[2024 Suzhou Attraction] Travel Guide for Mudu Ancient Town (Updated Nov)

Exploring Mudu Ancient Town in Suzhou

Mudu Ancient Town in Suzhou is a charming escape filled with history and picturesque views. As you stroll through the cobblestone streets, you’ll be captivated by the traditional architecture and serene canals that give the town its unique character. One of the highlights is the beautiful gardens and ancient temples scattered throughout the area. Each spot offers a glimpse into the town’s rich cultural heritage, with stunning landscapes perfect for photos. Don’t miss the iconic stone bridges and the tranquil waterways that reflect the surrounding scenery. Mudu is also known for its local snacks and specialties. Be sure to try some traditional dishes at the quaint eateries lining the streets. The atmosphere is relaxed, making it easy to enjoy a leisurely day exploring the shops, tea houses, and historic sites. Whether you’re wandering through the ancient streets or taking in the natural beauty, Mudu Ancient Town provides a lovely blend of culture and tranquility in Suzhou. #voyagevibes

If you only have one day in Suzhou, please come directly to this ancient town that has been around for a thousand years

"Mudu Ancient Town, a place visited six times by Emperor Qianlong" I happened to be in Suzhou during the Dragon Boat Festival holiday, and every scenic spot in the old city area was crowded with people. So I escaped to Mudu Ancient Town, which is not far from the city center, and enjoyed a whole day of peaceful and beautiful time alone. The bluestone paved roads, small bridges over flowing water, white walls and black tiles, all paint a picture of the scenery of the Jiangnan area. Mudu Ancient Town Mudu Town, Wuzhong District, Suzhou City 0 yuan (free) Mudu is a famous ancient town in Jiangnan, the same age as the city of Suzhou, with a history of more than 2,500 years. During the Ming and Qing dynasties, Mudu was the most prosperous port to the west of Suzhou City. Emperor Qianlong of the Qing Dynasty visited Jiangnan six times, and each time he would pass through Mudu Ancient Town. There is also a Shantang Street here, named after the famous street in Suzhou City, but it is less crowded and more peaceful. Strolling around, it feels so comfortable. Walking around Shantang Street, if you get tired, you can sit and drink tea in a teahouse, or sit at the imperial dock inscribed by Emperor Qianlong and enjoy the breeze, or take a ride in a sculling boat and admire the scenery of the Jiangnan area on both sides of the river. This ancient town may not be as outstanding as others, but it has a more authentic and peaceful atmosphere. After spending a day in Mudu Ancient Town, I didn't want to leave, so I stayed overnight. I checked into the elegant and beautifully situated Suzhou Garden - Suzhou Qingpu Cultural Hostel Royal Inn, located on Shantang Street. It was once the residence of Shen Shou, the 'Embroidery Queen' of the late Qing Dynasty and early Republic of China, and is now a private garden hostel. Entering through a small door next to the main gate of Shen Shou's former residence, walking along a long alley into the depths, the courtyard suddenly opens up, revealing a Suzhou garden-like courtyard with pavilions, winding bridges, Taihu rocks, century-old pomegranate trees, and a lotus pond, each window offering a view that fully embodies the elegance of Suzhou style. The guest room I stayed in faced a lotus pond. Strolling along the winding bridge in the courtyard, I enjoyed the tenderness of the Jiangnan breeze; by the way, the hostel also has cultural performances. Listening to the Kunqu opera 'A Dream in the Garden' in the deep courtyard, I felt like I was transported back a thousand years. Must-visit spots: Yan's Garden (about 300 meters from the hostel) Hongyin Mountain House (next to the hostel, just step outside to get there) Bangyan Mansion (about 400 meters from the hostel)

Day walk through Mudu Ancient Town

If you are visiting Suzhou, the Mudu Ancient Town should be included, too. Walk through the nice paths or take a boat to explore the town. A lot of small shops provide different kind of food and could be used for a break.

Mudu Old Town is an ancient Han waterway cultural town as old as Suzhou itself. It is also the birthplace of Wuyue culture. Here, you will find famous landmarks such as Garden of the Yan family, Hongyin Mountain Villa, Old Pine Tree Garden, Lingyan Mountain, and Tianping Mountain. Mudu old town offers food for every season, each bite of which is filled with local flavor. You can sample them at the shops by the side of the street.

Can't make it to Shanxi? Come to Suzhou to experience the charming "Little Western Heaven."

🌟 Explore the "Little Western Heaven": Mingyue Temple in Suzhou, feel the stunning charm of Black Myth! 🍂✨ The popularity of Black Myth: Wukong has made the Little Western Heaven in Shanxi famous, but if you can't make it there, why not visit the "Little Western Heaven" in Suzhou - Mingyue Temple, to experience the splendor of Buddhist art! Hidden in Mudu Ancient Town, Mingyue Temple is ancient and mysterious, with exquisite reliefs on the walls of the main hall, as if every detail is telling an ancient story. Although the temple is still under renovation, the statues inside are so lifelike that it feels like stepping into the fantasy world of Black Myth: Wukong! ✨🌀 🏯 The charm of the temple: - Long history: Built in the second year of the Later Tang Dynasty (935), the ancient temple has withstood the test of time, as if in conversation with the years. - Compact layout: Although the area is small, the architectural design is meticulous, from the mountain gate to the Hall of Heavenly Kings, the Mahavira Hall, and the Sutra Library, forming a harmonious picture, small but complete, few but refined. - Unique features: In the Hall of Heavenly Kings, the benevolent Maitreya sits in the center, with the four heavenly kings standing majestically, guarding this sacred place. Entering the Mahavira Hall, the solemnity seems to shock your soul, with the serene and magnificent statues of Buddha, Amitabha, and Medicine Buddha, bringing a sense of tranquility. - Lively statues: The eighteen arhats beside the main hall each have their own expressions, as if telling you stories of the past, making you stop and savor them. 📍 Address: Mingyue Temple, Mudu Ancient Town, Suzhou, open for free! 💰 Tickets: Free, come and explore this treasure of Buddhist culture! 🚆 Transportation: Take Metro Line 5 to Lingyan Mountain Station, exit from Exit 1, and walk for 10 minutes to reach easily. A relaxing autumn trip is waiting for you here! Come to Mingyue Temple and feel the vicissitudes of history and the charm of culture! 🍁💖

Mudu Ancient Town, Suzhou | Travel Guide

📍Address: 188 Shantang Street, Mudu Town, Wuzhong District, Suzhou 🚗Transportation: 1. Subway: Take Line 5 to Lingyanshan Station and exit from Exit 1. Walk for about 10 minutes. 2. Bus: Take Bus 4, 502, 38, 69, 64, 65, 58, or 512 and get off at Yanjia Garden. 3. Self-driving: It is not recommended to drive on holidays as there is no parking space. There is no problem with parking on weekdays. 🕙Opening Hours: 24 hours 💰Admission: Free 💰Admission to Small Scenic Spots in the Ancient Town: The price is CNY 78, including Yanjia Garden, Hongyin Mountain House, Gusong Garden, and Bangyan Mansion. There are discounts for online purchases! ✅Is it worth visiting the paid scenic spots? Yes, it is worth visiting the paid scenic spots as there are fewer people. The experience is very good. Yanjia Garden is especially good for taking photos. ❤Must-visit Spots: 1. Yanjia Garden: A typical Jiangnan garden with beautiful scenery. 2. Hongyin Mountain House: An ancient building with a long history and rich cultural heritage. 3. Lingyan Mountain: A good place for mountain climbing enthusiasts with beautiful natural scenery. 🛏Hotel Recommendations: There are many homestays and chain hotels nearby, such as Quanjie and Atour. 🧳Nearby Scenic Spot Recommendations: Tianping Mountain is not far away. The red leaves of Tianping Mountain in autumn are a must-visit spot.

Suzhou—Mudu Ancient Town.

Mudu Ancient Town Located in Wuzhong District, Suzhou City, Jiangsu Province, it is a Han ethnic water town with a history of more than 2,500 years. It is known as the "First Town in Wuzhong" and "the Most Beautiful Town in Jiangnan". The ancient town is not only famous for its long history and rich cultural heritage, but also attracts countless tourists with its beautiful natural scenery and exquisite garden architecture. The main attractions of Mudu Ancient Town include: Yan Family Garden: A typical Jiangnan garden, famous for its exquisite architecture and layout. Hongyin Mountain House: Another important garden, attracting tourists with its unique architectural style and rich historical and cultural connotations. Ancient Pine Garden: Famous for a 500-year-old Arhat Pine, the garden also has a double-deck corridor connecting pavilions, forming a whole. Lingyan Mountain: The mountain has the famous "Guanwa Palace", which is the first mountaintop royal garden in Chinese history, and there are also religious buildings such as Lingyan Temple. Tianping Mountain: Known for the "red maple, clear spring, strange stone", it is a wonder of Jiangnan. Bangyan Mansion: The former residence of modern political commentator Feng Guifen, famous for its exquisite brick carvings, wood carvings and stone carvings.

Suzhou Wuzhong's First Ancient Town: Mudu Ancient Town

Suzhou Mudu Ancient Town is a garden ancient town with a history of over 2500 years. It is located at No. 188, Shantang Street, Mudu Town, Wuzhong District, Suzhou City, Jiangsu Province, 5 kilometers west of Suzhou City, by the Taihu Lake and at the foot of Lingyan Mountain. Attractions: - Historical Culture: It is as old as Suzhou City and is a famous scenic spot in Jiangnan, known as the 'First Town in Wuzhong' and 'The Most Beautiful in Jiangnan'. - Garden Landscape: It features classical gardens such as Yanjia Garden, Hongyin Shanfang, and Gushong Garden, showcasing the artistic charm of Jiangnan gardens. - Water Town Scenery: The Muguang River and other waterways crisscross, forming an ancient water landscape with the continuous stone embankments. The old streets intersect, and the deep courtyards in the ancient alleys are gathered. - Former Residences of Celebrities: There are many former residences of historical celebrities, such as Yanjia Garden and Shen Shou's Former Residence, adding cultural depth to the ancient town. - Traditional Handicrafts: It is a hometown of traditional Han handicrafts, including silk, double-sided embroidery, redwood carvings, Chengni inkstones, calligraphy and painting, and stone carvings. Unfortunately, all scenic spots were closed for a whole day due to Typhoon Bebinca, although the typhoon would not officially affect Suzhou until the next day...

Suzhou Mudu Ancient Town Travel Guide.

Suzhou Mudu Ancient Town Travel Guide 1. Ancient Town Overview Mudu Ancient Town: Located in Wu Zhong District, Suzhou, Jiangsu Province, with a history of over 2,500 years, it is a famous scenic spot in the south of the Yangtze River, known as the "First Town of Wu" and "The Most Beautiful Town in the South of the Yangtze River". 2. Main Attractions Yan Family Garden: A classic Jiangnan garden with exquisite layout, known as the "Garden of Envy". Hongyinshanfang: The private residence of Emperor Qianlong during his southern tour, with a unique architectural style, showcasing rich history and culture. Gushuyuan: Named after the 500-year-old Chinese juniper in the garden, showcasing the former residence of Cai Shaoyu, a Qing Dynasty merchant. Lingyan Mountain: With beautiful scenery and numerous temples on the mountain, it is a great place for hiking, sightseeing and praying. 3. Food Recommendations Cangshu Mutton: Tender and delicious, a must-try. 4. Transportation and Tickets Transportation: Take Metro Line 5 to Lingyan Mountain Station and reach the entrance of the ancient town directly, or take a bus to Mudu People's Hospital Station and walk to the ancient town. Tickets: The ancient town is free to enter, but Yan Family Garden, Hongyinshanfang and other attractions require separate tickets, and a combined ticket is more cost-effective. 5. Travel Tips Best Time: It is recommended to visit in the morning to avoid the peak hours and experience a more peaceful ancient town environment. Clothing: It is recommended to wear comfortable and light shoes, as there will be some walking.

The treasured place visited six times by Emperor Qianlong!

Dear friends! 😃 Today, let's take everyone to see the ancient town of Mudu, a thousand-year-old town! Mudu Ancient Town has a long history of more than 2,500 years. Emperor Qianlong visited the south of the Yangtze River seven times, and he chose this place six times. 😜 Why did Emperor Qianlong favor Mudu Ancient Town so much? It's because this ancient town is truly charming. The town is crisscrossed with waterways, ancient stone bridges, and traditional houses with white walls and black tiles built along the water, creating picturesque scenery. 🎑 Moreover, the town is rich in products, the market is bustling, and it is full of a strong sense of life. 🎉 Recommended attractions: Yanjia Garden, ticket price 40 yuan. The garden has beautiful landscapes and exquisite layout. 🌟 Hongyin Shanfang, ticket price 20 yuan. The architecture is grand and has a unique charm. 💖 Gusong Garden, ticket price 20 yuan. The ancient pines are tall and complement the elegant buildings. 🌳 Travel tips: The combined ticket price for the three attractions is 78 yuan. 💰 The route can be arranged like this: first go to Lingyan Mountain, which is free to visit and enjoy the natural scenery. 🌄 Then stroll along Shantang Street to feel the lively atmosphere of the ancient town. 🎇 Next, visit Yanjia Garden, Hongyin Shanfang, and Gusong Garden in sequence. Food recommendations include Cangshu mutton and Wumi rice, both of which are delicious. 😋 For accommodation, you can choose the characteristic inns in the ancient town, with prices generally ranging from 200 to 500 yuan. 💒 Transportation is also quite convenient. You can take Metro Line 1 to Mudu Station, then transfer to a bus or take a taxi to the town. There are also bus lines like Route 2 and Tour Route 4 that go directly to the ancient town. 🚌 Visiting Mudu Ancient Town will make you feel like you've traveled back in time, deeply experiencing the rich cultural heritage of Jiangnan. Come and experience it for yourself!

Mudu Ancient Town | A Perfect Place to Cool Down in Summer

| A Perfect Place to Cool Down in Summer. 🌞 In the scorching summer, do you want to escape the hustle and bustle of the city and find a cool and quiet corner? Come with me to Mudu Ancient Town and start a wonderful summer cooling journey here! 💖 🌳 Stepping into Mudu Ancient Town feels like traveling back in time. The bluestone roads, white walls, black tiles, and winding rivers form a beautiful picture of a Jiangnan water town. The ancient town is built along the water, with the river flowing gently, bringing a touch of coolness and dispelling the summer heat. 💦 🎐 Strolling along the river, the gentle breeze caresses, and the weeping willows on the banks seem to be telling the ancient town's long history. Find a riverside teahouse, order a cup of fragrant green tea 🍵, sit by the window, watch the swaying boats on the river, listen to the boatwoman humming Jiangnan tunes, and feel the unique tranquility and comfort. Time seems to slow down. ✨ 🏮 When night falls and the lights come on, the ancient town presents another charming scene. The lights reflect in the river, shimmering like a dream. At this time, gather with a few friends, taste local delicacies at a riverside restaurant, enjoy fresh river fish and sweet and glutinous pastries, each bite full of Jiangnan flavor. 😋 🌉 In the summer, Mudu Ancient Town has no city heat and busyness, only cool river water, simple buildings, and rich Jiangnan style. Here, let's slow down, calm down, and enjoy a beautiful summer time. 🌸

A guide to help you enjoy Suzhou's ancient towns during summer vacation while saving money and hassle

There are several ancient towns around Suzhou, with Mudu Ancient Town being the closest to the city center. Since I had only seen Suzhou's gardens before and had never visited an ancient town, it's a must to check out Mudu Ancient Town when traveling to Suzhou. In the morning, I first visited Hanshan Temple and Xiyuan Temple, and at noon, I returned to Guanqian Street to the Mudu Ancient Town, which Emperor Qianlong visited six times. To save time, you can take a taxi to and from Mudu Ancient Town. Since it's close to the city center, the taxi fare is not expensive. Mudu Ancient Town is said to be a thousand-year-old town. Emperor Qianlong stopped here six times during his southern tours, staying at the Lingyan Mountain Resort, and visited the Yan Family Garden and Hongyin Mountain House. Mudu Ancient Town is not large, with just one old street, one Xiangxi River, and a few main attractions: Hongyin Mountain House, Yan Family Garden, Lingyan Mountain, etc. Besides strolling through the old street and visiting the above main attractions, I highly recommend taking a water town boat ride on Xiangxi River. Spend a little money to ask the boatwoman to sing a few local tunes. At that moment, as the boat glides through the water, with green trees shading the surface, sitting at the bow, watching the green trees cast dense shadows over the rippling water, and listening to the boatwoman sing in the soft Wu dialect, you can't know how beautiful it is without experiencing it yourself! 📍Attraction address: No. 188, Shantang Street, Mudu Town, Wuzhong District, Suzhou City, Jiangsu Province 🚗Transportation to the attraction: Take the metro line 5 to Lingyan Mountain Metro Station - Exit 1 Northeast, and walk 473 meters to reach the scenic area. 👍️Must-visit attractions: Besides strolling through the old street and visiting the above main attractions, I highly recommend taking a water town boat ride on Xiangxi River. Spend a little money to ask the boatwoman to sing a few local tunes. At that moment, as the boat glides through the water, with green trees shading the surface, sitting at the bow, watching the green trees cast dense shadows over the rippling water, and listening to the boatwoman sing in the soft Wu dialect, you can't know how beautiful it is without experiencing it yourself! 🎟️Ticket information: Mudu Ancient Town is free all day, but the main attractions charge an admission fee. The combined ticket for the internal small attractions (including Yan Family Garden, Hongyin Mountain House, Ancient Pine Garden, and Banyan Official Residence) is 78 yuan for adults, half-price for children between 1.2m and 1.5m tall and seniors aged 60-69 with valid ID, free for children under 1.2m and seniors over 70 with valid ID, no discount for students with student ID. Yan Family Garden alone is 40 yuan, Hongyin Mountain House alone is 40 yuan, Ancient Pine Garden alone is 20 yuan, and Banyan Official Residence alone is 10 yuan. Mingyue Temple ticket is 10 yuan, Ming and Qing Ancient Porcelain Museum ticket is 5 yuan. 💗Other tips: These two are not included in the combined ticket. I personally recommend buying the combined ticket!

What I saw on the way: Yan Family Garden

A paid attraction in Mudu Town, this garden is quite large, at least much larger than the Master of the Nets Garden. The construction era is close to modern times, and it is very well maintained and preserved. Both the land area and the building area are quite large. Pavilions, towers, ponds, and rockeries, various small scenes abound. If anything is lacking, it is the historical accumulation brought by the patina texture.

Where can you find beautiful scenery in Suzhou? Take a walk in Mudu Ancient Town

Mudu Ancient Town is a haven for the soul, a journey through time and space. Come, and encounter the most beautiful Jiangnan here. Mudu is like a melodious ancient tune, a graceful ink painting, a lingering dream. The streets here are narrow and long, with bluestone pavements carrying the footprints of a thousand years, each step echoing with the reverberations of history. The architecture of the ancient town reflects the legacy of the Ming and Qing dynasties. With white walls and black tiles, flying eaves and upturned corners, it exudes simplicity and elegance. The carved flowers on the doors and windows are delicate and exquisite, displaying the ingenuity and skill of the craftsmen. The delicacies of Mudu Ancient Town are also not to be missed. The sweet plum cakes, soft and glutinous green dumplings, and delicious Zangshu lamb, each bite is unforgettable. Come to Mudu Ancient Town, let us find solace for our souls together in this ancient town of a thousand years, and encounter the most beautiful scenery.

Mudu Ancient Town, Shantang Street | A must-visit spot for touring Emperor Qianlong's six trips to the south of the Yangtze River!

| A must-visit spot for touring Emperor Qianlong's six trips to the south of the Yangtze River!. Here comes the travel guide to Mudu Ancient Town in the south of the Yangtze River! . "The charm of Mudu in Suzhou is rich, blending the ancient with the modern in beautiful spring scenery. Small bridges over flowing water, quiet and abundant, with pink walls and black tiles retaining the ancient style." . Mudu Ancient Town has a history of over 2,500 years, It is crowned with the reputation of "the first town in the center of Wu" and "the most beautiful in the south of the Yangtze River." . Among the ancient towns of the south of the Yangtze River, Emperors Kangxi and Qianlong visited Mudu multiple times during their southern tours, which shows the prosperity of Mudu Ancient Town in the Qing Dynasty! . Mudu's historical anecdote⌛️: "Du" usually refers to the small streams and rivers common in the south of the Yangtze River During the Spring and Autumn and Warring States periods, King Fuchai of Wu favored Xi Shi and built the "Guanwa Palace" on Lingyan Mountain in Mudu, causing a large amount of timber to block the waterway below the mountain Historical records mention "wood blocking the stream," which is the origin of the name Mudu. . Tickets💰: Mudu Ancient Town is open for free‼️ You can buy a joint ticket for visiting gardens, 💰78 yuan, Including 3 attractions: Yan's Garden, Hongyin Mountain House, and Gusu Garden . Transportation🚕: From Suzhou: You can take subway line 1⃣, get off at Mudu Station; Or subway line 5⃣, get off at Lingyan Mountain Station; You can also choose to drive from Jiangsu, Zhejiang, and Shanghai. . Must-visit recommendations🕹: 📸Yan's Garden (Xian Garden): The richest man in the ancient town, Mr. Yan, bought the garden and named it "Xian Garden" Because the owner's surname is Yan, locals love to call it "Yan's Garden" It is known as "a classic work of Jiangnan gardens" and "the best of Suzhou gardens," not to be missed! The garden is arranged with four scenic areas for spring, summer, autumn, and winter, accompanied by seasonal flowers and trees, offering unique views no matter when you visit! . 📸Hongyin Mountain House: Known as Emperor Qianlong's "civilian palace" Every time he toured Mudu in the south of the Yangtze River, he had to visit Hongyin Mountain House! "The beauty of the mountains and rivers, the excellence of the pools and pavilions" - the scenery is truly enchanting! . 🌲Gusu Garden: The architectural layout has a front house and a back garden, with exquisitely carved brick gatehouses, and in the backyard, there is a Luohan pine, a relic from the Ming Dynasty, over 500 years old, lush and with a graceful posture~ . 📸The Residence of the Second Top Scholar: Free admission‼️ Feng Guifen, a disciple of Lin Zexu In 1840, he was awarded the second place in the Zhonggengzi imperial examination The second place is called the second top scholar, hence the residence is known as "The Residence of the Second Top Scholar" The halls are scattered, full of greenery and poetry~ . 📸Mingyue Ancient Temple: No charge! It has a history of a thousand years! The architecture is majestic, serene, and solemn! It must be said, the green trees + classic yellow walls

Cool off this summer and come to Mudu, Suzhou for a refreshing travel and play guide

🌟Suzhou Mudu Summer Retreat Travel and Play Guide🌟 🌿In the scorching summer heat, why not take a spontaneous trip to Mudu for a cooling retreat? Yanjia Garden 🌸 Highlights: A typical southern Chinese garden, shaded by green trees, fragrant with flowers, walking through it is like being in a cool fairyland. Experience: Wander among pavilions and towers, feel the elegance of the waterside pavilions, and enjoy moments of tranquility and coolness. Hongyin Mountain House 🏮 Highlights: A simple and elegant Qing Dynasty building, with babbling streams and green trees surrounding it, making it an excellent place to cool off. Features: Visit the private palace where Emperor Qianlong stayed during his six visits to the south of the Yangtze River, and savor the charm of historical culture. Mudu Old Street 🏮 Highlights: The quaint old street, lined with shops on both sides, is a great place to experience authentic Suzhou style. Food: Taste Mudu sweet porridge, xiaolongbao, dried tofu, and other authentic snacks, and feel the taste of Suzhou on your tongue. Four Seasons · Yangchun Noodle House 🍜 Address: 1st Floor, Building 6, No. 699 Lingtian Road, Mudu Town, Wuzhong District Recommendation: Signature white soup noodles, with a clear and rich broth, and meat that is a perfect mix of fat and lean, is an excellent choice to awaken your taste buds for the day. Accommodation Recommendations 🏨 Xiaozhu · Shantang Homestay: Located at No. 67 Shantang Street, Mudu Town, it is a traditional Qing Dynasty residence with a tranquil environment, suitable for a vacation and leisure. Sun Wu Homestay: Hidden among the mountains and forests, themed around Sun Wu culture, it offers a peaceful mountain holiday.

Suzhou Travel - Mudu Ancient Town

Embarking on the journey from Nanjing to Suzhou, I first set foot in Mudu Ancient Town, a place of ancient charm that resembles a painting, especially suitable for a trip with children. The roads within the ancient town are spacious, strolling with a baby stroller, we fully enjoyed the parent-child time. After immersing ourselves in the ambiance of the ancient town for two or three hours, we headed to Suzhou Fantasy Land in search of more joy. However, the bumper cars in the park were under maintenance and could not be experienced, this minor disappointment did not affect our good mood. It is worth mentioning that even the little one, not yet a meter tall, bravely tried the pirate ship, and although he felt dizzy afterwards, the courage and excitement were unforgettable. The adults also found long-lost childhood innocence and laughter in these thrilling rides. Moreover, we paid an additional 30 yuan for the baby to experience the self-controlled plane, soaring in the sky, which made him extremely excited. Today's journey, apart from the cost of meals and parking, had almost no other expenses, which was very comforting to us. The luckiest thing was that the sky was clear throughout the trip, and it only started to rain when we were enjoying dinner in the evening. We just took this opportunity to return to the hotel and enjoy a cozy night. This trip to Suzhou has left us with many wonderful memories.

Mudu Ancient Town is renowned for its picturesque landscapes, surpassing all in the south of the Yangtze River

Mudu, also known as Duchuan or Xujiang, shares a history as ancient as the city of Suzhou, dating back over 2,500 years. Legend has it that King Fuchai of Wu built a splendid palace atop Lingyan Mountain to win the favor of the beauty Xishi. However, the excessive building materials blocked the river's port, leading to the name 'Mudu'. Located by the shores of Taihu Lake, Mudu is blessed with stunning scenery and abundant resources. Surrounded by famous mountains such as Lion Mountain, Lingyan, and Tianping, it is also known as the 'Treasure Bowl'. Mudu serves as a transportation hub connecting Suzhou city with the vast Taihu Lake. During the Ming and Qing dynasties, it was the most prosperous port to the west of Suzhou city. It is said that Emperor Qianlong stayed here during all six of his visits to the south of the Yangtze River, which speaks volumes about Mudu's charm. There are numerous historical and cultural sites in Mudu, especially known for its garden culture, earning it the title 'Town of Gardens'. 😎 Main Attractions 🍀 Yan's Garden: Originally the private residence 'Lingyan Mountain House' of Shen Deqian, a notable figure in Suzhou during the Qianlong era, it was later purchased and renamed 'Xian Garden' by Mudu's wealthiest man, Yan Guoxin, commonly known as 'Yan's Garden'. The garden's overall structure is elegant and serene, with a well-organized layout, reflecting the same strict demeanor and style as its owner. The interior is innovatively designed, full of vitality, with delicately unique pavilions and towers of varying heights, showcasing the builder's exquisite gardening craftsmanship. The residence consists of five sections, from the outside to the inside: the entrance hall, Yibin Hall, Shangxian Hall, Mingshi Tower, and Tiaonong Tower. Among them, Shangxian Hall is a very rare nanmu hall, simple and elegant; the finely carved nanmu structure is simple and spacious, with a light and pure color tone, reflecting the owner's tranquil and indifferent taste. In front of Shangxian Hall and Mingshi Tower, there are finely carved brick archways, with superb carving skills and masterful techniques, mostly depicting stories from operas. 🍀 Ancient Pine Garden Located on Shantang Street, not far from Yan's Garden, it is named for a 500-year-old Arhat pine from the Ming dynasty within the garden. Ancient Pine Garden features the typical architectural style of Qing dynasty gardens, with each part being exquisitely elegant and delicately constructed. Crossing the entrance hall, you come to a brick archway, grand and solemn, adorned with vivid carvings that create a strong three-dimensional effect, offering a glimpse into the garden's exquisite layout. The main hall, called Ancient Pine Hall, is built in the style of a Ming dynasty hall. The hall's beams are supported by eight wooden beams on either side, resembling the two wings at the back of an ancient official's hat, hence the name 'Official Hat Hall'. A particular carving in the hall is very captivating, with sixteen flower baskets and sixteen soaring phoenixes carved on the beams, lifelike and exquisitely detailed. 🏁 Address: No. 188 Shantang Street, Mudu Town, Wuzhong District, Suzhou City 🎟 Admission: Free for the ancient town (combined ticket for adults for internal attractions is 78 yuan, tickets can also be purchased separately) ⌚️ Opening Hours: 08:00~17:00 👍 Best Season: March to November 🌸 Tour Route: Long Street ▶️ Yan's Garden ▶️ Hongyin Mountain House ▶️ Ancient Pine Garden ▶️ Banyan Mansion ▶️ Lingyan Mountain ▶️ Shantang Old Street 🍱 Mudu Delicacies: Black rice, green dumplings, fern vegetables, Malan head

Mudu in Suzhou | Summer Cooling Secrets, Taking You on a Journey to a Refreshing Summer

| Summer Cooling Secrets, Taking You on a Journey to a Refreshing Summer. Suzhou Mudu's Summer Cooling Guide🌿 💖The summer in Suzhou is so hot that it makes one want to find a cool place to hide. Mudu, this ancient town, is an excellent place to cool off! Today, I'm going to share with you a summer cooling guide for Mudu💌 🌳Garden Stroll The tranquility of the Yan Family Garden, the elegance of the Hongyin Mountain House, in the shade of green trees, feel the breeze on your face, and the heat is dispelled quite a bit. 🏞️Ancient Town Riverways Take a rowing boat and move slowly along the river, with the ripples bringing a touch of coolness. Listening to the boat lady's soft Wu dialect, it's as if time has slowed down. 🍵Street-side Teahouse Find a street-side teahouse, order a cup of Biluochun tea, sit by the window, watch the comings and goings of the ancient town, and enjoy a moment of tranquility and coolness. 🍧Specialty Iced Treats Don't miss Mudu's special ice powder and mung bean soup, one bite and you'll feel thoroughly chilled and elated! 🌃Night Tour When night falls and the lights come on, Mudu has a different charm. The temperature also drops, take a walk and feel the tranquility and beauty of the ancient town. 💕Come to Mudu and spend a cool and comfortable summer!

The 'Cornucopia' deeply favored by Emperor Qianlong

Mudu Ancient Town is located in the southeastern part of Jiangsu Province, to the west of the ancient city of Suzhou, in the Taihu Lake basin. It is a famous scenic spot in the south of the Yangtze River, known as 'the foremost town in Wuzhong' and 'the most exquisite beauty in the south of the Yangtze River'. Mudu Ancient Town is a Han Chinese water town with the same age as Suzhou City, with a history of over 2,500 years. In August 2008, it was rated as a national AAAA-level tourist attraction and is also one of the thirteen scenic areas of the Taihu Lake Scenic Area. According to legend, at the end of the Spring and Autumn period, during the conflict between Wu and Yue, the defeated state of Yue employed the 'beauty trap' by offering the beautiful Xi Shi to the King of Wu. King Fuchai of Wu favored Xi Shi exclusively and specially built the Guanwa Palace for her on the exquisite Lingyan Mountain top, and also expanded the Gusu Platform on the Purple Stone Mountain. 'Three years to gather materials, five years to complete', the continuously arriving timber blocked the river and port below the mountain, 'wood blocked the stream', hence the name Mudu originated. The scenery within the territory is beautiful, and the products are abundant. It is also surrounded by famous mountains in Wuzhong such as Tianping, Lingyan, Lion Mountain, and Qizi, hence it is known as the 'Cornucopia'. 🌟Highlights: The ancient town has been involved in the filming of many movies and TV shows, currently with a heavy commercial nature, close to the Seven-mile Shantang. 🚉Travel Tips: Take the Metro Line 1 to Jinfeng Road, transfer to Bus Line 2, and get off at Yanjia Garden Station. If transferring from Suzhou Railway Station, take Metro Line 2 to Laodong Road, then transfer to Metro Line 5 to Lingyanshan Station No.1 Northeast Exit, and walk 400-500 meters.

The most comprehensive travel guide to Mudu Ancient Town, experience a distinctly different ancient town

🌿【Stroll through Mudu, savor the ancient charm and leisure】🏮 🌟 As dawn gently caresses, we are greeted by a unique journey through Mudu. The first stop is a must-visit to Mudu Ancient Town. Between the ancient streets and alleys, the marks of history are faintly visible in the morning light, as if a time machine has taken us back a thousand years.🏞 🚶‍♂️There are various ways to get there: - 🚌 Take bus route 18 to Mudu Ancient Town Station; - 🚗 Drive and park at the parking lots around the ancient town, such as Mengxi Parking Lot or Ancient Town North Parking Lot; - 🚇 Or take Metro Line 3 to Mudu Station and walk to the ancient town from Exit 2. 🛶 Stroll along the ancient canal, admire the ancient bridges, grey tiles, and small boats along the banks, and feel the sediment of the years. The boat tour here is affordably priced (30 yuan/person), allowing for a leisurely journey that does justice to the morning light. 🍴 The cuisine of Mudu has its own unique charm: - Dumplings: Fragrant and refreshing, they melt in your mouth, a specialty snack of the ancient town; - Cake balls: Soft and tasty, with flavors like red bean paste and sesame, suitable to be paired with tea; - Mudu rice wine: Distinctive in taste, rich and mellow, worth a try. 🗺️ Itinerary: Wander through the ancient streets and alleys, feeling the tranquility and slow pace of the ancient town. Start from the ancient canal, pass by the old docks, historical buildings, and explore every corner. ✅ Day1: Essence of Mudu One-Day Tour - 10:00 Arrive at the ancient town, stroll along the ancient streets, and taste local snacks; - For lunch, head to the snack street in the center of the ancient town to try local specialties; - In the afternoon, walk to Mudu Cultural Square to feel the cultural atmosphere of the ancient town; - In the evening, you can choose to enjoy tea or the scenery in a teahouse or bar in the ancient town, feeling the leisurely pace of life. ✅ Day2: In-depth Exploration of Mudu - In the morning, head to the suburban parks around the ancient town to enjoy the natural scenery; - At noon, taste the characteristic dumplings of Mudu, experiencing the authentic food culture; - In the afternoon, visit the Mudu Museum to learn about the history and culture of the ancient town; - In the evening, you can choose to participate in traditional performance activities in Mudu Ancient Town, experiencing the local folk customs. 🍂 Little tips: Bring a book, wander through the ancient streets and alleys, and enjoy the leisurely and comfortable time. Additionally, consider arranging a night tour of the ancient town to experience the different charm of the ancient town under the night sky. May your trip to Mudu be filled with wonderful memories and unforgettable moments.

With an ancient charm and a light dream of a water town

🏠 Want to escape the hustle and bustle of the city and find a quiet place to experience the perfect blend of classical and modern? Then you must not miss the treasure of Suzhou—Mudu Ancient Town! 🏮 🌟【Whispers of History】🌟 Nestled by the shores of Lake Taihu, Mudu Ancient Town approaches you slowly with its 2500-year-old story. It is the cradle of Wu culture, where during the Spring and Autumn period, King Fuchai of Wu built the Gualou Palace to win a beauty's smile, creating the beautiful legend of 'accumulated woods blocking the stream'. Every corner exudes a strong historical atmosphere, as if stepping into an aged scroll of ancient books. 📜🏰 🌿【The Beauty of Gardens】🌿 Stepping into the Yan's Garden, it's like traveling through time, with exquisite pavilions and towers, winding streams, and every stone and wood revealing the ingenuity of the craftsmen. The Hongyin Mountain Villa is a gathering place for literati and poets, feeling the poetic pursuit of life by the ancients. And the ancient pines in the Gusu Garden have witnessed the passage of time. 🌸🌿 🖌️【The Essence of Craftsmanship】🖌️ This is a paradise for handicrafts, from Yuan Yuchang's clay sculptures to Zhu Bishan's silverware, and Lu Zigang's jade carvings, each skill shines with the light of wisdom. Why not take a piece of handicraft home, let this simple art become a beautiful memory of the journey. 🛍️✨ 🏞️【Gifts of Nature】🏞️ Backed by Lingyan Mountain and Tianping Mountain, Mudu Ancient Town is surrounded by green mountains and waters. Walking between ancient bridges and flowing water, watching the fishing boats sing in the evening, you can experience the charm of 'small bridges and flowing water homes' of the south of the Yangtze River. In the early morning or evening, climb the mountains to see the lake and mountains in a panoramic view, which is refreshing and pleasing to the mind. 🏞️🌅 🛌【Comfortable Rest】🛌 Tired from playing? There are plenty of comfortable accommodations inside and outside the ancient town, from quaint inns to modern hotels, there is always one that will let you fall asleep with the gentleness of the water town. At night, why not order a cup of tea at a riverside shop, listen to a piece of Pingtan music, and let your soul completely relax. 🍵🎶 Don't hesitate, set off immediately, let's find those forgotten stories in the slow time of Mudu Ancient Town, and experience an impromptu journey of the water towns in the south of the Yangtze River! ✈️🌈 🏷️

Stroll through the ancient alleys and enjoy a cool summer: A summer escape walking tour of Mudu Ancient Town

🚗 Summer self-driving, a detailed guide to a one-day walking tour of Mudu Ancient Town in Suzhou 🚶‍♂️ 📍Address: No. 188, Shantang Street, Mudu Town, Wuzhong District, Suzhou City 🚗Transportation: • Self-driving: Navigate to "Mudu Ancient Town Tourist Center Parking Lot" to reach the scenic area. • Public Transportation: • Subway: Take subway line 5, get off at Lingyanshan Station, exit from the Northeast Exit of Entrance 1, and walk to Mudu Ancient Town. • Bus: Take bus routes 38, night 3, 508, 2, etc., and get off at Mudu Ancient Town Station. ⛩️Attraction Introduction: • Yan's Garden: A garden purchased by the richest man in the ancient town, Mr. Yan, named "Xian Garden," acclaimed as a "classic work of gardens in the south of the Yangtze River." The garden is divided into four scenic areas representing spring, summer, autumn, and winter, offering beautiful views no matter when you visit. • Hongyin Mountain House: Emperor Qianlong used to visit this place every time he traveled to the south of the Yangtze River, where he would stroll in the garden, watch operas, taste tea, and compose poetry. Therefore, it is also known locally as the "civilian palace" of Emperor Qianlong. • Ancient Pine Garden: Named after a 500-year-old Arhat pine from the Ming Dynasty in the garden. The garden features many attractions such as the Ancient Pine Hall, Phoenix Tower, and Wangshan Tower. • Banyan Official Residence: This is the former residence of Feng Guifen, a disciple of Lin Zexu, an enlightenment thinker and political commentator of the late Qing Dynasty. The residence faces south and overlooks the Xu River, representing a typical early Qing Dynasty residence in the south of the Yangtze River. • Mingyue Ancient Temple: The wood carvings inside the temple are exquisite. When I visited, the outer hall was under renovation, and I could see the production process firsthand. 🎫Ticket and Reservation Method: • Ticket: Mudu Ancient Town itself is free to visit, but there is a charge for the gardens inside, such as 40 yuan for Yan's Garden, 40 yuan for Hongyin Mountain House, 20 yuan for Ancient Pine Garden, and 10 yuan for Banyan Official Residence. 🕙Opening Hours: 08:30-17:00 🎈Tour Route: • Morning: Yan's Garden - Hongyin Mountain House • Afternoon: Ancient Pine Garden - Banyan Official Residence 🍜Food Recommendations: • Black Rice: A specialty of Mudu Ancient Town, the rice is black and shiny with a fragrant aroma. • Bass Lung Soup: Made with the liver and flesh of the bass fish, it has a delicious taste. • Zangshu Mutton: A traditional delicacy of Suzhou, the meat is tender and rich in nutrients. 🏨Accommodation Options: • There are many guesthouses and homestays in the ancient town to choose from. If you are not in a hurry, you can stay for a night and fully immerse yourself in the enchanting atmosphere of this southern water town.

Mudu Ancient Town in Suzhou - Yan's Garden

Yan's Garden is located by Wangjia Bridge on Shantang Street in Mudu Town, facing Xiangxi across the door and backed by Lingyan Mountain. "Although it is in the mountains and forests, the exquisite structure of this garden does not concede to the city" (Tong Jun's "Records of Gardens in Jiangnan"), and it is one of the famous gardens in the south of the Yangtze River. The predecessor of Yan's Garden was the residence of Shen Deqian, a famous scholar in Suzhou during the Qianlong era of the Qing Dynasty and the compiler of 'Ancient Poetry Source'. In the eighth year of the Daoguang era (1828 AD), Shen's descendants transferred this courtyard to Mudu poet Qian Duanxi. Qian built rockeries, dredged ponds, constructed pavilions and towers, with attractions such as Youyu Study, Tiaonong Tower, and Yanqing Pavilion, which were highly praised at the time. Gong Zizhen, a poet, praised the garden with phrases such as "The marvelous structure is extremely natural, not man-made," and "Leaning on the rocks like a beauty." In the twenty-eighth year of the Guangxu era (1902 AD), Mudu's richest man, Yan Guoxin (the grandfather of Taiwanese politician Yan Jiagan), bought the Duan Garden, renovated it, and renamed it 'Xian Garden'. Because the owner's surname was Yan, local people called it 'Yan's Garden'. Yan's Garden, through the efforts of three generations of owners over more than 170 years, has been endowed with a cultural atmosphere and the style of a famous garden, whether through the vicissitudes of time or its cultural heritage. In 1935, Professor Liu Dunzhen, a modern architect, visited the garden twice and was so captivated that he highly praised the layout and local treatment of Yan's Garden, considering it the 'best of the best' among local gardens in Suzhou.

Suzhou Travel Guide‖Three-day Two-night Sightseeing Route

Suzhou Guide|Suzhou Travel|Suzhou Attractions|Suzhou Cuisine In Suzhou·Jiangsu The day is filled with the fireworks aroma of Shantang Street The night is the bright moonlight of Hanshan Temple🌙 ⬇️ 🌟Transportation Arrangements 🚇Subway: Download "Su e行" and scan to ride Bus: Get Suzhou bus electronic card on zfb 🚅Both Suzhou Station and Suzhou North Station are directly accessible by subway, Suzhou Station is preferred 🚌Tongli Ancient Town: Line 4→Scenic Area Shuttle Zhouzhuang: Line 4→Bus 725→758 ⬇️ 🌟Accommodation Arrangements ▫️Recommended to stay near Guanqian Street Near Pingjiang Road historical district Convenient for transportation and food Guanqian Street is a commercial street Pingjiang Road is an old district ▫️For those going to ancient towns, it is suggested to stay near the ancient town on the last day ⬇️ 🌟Route Arrangements DAY1: Humble Administrator's Garden→Suzhou Museum→Lion Grove Garden→Pingjiang Road→Eslite Bookstore→Jinji Lake DAY2: Guanqian Street→Tiger Hill→Hanshan Temple→Shantang Street DAY3: Tongli Ancient Town or Zhouzhuang Ancient Town ☘️Suzhou also has many beautiful garden attractions, you can arrange according to your preferences ⬇️ 🌟Attraction Guide 📍Suzhou Gardens 🔸Tickets🎫Humble Administrator's Garden 80, Lion Grove Garden 40, Lingering Garden 55, Canglang Pavilion 20, Master of the Nets Garden 40 🔸The Humble Administrator's Garden, the foremost of the four famous gardens, is a must-visit, adjacent to the Lion Grove Garden and Suzhou Museum 🔸The rockery in Lion Grove Garden is very interesting! It's like a maze inside 🔸Lingering Garden is similar to the Humble Administrator's Garden, visiting one is enough, Master of the Nets Garden has lights and performances at night . 📍Suzhou Museum 🔸Free, reservation required in advance at Gong Zhonghao 🔸Opening hours 9:00~17:00, closed on Mondays 🔸The main building has a sense of design Geometric design combined with landscape gardening . 📍Shantang Street 🔸Best to visit in the evening, stroll until night to see the beautiful night view 🔸Small bridges and flowing water, white walls and grey tiles, the seven-mile Shantang fully displays the Jiangnan charm . 📍Pingjiang Road 🔸An old street with an ancient charm, many artistic shops 🔸There are many delicious foods🍢 in the alleys to explore and enjoy . 📍Tiger Hill Scenic Spot 🔸Ticket 60 🔸Not visiting Tiger Hill when in Suzhou is a regret - Su Dongpo 🔸Inside, the tea gardens and bamboo forests are very charming, and the Tiger Hill Pagoda is a landmark for checking in . 📍Hanshan Temple 🔸Ticket 20 🔸"Hanshan Temple outside Gusu city" is a calling card of Suzhou tourism There is a bell tower, where you can ring a bell for 5, to experience the ancient charm of the bell . 📍Suzhou Ancient Towns 🔸Tickets🎫Zhouzhuang Ancient Town 100, Tongli Ancient Town 100, Mudu Ancient Town 80 🔸Both Zhouzhuang and Tongli have a strong water town charm, I like both very much 🔸Tongli is more convenient in terms of transportation than Zhouzhuang . 🧡tips ①The ancient canal is ridden on a large boat, the experience is average ②The rooftop terrace of Suzhou Center offers a bird's-eye view of Suzhou, with a unique night view of Jinji Lake and the Gate of the Orient ⬇️ 🌟Food Recommendations ①Suzhou Gusu Banquet authentic Suzhou cuisine Sweet and Sour Mandarin Fish, Drunken Crab (Pingjiang Road store) the chef is an intangible cultural heritage inheritor, the taste is superb ②Maruzen·Bird Town Yakitori Izakaya (Suyue Plaza store) a Japanese izakaya with a great atmosphere, fine ingredients, and well-seasoned dishes

Mudu Ancient Town|||Mudu shares the same age as Suzhou, boasting a history of 2500 years

|||Mudu shares the same age as Suzhou, boasting a history of 2500 years. Mudu Ancient Town|||Mudu shares the same age as Suzhou, boasting a history of 2500 years. The ancient town is located at the foot of Lingyan Mountain, built against the mountain and by the water, its layout is quite different from other ancient towns~ It is also a garden ancient town~ Emperor Kangxi visited Mudu three times during his southern tours, and Emperor Qianlong visited six times on his trips to the south, which shows how captivating the landscape here is. Tour Route: 1 Yan's Garden: The richest man in the ancient town, Mr. Yan, bought the garden and named it 'Xian Garden' - because the owner's surname is Yan, locals affectionately call it 'Yan's Garden' It is praised as a 'classic work of Jiangnan gardens' and 'the best of Suzhou gardens', not to be missed! The garden is arranged into four scenic areas representing spring, summer, autumn, and winter, with seasonal flowers and plants, offering unique views no matter when you visit! 2 Hongyin Mountain Villa: Known as Emperor Qianlong's 'civilian palace' Every time he visited Mudu during his trips to the south, he had to stop by Hongyin Mountain Villa! 'The beauty of the mountains and rivers, the excellence of the ponds and pavilions' - the scenery is truly enchanting! 3 Gusu Garden: The architectural layout features a front residence and a rear garden, with exquisitely carved brick gatehouses, and in the backyard stands an Arhat pine, a relic from the Ming dynasty, over 500 years old, lush and graceful in appearance 4 The Second Top Scholar's Mansion: Free admission! The former residence of Feng Guifen, a disciple of Lin Zexu In 1840, he was awarded the second place in the imperial examination, known as the Second Top Scholar, thus his residence is called 'The Second Top Scholar's Mansion' With scattered halls and lush greenery, it's full of poetic charm~ 5 Mingyue Ancient Temple: No charge! It has a history of a thousand years! The architecture is majestic, solemn, and serene! It must be said, the combination of green trees and classic yellow wall colors is truly unique! Location of the scenic area: 188 Shantang Street, Mudu Town, Wuzhong District, Suzhou City Transportation Guide: Subway: Take Line 5 to Lingyan Mountain Station to reach Mudu Ancient Town Accommodation: Book homestays online in advance Local foods: Dumplings, hot and sour noodles, squid tentacles, barbecue, Zhajiang noodles (Dates paste sesame cakes, Hawthorn cakes, black rice)

Mudu Ancient Town | A favorite destination of Emperor Qianlong during his six visits to the south of the Yangtze River

| A favorite destination of Emperor Qianlong during his six visits to the south of the Yangtze River. "The charm of Mudu in Suzhou is rich, blending the ancient with the present in beautiful spring scenery. Small bridges over flowing water are peacefully abundant, while the pink walls and black tiles retain an ancient elegance." Mudu Ancient Town has a history of over 2500 years and is known as "the foremost town in the Wu region" and "the most exquisite beauty in the south of the Yangtze River". Among the numerous ancient towns in the south of the Yangtze River, Emperor Kangxi and Qianlong visited Mudu multiple times during their southern tours, which is a testament to the prosperity of Mudu Ancient Town during the Qing Dynasty! 🎫Ticket: Free admission to Mudu Ancient Town 👀For visiting gardens, you can buy a joint ticket for 💰78 yuan, which includes ❸ attractions: Yan's Garden, Hongyin Mountain Villa, and Gusu Garden. 🚘Transportation: From Suzhou, you can take the subway line ① to Mudu Station; or subway line ⑤ to Lingyan Mountain Station. Visitors from Jiangsu, Zhejiang, and Shanghai can also choose to drive. 🎈Address: No. 188, Shantang Street, Mudu Town, Wuzhong District, Suzhou City 🌱Must-visit recommendations: Yan's Garden (Xian Garden): The richest man in the ancient town, Mr. Yan, bought the garden and named it "Xian Garden" Because the owner's surname is Yan, locals affectionately call it "Yan's Garden" It is praised as a "classic work of Jiangnan gardens" and "the pride of Suzhou gardens", not to be missed! The garden is divided into four scenic areas representing spring, summer, autumn, and winter, complemented by seasonal flowers and trees, offering unique views at any time of the year. ✔Hongyin Mountain Villa: Known as Emperor Qianlong's "civilian palace" Every time he visited Mudu in the south, he had to visit Hongyin Mountain Villa! "The beauty of the mountains and rivers, the excellence of the pools and pavilions", the scenery is truly enchanting! ✔Gusu Garden: The architectural layout features a front residence and a rear garden, with exquisitely carved brick gatehouses, The backyard has a Luohan pine, a relic from the Ming Dynasty, With over 500 years of history, lush and graceful in appearance. Bangyan Mansion: Free admission‼️ The residence of Feng Guifen, a disciple of Lin Zexu, who was awarded the title of second-place jinshi in the 1840 imperial examination. The second place is known as Bangyan, thus the residence is called "Bangyan Mansion" with scattered halls and a green and poetic atmosphere. 🍛Food: ●The ancient town is full of lemon tea and stinky tofu, which can be avoided! ●Date paste sesame cakes, begonia cakes, and black rice are quite special and worth a try.

The leisure of Mudu Ancient Town

Taking a taxi from Suzhou city center to Mudu Ancient Town takes about twenty minutes. Since we didn't plan ahead, the driver dropped us off in front of an archway, which actually isn't the entrance to the ancient town. After wandering aimlessly for a while, we encountered a professional coachman who, for 50 yuan, could take us to various scenic spots in the ancient town for two hours, which indeed saved us a lot of walking. We visited several gardens in the ancient town, which were almost devoid of tourists, including the former residence of Feng Guifen, but they exuded a quaint and natural charm. In a small tavern in the ancient town, we tasted the owner's authentic sweet osmanthus rice wine, and the slightly tipsy feeling was delightful.

The Emperor Qianlong visited the ancient town of Mudu several times

The ancient town of Mudu, also known as Duchuan and Xujiang, and poetically named Xiangxi, is located in the western part of the ancient city of Suzhou, in the Taihu Lake basin. It is a famous scenic spot in the south of the Yangtze River, known as 'the foremost town in Wuzhong' and 'the most exquisite beauty in the south of the Yangtze River'. The ancient town of Mudu has a history of more than 2,500 years. In August 2008, it was designated as a national 4A-level tourist attraction and is also part of the Taihu Lake scenic area. Mudu is the hometown of traditional Chinese handicrafts. Historically, it has been home to masters such as the clay sculpture artist Yuan Yuchang, the silverware expert Zhu Bishan, the jade carving master Lu Zigang, and the embroidery saint Shen Shou, whose works are all national treasures. There are famous cultural relics and scenic spots such as Yan's Garden, Hongyin Mountain House, Gusu Garden, Bangyan Mansion, Lingyan Mountain, and Tianping Mountain. It is said that several emperors of the Qing Dynasty visited Mudu, especially Emperor Qianlong, who came here six times and left many delightful stories. The ancient town of Mudu has many cultural relics such as ancient houses and gardens that are worth seeing; the preservation of the old streets and houses is good, making life and travel very convenient; the man-powered black-awning boats shuttle through the creeks beside the ancient streets, offering picturesque scenery; the 'Imperial Dock' where the emperor boarded and disembarked and the ancient opera stage where he watched performances, testify to the town's former glory... The ancient town is a place to calm down and enjoy a leisurely visit, and it is also a place where you can find plenty of good photography material to add joy to your life. Although it is an ancient town, due to the solid construction of Suzhou's rail transit, ancient towns like Tongli and Mudu can be reached directly by subway, and even Zhouzhuang ancient town can have most of its journey covered by subway, which is very convenient.

Mudu Ancient Town in Suzhou

🚗🚗🚗 Travel Route: Shantang Street in Mudu → Lingyan Mountain Scenic Area → Yan's Garden → Hongyin Mountain House → Gusu Garden → Banyan Mansion Visitors who come to Suzhou to experience the ancient town can take the No. 5 subway from the city to the Lingyan Mountain Scenic Area in Mudu for a hike, symbolically charging a 1 yuan entrance fee. Mountains are a feature of Wu Zhong, and the temples on Lingyan Mountain are famous. If you don't climb Lingyan Mountain, you can go to Tianping Mountain, 🎫30, it's great to see the red maple in autumn, usually quiet! After descending the mountain, have lunch on Shantang Street in Mudu Ancient Town. The joint ticket for Mudu Ancient Town scenic area is 78 yuan, 66 yuan online, with the Water Charm Jiangsu Travel Annual Card, Suzhou Leisure Annual Card, and Wu Zhong Travel Annual Card, you can enjoy these attractions. Yan's Garden was the home of Mudu's richest man in the past; Mingyue Temple is a small temple on the street, not famous, and not many people visit; Hongyin Mountain House was the residence of Mudu literati Xu Shiyuan, and the civilian palace of Emperor Qianlong; Inside Gusu Garden, there is the Yao Jianping Embroidery Art Museum, where you can appreciate the beauty of Suzhou embroidery, and the Wang Lipeng Art Museum is also located there. The Banyan Mansion was the residence of Feng Guifen, now an educational base, free of charge. If you don't know Feng Guifen, you should be familiar with Lin Zexu and the Westernization Movement; Feng Guifen was a disciple of Lin Zexu and also related to the Westernization Movement! Mudu Ancient Town looks 'shabby', retaining the taste of local life, very few shops have the 'recognition' of ancient town attractions, and the shopping prices are quite fair. I really like the date paste sesame cakes made by Qianshengyuan next to Yan's Garden, 5 yuan each, sometimes still warm. Now they have developed many new flavors, osmanthus flavor, jasmine flavor. It seems quite hard to find warm cakes elsewhere, naturally, many shops on that street sell date paste sesame cakes. There is also black rice, which is Wu Zhentang. The pickles from Luzhi are also inexpensive, and you can buy them there.