The Best Sightseeing Attractions in Suqian: A Comprehensive Guide

Suqian is a hidden gem of a city in China. Located in the northern part of Jiangsu Province, Suqian has a rich history spanning over two thousand years, and is home to a number of unique cultural and historical sites that are well worth a visit. In this guide, we’ll take a look at the best sightseeing attractions in Suqian, so you can make the most of your trip to this fascinating city.

Shenshan National Forest Park

If you’re looking to escape the hustle and bustle of city life, then the Shenshan National Forest Park is the perfect place to do so. Located in the southeast of Suqian, the park covers an area of over 144,000 hectares, and is home to a wide range of vegetation and wildlife.One of the highlights of the park is the Shenshan Temple, which dates back to the Tang Dynasty (618-907). The temple is situated atop a hill, and offers magnificent views of the surrounding area. You can also take a hike through the park’s forests, or enjoy a picnic beside one of its many lakes and rivers.

Xuefeng Mountain

If you’re into outdoor activities, then Xuefeng Mountain is a great place to check out. Located in the north of Suqian, the mountain is the highest peak in Jiangsu Province. It stands at a height of over 625 meters, and offers stunning views of the surrounding area.To get to the top of the mountain, you can take a cable car or hike up one of its many trails. Once you reach the top, you’ll be rewarded with breathtaking views of the city and beyond. There’s also a Buddhist temple located on the mountain, which is well worth a visit.

Suqian Ancient City Wall

For a glimpse into Suqian’s rich history, be sure to check out the Suqian Ancient City Wall. The wall was built during the Ming Dynasty (1368-1644), and is over 600 years old. It’s one of the best-preserved ancient city walls in China, and offers a fascinating glimpse into the city’s past.The wall is made of brick and is surrounded by a moat. It features a number of watchtowers and gates, which were used to defend the city from invaders. You can take a leisurely stroll along the wall, and enjoy panoramic views of the city.

Mangshan National Forest Park

Located in the southwest of Suqian, the Mangshan National Forest Park is another great place to escape the city and get back to nature. The park covers an area of over 25,000 hectares, and is home to a wide range of flora and fauna.One of the highlights of the park is the Mangshan Pagoda, which dates back to the Song Dynasty (960-1279). The pagoda is situated atop a hill, and offers stunning views of the surrounding area. You can also take a hike through the park’s forests, or enjoy a picnic beside one of its many lakes and rivers.

Yuehe Ancient Town

If you’re interested in traditional Chinese architecture, then Yuehe Ancient Town is a must-visit attraction in Suqian. Located in the center of the city, the town dates back to the Ming and Qing dynasties (1368-1912).The town is home to a number of well-preserved ancient buildings, including temples, ancestral halls, and residential houses. The buildings are made of brick and wood, and feature intricate carvings and decorations. You can take a leisurely stroll through the town, and soak up the atmosphere of ancient China.

Conclusion

Suqian is a hidden gem of a city in China, with a rich history and a wide range of unique cultural and historical sites to explore. From national forest parks and mountain peaks, to ancient city walls and traditional Chinese architecture, Suqian has something to offer every traveler. So, if you’re looking to discover a lesser-known side of China, be sure to add Suqian to your itinerary.

The Insider’s Guide to Suqian

Are you planning a trip to China and seeking out lesser-known destinations? Suqian, situated in the northeastern part of Jiangsu province, boasts of a rich history and has been an important cultural and political center for centuries. Here’s an insider’s guide to the best-kept secrets and hidden gems of Suqian;

Local Attractions

While Suqian is relatively unknown to most tourists, there is no shortage of fantastic sights to see.

Start by visiting Kunshan Forest Park, a stunning nature reserve that spans across 5,300 acres of land, offering hiking trails, picturesque lakes, and breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains. For more aquatic experiences, consider checking out Yanziyu Wetland Park, where you can observe beautiful migratory birds and take boat rides through a stunning natural scenery.

Another well-known spot is Qianlong Lake Park, which is over one hundred years old. The park has a long history and plenty of sites within it to visit, like the ancient pier, and the imperial palace of Qianlong. Not only does it have exquisite views, but also an extensive history.

Dining Spots

Suqian is famous for its distinctive cuisine, features like authenticity, and nutrition.

One must-visit restaurant is Guan Huo Yu Seafood, which specializes in freshwater fish dishes and is a local favorite. For those seeking a unique experience, you should try eating at a family-run Jinling-style food stall, like Top Ten Ju. Their signature dish is the Suzhou sauce fish, where sea, river, and lake fish are mixed and marinated with unique Suzhou sauce.

Cultural Experiences

Suqian is steeped in history and culture, and there’s no better place to experience it than the city’s historic streets.

Walking around Hui culture street, a 300-meter street similar to traditional southern Chinese architecture, that showcases the beauty of the Hui dialect and its strong and friendly culture. Another landmark worth visiting is the famous Guifeng Tower, with its profound history. The tower has seen a tragic past but has persevered and stood strong throughout history, captivating and inspiring what’s underneath its walls.

Local History

For a deeply captivating experience, visit the Suqian City Museum, where you’ll find fascinating exhibits that highlight the history of Suqian from ancient times to its modern-day. Learn about the city’s role in China’s revolutionary history or understand how ancient philosophies such as Confucianism continue to affect modern-day Suqian.

Off-The-Beaten-Path Suggestions

For something unique that many tourists miss out on, consider visiting the Suqian Dai Temple, which has historical significance dating back about 1900 years, still standing even through major catastrophes, the unique architectural style of the Dai Temple is a rare sight.

Suppose you are looking to get active. In that case, the perfect place for nature lovers is the Nanhaizi Resort, offering various outdoor activities like camping, hiking and exploring the mountainside.

In conclusion, Suqian has much more to offer than meets the eye. By exploring beyond the usual tourist hotspots, you’ll gain a unique experience that will have you falling in love with the city, its rich history, and beautiful natural sights. There’s no greater joy than exploring hidden gems and feeling like a local when visiting a new place, and Suqian is just the spot.