ming Dynasty-style **Nine-Bend Bridge**. Its wooden railings are polished smooth by time. Standing at the bridge's center, the framed view is picturesque—cascading wisteria in spring, fragrant lotus breeze in summer, maple-colored corridors in autumn, and snow-covered black tiles in winter. ### **More Than a Garden, a Living Stage** Unlike other classical gardens protected by glass barriers, Yanshan Garden exudes vitality. In the morning, elderly people practice Tai Chi by the lake; in the afternoon, students sketch with their palettes; and at dusk, locals stroll and chat along the corridors. The weekly Sunday Pingtan performances are not to be missed. The soft Wu dialect, accompanied by the three-stringed instrument, drifts across the water, blurring the lines between visitors stepping into the past and the ancient garden quietly living in the present. ### **Travel Tips** - 📍 **Address**: No. 8 Xianfu Street, Chengxiang Town, Taicang City (walking distance from the city center) - 🎫 **Tickets**: Free admission; teahouse consumption within the garden is around 30 yuan per person - 🌿 **Recommended Activities**: Wear Hanfu or cheongsam for photos; bring a book to relax by the lakeside pavilion; visit on a rainy day for an enhanced ink-painting ambiance - 🚗 **Nearby Attractions**: Taicang Museum, a 10-minute walk away, showcases the history of the "Number One Wharf" and its canal transportation. If Suzhou gardens are like blue-and-white porcelain in a museum, Taicang Yanshan Garden is like a still-used purple clay teapot—it has never been separated from life. Come here, don't rush to check in, simply allow yourself to become part of the scenery. Perhaps around the corner, you'll encounter the elegant state of mind described by Wang Shizhen: "A stone giant worthy of a toast, a cloud nest perfect for writing."

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## **Taicang Rose Garden: A Romantic Poem in Jiangnan** When the May breeze sweeps across the Yangtze River Delta, thousands of acres of roses awaken in the outskirts of Taicang. Known as the "Oriental Rose Valley," this garden weaves a feast for the senses, blending cascading flower seas, European-style castles, and the unique charm of Jiangnan water towns. ### **Act One: A Symphony of Colors in Full Bloom** Stepping through the garden gates, over 300 varieties of roses put on a vibrant fashion show. French Centifolia roses sway with their goblet-shaped blooms, English Austin roses exude the rich fragrance of an old garden, and ancient Chinese roses like 'Pink Makeup Building' bloom quietly by the bamboo fences. The most breathtaking sight is the main flower field surrounding the central mirror lake—deep red 'Black Magic,' champagne-colored 'Peach Avalanche,' and gradient 'Rainbow Sorbet' form a flowing tapestry of colors, resembling a divine palette overturned from a drone's perspective. In the early morning, flower farmers harvest Damascus roses glistening with dew, their petals destined to become golden ingredients in high-end skincare products. ### **Act Two: A Duet of Architecture and Blossoms** Beneath a Dutch windmill, a couple poses for wedding photos, the bride's white gown sweeping across fallen petals. Inside the Victorian glasshouse, afternoon tea silver reflects the sparkle of crystal chandeliers, the sweet aroma of rose macarons mingling with the fragrance of 'Pierre de Ronsard' roses wafting in from outside. Most enchanting is the small wooden bridge spanning the wetlands. On one side lies the formal elegance of French geometric flowerbeds, while the other side suddenly transitions into the winding paths of a Jiangnan garden, where Taihu rocks and climbing roses create an unexpected fusion of East and West. ### **Act Three: A Feast for the Senses** The scent of roses drifts from the distillery at dusk, where copper stills transform fresh blossoms into clear essential oil. In the DIY area, children grind dried petals with stone mortars and pestles to create fragrant sachets. Strolling along the herb path, visitors encounter a 20-meter rose wall, where climbing 'Angela' roses form a natural waterfall of fragrance. The garden restaurant serves seasonal specialties: rose vinegar with water chestnut, deep-fried edible rose petals, and roselle rose tea made with honey from the garden, even the ice cubes encasing whole, multi-petaled blossoms. **｜Visitor's Guide｜** 🌹 Best Blooming Season: Late April - Early June (peak bloom in May) 📸 Must-See Spots: Reflections of the flower fields in the mirror lake, night view of the Moonlight Castle, aerial view of the herb maze 🎫 Special Experiences: Early morning flower picking (reservation required), essential oil workshop, stargazing camping 🚗 Transportation: 1-hour drive from Shanghai, 15-minute taxi ride from Taicang South Railway Station As twilight paints the western sky, the garden lights up with twinkling lights. The night breeze carries the scent of flowers through the corridors, the daytime bustle gradually settling into an intimate romance. This place embodies the grandeur of a European estate while retaining the delicate charm of Jiangnan—perhaps, like the rose itself, protecting its soft heart with thorny branches, cultivating a unique Eastern romanticism in the soil of Taicang.

#discoverchina 📍 Location: Shaxi Town, Taicang City, Jiangsu (50km NW of Shanghai) ⏳ History: - Flourished as a cotton & rice trading hub during Ming-Qing dynasties - Retains 80% original architecture from 14th-19th centuries 🌊 Layout: Classic Jiangnan "water-lane" design with 3 parallel streets along the Laoqiao River 🎫 Admission: Free ⏰ Best Time: - Weekday mornings for undisturbed photography

I went to Karuizawa, a hot spring facility with a rather strange name in Taicang, China. I was excited even before I went because I never thought I would find a hot spring with the name "Karuizawa" in China! The facility was very clean and had a calming atmosphere, reminiscent of a Japanese hot spring inn. There was a wide variety of baths, including open-air baths and bedrock baths, so you can refresh your mind and body in a relaxing atmosphere. Even though I was in a foreign country, I was able to experience a hot spring that felt somehow nostalgic and reassuring, and it was a very satisfying spot for a little relaxation on my trip. If you have the opportunity to visit Taicang, this is a hidden gem that you should definitely stop by!

TUI Blue Taicang Check-in Experience 🌟Quick Tour Experience: This is a treasure hotel full of surprises! From the moment I stepped into the lobby, I was deeply attracted by its unique artistic atmosphere. Every detail has been carefully designed, as if living in a delicate work of art. 📌Hotel Environment: The lobby has a high ceiling design, and the crystal chandelier shines with a dreamy light in the sun. The ubiquitous artworks and green plants make the whole space full of vitality. The rooms are decorated in a simple Nordic style, with log furniture and Morandi-colored soft furnishings, which instantly relaxes people. The most amazing thing is the floor-to-ceiling window design, where you can enjoy the urban beauty of Taicang while lying in bed! 🚕Transportation: The location is perfect! It is only a 10-minute drive from Taicang Station, and the taxi fare is about CNY 15. It is a 5-minute walk to Wanda Plaza, and there are as many as 8 bus lines around. Guests who drive themselves don't have to worry, the underground parking lot is spacious and bright, and free parking is also provided. 💰Price and Value for Money: The weekday price of an ordinary double bed room is only CNY 398! The price including breakfast for two is CNY 438, which is great value for money! You should know that the same grade of hotels costs at least CNY 600+. The best thing is that there are often promotional activities. I once grabbed a special room for CNY 299, and the money saved is enough to eat two big meals! 🛌About the Hotel: 1⃣The bedding is the same as that of five-star hotels. The down duvet is light and fluffy, and lying on it is like sleeping in a cloud. 2⃣The bathroom is equipped with a smart toilet and a rainforest shower, and the water volume is so abundant that it feels like being under a waterfall. 3⃣A full set of L'Occitane toiletries are provided free of charge, and even the body lotion is lavender-scented! 4⃣The 24-hour gym has brand-new equipment, and the treadmill faces the floor-to-ceiling windows, so you can enjoy the scenery while exercising. 5️⃣The variety of breakfast is so rich that it is dazzling, and I ate three bowls of freshly made Su-style soup noodles! 🏙Surrounding Tourist Attractions Guide: It takes only 10 minutes to walk to Jincang Lake Park, a 4A-level scenic spot with different beautiful scenery in the four seasons. It is a 15-minute taxi ride to Shaxi Ancient Town to experience the unique charm of the Jiangnan water town. Food lovers must go to Nanyang Plaza, where Taicang pork floss and Shuangfeng mutton noodles are a must! It is recommended to go to Tianjing Lake to see the night view at night, and the light show is so beautiful that it is breathtaking!

the city. If you are used to living in the city, you always have an untimely dream of escape, which allows you to live but does not allow you to go far. It just happens to be there, not far away, this cabin that is always waiting for me. It has nothing to do with romance and feelings. It is simple, returning to the countryside and returning to the quiet countryside, to be a pure ordinary person. 📍Taicang 72 Ideal Village Free River View/Urban Micro Vacation 🛖Tree Frog Tribe