Tong Li Tour
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Tour Includes:
Price: £85 per person |
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Description
Tongli is an ancient water town in east China's Jiangsu Province. Tongli enjoys fame across China for its beautiful rivers, historic bridges and opulent court yard homes. With a history spanning over 1000 years, this water town has long been a mecca for tourists, who are not only drawn by its architecture and waterways but also the vibrant local culture. The water also creates reflections of the town's arched roofs, lofty gables and stone bridges while green willows also line the banks can. This creates a truly poetic atmosphere.
One of Tongli's most famous features is its stone bridges. There are 49 in all linking the many sections of the town, with each bridge having its own name and often also displaying a distinct design. Many also boast fascinating stories, sometimes going back centuries.
Location
Originally named Fushi, Tongli rests on the eastern shore of Lake Taihu, about 80 kilometres west of Shanghai and 18 kilometres south of Suzhou. Built at the center of five small lakes, the town is further divided into seven islands by 15 canals. In fact it feels as if the town floating on the water.
Because of the landscape, almost all of the buildings are constructed along the waterfront. Sets of stairs leading to the canals can be found in front of almost every building, providing locals with easy access to the water. Not surprisingly, life in this picturesque town pretty much revolves around the waterways. Everyday you can see locals venturing down to the water to wash clothes. Apart from that, the canals also serve as the town's main mode of transport.
