CHARMING DESTINATIONS » ANCIENT TOWNS
Suzhou-adjacent water towns, canal walks, and old streets that still feel best after sunset.
Just west of central Shanghai, Zhujiajiao is the easiest under-the-radar water-town day trip for visitors who want canals, old lanes, and a place that still feels connected to the city.
By Daniel Wu · 8 min
South of Suzhou and east of Kunshan, Qiandeng is smaller, quieter, and more historical than its reputation suggests. It works especially well for travelers who want a gentler, less obvious Jiangnan stop.
By Sofia Reyes · 8 min
About 18 km east of Suzhou, Tongli is one of the cleanest introductions to Jiangnan canal-town life: bridges, lanes, courtyards, and water that seems to slow the whole town down.
By Daniel Wu · 8 min
About 30 km southeast of Suzhou, Zhouzhuang is the archetypal Jiangnan water town: canals, stone bridges, old courtyards, and evenings that look better than the postcards.
By Daniel Wu · 9 min
