Ever dreamed of stepping into a postcard-perfect Chinese water town, where canals take the place of streets and time seems to slow down? That’s exactly how I felt when I visited Tongli Water Town on a beautiful May day. Nestled in Suzhou, this charming town feels like a peaceful escape into ancient China. With over a thousand years of history and so many interesting things to do in Tongli Water Town, you’ll feel like you’ve stepped straight into a kung fu movie—minus the flying kicks, of course!
By the way, if you haven’t already, be sure to check out my other blog post, “9 Things to Know Before Visiting Tongli“, where I share tips on how to get to Tongli Water Town and some advice to make your visit even more unforgettable!
But for now, let’s jump into the 12 things to do in Tongli Water Town that you just can’t miss!
1. Enjoy the Scenic Waterways on a Sampan
First up, you’ve got to hop on a sampan. Think of it as the Chinese gondola, but instead of serenades, you get a peaceful ride through centuries-old canals. You’ll glide past traditional homes, and arched stone bridges, and probably spot a few locals going about their day.
Each sampan tour normally takes half an hour. And while on board, remember to sit back, relax, and try not to lean too far when taking those perfect Instagram shots—nobody wants to go viral for falling into a canal.
2. Cosplay an Ancient Chinese
Ever wondered what you’d look like in ancient Chinese attire? Well, wonder no more! At Tongli Water Town in Suzhou, you will have the chance to rent a traditional costume and wander around like you’ve just stepped straight out of a period drama.
My cousin decided to buy a hanfu (a traditional Chinese costume) at one of the many shops in Tongli Water Town. While it was a bit pricier than renting, she figured it was a great souvenir she could wear again on future trips across China. She absolutely loved the experience, and I have to say, watching her in the hanfu definitely made the whole thing even more fun!
3. Visit Tuisi Garden (A UNESCO World Heritage Site)
If you love classical Chinese gardens, then visiting Tuisi Garden is definitely one of the best things to do in Tongli Water Town. Recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, this beautifully designed retreat was built between 1885 and 1887 during the Qing Dynasty. It was the brainchild of Ren Lansheng, a former military governor who returned to his hometown after being demoted. The name Tuisi comes from an old saying about serving with loyalty and retreating with reflection—fitting for a place meant for quiet contemplation.
What makes Tuisi Garden truly special is its unique layout. Unlike many traditional gardens, it adapts to its surroundings, creating a seamless flow between halls, courtyards, and lush greenery. The back garden is especially fascinating, designed to make a small space feel expansive, with carefully arranged water features, rocks, and pavilions that bring nature right to your fingertips. As I wandered through, I was amazed by how every turn revealed a new perspective—like a living painting.
4. Check out the Pearl Tower
No, not the one in Shanghai! The Pearl Tower in Tongli is more low-key, but it’s packed with history and romance. Tucked away in the north of Shipin Lane, this grand estate is made up of four main sections: the Yushi’s Residence, the Back Garden, the Archway, and the Ancestral Hall.
But what really makes the Pearl Tower special isn’t just its stunning architecture—it’s the love story behind it. This place is the birthplace of the famous Xi Opera “Pearl Tower,” a beloved tale that has been passed down for generations in Jiangnan. Walking through the halls and gardens, I could almost feel the echoes of this timeless romance in the air!
5. Eat Local Specialties at a Restaurant
If you find yourself hungry while exploring Tongli Water Town, don’t hesitate to step into one of the many small eateries or restaurants scattered throughout the town. While I wouldn’t say the food was mind-blowing, it definitely offered an authentic taste of local flavors.
We tried a stewed pork dish and a white shrimp salted dish—both were decent, nothing too extraordinary, but still a nice way to experience the regional specialties.
6. Enjoy the Night Atmosphere
During the day, I found Tongli absolutely charming—but by night, it felt downright magical. As the sun set, lanterns flickered to life, casting a warm, golden glow over the canals. I took a slow evening stroll through the town, letting the peaceful atmosphere sink in. It was romantic, it was serene, and for a moment, I completely forgot about the rush of the modern world.
Plus, the ticket counter is closed after 5 PM, so if you plan to visit Tongli Water Town by night, come after that and enjoy a free entrance!
7. Walk Across the Famous Three Bridges
When I visited Tongli, I couldn’t pass up the chance to walk across its famous Three Bridges—Taiping, Jili, and Changqing. Locals say that crossing all three brings peace, luck, and celebration. Even if you’re not superstitious (like me hehe), these bridges are absolutely stunning and worth a visit for their beauty alone.
And hey, if I can soak in gorgeous views and boost my luck at the same time, that’s a win in my book! 😛
8. Get Lost in Narrow Alleys
Tongli is like a maze of narrow alleys that just beg to be explored. Some of them are so tiny, I honestly felt like I was squeezing through history itself. It was such a fun way to get off the beaten path and discover hidden corners of the town that most tourists miss. Plus, it’s a great way to burn off those delicious dumplings I couldn’t resist (because, you know, calories don’t count… but just in case, it was a win-win!).
9. Visit Halls Included in Your Ticket – Jiayin Hall, Gengle Hall, and Chongben Hall
Your entrance ticket includes access to some pretty cool historical halls. Each one has its own story and unique architecture, so make sure to visit Jiayin Hall, Gengle Hall, and Chongben Hall. These halls are like time capsules, giving you a peek into life during different Chinese dynasties. It’s like walking through a museum without the ‘Do Not Touch’ signs everywhere!
10. Spend the Night (and Wake Up Early to See Local Life)
If you have the time, consider staying overnight in Tongli Water Town. Waking up early in this quiet, almost-empty town is an experience you won’t forget. You’ll get to see locals starting their day—women washing clothes in the canals, shopkeepers setting up their stalls—and it feels like stepping into a different world. Plus, you can enjoy the town before the crowds arrive.
Some hotels in Tongli Water Town that have received many recommendations from visitors around the world:
Tongli Slowlife River View Inn
11. Shop for Souvenirs and Snack on Local Treats
Another cool things to do in Tongli Water Town is to explore its charming local shops. Scattered throughout the town, these stores sell everything from adorable souvenirs to mouthwatering street food. When I visited, the weather was pretty hot, so I treated myself to a local bubble milk tea which was unbelievably refreshing!
A little tip: the deeper you go into Tongli, the pricier the shops tend to be, so if you need to grab water or snacks, it’s best to buy them near the entrance.
12. Take a Leisurely Stroll and Soak in the Scenery
Sometimes, the best way to experience a place is simply by walking through it—and that’s especially true in Tongli.
For me, one of the most relaxing things to do in Tongli Water Town is to take a slow stroll through its picturesque streets, watching daily life unfold and soaking in the town’s old-world charm. With its scenic canals, stone bridges, and traditional architecture, every corner feels like a step back in time. Whether you’re admiring the reflections on the water or just enjoying the peaceful atmosphere, I believe the beauty of Tongli alone makes the visit worthwhile.
12 things to do in Tongli Water Town in Suzhou
I hope this list of 12 things to do in Tongli Water Town is useful for you! Whether you’re a history buff, a foodie, or just someone looking for a peaceful escape, I can honestly say that Tongli Water Town has something for everyone. I had such a great time there, and it was the perfect mix of relaxation and exploration.
And if you find yourself with extra time, Suzhou itself has so much more to offer, from the famous Humble Administrator’s Garden to the incredible Suzhou Museum. I had a blast exploring these places too, and I can’t wait to go back!
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