Changshu is back, really not recommended to go in December, it's too good

Changshu is back, going in December is really amazing! With just over 200 RMB per person, you can unlock a Jiangnan autumn fairy tale with fewer people and beautiful scenery 🍂 Ladies! Took a weekend trip to Changshu and was truly amazed by this low-key Jiangnan small town! In December, there are no crowded crowds here, only the red maples of Yushan, the dawn redwoods of Shanghu, and the golden ginkgo trees throughout the city. The cost performance is super high, quickly save this guide! ✨ 2 days 1 night itinerary • DAY 1: Immersive tour of Shanghu → Ginkgo viewing at Fangta Garden → Overnight near Shanghu/city center ◦ Head straight to Shanghu Scenic Area in the morning. The water forest at this season is incredible! Ride a bamboo raft through the rust-red dawn redwood forest, with light and shadow interlacing, just like stepping into the set of The Wizard of Oz. Every shot looks like a blockbuster! The bamboo raft experience is included in the ticket, don’t forget to try it. ◦ In the afternoon, visit the free Fangta Garden in the city center. This is a small and exquisite Song Dynasty-style classical garden. The ancient ginkgo trees and red maples inside the garden complement the Southern Song Fang Pagoda beautifully, with intense autumn colors! The best part is it’s free and quiet, perfect for photography enthusiasts to fully enjoy. ◦ For the night, it’s recommended to stay near Shanghu, such as Shanghu Huajianfu, where you can see lake and mountain views right from your window. The light and shadow in the morning and evening are especially beautiful. If on a budget, sisters can also choose hotels in the city center for better cost performance. • DAY 2: Maple viewing at Yushan Park → Climb Xicheng Pavilion → Leisurely return ◦ In the morning, go to Yushan Park, where the maple leaves are at their best viewing period! The park is free to enter, with red maples, ginkgo trees, and classical pavilions complementing each other. Especially around the Lakeside Pavilion, the photo opportunities are outstanding and much quieter than many popular maple viewing spots. ◦ Afterwards, you can walk to Xicheng Pavilion, climb a section of the ancient city wall, and overlook the panoramic view of Changshu, feeling the poetic charm of “ten miles of green mountains half entering the city.” 🚗 Transportation tips • Driving is the most convenient, about 1.5 hours from Shanghai and about 1 hour from Suzhou. • High-speed rail also directly reaches “Changshu Station,” and it takes about 20 minutes by taxi from the station to various attractions. 💡 Practical tips • Mid to late December is the best time for autumn viewing, with ginkgo trees fully yellow and maple leaves bright red, so hurry up! • Many attractions are free or low-cost. It’s recommended to check official information in advance, as there may be tourism discount activities. • Wear comfortable shoes, as Yushan area requires walking; the lake and mountain areas are cooler than the city, so remember to bring a jacket. This trip overall is not expensive, with just over 200 RMB per person you can have a fulfilling experience! Autumn and winter in Changshu truly combine garden elegance with warm winter charm. Ladies, start planning now! This guide is for reference only.