Eastern China Attractions

Welcome to Eastern China
Top 5 Attractions

NO.1 Fuzimiao

The original temple here was built nearly a thousand years ago in the Song Dynasty; however the Japanese army burned it down and this version dates from 1984. It has been expanded to include replicas of an Imperial Examination Hall (with a fascinating exhibition that includes sample exam questions) and an Imperial Academy. The area around it is a celebrated nightlife and food area, known throughout China, and you can take boat trips on the narrow canal-like Qinhuai River.

NO.2 Humble Administrator's Garden (Zhuo Zheng Yuan)

This is Suzhou's largest garden, built in 1513 by an exiled court official, though it has been changed significantly since then. There are three main sections around a central pond, with a series of walkways, pavilions, and bridges forming a path through a maze of small exquisite ponds and mini-islands. Despite being thronged with visitors, it is big enough to retain a sense of the original tranquillity.

NO.3 Lingering Garden (Liu Yuan)The name refers to the many pavilions in which the visitor can pause and admire the scenery, the Mandarin Duck Hall and its gate being the most famous. The walkways follow the usual zig-zag pattern across water and through flowers and trees, and at the back of the park is the rather surprising sight of a giant rock which apparently originated in Lake Tai.

NO.4 Wang Si

This well-known local restaurant is economical, friendly, and usually packed; it's a good place to ask the staff for recommendations. Try the specialty deep-fried pineapple-balls if you like sweet food. But if you’re looking for other fare, there are plenty of small restaurants and a night market nearby to try the local specialties.

NO.5 Bai Causeway

Closed to motor traffic, Bai Causeway links the north shore of West Lake with Gu Shan to the southwest. The causeway is lined with ancient willow and peach trees, creating a tranquil avenue across the lake and the ideal vantage point from which to view the sights, including the delightfully named Pavilion of the Autumn Moon on a Calm Lake.