What Are the Best Family-Friendly Activities in Wuxi? Exploring China's Natural, Cultural, and Historical Beauty

Sitting on the shores of Taihu Lake, Wuxi is an ancient city that meets the modern world. With a variety of attractions, it’s the ideal family destination. Not to mention the accommodation options that make vacationing in the city an absolute joy! Wuxi offers something for everyone, so bring your kids along too. This article explores the fun things you can do as a family in the city.

img via flickr

Huishan Ancient Town

Home to over 100 ancestral halls, Huishan Ancient Town promises a journey into China’s past. Most of these halls are located along the Longtou River and Zhi Street, with some also found on Heng Street. Only a few admit visitors, but you can admire the rest from outside. All these buildings don the classic Chinese style with black tiles, white walls, and wooden doors and windows. Some even feature small gardens. Later, head to the northern part of the town to see the China Clay Figurines Museum. The museum has a collection of beautiful figurines from around the world. You can also see skilled artisans at work.Besides ancient buildings, the town features cafes, tea houses, and bookstores where you can hang out with your family. Got more time? Visit Xihui Park, which includes the famous Jichang Garden.What’s more, Huishan Ancient Town is only about 10 minutes by car from Grand Park Hotel Wuxi, a Park Hotel Group location.

Lingshan Grand Buddha

Visiting the Lingshan Grand Buddha is another one of the top things to do in Wuxi. This 88-metre-tall Buddha statue sits on Xiaoling Mountain near Taihu Lake. It’s one of the largest Buddha statues in all of China. You can see it from afar as you head towards the Lingshan Scenic Area. Reaching the statue requires a bit of effort – walk or take a sightseeing bus to the main square, then climb 288 steps to the base of the Buddha statue. Inside what’s called the lotus pedestal is a Buddhist Culture Museum. The museum educates visitors on the three main branches of Buddhism in China.If you’re a family of culture buffs, a visit to Lingshan Grand Buddha is a must.

Yuantouzhu

Located north of Taihu Lake, Yuantouzhu is a beautiful peninsula. The name, meaning ‘turtle head,’ refers to a large rock that sticks out into the water, looking like a turtle head. The area was first developed in 1916. Yuantouzhu is loved by locals as well as tourists for its natural scenery, cultural sites, and gardens. There are so many things you can do here as a family: take a boat ride to admire the lakeside scenery and discover Fairy Island. If you visit during spring, you can see the breathtaking cherry blossoms. Besides admiring the glory of nature, you should also take the time to visit historical and cultural sites like Hengyun Villa. Another must-visit is Wanlang Bridge, a perfect spot to capture the sunset.

Nanchan Temple

An absolute must-see for culturally and historically minded families, Nanchan Temple dates back to A.D. 547. However, the temple you see today was built in the 1980s. When you enter through the southernmost gate, you first see the Hall of Heavenly Kings and the Great Buddha’s Hall. On the east side is the 7-storey Miaoguang Pagoda. Get to the top for stunning views of ancient buildings and Nanchan Temple Wharf, which sits by an ancient canal. When your temple visit is over, be sure to explore the area. You’ll find food stalls, bookstores, and a flower market. Taking a walk along the canal is also a great way to spend some quality time here as a family; a canal cruise is even better.

Liyuan Garden

Sitting on the shore of Li Lake is Liyuan Garden, one of the most stunning places you’ll ever see. Li Lake is a small inner lake, and Liyuan Garden stretches into it. With causeways, small bridges, and corridors, the garden offers serenity and peace. Here are some things to know when planning your visit:

• March to April is cherry blossom season.
• Lotus flowers bloom from June to August.
• The Thousand Step Corridor, the Four Seasons Pavilion, and the Chunqiu Pavilion are all great spots for a stroll.