There are many things to do and see in
Kunshan but at times you may find it to be a challenge to get around. You can
choose to walk, ride a bicycle, take a taxi or the bus, but they have their
limitations as you do not have the freedom to explore. Some expats will apply
for their driver’s license and purchase a personal car. Motorcycles are an
option, but these licenses are difficult to get in Jiangsu Province. Most people hire a private driver for long
excursions, or buy an e-bike (a scooter that runs on electricity).
TOURIST ATTRACTIONS:
Tinglin
Park
Tinglin Park is situated on the north
end of downtown. It spans over 140 acres
of beautifully landscaped gardens, walkways, trails, and exhibits. There is a 20 RMB entrance fee, however, if
you pay a little more up front, you can enjoy a year’s membership so you can
visit as often as you like.
Tinglin Park is best known for Ma ‘an
Mountain. If you decide to take the
challenge, it is no more than a 15-20 minute hike up to the top, where you can
enjoy the view of the entire city as well as a few refreshments.
The park also includes many other
features, including a zoo, bonsai garden, Kun Opera Museum, paddle boats,
haunted house, and tomb.
**Some features require additional fees.
**The best times to visit are during the
months of April and May when the flowers
bloom..
bloom..
Kun Opera Museum
While you’re at Tinglin Park, you
might take a few minutes to explore the Kun Opera Museum. The building is a
model of antique architecture from the Ming and Qing Dynasties. Kun Opera is
widely known as “the father of all Chinese operas” and has been very
influential to Beijing Opera. Inside the museum, you can see scripts and
paraphernalia used in Kun Opera.
The
Fairmont Hotel is one of the most renowned hotels in Kunshan. It hosts many
community activities for expats, including a scrumptious Thanksgiving and Christmas
dinner. The hotel also offers a spa, buffet, gym, walking/biking trails, and
classes (including yoga, kung fu, etc.) for residents living in Kunshan. It is
located near the famous Yangcheng Lake, which is famous for Hairy Crab. Its
serene environment allows you to take a break from the hustle and bustle of
everyday life, and relax in nature.
Zhou Zhuang Water Town
You may have noticed that China isn’t
exactly that "National Geographic image” you had imagined before moving
here. In fact, many people are speechless to find that in some ways, China is
far more advanced than many western cities.
But, if you are hoping to get a glimpse of China’s past, you can visit
Zhou Zhuang Water Town. It is one of the
three most popular water town destinations outside of Shanghai. Every year, there are several native and
international guests. It is usually
quite busy, especially during beautiful weather and holidays.
While there, you can take boat rides,
buy handmade items from local vendors, and immerse yourself in local
cuisine. Be sure to schedule a driver or
long distance bus as it is quite far from the downtown area.
