Mudu is a small town near the city of Suzhou in southeast Jiangsu Province and is within easy reach of Shanghai. It is a historical waterside town near Lake Tai and is known for its interesting architecture.
Mudu differs from standard waterside towns in this region of the Yangtze Delta in that it is the only ancient garden town in the region. These gardens are well restored and include the Yan-Family Garden, the Old Pine Tree Garden, and Bangyan Villa. They are great for wandering around with their river setting, bridges and lush vegetation.
Mudu is near to the huge Lake Tai and Grand Canal, providing an option for getting here by boat. The Grand Canal goes from Beijing to Hangzhou (1,800kms), slicing through gorgeous countryside and is good for boating. Visitors can spend days exploring Lake Tai, with its islands, wildlife, and surrounding villages.
Getting There & Away
Suzhou has an airport - Guangfu International Airport - with flights from Beijing, yet Shanghai Hongqiao International Airport is more convenient, with flights coming in from all over. Flight time from Hong Kong to Shanghai is 1 hour, 30 minutes. Shuttles run direct to Suzhou from the airport (about 90 minutes), from where buses and taxis run to Mudu.
Things to Do
Mudu Attractions
- Mudu gardens
-
There are many private and public water gardens in mudu, including the yan-family garden and bangyan villa.
- Lake Tai
-
Mudu lies on the shores of this pretty lake, which is pockmarked with islands and surrounded by temples.
Side trips from Mudu
- Precious Belt Bridge
-
A very long, ancient bridge over the grand canal just outside suzhou town center.
Events
- Zha Fairy, Suzhou
-
A traditional festival in april with a lot of handicrafts and eating along nanhao street in suzhou.