Suzhou (Venice of the East) - Jinji Lake

1. Introduction Jinji Lake is located in Suzhou Industrial Park. It is a symbol of modern Suzhou and one of the largest urban lake parks in China. The lake is a popular tourist destination in Suzhou, with a beautiful landscape and modern architecture, and offers leisure, entertainment, shopping, and dining. 2. Main attractions Moonlight Pier Features: A landmark on the shore of Jinji Lake, with beautiful lights at night. Perfect for a stroll and taking photos. Highlights: Lake view, night view, modern architecture. Ligongdi Features: A long embankment lined with high-end restaurants, bars, and art galleries. Highlights: Lake view, food, culture, and art. Ferris Wheel Park Features: A 120-meter-high Ferris wheel with a panoramic view of Jinji Lake. Highlights: Ferris wheel, lake view, night view. Lakeside Avenue Features: A lakeside walkway perfect for cycling, running, and walking. Highlights: Lake view, green space, sculptures. Cultural and Art Center Features: A cultural landmark in Suzhou with regular performances and exhibitions. Highlights: Modern architecture, cultural and artistic activities. Times Square Features: A large commercial complex with a sky screen and many brand stores. Highlights: Shopping, dining, entertainment. 3. Tour routes Classic route: Moonlight Pier → Lakeside Avenue → Cultural and Art Center → Ligongdi → Ferris Wheel Park In-depth route: Moonlight Pier → Lakeside Avenue → Cultural and Art Center → Ligongdi → Times Square → Ferris Wheel Park 4. Tickets and opening hours Tickets: Jinji Lake Scenic Area is free to enter, but some attractions, such as Ferris Wheel Park, require tickets (about CNY 80 per person). Opening hours: Open all day. Some attractions, such as Ferris Wheel Park, are open from 10:00 to 22:00. 5. Transportation Bus: Take bus 108, 120, 138, etc., and get off at "Jinji Lake Scenic Area" or "Moonlight Pier". Subway: Take subway line 1 and get off at "Culture and Expo Center" or "Oriental Gate". Self-driving: Navigate to "Suzhou Jinji Lake Scenic Area". There are several parking lots around the scenic area. 6. Travel tips Best time to visit: Spring and autumn, when the weather is pleasant and suitable for outdoor activities. The night view is especially beautiful with the lights. Duration: 3-4 hours. A full day is recommended for an in-depth tour. Dress code: Comfortable shoes, as you will need to walk in the scenic area. Notes: Protect the environment and do not litter. Swimming and fishing are prohibited in the scenic area. There are more tourists during holidays, so it is recommended to travel during off-peak times. 7. Recommended local food Suzhou snacks: Suzhou-style soup dumplings, squirrel-shaped mandarin fish, Aozao noodles, etc. Recommended restaurants: De Yue Lou: Time-honored brand, Suzhou cuisine. Song He Lou: A century-old restaurant famous for its squirrel-shaped mandarin fish. Ligongdi Food Street: A gathering place for high-end restaurants, perfect for tasting food from all over the world. 8. Recommended nearby attractions Suzhou Center: A large commercial complex offering a one-stop experience for shopping, dining, and entertainment. Oriental Gate: A landmark building in Suzhou, shaped like "big pants". You can go to the top for a view. Humble Administrator's Garden: One of the four famous gardens in China, about 10 km from Jinji Lake. 9. Recommended accommodation Hotels around Jinji Lake: Hyatt Regency Suzhou: Lake view rooms with a wide view. Crowne Plaza Suzhou: Boat-shaped building with a beautiful lake view. Hotels in Suzhou Old Town: Scholars Hotel Pingjiangfu: Antique style, close to Pingjiang Road. Courtyard by Marriott Suzhou: Modern style, convenient transportation. 10. Summary Jinji Lake is a perfect combination of modernity and natural scenery in Suzhou, suitable for family trips, dates, and gatherings with friends. Plan your time wisely and visit nearby attractions to experience both the classical and modern sides of Suzhou.