Luzhi Water Town (甪直水镇, Luzhi Ancient Town), nestled in the charming city of Suzhou, is a picturesque ancient town with a rich history and cultural heritage. Originally named “Fuli” due to the presence of Fuli Pond to the west of the town, Luzhi underwent a name change to “Luzhi” when a waterway connecting to six different locations, resembling the Chinese character “甪” (lù), was established from Zhigang in the east. This town, with over 2500 years of history, predates its more famous counterparts like Zhouzhuang and Tongli in the Suzhou region.
Luzhi is surrounded by a network of water bodies, including Cheng Lake, Wanqian Lake, Golden Rooster Lake, Dushu Lake, and Yangcheng Lake, creating a serene and enchanting atmosphere around the town. The convergence of major rivers such as Wusong River, Qingshui River, Dongtang River, Nantang River, Jiepu River, and Dazhi River within the town’s boundaries further adds to its unique charm. The central hub of Luzhi is formed by the intersection of three main waterways – Nanshi River, Dongshi River, and Xishi River, with numerous intricate tributaries weaving through the town, creating a rich tapestry of rivers, bridges, and water alleys.
Table of Contents
- Basic Information
- Location and Transportation
- Highlights of Luzhi Water Town
- Vlog about Luzhi Ancient Town
- Useful Tips Summarized from Reviews
- Other Attractions in Kunshan
Basic Information
| Estimated Length of Tour | 3 – 4 hours |
| Ticket Price | The town itself is free. The combined ticket for the attractions costs 55 RMB |
| Opening Hours | Most attractions are open from 8.00 to16.30 |
| Telephone Number | 0086-0512-66191668 |
Location and Transportation
Luzhi Water Town is situated in the Jiangsu Province of China, within the city of Suzhou. Suzhou is renowned for its classical gardens, ancient canals, and historical significance as a hub of Chinese culture and trade. Luzhi Water Town, a hidden treasure within this broader landscape, is located approximately 18 kilometers (11 miles) to the east of Suzhou’s city center and 58 kilometers to the west of Shanghai.
Tourists from Suzhou or Shanghai can take express coaches at major bus stations to get to Luzhi Water Town. If you are coming from other cities, you can first take a highspeed train to Kunshan South Railway Station (昆山南站) and then transfer to a coach or taxi to cover the remaining 20 kilometers.
Highlights of Luzhi Water Town
Historic Courtyard Houses
Luzhi is renowned for its well-preserved ancient architecture, including the Wansheng Rice Mill located on the west bank of Nanshi River, the meticulously restored Shen Family Residence – the former residence of Shen Baihan, an educator and member of the Alliance Society. The Shen Family Residence covers an area of over 3500 square meters, with a restored portion of approximately 1000 square meters open to the public. Additionally, the Wang Tao Memorial Hall, styled in the architectural fashion of the Qing Dynasty, spans 800 square meters and commemorates the life and achievements of Wang Tao. The memorial is divided into three sections: the exhibition hall showcasing Wang Tao’s life, the former residence of Wang Tao, and Tao Garden.
Waterways and Bridges
Luzhi Water Town is adorned with a variety of bridges, each with its distinct style. The Dongda Bridge, located at the eastern end of Luzhi, is the largest ancient stone bridge in the town, spanning across the Wukun Canal. The Sanyuan Bridge, also known as Sanguan Bridge, derives its name from its location at the intersection of three canals in the upper Tang of the central market. The combination of Dongqiao Hutong and the southern embankment of Wanan Bridge forms a scenic duo known as the “Three Steps, Two Bridges” in the middle of the ancient town. Lastly, Wanan Bridge, commonly referred to as Aideng Bridge, stands at the western entrance of Zhongshi’s Xiaotang, a granite beam bridge adding to the town’s architectural splendor.
Baosheng Temple
One of Luzhi’s prominent landmarks is the BaoSheng Temple, a millennium-old Buddhist temple with a history dating back to the year 503 AD during the Southern and Northern Dynasties. The temple, originally named Bao Sheng Jiao Temple, has survived the test of time and stands as a testament to ancient Chinese architecture. Within the temple grounds, the Sculpted Arhat Gallery houses statues believed to be the work of the Tang Dynasty, particularly crafted by the renowned sculptor Yang Hui.
Jiangnan Cultural Park
Adjacent to the ancient town, the Jiangnan Cultural Park covers an area of over 150 acres, seamlessly blending with the town’s historical charm. This classical garden showcases the essence of Jiangnan water towns and features attractions such as the “Luzhi Water Town Women’s Costume Museum,” “Luzhi Historical Relics Museum,” “Sheng Tang Fu Li Street,” “Fu Li Academy,” “Leisure Water Street,” “Performing Arts Workshop,” “Central Garden Area,” and the “Ancient Stage.”
Vlog about Luzhi Ancient Town
Useful Tips Summarized from Reviews
Boat Ride Experience: Enjoy a scenic boat ride in Luzhi Ancient Town for 150 yuan per boat, accommodating up to 6 people. You can choose to share a boat with others, providing a delightful experience.
Luzhi’s Famous Ao Zao Mian at Langqiao: Visit the popular noodle restaurant “Langqiao Ao Zao Mian.” This eatery is well-known for its traditional Suzhou-style fine noodles, served with rich toppings. The signature dish, “Bao Yu Mian,” is highly recommended.
Avoid Visiting on Extremely Hot Days: It is advised not to visit Luzhi Ancient Town on very hot days. The town tends to have fewer visitors, and some shops may not open during extreme heat.
Optimal Timing: Choosing to visit Luzhi Ancient Town in the evening is highly recommended. The town is less crowded, and you may even catch a glimpse of the sunset. Nighttime exploration of the ancient town is also a great option.
Riverside Tea Houses and Local Eateries: Explore the various tea houses and local eateries along the water’s edge. Find a cozy spot, sit by the water, and enjoy the cool breeze. This laid-back atmosphere is perfect for spending a relaxing afternoon playing cards or mahjong.
