When people think of Jiangnan, the region south of the lower reaches of the Yangtze River, they often picture graceful stone bridges, winding canals, classical gardens, the elegant melodies of Kunqu Opera, the storytelling art of Pingtan, and a lifestyle shaped by centuries of tradition.
Among Jiangnan's many historic water towns, Tongli Ancient Town in Wujiang district, Suzhou, East China's Jiangsu province, is one of the best places to experience this timeless way of life.
What makes Tongli truly special is that it remains a living community rather than an open-air museum. Nearly 12,000 residents still live in traditional Ming and Qing dynasties (1368–1911) houses, going about their daily routines much as generations before them did. Locals wash vegetables at canal-side stone steps, chat with neighbors along narrow lanes, and preserve a pace of life that has largely disappeared elsewhere. As He Hong, general manager of Suzhou Tongli International Tourism Development Co, puts it, "Tongli is both a scenic destination and a living community".
The Retreat & Reflection Garden, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is a must-visit landmark of Tongli. Built in the late Qing Dynasty by retired official Ren Lansheng, the 0.65-hectare garden is a masterpiece of classical Chinese landscape design. Its pavilions, halls, corridors, and rockeries are arranged around a tranquil central pond, creating the illusion that the buildings gently float on the water. This unique layout has earned it the nickname "the waterside garden".
The garden also offers a variety of seasonal activities throughout the year. One of the highlights is its summer night tour, which allows visitors to experience the garden in a different atmosphere after sunset.
A visit to Tongli is also an opportunity to experience its long-standing traditions. One of the most cherished customs is "Walking the Three Bridges", in which people cross the Taiping (Peace), Jili (Fortune), and Changqing (Longevity) bridges in succession during weddings, birthdays, and other important occasions to pray for happiness and good fortune. Today, visitors are encouraged to join this symbolic walk and experience a tradition that has been passed down for generations.
Who it's for
Ideal for: Travelers seeking an authentic Jiangnan water-town experience, culture lovers, hanfu enthusiasts, and photographers.
Not for: Those looking for fast-paced sightseeing, large theme parks, or trendy shopping districts. Visitors who are sensitive to humidity or mosquitoes may also find the rainy summer months less comfortable.
Best time to visit
Spring (March to May) is the most picturesque season, when blooming flowers, fresh greenery, and mist drifting over the canals create the classic scenery that has inspired Chinese poets and painters for centuries.
Before you go
Wear comfortable, non-slip shoes, as many of the town's streets are paved with uneven stone slabs. During the rainy season (June to August), it's a good idea to bring sunscreen, mosquito repellent, and a compact umbrella.
Practical essentials
Admission: 100 yuan ($14.69) at the gate, or 80 yuan when booked online in advance.
Half-price tickets: Available for teenagers aged 6–18, full-time students, and seniors aged 60–69 with a valid ID.
Free admission: Children under the age of 6 or under 1.4 meters tall, seniors over 70, military personnel, visitors with disabilities, and journalists with official press cards.
The ticket grants access to 10 scenic spots, including the Retreat & Reflection Garden and a round-trip ferry to Luoxingzhou Island. It remains valid for two days if registered at the visitor center after 3 PM on the day of purchase.
Opening hours for scenic spots: 8 am to 5.15 pm (No entry after 4.45 pm)
Town alleys and canals are open for 24 hours.
