Sprawling along the Yellow Sea coast, Jiangsu is a picturesque province home to the Yangtze River and the Grand Canal. It’s renowned for the UNESCO-listed classical gardens of Suzhou and the ancient city walls of Nanjing and is home to the largest bronze Buddha statue in the world.
Things to do in Jiangsu
Experience one of the masterpieces of ancient Chinese architecture while exploring the Nanjing City Wall, which was built in the 14th century by Emperor Zhu Yuanzhang. Get up close to see the inscriptions on the bricks from scholars, officials and artisans, then step back to admire its immense gates built by 200,000 labourers.
Pay your respects at the mausoleum of Dr. Sun Yat-sen, which celebrates the so-called Father of the Republic of China. Step through the great marble archway to admire the Alhambresque design of the Sacrificial Hall and the embossed images detailing his revolutionary struggles.
Be awed by the largest bronze Buddha statue in the world at the Mount Lingshan Scenic Area, which is nestled on the western shores of Taihu Lake. Climb the 217 steps to the 88-metre-high statue before visiting the inscribed Grand Screen Wall and the Altar of Buddha’s Footprints.
Explore the lively city of Suzhou, renowned for its elaborate gardens. Wander over the zigzag bridges of the Humble Administrator’s Garden and explore the limestone rockery at the Crown of Clouds Peak before taking in the tranquil scene from the viewing pagodas of the Lingering Garden.
Getting around Jiangsu
Nanjing Lukou International Airport is around 40 minutes’ drive from the centre of Nanjing, with smaller airports near Wuxi, Nantong and Changzhou. Both trains and buses connect throughout the province, while boats travel along the Yangtze River and Grand Canal.