Wuxi

Wuxi, China

The laidback city in south China's Jiangsu province borders on the Yangtze River to the north and Taihu Lake to the south. A land of plenty, Wuxi has been the muse for myriad folk songs.

The city is a delightful matrix of waterways spanned by gracefully arching bridges and alleyways flanked by traditional courtyard homes. In the distance is the expansive blue of Taihu Lake with a hint of boat sails' white. An open - air traditional Chinese landscape painting will soothe your nerves.

Getting around

• Ancient canal

  A tonic boat ride on the Wuxi section of a 2500-year - old, 1000 - kilometer-plus canal yields myriad charming vistas and comes as highly recommended.

• Yuantouzhu

  Your Wuxi itinerary would be nothing without a jaunt into the 500 - hectare islet on Taihu Lake. First hike up to the top of the neighboring Luding Hill crowned by Shutian Pavilion for a commanding view. On the islet, wander through the blossoms on winding paths; dabble your feet in the warm water; daydream on a waterfront rock, watching the ripples spreading across the water; grab a drink in a teahouse, looking into the distant blue; take a boat ride, gorging yourself on the surrounding eye candies. Time flies.

• Xihui

  With its charming lakes, massive trees and rolling hills, this 90 - hectare scenic area used to be such a favorite playground of the Qing emperors that part of it was recreated in Beijing's Summer Palace.

• Huishan

  This well - preserved ancient neighborhood teems with historical architecture and sites and has gained its reputation as the open - air museum on Wuxi's history and culture. Watch local artisans make mud figurines.

• Donglin Shuyuan

  Get the lowdown on what an ancient Chinese college looked like.

  
  
  
• Nanchan Temple

  A local holy place for meditation and soul -searching. A 43 - meter - high pagoda towers over the temple ground. For a taste of the local life, wander around on the temple - fronting plaza where stamps, ancient coins, antiques, flowers and birds are on sale before sitting down for tea and snacks.