The Fengqiao (Maple Bridge) resort sits in a scenic spot, alongside a river, 3.5 kilometers to the west of downtown Suzhou, and is known for its historical relics.

These include the Hanshan (Cold Mountain) Temple, Fengqiao Bridge in the town of Fengqiao, Jiangcun (River Village) Bridge, Tie Ling Pass, and Jiangfeng Islet, as well the Jiangfeng (River Maple) Bridge, Tieling (Iron Bell) Pass, and its canal. The Fengqiao and Jiangcun bridges cross an old canal and give an air of primitive simplicity. Standing on them, tourists can get a panoramic view of Sunzhou and its landscape.

Tieling Pass, also known as the Fengqiao Lookout Tower, was built in the 36th year of the Jiajing emperor of the Ming Dynasty (1557), during a time when Japanese pirates harassed the boats along the Yangtze River area. Suzhou built up Tieling Pass to defend itself and strengthen its defenses from the Fengqiao Bridge to Changmen Gate. The pass is the city’s only relic of the military and civilian struggle against the Japanese from that period.

Jiangfeng Islet combines older parts of the town, the drum tower, trees and flowers, birds twittering, and the sound of bell in a water-friendly setting, providing a vivid picture of Suzhou folk customs, traditional art, and modern culture.

Ticket prices: 25 yuan/person, 45 yuan/person for the boat sightseeing and Pingtan opera.

Getting there: Take Buses No 9, 931, 406, 313, 301, 45 or 324, or Tourist bus No 3.