The Poetic Collision of Architecture and Nature | Walk the Millennium City Wall, Seek the Blessed Land of Jiangnan, and Experience the Elegance of the Ancient Town

Travel Guide to Xicheng Louge in Changshu: Walk the Millennium City Wall, Seek the Blessed Land of Jiangnan Xicheng Louge, as one of the core "Eighteen Views of Yushan," embodies the essence of Changshu’s "Ten Miles of Green Hills Half Entering the City." With over 1,500 years of history, it blends natural landscapes and cultural relics, making it a must-visit spot for a slow tour of the ancient Jiangnan city. This guide will help you unlock key activities, transportation, accommodation, and tips to avoid pitfalls, immersing you in the elegance of the ancient town. Key Highlights and Must-Visit Attractions - Fuchengmen City Tower: The soul landmark of the scenic area, rebuilt and renamed during the Ming Dynasty Jiajing period. To the left lies the clear waters of Tang River, to the right the high hills of Yushan. From the tower, look south to Shang Lake and East Lake reflecting the sky, north to the verdant Yushan and ancient temples. Below, the bustling streets intertwine with millennium-old sites, offering a panoramic view of the Jiangnan city walls. - Dashishanfang: A gathering place for Ming and Qing literati, built by Ming painter Sun Ai (a disciple of Shen Zhou and peer of Wen Zhengming) by carving into the mountain. The current landscape was rebuilt in the early 21st century. The courtyard is surrounded by unique stones, with a quiet path west leading to "Gucha Spring," where dripping water from cliff stones resembles scattered jade fragments. Experience the leisurely charm of ancient tea brewing and scenery appreciation. The owner’s paintings "Kapok Picture" and "Silkworm and Mulberry Picture" are now housed in the Palace Museum. - Yushan City Wall and Hiking Trail: The city wall starts from Xicheng Louge in the south, winding along the mountain terrain to Yushan Gate, about 1,400 meters long. Climb the stone steps to pass the "Yushan Blessed Land" archway and city wall exhibition hall, then reach the top at Xinfeng Pavilion for a panoramic city view. Along the way, visit Dongyue Temple’s Wuyue Tower, the Wu King Temple ruins, and the Zhidao Temple ruins—each step a historical site. - Special Activities: During the National Day holiday, the "Yujian Songchao · City Wall Night Painting" event is often held, with lanterns swaying and singing and dancing enhancing the atmosphere, making the ancient city’s night scene unforgettable. Practical Information at a Glance - Opening Hours: 7:00 AM to 4:30 PM (last entry at 4:30 PM). It is recommended to reserve 3-4 hours for an in-depth visit. - Ticket Policy: No general entrance fee for the entire scenic area; some affiliated attractions charge separately. Free admission for military officers, disabled persons, children under 1.2 meters, and seniors over 70. Discounts: seniors aged 60-69 with senior certificates and children 1.2-1.5 meters tall enjoy half-price tickets. - Transportation Guide: - Self-driving: From Shanghai, take the Hujia-Liu Expressway then Yanjiang Expressway to Changshu exit; from Nanjing, take the Huning Expressway then Yanjiang Expressway to Changshu North exit; from Hangzhou, take the Sujiahang Expressway to Changshu South exit. Limited parking spaces are available near the scenic area. - Public Transport: A 15-minute taxi ride from Changshu Station or North Bus Station; city buses No. 11 and 117 to "Yushan Park West" stop, then a 10-minute walk. - Best Visiting Period: Spring and autumn (March-May, September-November) with pleasant weather and lush greenery; early mornings or weekdays to avoid crowds and enjoy the tranquil ancient sites. Dining and Accommodation Recommendations - Dining: - Local Flavors: Recommended Wangsi Restaurant (Xingfu Street branch) to taste famous Changshu dishes like Beggar’s Chicken and Osmanthus Wine, 10 minutes by car from the scenic area. - Convenient Options: Near Huanghe Road commercial area by the scenic spot, there are KFC, Xingchen Restaurant, and others offering Su-style home cooking, with an average cost of 50-80 RMB per person. - Accommodation: - Cost-effective: Hanting Hotel (Changshu Wanda Plaza branch), renovated in 2022, clean and convenient, 20 minutes on foot to the scenic area, with free parking and Chinese buffet breakfast included. Children under 17 stay free. - Comfortable Choice: Changshu Yukun Licheng Huating Hotel, near Yushan scenic area, spacious rooms equipped with air purifiers, 28th-floor executive lounge with panoramic views of Yushan, fitness center, and indoor heated pool. Convenient shopping and dining nearby.