Explore Kunshan: Discover the Must-See Sightseeing Attractions

Kunshan, located in the eastern part of China’s Jiangsu province, is a rapidly growing city known for its bustling economy, rich cultural heritage, and stunning natural landscapes. From ancient temples to modern architectural masterpieces, Kunshan has something for everyone. In this blog post, we’ll explore the top sightseeing attractions that shouldn’t be missed when visiting Kunshan.

1. Qiandeng Ancient Town

Qiandeng Ancient Town, located in the southeast of Kunshan, is a well-preserved historic town that dates back to the Tang and Song dynasties (618-1279). The town is known for its traditional architecture, cobblestone streets, and beautiful waterways. Visitors can explore ancient temples, gardens, and museums, such as the Guanfu Museum which houses a collection of ancient Chinese artifacts.

2. Zhouzhuang Water Town

Zhouzhuang Water Town, located about 30 kilometers southeast of Kunshan, is another well-preserved ancient town that dates back to the Ming and Qing dynasties (1368-1912). The town is famous for its waterways, stone bridges, and traditional buildings that reflect the local culture and lifestyle. Visitors can take a boat ride on the waterways, visit historic sites such as the Chengxu Taoist Temple, and indulge in local cuisine, such as the braised pork belly and Wansan cake.

3. Kunshan Forest Park

Kunshan Forest Park, located in the west of Kunshan, is a natural oasis that covers an area of 1,662 hectares. The park is known for its lush forests, crystal-clear lakes, and diverse wildlife. Visitors can enjoy hiking, cycling, and picnicking in the park, and explore the various attractions, such as the Butterfly Garden, the Monkey Island, and the Taihu Lake Birds’ Island.

4. Tinglin Park

Tinglin Park, located in the center of Kunshan, is a historical and cultural park built on the site of an ancient city from the Southern and Northern dynasties (420-589). The park is known for its traditional architecture, elegant gardens, and cultural relics, such as the Tinglin Museum which houses a collection of stone carvings, pottery, and paintings. Visitors can also enjoy a traditional musical performance, such as the Kunqu opera, and taste local snacks, such as the Tinglin lotus seed cake.

5. Jinxi Ancient Town

Jinxi Ancient Town, located about 10 kilometers southwest of Kunshan, is a charming water town that dates back to the Tang dynasty (618-907). The town is known for its well-preserved ancient buildings, old streets, and traditional crafts, such as the Jinxi silk weaving and the Jinxi woodcarving. Visitors can enjoy a boat ride on the Jinxi River, visit ancient temples, such as the Taisu Temple and the Shuxiang Temple, and taste local delicacies, such as the Jinxi fish head casserole and the steamed bun with crabmeat.

Conclusion

Kunshan is a fascinating city that boasts a rich blend of ancient history and modern development. From the enchanting water towns to the serene natural parks, Kunshan offers an abundance of attractions for visitors to explore and experience. Whether you’re a culture buff, a nature lover, or a foodie, Kunshan has something to offer for everyone. Don’t miss out on the chance to explore this hidden gem in China’s Jiangsu province.

Explore Kunshan: Discover the Must-See Sightseeing Attractions

Kunshan is a small Chinese city in the southeastern province of Jiangsu. While it may not be as well-known as glamourous Shanghai or picturesque Suzhou, it is a hidden gem that is worth a visit. Kunshan boasts of beautiful gardens, historical architecture, and a rich cultural history that’s worth exploring. Here’s a comprehensive guide for tourists who want to discover must-see attractions in Kunshan.

Attractions

Kunshan is a city filled with cultural and heritage sites. Here are a must-see few attractions to visit:

– Zhouzhuang Water Town – A picturesque ancient water town with numerous stone bridges, narrow canals, and historical buildings, all of which gives you the feeling of stepping back in time. The place is famous for its ancient bridges and houses. Visitors can take a boat ride to explore the town’s arched stone bridges and charming alleyways.

– Kun Opera Museum – The Kun Opera Museum is a unique museum in the city that houses the rich history of Kun Opera, one of the oldest forms of Chinese opera. Here, visitors can learn about the art and cultural significance of Kun Opera and even witness a live performance.

– Tinglin Park – A beautiful park with a stunning lake that provides tourists with a break from the hustle and bustle of the city’s urban life. The park’s natural beauty exudes a tranquil atmosphere, and visitors can enjoy a leisurely walk while taking in the stunning views.

– Qiandeng Ancient Town – The stunning ancient town is famed for the Wanshou Pagoda, a seven-story towering pagoda that has become a symbol of the city. The town also has numerous authentic restaurants that serve traditional Chinese food, making it an ideal destination for foodies.

Dining Spots

Food is an inseparable part of Chinese culture, and Kunshan’s dishes are known for their fine ingredients and flavours. Here are a few recommended dishes and dining spots to check out:

– Xiaolongbao – A type of steamed dumpling that has become a favourite for many food enthusiasts in China. The best place to try this dish is at Nanxiang Mantou Dian, which is known to serve some of the best Xiaolongbao in Kunshan.

– Wensi Tofu – A savoury dish made with tofu and mushroom gravy. Visitors in Kunshan can try this dish at the Wensi Tofu restaurant that serves authentic variations of the dish.

– Ma Qiao Weiju – A traditional restaurant that serves local Jiangsu dishes and boasts an aesthetic environment. The restaurant is famous for its crabmeat dishes, which are a delicacy in Kunshan.

Cultural Experiences

Kunshan is a city with a rich cultural heritage, with various experiences that travellers can engage in:

– Tea Ceremony Experience – Kunshan is known for producing high-quality tea, and experiencing tea ceremonies is a significant part of the city’s culture. Visitors can participate in tea experiences held at different spots within the city.

– Bamboo Needlework Museum – The museum displays various bamboo handicrafts that are unique to the city. Visitors can learn about the art of bamboo needlework and even take classes organised at the museum.

– Kunqu Musical Performance – Considered one of China’s most ancient styles of music, this opera-like performance is sure to captivate visitors. Tourists can catch a performance at the Kun Opera Museum, which was mentioned earlier in the article.

Local History

Kunshan has a rich history that dates back over 2000 years. A few historical sites worth visiting are:

– Kunshan Bell Tower – The Bell Tower has a fascinating history that goes back more than a thousand years. Visitors can climb to the top of the tower and enjoy a panoramic view of the city.

– Chongyuan Temple – One of the oldest Buddhist temples in Kunshan. The temple has a serene atmosphere with numerous statues and architectural features that reflect the city’s history.

Off-the-Beaten-Path Suggestions

Kunshan has many beautiful sites that are perfect for off-the-beaten-path excursions. Here are two suggestions:

– Kunshan Forest Park – A beautiful park that offers a fantastic opportunity for hiking or biking and enjoying the scenic views.

– Hongmei Leisure Street – A pedestrian-only street with ancient-style buildings that are lined with numerous shops and restaurants. This street is an excellent place for tourists to try unique food and buy souvenirs to remember their trip.

In conclusion, Kunshan is a beautiful Chinese city filled with heritage sites, cultural experiences, and dining spots that are sure to delight tourists. It’s a destination that’s worth exploring, with diverse attractions and experiences that cater to all tastes and ages.