Changzhou & Suzhou 6-Day Exploration: A Journey Through History and Nature

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by Emily

April 21, 2024 · 3 min read

Changzhou Suzhou 6 Days Itinerary

Embark on a 6-day journey through the vibrant cities of Changzhou and Suzhou, where history and modernity blend seamlessly. Begin your adventure at the exhilarating Chinese Dinosaur Park in Changzhou, where prehistoric wonders come to life, and unwind at the Dino-Valley Hotspring. Day two takes you to the enchanting Oriental Salt Lake City, a place where culture and natural beauty meet. On the third day, immerse yourself in the tranquility of Tianmu Lake Scenic Area before exploring the lush Nanshan Bamboo Sea. Transition to the historical city of Suzhou on day four, where you'll visit the serene Hanshan Temple, the exquisite Lingering Garden, and the iconic Tiger Hill. Day five is dedicated to the cultural treasures of Suzhou, including the architecturally stunning Suzhou Museum, the majestic Humble Administrator's Garden, and the enchanting Lion Forest Garden. Conclude your trip with a step back in time at Tongli Ancient Town and the picturesque waterways of Zhouzhuang on day six. Each day is filled with unique experiences that capture the essence of these two remarkable cities.

Day 1: Prehistoric Adventures and Relaxing Soaks in Changzhou

1

Chinese Dinosaur Park

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Kickstart your Changzhou escapade with a journey back in time at the Chinese Dinosaur Park, nestled in the heart of Xinbei District. As the first stop on our itinerary, this theme park offers a full day of excitement with its life-sized dinosaur replicas, thrilling rides, and educational exhibits. The park's sprawling landscapes and interactive experiences promise to captivate both the young and the young at heart, making it an unforgettable start to your six-day adventure.

Attraction Info

  • No. 60, Hehai Road, Xinbei District, Changzhou City
  • Suggested tour duration: 1-2 days
  • Open from 04/08-04/28,Fri-Sun,9:00am-9:00pm;Open from 04/29-04/30,9:00am-5:00pm;Open from 04/08-04/28,Mon-Thu,9:00am-5:00pm;Open from 05/01-05/05,9:00am-9:00pm;Open from 05/06-05/31,Fri-Sun,9:00am-9:00pm;Open from 05/06-05/31,Mon-Thu,9:00am-5:00pm

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2

Dino-Valley Hotspring

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After a day of prehistoric exploration, unwind at the Dino-Valley Hotspring, just a stone's throw away from the dinosaur thrills. This serene oasis is the perfect spot to rejuvenate for three hours, with its therapeutic hot springs that are said to have healing properties. Nestled within the Global Dinosaur City, the hotspring's tranquil ambiance and variety of pools offer a soothing conclusion to an exhilarating day, setting a relaxed pace for the days to come.

Attraction Info

  • No. 58 Hehai East Road, Global Dinosaur City, Xinbei District, Changzhou City
  • Suggested tour duration: 3-4 hour
  • Open from 01/01-02/08,2:00pm-10:00pm;Open 12:00pm-6:00pm on 02/09;Open from 02/10-02/17,12:00pm-10:00pm;Open from 02/18-12/31,2:00pm-10:00pm

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Day 2: Exploring the Enchanting Oriental Salt Lake City

1

Oriental Salt Lake City

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Begin your second day in the heart of Changzhou with a full-day adventure at the Oriental Salt Lake City, a place where the charm of ancient Chinese culture and the tranquility of nature blend seamlessly. Nestled at No. 9 Yuxian Road, Xueyu Town, in the Jintan District, this attraction promises a day filled with discovery and enchantment. As you step into this cultural haven, you'll be greeted by architecture that whispers tales of a bygone era, set against the backdrop of serene salt lake waters. The Oriental Salt Lake City is not just a feast for the eyes; it's an immersive experience where every path leads to a new story, every corner presents a picturesque vista, and every moment is steeped in the rich heritage of China's storied past.

Attraction Info

  • No. 9 Yuxian Road, Xueyu Town, Jintan District, Changzhou City
  • Suggested tour duration: 1-2 days
  • Open from 9:30am-8:00pm

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Day 3: Serenity Amidst Changzhou's Natural Wonders

1

Tianmu Lake Scenic Area

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Embark on a tranquil retreat as you begin Day 3 of your journey at the Tianmu Lake Scenic Area. Nestled within Liyang City, this picturesque destination promises a serene escape with its crystal-clear waters and lush surroundings. Allocate around 3 hours to fully immerse yourself in the beauty of the lake, which is cradled by rolling hills and dotted with charming islets. The scenic area offers a perfect blend of relaxation and exploration, with activities ranging from leisurely boat rides to scenic walks along the lake's perimeter at 1 Huanhu West Road.

Attraction Info

  • 1 huanhu west road, tianmu lake town, liyang city, changzhou city, jiangsu province
  • Suggested tour duration: 3-4 hour
  • Open from 01/01-04/30,8:00am-5:00pm;Open from 05/01-10/07,8:00am-5:30pm;Open from 10/08-12/31,8:00am-5:00pm,Instructions for taking the Cruise: Cruise operation hours from departure pier to Ocean World pier: 08:30-16:30 (the Cruise does not dock at Longxing Island attractions after 15:30); Longxing Island pier- Cruise operation hours: 10:30-17 :00;

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2

Nanshan Bamboo Sea

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Continue your day's adventure with a visit to the Nanshan Bamboo Sea, a mere stone's throw away from Tianmu Lake. This verdant paradise, located within the Tianmu Lake Tourist Resort, is a celebration of bamboo's timeless elegance. Spend another 3 hours wandering through the expansive bamboo groves, where the gentle rustling of leaves and the soft, earthy scent of bamboo create a soothing atmosphere. The Nanshan Bamboo Sea is not only a feast for the eyes but also a testament to the region's commitment to preserving its natural heritage.

Attraction Info

  • Nanshan Bamboo Seaview Area, Tianmu Lake Tourist Resort, Fuyang City, Changzhou
  • Suggested tour duration: 3-4 hour
  • Open from 8:30am-5:00pm

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Day 4: Spiritual Serenity and Garden Grandeur in Suzhou

1

Hanshan Temple

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Begin your fourth day with a tranquil visit to the historic Hanshan Temple, a site that has inspired poets and pilgrims for centuries. Nestled in the Gusu District of Suzhou City, this temple offers a serene escape with its ancient bell tower and time-honored halls. Spend a couple of hours absorbing the spiritual ambiance and exploring the architectural marvels that have stood the test of time.

Attraction Info

  • No. 24, Hanshan Temple, Gusu District, Suzhou City
  • Suggested tour duration: 2-3 hour
  • Open from 7:30am-6:00pm

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2

Lingering Garden

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Next, immerse yourself in the classical beauty of the Lingering Garden. Located in the Jinyu District, this UNESCO World Heritage site is a masterpiece of Chinese landscape gardening. With its harmonious blend of natural scenery and historic buildings, the garden is a picturesque retreat where art and nature intertwine. Dedicate an hour to meander through the exquisite pathways and admire the meticulously crafted garden spaces.

Attraction Info

  • No. 338, Liuyuan Road, Yumenwai, Jinyu District, Suzhou City
  • Suggested tour duration: 1-2 hour
  • Open from 11/01-02/28,7:30am-5:00pm;Open from 03/01-10/31,7:30am-5:30pm;Open from 7:30am-6:00pm during Ching Ming Festival,Labour Day,Mid-Autumn Festival,China's national day

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3

Tiger Hill

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Conclude your day's exploration at Tiger Hill, a must-visit attraction that's as majestic as its name suggests. Situated in the Gusu District, Tiger Hill is renowned for its natural beauty and historical significance. Spend the remaining two hours of your day wandering through the lush gardens, discovering ancient relics, and climbing up to the famous leaning pagoda that offers a panoramic view of Suzhou's enchanting landscape.

Attraction Info

  • No. 8 Shanmen, Gusu District, Suzhou City
  • Suggested tour duration: 2-4 hour
  • Open from 05/01-10/31,7:30am-6:00pm;Open from 11/01-04/30,7:30am-5:30pm;Open from 7:30am-6:00pm during Ching Ming Festival

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Day 5: Cultural Wonders and Ancient Gardens of Suzhou

1

Suzhou Museum

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Kicking off the penultimate day of our journey, the Suzhou Museum beckons as our first stop. Designed by the renowned architect I.M. Pei, this museum is a modern masterpiece housing ancient Chinese art, relics, and exquisite exhibits. Spend a couple of hours immersed in the rich tapestry of Suzhou's history, marveling at the seamless blend of traditional and contemporary architecture that makes this museum a visual delight.

Attraction Info

  • 204 Northeast Street, Gusu District, Suzhou City
  • Suggested tour duration: 2-4 hour
  • Open on Tue-Sun,9:00am-5:00pm;Closed on Mon;Open from 9:00am-5:00pm during New Year's Day,Spring Festival,Ching Ming Festival,Labour Day,Dragon Boat Festival,Mid-Autumn Festival,China's national day

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2

Humble Administrator's Garden

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Next on our cultural exploration is the Humble Administrator's Garden, a stunning example of Ming Dynasty landscape design and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Allocate two hours to meander through the sprawling water features, elegant pavilions, and meticulously maintained flora. This garden is a tranquil oasis that offers a glimpse into the sophisticated garden culture of ancient China.

Attraction Info

  • No.178, Northeast Street, Pingjiang District, Suzhou City
  • Suggested tour duration: 2-3 hour
  • Open from 03/01-10/31,7:30am-5:30pm;Open from 11/01-02/28,7:30am-5:00pm;Open from 7:30am-6:00pm during Ching Ming Festival,Labour Day,Mid-Autumn Festival,China's national day
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3

Lion Forest Garden

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Concluding our day's adventure, we'll visit the Lion Forest Garden, another of Suzhou's famed classical gardens. With its labyrinth of rock formations resembling a pride of lions, this garden is a unique blend of natural beauty and imaginative landscaping. Although the smallest of today's visits, spending an hour here promises to be an enchanting experience that encapsulates the spirit of traditional Chinese garden design.

Attraction Info

  • No. 23, Garden Road, Gusu District, Suzhou City
  • Suggested tour duration: 1-2 hour
  • Open from 03/01-10/31,7:30am-5:30pm;Open from 11/01-02/28,7:30am-5:00pm;Open from 7:30am-6:00pm during Ching Ming Festival,Labour Day,Mid-Autumn Festival,China's national day

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Day 6: Timeless Elegance in Tongli and Zhouzhuang

1

Tongli Ancient Town

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As the final day of our Changzhou Suzhou journey unfolds, we begin with a step back in time at Tongli Ancient Town, nestled in Wujiang District of Suzhou City. This well-preserved water town, with a history spanning over a thousand years, invites visitors to explore its tranquil waterways, stone bridges, and classical architecture. Spend your day meandering through the narrow lanes, taking in the serene atmosphere and the reflection of ancient buildings in the water, which tell tales of the town's storied past.

Attraction Info

  • Tongli Ancient Town, Wujiang District, Suzhou City
  • Suggested tour duration: 0.5-1 day
  • Open from 8:00am-5:15pm

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2

Zhouzhuang

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Continuing the journey through time, our next stop is Zhouzhuang, located in Kunshan City. Known as one of China's most beautiful water towns, Zhouzhuang offers a day's escape into a landscape where art and history converge. Wander along the canals, cross the iconic twin bridges, and visit historic houses that have stood the test of time. The town's charm is further enhanced in the evening when the lanterns light up, casting a warm glow over the water, making it a perfect conclusion to our six-day exploration.

Attraction Info

  • No.43, Quanfu Road, Zhouzhuang Town, Kunshan City, Jiangsu Province
  • Suggested tour duration: 0.5-1 day
  • Open from 01/01-03/31,7:30am-8:00pm;Open from 04/01-12/31,7:30am-9:00pm,The opening hours of sub-attractions are subject to actual conditions on site.

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* All user reviews in this article have been translated by machine.

* The information above is subject to change at any time. For the latest information, please check the websites of hotels and attractions.

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Changzhou Suzhou 6 Days Itinerary