Introduction to Jiangsu
Jiangsu is a coastal province in eastern China known for its classical gardens, historic canal towns, ancient temples, lakes, traditional architecture and modern cities. Located along the lower reaches of the Yangtze River, Jiangsu has played an important role in Chinese commerce, culture, transportation and political history.
The provincial capital, Nanjing, was one of China’s major historical capitals, while Suzhou is famous for its classical gardens and traditional waterways. Yangzhou and Zhenjiang preserve the heritage of the Grand Canal, one of China’s most significant historical transportation routes. Wuxi is known for its location beside Taihu Lake, while northern Jiangsu offers coastal wetlands, ancient Han dynasty sites and distinctive landscapes.
Jiangsu is particularly attractive to travellers who want to explore traditional Chinese architecture, historic cities and waterways without travelling exclusively through mountainous or rural destinations. Its high speed rail network also makes it convenient to combine several cities in a single trip.
Where Is Jiangsu Located?
Jiangsu lies on China’s eastern coast, facing the Yellow Sea. It shares borders with Shandong to the north, Anhui to the west, and Shanghai and Zhejiang to the south. The Yangtze River flows across the southern part of the province before reaching the East China Sea near Shanghai.
Its location has shaped Jiangsu’s history and geography. The province sits at the intersection of inland river transportation, coastal trade and the agricultural plains of eastern China. The Grand Canal, which historically connected northern and southern China, passes through several important Jiangsu cities.
Jiangsu is also one of China’s most economically developed provinces, with major industrial centres, commercial cities, universities and advanced transportation infrastructure.
Understanding Jiangsu’s Geography
Jiangsu is relatively flat compared with many other Chinese provinces. Much of its landscape consists of alluvial plains, river valleys, lakes, wetlands and coastal lowlands. Its geography is particularly important for understanding why its cities developed around canals, waterways and agricultural trade.
Southern Jiangsu: Suzhou, Wuxi and Changzhou
Southern Jiangsu is one of the province’s most famous travel regions. It forms part of the broader Jiangnan cultural landscape, a region south of the lower Yangtze historically associated with prosperous towns, gardens, canals and refined traditional culture.
Suzhou is famous for its classical gardens and historic waterways. Wuxi lies beside Taihu Lake and offers lake scenery, temples and cultural attractions. Changzhou combines historical sites with modern urban attractions.
This region is particularly suitable for travellers interested in traditional Chinese architecture, gardens, canal towns and lakeside landscapes.
The Nanjing and Lower Yangtze Region
Nanjing occupies a strategic position along the Yangtze River. Surrounded by hills and lakes, it has historically served as a political and cultural centre. Its ancient city walls, imperial mausoleums, temples and museums reflect several important periods of Chinese history.
The surrounding lower Yangtze region also includes Zhenjiang, a historic river port known for its temples and river views. The Yangtze has long connected inland China with the coast, helping towns in this region develop as commercial and transportation centres.
Central Jiangsu: Yangzhou, Taizhou and Nantong
Central Jiangsu contains historic canal cities, river settlements and agricultural plains. Yangzhou is especially important because of its association with the Grand Canal and its history as a centre of commerce and culture.
Nantong lies near the Yangtze estuary and the Yellow Sea coast. Taizhou is another historic city with traditional temples and local cultural attractions.
This part of Jiangsu is useful for travellers exploring the relationship between inland waterways, the Yangtze River and coastal trade.
Northern Jiangsu: Xuzhou, Huai’an, Yancheng and Lianyungang
Northern Jiangsu has a different character from the garden cities of the south. The region includes broad plains, wetlands, coastal landscapes and archaeological sites.
Xuzhou is known for its Han dynasty history and tombs. Huai’an is associated with the Grand Canal and Huaiyang culinary traditions. Yancheng has internationally important coastal wetlands that provide habitats for migratory birds. Lianyungang combines coastal scenery with mountains and religious and literary associations.
Northern Jiangsu is worth including for travellers who want to explore the province beyond its best known southern cities.
Best Places to Visit in Jiangsu
1. Nanjing: The Historic Capital of Jiangsu
Nanjing is one of China’s most historically significant cities. It served as the capital under several regimes, including the early Ming dynasty and the Republic of China. Its landscape combines ancient walls, imperial tombs, lakes, wooded hills and modern urban districts.
The Ming City Wall is among the city’s most prominent historical landmarks. Parts of the wall survive around the old city, providing an understanding of the scale of traditional Chinese urban defence.
The Ming Xiaoling Mausoleum, located in the Purple Mountain area, is the burial complex of the Hongwu Emperor, founder of the Ming dynasty, and Empress Ma. Its monumental approach, stone sculptures and surrounding landscape make it one of Nanjing’s major heritage sites.
The Confucius Temple area and Qinhuai River are popular for traditional architecture, shops, food and evening walks. The district has a long association with education, commerce and cultural life, although many buildings visitors see today have been restored or reconstructed.
Purple Mountain contains several important historical and cultural attractions, while Xuanwu Lake provides a scenic setting near the historic city centre.
Nanjing is an excellent starting point for a Jiangsu itinerary because it combines historical attractions with convenient transport connections.
2. Suzhou: Classical Gardens and Historic Canals
Suzhou is one of the best known destinations in Jiangsu and a major centre of traditional Jiangnan culture. Its canals, stone bridges, narrow lanes and classical gardens create a landscape that differs from China’s larger modern cities.
The city’s classical gardens are its most celebrated attractions. The Humble Administrator’s Garden, Lingering Garden and other historic gardens demonstrate traditional Chinese landscape design, using ponds, rocks, pavilions, corridors and carefully framed views to create a sense of depth within enclosed spaces.
Pingjiang Road is a historic street running alongside waterways, with traditional houses, small shops, teahouses and bridges. Shantang Street offers another introduction to Suzhou’s canal heritage, particularly during the evening when the illuminated buildings reflect on the water.
Suzhou also has a long association with silk production, embroidery, traditional arts and Kunqu opera. Visitors interested in Chinese craftsmanship can explore museums and cultural institutions devoted to these traditions.
The Grand Canal adds another historical dimension to Suzhou. Its waterways were important for transporting grain and other goods, connecting the city to wider commercial networks across China.
Suzhou is especially suitable for travellers who enjoy walking through historic districts, visiting gardens and exploring traditional architecture.
3. Wuxi: Taihu Lake and Cultural Landscapes
Wuxi lies beside Taihu Lake, one of China’s largest freshwater lakes. Its location makes it a popular destination for visitors seeking lake views, landscaped gardens, temples and cultural attractions.
Yuantouzhu, often translated as Turtle Head Isle, is one of the most famous scenic areas around Taihu Lake. It is particularly popular during the cherry blossom season, when the lake and flowering trees create an attractive spring landscape.
Lingshan Scenic Area is known for its large Buddha statue and Buddhist cultural attractions. Huishan Ancient Town offers traditional buildings, ancestral halls and historic streets associated with local families and cultural traditions.
Wuxi’s lakeside setting makes it a natural addition to an itinerary that includes Suzhou. The two cities are well connected by rail, allowing visitors to explore the region without relying on long road journeys.
4. Yangzhou: The Grand Canal and Slender West Lake
Yangzhou is one of Jiangsu’s most important historical canal cities. Its prosperity was closely connected to water transport, trade and its position along the Grand Canal.
Slender West Lake is the city’s best known scenic attraction. Its waterways, bridges, pavilions, gardens and landscaped banks create a traditional Chinese garden setting on a larger scale.
The historic city also contains temples, traditional streets and cultural sites associated with its commercial past. The Grand Canal remains central to understanding Yangzhou’s importance in China’s historical transportation system.
Yangzhou is particularly appealing to travellers who want to experience traditional architecture and canal scenery in a city that is less internationally prominent than Suzhou or Nanjing.
The city is also known for Huaiyang cuisine, one of China’s recognised regional culinary traditions.
5. Zhenjiang: Temples and Yangtze River Views
Zhenjiang lies near the Yangtze River and the Grand Canal, making it an important location for understanding Jiangsu’s historical water transport network.
Jinshan Temple is one of its best known attractions. Associated with Buddhist traditions and Chinese literary and folk narratives, the temple occupies a scenic setting near the river.
Jiaoshan is an island in the Yangtze River known for its temples, inscriptions and wooded landscape. Beigushan is another historic hill associated with classical Chinese history and river views.
Zhenjiang can be combined with Yangzhou as part of a Grand Canal itinerary. It also provides a different perspective on Jiangsu’s heritage because its landscape is closely connected with the Yangtze River.
6. Xuzhou: Han Dynasty Archaeology
Xuzhou, in northern Jiangsu, is particularly important for travellers interested in early imperial Chinese history.
The city has a strong association with the Han dynasty, and its archaeological attractions include royal tombs, stone carvings and artefacts connected with the period. The Han Terracotta Warriors Museum is one of the places visitors can explore to learn about the region’s ancient history.
Xuzhou’s historical significance differs from that of Suzhou and Yangzhou. Rather than focusing mainly on gardens and canal towns, it offers insight into imperial burial traditions, ancient military history and the material culture of early dynastic China.
Travellers interested in archaeology can consider Xuzhou as a separate stop on a broader Jiangsu itinerary.
7. Yancheng: Coastal Wetlands and Migratory Birds
Yancheng is known for its coastal wetlands, salt marshes and biodiversity. Its coastal landscape is part of the Yellow Sea region, which provides important habitats for migratory birds travelling along the East Asian Australasian Flyway.
The Yellow Sea coast around Yancheng contains significant intertidal mudflats and wetland ecosystems. Some areas are protected for their ecological importance, including sites associated with the UNESCO World Heritage listing of Migratory Bird Sanctuaries along the Coast of the Yellow Sea and Bohai Gulf of China.
Yancheng is an excellent choice for travellers interested in wildlife, birdwatching and coastal ecology rather than traditional urban sightseeing.
Access to individual protected areas may be restricted or managed seasonally, so visitors should check current entry arrangements before travelling.
8. Lianyungang: Mountains and the Yellow Sea Coast
Lianyungang is located in northeastern Jiangsu, where coastal scenery meets low mountains.
Huaguoshan is the city’s best known mountain attraction. It is associated with the classic Chinese novel Journey to the West and the legendary Monkey King, Sun Wukong. This literary connection has made the mountain an important cultural destination.
Lian Island offers coastal scenery, beaches and views of the Yellow Sea. The city’s combination of mountains, seaside landscapes and cultural attractions makes it different from the canal towns of southern Jiangsu.
Lianyungang is worth considering for travellers seeking a coastal destination within the province.
9. Changzhou: Culture and Modern Attractions
Changzhou lies in southern Jiangsu between the broader Suzhou and Nanjing urban regions. It combines a long local history with modern commercial districts and family-oriented attractions.
Visitors can explore historic temples, cultural sites and local neighbourhoods. The city is also known for large contemporary attractions, making it a potential stop for families or travellers who want a mix of traditional and modern experiences.
Changzhou is conveniently connected to other major Jiangsu cities by high speed rail.
10. Nantong: River and Coastal Connections
Nantong lies near the lower Yangtze and the Yellow Sea coast. Its location reflects the importance of river transport and maritime trade in Jiangsu’s development.
The city offers museums, historic sites and riverfront landscapes. It is also a useful destination for travellers interested in the transition between the Yangtze River’s inland transportation network and the coastal region.
Nantong can be explored as a short extension from the major cities of southern Jiangsu, depending on the overall route.
11. Huai’an: Canal Heritage and Regional Cuisine
Huai’an is an important historical city in northern-central Jiangsu, with a strong association with the Grand Canal and Huaiyang cuisine.
Its historic districts and cultural sites provide insight into the role of canal transport in shaping urban life. The city’s culinary traditions also make it an appealing stop for travellers interested in regional Chinese food.
Huai’an can be incorporated into a longer route linking Yangzhou with northern Jiangsu.
12. Zhouzhuang and Tongli: Traditional Water Towns
Jiangsu contains several historic water towns known for canals, stone bridges, traditional houses and narrow streets. Zhouzhuang and Tongli are among the best known.
Zhouzhuang is famous for its waterways, old residences and traditional bridges. Tongli has a network of canals and historic buildings, along with classical gardens such as the Retreat and Reflection Garden.
These towns are popular with visitors looking for traditional Jiangnan scenery. They can become crowded during weekends and holidays, so visiting early in the day or staying overnight may provide a more relaxed experience.
Both destinations can be considered as excursions from Suzhou, although travel time depends on the starting point and transport choice.
13. Luzhi: A Quieter Historic Water Town
Luzhi is another historic water town in the Suzhou area. It is known for its canals, old bridges and traditional buildings.
Compared with the best known water towns, Luzhi may appeal to travellers seeking an additional stop focused on the region’s architectural and waterway heritage. The experience depends on the time of visit, visitor numbers and which historic areas are open.
It can be included in a wider exploration of the water towns around Suzhou.
The Grand Canal: Jiangsu’s Historic Travel Corridor
The Grand Canal is one of the most important features of Jiangsu’s cultural geography. It formed part of a vast inland water transport system connecting northern and southern China and played a major role in moving grain, goods and people.
Several Jiangsu cities developed or prospered through their position along this network. Suzhou became known for its commercial and cultural life, Yangzhou grew as an important canal city, Zhenjiang connected river and canal routes, and Huai’an developed around a significant section of the waterway.
For travellers, the Grand Canal provides a useful way to organise a route through Jiangsu. Instead of treating each city as an isolated destination, visitors can follow the historical connections between them.
A practical itinerary could begin in Suzhou, continue to Yangzhou and Zhenjiang, and then extend to Huai’an. The cities have different architectural styles and local traditions, but their histories are linked by the same transportation network.
The Grand Canal is not simply a scenic waterway. It also helps explain the historical relationship between Jiangsu’s cities, regional commerce, agriculture and the Chinese state.
Taihu Lake and the Landscapes of Southern Jiangsu
Taihu Lake is one of the major natural features of southern Jiangsu. The surrounding region includes lakeside settlements, landscaped gardens, temples and towns connected by modern transport links.
Wuxi is one of the main destinations for experiencing Taihu Lake. Suzhou also provides access to the broader lake region and its traditional cultural landscape.
The area is particularly attractive in spring, when flowers and fresh vegetation improve the scenery. Autumn can also offer comfortable conditions for walking and sightseeing.
Travellers should remember that Taihu Lake is a large region rather than a single attraction. The experience varies depending on the specific lakeside park, island, town or scenic area selected.
History of Jiangsu
Jiangsu’s history reflects its position between the Yangtze River, the Yellow Sea and the inland regions of eastern China.
Ancient Wu Culture
Southern Jiangsu was historically associated with the ancient Wu cultural sphere. The region developed distinctive traditions, and its waterways supported agriculture, settlement and exchange.
Suzhou later became one of the major centres of Jiangnan culture, known for crafts, gardens, literature and commercial prosperity.
Han Dynasty and Northern Jiangsu
Xuzhou has an important place in the history of the Han dynasty. Archaeological discoveries in and around the city provide evidence of elite burial traditions, art and political organisation during early imperial China.
These sites demonstrate that northern Jiangsu’s historical importance extends well beyond its modern industrial and agricultural identity.
Nanjing as an Imperial and Political Capital
Nanjing served as the capital under several Chinese regimes. Its position along the Yangtze River and its surrounding hills gave it strategic significance.
The city became the capital of the Ming dynasty during its early years under the Hongwu Emperor. It also served as the capital of the Republic of China before the establishment of the People’s Republic of China in 1949.
Nanjing’s historic walls, mausoleums, temples and museums reflect these different periods.
The Grand Canal and Commercial Prosperity
The Grand Canal helped connect Jiangsu’s cities to wider economic and political networks. It facilitated the movement of grain and other goods, supporting commercial growth in cities such as Suzhou, Yangzhou and Huai’an.
Canal transport also encouraged the development of warehouses, markets, bridges, temples and residential districts along waterways.
Modern Jiangsu
In modern China, Jiangsu has become one of the country’s major economic and industrial provinces. Cities such as Suzhou, Wuxi, Nanjing and Changzhou have developed extensive manufacturing, technology, education and service sectors.
This economic development has transformed the province, but many historical districts and cultural landscapes remain important to its identity.
Jiangsu’s Culture and Traditional Arts
Jiangsu is known for classical gardens, traditional opera, embroidery, silk, ceramics and distinctive regional cuisines.
Classical Chinese Gardens
The gardens of Suzhou are among the best known examples of traditional Chinese landscape design. Rather than reproducing nature on a large scale, these gardens use carefully arranged rocks, water, plants, pavilions and corridors to create layered views within relatively compact spaces.
The gardens reflect traditional ideas about balance, proportion, poetry and the relationship between human-made structures and the natural world.
Kunqu Opera
Kunqu is one of China’s oldest surviving forms of traditional opera. It developed in the Jiangnan region and is known for its refined singing, poetry, gestures and musical accompaniment.
Visitors interested in traditional performance can look for cultural venues and scheduled performances in Suzhou and other Jiangsu cities.
Suzhou Embroidery and Silk
Suzhou has a long history of silk production and embroidery. Suzhou embroidery is known for its detailed stitching and the depiction of landscapes, flowers, animals and other subjects.
Silk remains an important part of the region’s cultural identity, although contemporary products vary widely in quality and price.
Nanjing Brocade
Nanjing brocade, known as Yunjin, is a traditional textile craft associated with intricate weaving and luxurious patterns. It historically supplied fine textiles for elite and ceremonial use.
Museums and specialist cultural institutions in Nanjing offer opportunities to learn about this craft.
Yixing Purple Clay Pottery
Yixing, in southern Jiangsu, is famous for its purple clay teapots. These vessels are closely associated with Chinese tea culture and traditional ceramic craftsmanship.
Collectors should distinguish between ordinary souvenirs and pieces made by recognised artisans, as quality and authenticity can vary considerably.
Food to Try in Jiangsu
Jiangsu cuisine includes several regional traditions. Huaiyang cuisine is particularly influential and is known for careful knife work, balanced flavours, attention to texture and elegant presentation.
Yangzhou fried rice is one of the province’s best known dishes. It combines rice with ingredients such as egg, vegetables and meat or seafood, although recipes vary between restaurants.
Nanjing salted duck is another well known speciality. It is associated with the city’s culinary heritage and is commonly sold in specialist shops and restaurants.
Suzhou cuisine includes dishes such as squirrel shaped mandarin fish, traditionally prepared with a crisp exterior and a sweet and sour sauce. Restaurants may vary in their interpretation of the dish.
The Taihu Lake region is known for freshwater ingredients, including fish and other aquatic products. Seasonal availability and local preparation methods influence what appears on menus.
Travellers exploring Yangzhou, Huai’an and nearby cities should look for restaurants serving Huaiyang cuisine. It is one of the best ways to understand the relationship between Jiangsu’s history, agriculture and regional culture.
Best Time to Visit Jiangsu
Spring and autumn are generally the most comfortable seasons for exploring Jiangsu.
Spring is particularly attractive for classical gardens, water towns, flowering trees and lakeside scenery. Cherry blossoms draw visitors to parts of the Taihu Lake region, including Wuxi.
Autumn often brings comfortable conditions for walking through historic districts and visiting outdoor attractions. It can be a good time for combining several cities in one itinerary.
Summer can be hot and humid, with rainfall and occasional periods of heavy rain. Travellers visiting during this period should plan for indoor attractions and allow flexibility in their schedules.
Winter is generally colder and quieter. Although the province does not offer the same winter mountain scenery found in some other Chinese regions, its historic cities and museums remain worthwhile destinations.
The best time also depends on the purpose of the trip. Spring may suit garden and flower enthusiasts, while autumn can be ideal for walking tours and broader cultural exploration.
How to Reach Jiangsu
By Air
Nanjing Lukou International Airport is a major gateway to Jiangsu. Travellers may also use airports serving nearby major cities, including Shanghai, depending on their international flight options and final destination.
The most convenient airport depends on the city where the trip begins. Travellers planning to focus on Suzhou may find it useful to compare connections through Shanghai with flights to Nanjing.
By High Speed Rail
Jiangsu has an extensive high speed rail network connecting its major cities with each other and with other parts of China.
Nanjing, Suzhou, Wuxi, Changzhou, Yangzhou, Zhenjiang, Xuzhou and other cities have rail connections. Journey times vary according to the service, station and route.
Rail is often the most convenient way to travel between major cities, particularly when combining Nanjing, Suzhou and Wuxi.
Travellers should check the exact station before booking, because some cities have multiple railway stations located at different distances from their central districts.
By Road and Local Transport
Buses and road transport can be useful for reaching water towns, rural attractions and places not directly served by high speed rail.
Within major cities, metro systems, local buses and taxis provide access to many attractions. Walking is often the best way to explore traditional districts such as Pingjiang Road in Suzhou or the Confucius Temple area in Nanjing.
For scenic areas around Taihu Lake or coastal wetlands, it is worth checking local transport availability before departure.
Suggested Jiangsu Travel Itineraries
Three Days in Jiangsu
A three day trip is suitable for travellers who want to explore the province’s best known highlights.
Spend the first day in Nanjing, visiting the Ming City Wall, Ming Xiaoling Mausoleum and the Qinhuai River area. On the second day, travel to Suzhou to explore a classical garden, Pingjiang Road and the historic canals. On the third day, visit another Suzhou garden or take an excursion to a nearby water town.
This itinerary offers a compact introduction to Jiangsu’s history and traditional culture.
Five Days: Nanjing, Suzhou and Wuxi
Begin with two days in Nanjing, allowing time for its historical attractions and museums. Travel to Suzhou for two days of classical gardens, historic streets and canal scenery. Spend the final day in Wuxi, exploring Taihu Lake and one of its cultural attractions.
This route balances imperial history, traditional architecture and natural scenery.
Five Days Along the Grand Canal
Start in Suzhou and explore its gardens and historic waterways. Continue to Yangzhou for Slender West Lake and its canal heritage. Visit Zhenjiang for its temples and Yangtze River landscape, then consider extending the trip to Huai’an.
This itinerary is particularly suitable for travellers interested in the historical relationship between waterways, cities and commerce.
Seven Days Across Jiangsu
A week provides enough time to explore several different parts of the province.
Begin in Nanjing, then travel east to Suzhou and Wuxi. Continue to Yangzhou and Zhenjiang to explore the Grand Canal region. If time and transport connections allow, add Xuzhou for Han dynasty archaeology or Yancheng for coastal wetlands.
The choice between Xuzhou and Yancheng depends on your interests. Xuzhou is better suited to history and archaeology, while Yancheng appeals to travellers interested in wildlife and coastal landscapes.
Travel Tips for Jiangsu
Jiangsu is relatively easy to explore by public transport, but planning the sequence of destinations can save considerable time.
Book accommodation near central districts or convenient metro and railway connections, especially when visiting Nanjing, Suzhou and Wuxi. In Suzhou, staying within reasonable distance of the historic centre can make garden visits and evening walks easier.
Popular gardens and water towns can become crowded during weekends, public holidays and peak flower seasons. Visiting early in the morning may provide a quieter experience.
Carry a translation app if you do not speak Chinese. While major hotels and transport hubs may offer some English language assistance, smaller restaurants and local attractions may not.
Check the opening hours and ticket arrangements of individual attractions before departure. Some gardens, museums and protected natural areas may have timed entry, seasonal access rules or advance reservation requirements.
For travellers visiting from outside China, check current visa requirements, payment options, mobile connectivity and any applicable entry procedures before travelling.
Frequently Asked Questions About Jiangsu
What is Jiangsu famous for?
Jiangsu is famous for Suzhou’s classical gardens, traditional water towns, the Grand Canal, Nanjing’s historical landmarks, Taihu Lake, regional cuisine and traditional arts such as Suzhou embroidery and Nanjing brocade.
Which city is best to visit in Jiangsu?
Suzhou is an excellent choice for classical gardens, canals and traditional architecture. Nanjing is better for imperial history, museums and city walls. Wuxi is a strong option for Taihu Lake scenery, while Yangzhou is ideal for exploring Grand Canal heritage.
How many days are enough for Jiangsu?
Three days can cover selected highlights in Nanjing and Suzhou. Five days allow a more balanced visit that includes Wuxi or Yangzhou. A week is preferable if you want to explore several regions, including northern Jiangsu or the coastal wetlands.
Is Jiangsu worth visiting?
Yes. Jiangsu is particularly worthwhile for travellers interested in Chinese history, traditional architecture, gardens, canals, regional food and cultural heritage. Its high speed rail network also makes multi city travel relatively convenient.
What is the best way to travel around Jiangsu?
High speed rail is generally the most convenient option for travelling between major cities. Metro systems, buses and taxis are useful within cities, while road transport may be necessary for certain water towns and nature reserves.
Is Suzhou or Nanjing better for tourists?
Both offer different experiences. Suzhou is known for gardens, canals and traditional Jiangnan culture, while Nanjing has a stronger emphasis on imperial history, political heritage, museums and monumental historical sites. Travellers with enough time should visit both.
What food should visitors try in Jiangsu?
Consider Yangzhou fried rice, Nanjing salted duck, Suzhou style mandarin fish and dishes associated with Huaiyang cuisine. Freshwater fish and seasonal ingredients are also important in parts of the Taihu Lake region.
Can Jiangsu be visited from Shanghai?
Yes. Suzhou and other southern Jiangsu cities are accessible from Shanghai by rail. The best route depends on the destinations you want to visit and the railway stations involved. Travellers can also use Shanghai as an arrival or departure gateway for a wider Jiangsu trip.
