Wuxi Travel Guide

Explore the hidden gem of Wuxi in East China with our comprehensive travel guide. Discover the best places to visit, hike, bike, and dine, as well as where to stay and transportation options.


Introduction to Wuxi

Wuxi, a city located in the southern part of Jiangsu Province in East China, is a hidden gem that’s waiting to be discovered. Despite its proximity to other cities such as Suzhou and Shanghai, Wuxi still retains its charm and cultural heritage. The city is known for its stunning natural scenery and rich history, making it a popular destination among travelers.

List of Places to Visit in Wuxi

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

Wuxi is known for its rich cultural heritage, evident in various museums and historical sites throughout the city.

  • Lingshan Grand Buddha: One of the must-visit attractions in Wuxi, this 88-meter-tall Buddha statue is a popular pilgrimage site.
  • Three Kingdoms City: A historic theme park inspired by the Three Kingdoms period, it’s a great place to learn more about Chinese history.
  • Nanchan Temple: The oldest and most well-preserved Buddhist temple in Wuxi, it houses various collections of Buddhist scriptures and relics.

Natural Attractions of Wuxi: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

Wuxi is home to some of the most beautiful natural scenery in China.

  • Taihu Lake: The third-largest freshwater lake in China, it’s a popular spot for boat tours and hiking.
  • Plum Garden: Known for its scenic views during the plum blossom season, this garden is a great place to relax and enjoy the natural beauty of Wuxi.
  • Turtle Head Isle: A small island located in the Taihu Lake, it’s a great place for hiking, biking, and enjoying the panoramic views of the lake.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Wuxi

Wuxi is a great place for outdoor enthusiasts, with various hiking and biking routes throughout the city. Some of the popular routes include:

  • Lingshan Ring Road: A 22-kilometer route that circles the Lingshan Grand Buddha, offering breathtaking views of the surrounding area.
  • Turtle Head Isle Bike Route: A 15.2-kilometer biking route that takes you around Turtle Head Isle and the Taihu Lake.
  • Wuxi Ancient Canal Bike Trail: A 35-kilometer bike trail that follows the ancient canal, providing a glimpse into the city’s history and culture.

Best Things to Do in Wuxi: Activities and Tours

Apart from the cultural and natural attractions, Wuxi also offers various activities and tours for visitors.

  • China Dinosaurs Park: A dinosaur theme park with various rides, shows, and educational exhibits, perfect for families with kids.
  • Wuxi Yuantouzhu Scenic Area: A scenic area surrounding the Taihu Lake, it offers various activities such as paragliding, boating, and horse riding.
  • Xihui Park: An eco-park with various hiking trails, temples, and historical sites, it’s a great place for nature and history enthusiasts.

Week-Long Itinerary for Wuxi

Day 1 - Lingshan Grand Buddha and Lingshan Buddhist Scenic Spot

Day 2 - Taihu Lake and Plum Garden

Day 3 - Turtle Head Isle and Yuantouzhu Scenic Area

Day 4 - City tour: Three Kingdoms City, Nanchan Temple, and Wuxi Museum

Day 5 - China Dinosaurs Park and Xihui Park

Day 6 - Wuxi Ancient Canal Bike Trail and Huishan Ancient Town

Day 7 - Free day for relaxation or visiting places you missed on earlier days.

Food and Drink Scene of Wuxi

Must-Try Dishes

Wuxi is known for its culinary heritage, with various dishes that are unique to the city.

  • Wuxi Spiced Spare Ribs: Braised pork spare ribs with a sweet and savory sauce.
  • Taihu Lake Shrimp: Freshwater shrimp from Taihu Lake, usually served stir-fried with vegetables.
  • Wuxi Fried Rice Cake: Fried rice cake with vegetables and meat, a popular breakfast dish in Wuxi.

Local Beverages

  • Sancha Tea: A type of green tea grown in the Wuxi area, known for its fresh and fragrant taste.
  • Maotai: A famous brand of baijiu (Chinese liquor), produced in Guizhou Province but widely available in Wuxi.

Where to Stay in Wuxi: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

Wuxi offers various accommodation options for travelers, from luxury hotels to budget guesthouses.

  • Grand Park Hotel: Located in the city center, it’s a five-star hotel with modern amenities.
  • Qianlvou Guesthouse: A traditional-style guesthouse located near the Plum Garden, offering a glimpse into local life and culture.
  • Youth Hostel: A budget option for backpackers and young travelers, located in various parts of the city.

What to Buy in Wuxi: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

  • Huishan Clay Figurines: Handmade clay figurines depicting various characters from Chinese folklore and mythology.
  • Wu Embroidery: A type of traditional embroidery with a history dating back to the Han Dynasty, depicting various designs and patterns.
  • Taihu Lake Pearl Jewelry: Freshwater pearls from Taihu Lake, a popular souvenir for visitors.

Local Culture and Customs of Wuxi

Wuxi has a rich cultural tradition, evident in its festivals and customs.

  • Marriage Customs: Traditional weddings in Wuxi involve various ceremonies and rituals, such as the exchange of betrothal gifts and the wedding tea ceremony.
  • Wuxi Opera: A traditional form of opera unique to Wuxi, it’s known for its melodious and expressive singing style.
  • Mid-Autumn Festival: Celebrated on the 15th day of the eighth lunar month, it’s a popular festival in Wuxi, where families gather to enjoy mooncakes and admire the full moon.

Best Time to Visit Wuxi

The best time to visit Wuxi is during the spring and autumn seasons, from March to May and September to November, respectively. The weather is mild and pleasant, with fewer crowds than the peak season in summer. The plum blossom season in late February to early March is also worth a visit.

Do’s and Don’ts of Wuxi

Do:

  • Greet people with a smile and a nod, especially when entering a store or restaurant.
  • Try local food and drink, as Wuxi has a unique culinary heritage.
  • Respect local customs and traditions, such as removing your shoes before entering someone’s home.

Don’t:

  • Haggle too much when shopping, as it’s not common in Wuxi.
  • Behave inappropriately in public, such as littering or spitting.
  • Take photographs of people or places without permission.

Safety and Health

Safety in Wuxi

Wuxi is a relatively safe city with a low crime rate. However, travelers should still take precautions, such as avoiding crowded areas at night and keeping valuables secure while traveling.

Health in Wuxi

Tap water is not drinkable in Wuxi, so visitors should stick to bottled water. Air pollution can also be a concern, especially during the winter season. Travelers with respiratory conditions should take precautions and monitor air quality levels.

Getting to Wuxi: Transportation Options and Logistics

Airports Near Wuxi

  • Sunan Shuofang International Airport: Located in Wuxi, it’s the main airport serving the city, with flights to various domestic and international destinations.

Bus Stations Near Wuxi

  • Wuxi Bus Station: Located in the city center, it offers bus services to various destinations in Jiangsu Province and neighboring regions.

Other Options

  • Train: Wuxi is also accessible through its two train stations, Wuxi Railway Station and Wuxi East Railway Station, with high-speed rail services to major cities in China.
  • Taxi/Car Rental: Taxis and car rentals are available in Wuxi, but visitors should be mindful of traffic congestion, especially in the city center.

How to Get Around in Wuxi

Wuxi has a convenient public transport system, with buses and a metro system. Taxis and ride-hailing services such as Didi are also available.

Where to Go Next from Wuxi: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

  • Suzhou: A neighboring city known for its beautiful classical gardens and canals, it’s only a one-hour train ride away from Wuxi.
  • Shanghai: China’s largest city is only a two-hour train ride away, offering various attractions such as the Bund and the Oriental Pearl Tower.
  • Nanjing: The capital city of Jiangsu Province, it’s known for its rich history and cultural heritage, with various museums and historical sites to visit.

Conclusion

Wuxi is a hidden gem in East China, waiting to be discovered by travelers looking for a unique cultural and natural experience. With this comprehensive travel guide, visitors can explore the best places to visit, hike, bike, and dine, as well as where to stay and transportation options. From the Lingshan Grand Buddha to the Taihu Lake, Wuxi has something to offer for everyone.

Garden in Wuxi Garden in Wuxi Bridge along the coast of Taihu Bridge along the coast of Taihu Three Kingdoms Water Margin City Gate Three Kingdoms Water Margin City Gate Huixianqiao Huixianqiao Fairy Island of Taihu Lake Fairy Island of Taihu Lake