The charming cherry blossoms in Yuantouzhu, one of Wuxi's 5A scenic spots. [Photo provided to chinadaily.com.cn]

Wuxi's green and livable environment was recently recognized as the Jiangsu province city became a ‘Green World Cities' according to Global Forum on Human Settlements (GFHS), a UN affiliated non-profit organization committed to building sustainable cities and human settlements.

Wuxi is one of only nine Chinese cities to make the grade and the sole representative from Jiangsu province to be included on the UN's Green World City list.

Wuxi, characterized by beautiful rivers, the massive Taihu Lake, charming villages, and historic tea gardens, is a city that continues to blend modern development with its traditional culture. It remains a livable city of affluence and astounding natural beauty.

The area's scenic beauty gained acclaim in ancient times with several emperors including Kangxi and Qianlong in the Qing Dynasty (1644-1911) visiting Wuxi's Huishan on several occasions and noting its pleasing gardens and environment.