Suzhou is second to none as when it comes to the oriental water town’s status as a water excursion mecca. Blessed with an ancient moat and the stylish Golden Rooster Lake (or Jinji Lake) resort, Suzhou water tourism never ceases to amaze.

Cruising on the moat, which is an essential part of the Grand Canal that was built in ancient times, visitors can gain a glimpse of Suzhou’s appealing scenic spots with traditional Chinese characteristics. The cruise itinerary is renowned for the wharfs where visitors can disembark to enjoy an intriguing diversion from their water journey. Among the best-known wharfs are the ancient Xumen Gate and Midu Bridge.

Xumen is one of the few remaining ancient gates while Midu Bridge is the first stop in the water tour itinerary. Changmen, one of ancient Suzhou’s eight gates, is still remembered for its business prosperity in the Ming and Qing Dynasties. When visiting No. 1 Silk Factory, tourists can purchase a variety of silk products, of which the city is highly proud.

Time: 8am to 9pm
Fare: 60 yuan per person (subject to seasonal and oil price variations)
Docking wharf: Ancient Xumen, Midu Bridge

Golden Rooster Lake is the largest inland lake within China’s cities and is named after a legendary story of a golden rooster that once fell into a boat on the lake. The scenic area around Golden Rooster Lake covers an area of 7.4 square kilometers, and is composed of 16 attractions featuring sightseeing, catering and bodybuilding.

Tourism Program: Luxury yachting, speed boating, motor boating, water cycling
Docking wharf: Cape of Lake, Wind Garden, Culture Corridor
Telephone: 0512-62957979