Top best things to do in Jiangsu

If you're looking for things to do in Jiangsu, some top activities include exploring the classical gardens of Suzhou, cruising through Suzhou’s historic canals, visiting Confucius Temple and the Qinhuai Scenic Area in Nanjing, paying your respects at Sun Yat-sen Mausoleum, enjoying the beautiful scenery of Slender West Lake in Yangzhou, taking a boat ride on Taihu Lake, admiring the Lingshan Grand Buddha in Wuxi, exploring the historic Jinshan Temple in Zhenjiang, experiencing the charm of traditional Jiangnan water towns such as Zhouzhuang and Tongli, and tasting the rich flavors of Jiangsu cuisine.

Top 1: Visit the Humble Administrator’s Garden

The Humble Administrator’s Garden is undoubtedly the top choice when visiting Suzhou, a city celebrated as the paradise of classical gardens. It is located next to the Suzhou Museum and Prince Zhong's Residence. As the largest and most renowned classical garden in Suzhou, it rivals even the grandeur of imperial gardens. It offers a quintessential experience of traditional Chinese landscaping. With every step, as you stroll past rockeries, wander under covered walkways, and pause beside elegant halls and waterside pavilions, they encounter ever-changing scenes like poetry in motion.

With no corner left without beauty, the garden presents a 360-degree showcase of Suzhou’s refined aesthetics. It’s the perfect place to appreciate traditional garden artistry, admire seasonal flowers such as blooming lotuses in summer, and explore the rich cultural heritage embedded in its historic architecture and poetic inscriptions.

Top 2: Discover Zhouzhuang Water Town

At Zhouzhuang Water Town, enter through the Ancient Archway and explore the iconic Twin Bridges (Shuangqiao), the inspiration for Chen Yifei’s famous painting, with beautiful reflections in the early morning. Visit Zhang House to see the distinctive Jiangnan layout, where boats could pass through the house, and explore Shen House, the former residence of one of the wealthiest families in Jiangnan. Cross Fu’an Bridge, the only ancient bridge in Zhouzhuang with buildings integrated into its structure, and stop at the Ancient Opera Stage to enjoy a traditional Kunqu Opera performance. For a quieter experience, visit Nanhu Qiuyue Garden to admire the lake scenery and catch the sunset.

Top 3: Visit Confucius Temple Qinhuai Scenic area in Nanjing

Visit the Confucius Temple and Qinhuai Scenic Area to explore the historic Confucius Temple, Academy, and Jiangnan Examination Hall, and stroll along the Qinhuai River. Admire the temple’s traditional architecture and Dacheng Hall, learn about Confucius and the ancient imperial examination system, and enjoy the riverside scenery, gardens, and lively streets. The area is also a great place to sample local snacks and browse shops and souvenir stalls along the river. During the Chinese New Year period, the famous Confucius Temple Lantern Festival fills the area with colorful lanterns, while the scenery takes on a different charm during the day and at night.

Top 4: Enjoy the Scenery of Slender West Lake

Although Slender West Lake is not very large, there are plenty of things to see and do. Stroll along the scenic waterways beneath graceful willow trees, admire elegant pavilions, bridges, and classical gardens, or take a traditional boat ride to enjoy the scenery from the water. Compared with West Lake in Hangzhou, Slender West Lake is narrower and more delicate, with willow-lined banks, painted pleasure boats, and picturesque Jiangnan scenery that feels like a traditional Chinese painting. Don’t miss the iconic Five-Pavilion Bridge, known for its 15 arches and beautiful reflections, as well as the White Pagoda overlooking the lake. Visiting Slender West Lake is one of the top things to do in Yangzhou.

Top 5: Take a Boat on Taihu Lake

Take a boat on Taihu Lake to enjoy the vast expanse of water, gentle waves, and beautiful lakeside scenery. As one of China’s five largest freshwater lakes, Taihu offers a different experience from the narrow waterways of Jiangnan water towns. Enjoy views of green hills, small islands, fishing boats, and villages along the shore, and feel the open, peaceful atmosphere of the lake. In Suzhou and Wuxi, you can also combine a boat ride with visits to lakeside gardens, wetlands, and other scenic spots. For a more relaxing experience, take a boat in the late afternoon when the lake is especially beautiful in the soft light

Top 6: Explore Suzhou’s Canals by Boat

Explore Suzhou’s canals by boat and experience the charm of the city’s classic Jiangnan water-town scenery. As the boat slowly cruises along the waterways, admire traditional houses, stone bridges, whitewashed walls, and black-tiled roofs lining both banks. You may see elderly locals sitting outside and fanning themselves to keep cool, while the sounds of traditional pingtan music drift from riverside teahouses, offering an intimate glimpse into everyday life along the canals. An evening boat ride is especially atmospheric, with the riverside buildings and bridges illuminated along the water.

Top 7: Adventure Tiger Hill

Adventure through Tiger Hill, a site where natural beauty meets over 2,500 years of history. Climb the gentle slope to see the iconic Yunyan Pagoda, often referred to as the “Leaning Tower of China,” and take in sweeping views of Suzhou from the top. Stroll through bamboo groves, winding paths, and moss-covered stone steps, where every corner reveals ancient carvings, hidden springs, and legends tied to King He Lü of Wu. Discover the Sword Pool, believed to conceal thousands of buried swords beneath its waters, and visit the serene Bonsai Garden, a showcase of Suzhou’s meticulous horticultural artistry. Blending myth, landscape, and architecture, Tiger Hill is a place where history feels alive and exploration becomes an unfolding story.

Top 8: Explore Tongli’s Timeless Charm on a Boat Ride

Visiting a water town without riding a traditional black-awning boat makes the trip incomplete. Taking a boat ride through Tongli’s winding canals is the best way to experience the town’s timeless charm and serene beauty. Gliding along the water, you can admire centuries-old stone bridges, traditional whitewashed houses with black-tile roofs, and quiet riverside gardens that capture the essence of Jiangnan water towns. The boat offers unique views of iconic sites like the famous Tuisi Garden and ancient temples that are otherwise hidden by narrow streets. Exploring by boat also lets you feel the gentle rhythm of local life, from fishermen casting nets to residents going about their daily routines, making the journey both peaceful and culturally rich. A boat ride in Tongli is truly an unforgettable way to connect with its history and picturesque scenery.

Top 9: Explore the Lingering Garden

Explore the Lingering Garden, a masterpiece of classical Chinese landscaping known for its exquisite design and rich history. It is one of the top attractions in Suzhou. Wander through its four distinct sections—the Central, East, West, and North Gardens—each offering unique features such as elegant pavilions, ancient bonsai collections, and carefully arranged rock formations. Don’t miss the “Celestial Hall of Five Peaks,” a stunning example of traditional architecture surrounded by beautiful natural scenery. Visitors can stroll along the 700-meter-long corridor adorned with calligraphy from famous masters, immerse themselves in the tranquil atmosphere, and appreciate the seamless blend of art and nature that has made this garden a UNESCO World Heritage Site and a symbol of Suzhou’s cultural heritage.

Top 10: Admire the Lingshan Grand Buddha in Wuxi

Admire the magnificent Lingshan Grand Buddha, an 88-meter-tall bronze statue of Sakyamuni Buddha standing on Xiaoling Mountain beside Taihu Lake. Climb the 216 steps to reach the Buddha’s feet, or take the elevator from the exhibition hall to get closer to the statue, touch the Buddha’s feet, and pray for blessings.

Explore the Buddhist culture of Lingshan Scenic Area, including the Lingshan Brahma Palace, Nine Dragons Bathing Shakyamuni, and Lingshan Buddhist Cultural Museum. Watch the spectacular Nine Dragons Bathing Shakyamuni performance, in which a giant lotus opens as the Prince Buddha rises and nine dragons spray water over him. You can also enjoy the Lingshan Auspicious Ode, a large-scale multimedia performance at the Brahma Palace, and explore the surrounding temples and gardens while enjoying the peaceful mountain scenery.

Top 11: Glide Through the Ancient Charm of Pingjiang Road

Tucked away in Suzhou’s ancient city lies a charming riverside path—Pingjiang Road—one of the best-preserved historic streets in the city. Lined with traditional white-walled, black-tiled houses built along the canal, and adorned with wooden lattice windows, the street offers a vivid glimpse into Suzhou’s architectural heritage.

Beyond its timeless beauty, Pingjiang Road is also a haven for local delicacies that reflect the city's age-old culinary traditions. You’ll find treats like sweet-scented osmanthus cakes, bamboo tube sticky rice cakes, and Suzhou-style herbal tea served in large bowls. Branching off the main road are narrow alleys like Xuanqiao Lane and Shilin Temple Lane, where visitors can explore the rhythm of local life and discover the authentic charm of Suzhou’s neighborhoods.

Top 12: Taste the Flavors of Jiangsu

Indulge in Jiangsu cuisine, celebrated for its fresh ingredients, delicate flavors, and refined presentation. Savor iconic dishes such as Yangzhou Fried Rice, known for its fragrant rice and colorful ingredients, and Sweet and Sour Mandarin Fish, a classic Jiangsu dish with crispy skin and a tangy glaze. Don’t miss Yangzhou morning tea, featuring a selection of dim sum, steamed buns, and tea, or try Suzhou-style noodles and fresh seafood from the region’s rivers and lakes. Exploring Jiangsu isn’t complete without tasting the rich culinary traditions passed down through every bite.

Top 13: Take a scenic bike ride through the countryside

Suzhou is surrounded by picturesque rural landscapes, making it ideal for exploring on two wheels. Cycling enthusiasts can ride along the scenic trails around Lake Tai, where they’ll be treated to tranquil lake views, gentle breezes, and a peaceful escape into nature. The route passes through charming areas like Guangfu Ancient Town, Yugang Village, and Tandong Village, blending beautiful lakeside scenery, fishing village culture, and revolutionary history. This route suits both leisurely riders and those seeking a mild challenge, covering about 25 to 35 kilometers with an estimated cycling time of 3 to 5 hours. It’s a perfect way to experience the charm of Suzhou’s lakeside countryside.

Customize Your Authentic Jiangsu Tour

If you are interested in the Jiangsu itineraries mentioned above, please contact us, and we will be happy to customize it and provide a quote tailored to your preferences.

Alternatively, if you would like to customize your Jiangsu Tour, please visit our Jiangsu Tour Customized Center. We assure you that you will receive a reply within 24 working hours.

Informative Articles for Your Jiangsu Trip

Jiangsu

• Travel Guide: attractions, weather, hotels, food, etc.
• Weather: best time and seasons to visit Jiangsu
• Top attractions: well-selected top attractions in Jiangsu
• Local culture: brief history, folk culture, festivals, etc.
• Top destinations: best places to visit in Jiangsu
• Travel itineraries: itineraries for your reference
• Abundant activities: Jiangsu cultural immersions
• Unique perspective: top interesting things to do
• Local food: what to eat while traveling in Jiangsu
• Luxury hotels: accommodation to stay in Jiangsu
• Jiangsu Tours: customized tours for your reference