Suzhou was twinned with Kanazawa in 1981. The two cities have since initiated friendly exchanges and cooperation in various fields such as economy and trade, culture, craft, education, sports, environmental protection, etc., which has yielded rich fruit.
Kanazawa recently posted pictures of Suzhou ancient towns on its official social platform to present Suzhou culture and scenery to Japanese people.
To deepen people-to-people exchanges amid the pandemic, Suzhou and Kanazawa have held a series of events in various forms, including “Sister Cities amid COVID-19”, “Sister Cities Information Exchange”, “Intangible Cultural Heritage Exhibition” and “Photo Exhibition in Celebration of Friendship”.
Kanazawa has been introducing Suzhou Jiangnan culture on its social platforms since May, 2021. So far, it has published four related articles, presenting classical gardens, cuisines, crafts and ancient towns of Suzhou to its people, which has won universal appraisal.
Suzhou boasts a myriad of ancient towns with Jiangnan characteristics, where you can relax and enjoy the tranquility.
Zhouzhuang
Situated in the southeast of Suzhou, Zhouzhuang Ancient Town is hailed as the No. 1 water town in China. The town built its streets alongside rivers, and 14 ancient stone bridges have been preserved intact.
Must-visit attractions: Fu’an Bridge, Two Bridges, Shen’s Hall
Tongli
Tongli Ancient Town has a history of over 1,000 years. The town is divided into seven sections by 15 rivers, but, with 49 ancient bridges, it remains whole. There are plenty of gardens, temples and residences built in Ming (1368-1644) and Qing (1644-1911) dynasties, including Retreat & Reflection Garden, a UNESCO world heritage site.
Must-try food: Sole-shaped pastry, Zhuangyuan pork knuckle, gorgon fruit cake
Mudu
Mudu Ancient Town nestles in the Taihu Lake basin and is acclaimed as an ancient town of classical gardens since there were up to 30 private gardens back in Ming and Qing dynasties. Handicrafts of Mudu enjoy widespread renown. Remember to take one home!
Luzhi
Located in the east of the city, Luzhi Ancient Town dates back 2,500 years and boasts numerous rivers, bridges, alleys, ancient houses and historical figures. A boat trip is the best way to explore the town.
Must-visit attractions: Baosheng Temple, Ye Shengtao Memorial Hall, Jiangnan Culture Park