In March, Suzhou is imbued with all the gentleness of the Jiangnan region

After visiting all the ancient towns in Jiangnan, the one that I find most unforgettable is Tongli. Tongli Ancient Town in March seems to have absorbed all the gentleness of Jiangnan, where every blooming spring flower, every willow branch, and every drop of drizzle seems to hide endless tenderness, making it hard for one to leave. 🌿Tongli Ancient Town 🌿Zhongchuan South Road, Wujiang District, Suzhou📍 🌿Ticket Price💰100 (Free before 8 am and after 5 pm) 🌲One of the six famous ancient towns in Jiangnan, formerly known as 'Futu', Tongli dates back to the Song Dynasty, with a history of a thousand years. 🌲Tongli is a typical Suzhou-style garden with virtually no dead ends; every corner is a scene in itself. Every plant, flower, and stone in the garden seems to tell a story. 🌲Many bridges in the garden are well-preserved, with Taiping Bridge, Jili Bridge, and Changqing Bridge collectively known as 'Three Bridges'. Walking across the 'Three Bridges' is a local custom, symbolizing good fortune and wealth. 🌲Luoxingzhou is a small island within the lake of Tongli Ancient Town, accessible only by boat. It is said to be the prototype for the Yanziwu in Jin Yong's 'Demi-Gods and Semi-Devils'. 🌲Commercial traces are inevitable in ancient Jiangnan towns, but fortunately, we came in March when there were not many people. It was a bit cold, but the scenery was beautiful. The willows were just budding, and the cherry blossoms were just blooming, especially atmospheric when it was drizzling. 🌲In the ancient town, we stumbled upon an inconspicuous little shop without even a signboard. The owner is a craftsman who makes stunning bamboo clothing and has delicately drawn the 'Prosperous Suzhou' map. A year has passed, and I wonder if it's completed. If you come across this shop, remember to take a look. 🌲Before entering the scenic area, there is a pedestrian street with food and drink available. You can try the 'Zhuangyuan Hoof', 'Tu Si Cake', 'Red Bean Cake', 'Bull Nose Crisp', 'Sock Bottom Crisp', and many more. 🌲There is a cozy cafe in the garden, not big, but very warm, and great for taking photos. 🌲You can row a boat in the garden, which costs 💰120 for a boat that can carry 6 people.