Experience the numerous canals and waterways of Suzhou, the “Venice of China.” The ancient city of Suzhou, located in the Yangtze River Delta, is teeming with enchanting canals and winding waterways, the most famous of which is the Suzhou Grand Canal. The origins of the Grand Canal can be traced as far back as 495 B.C., making it more than 2,000 years old, and at approximately 1,200 miles long, the canal is the longest man-made waterway in the world. With fifty-eight historically significant sites along its route, the entire Grand Canal has been declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Stroll through Suzhou Tiger Hill. Also known as Surging Sea Hill, Tiger Hill is home to a number of historical sites dating to the foundation of Suzhou. One of the most famous sites is the Tiger Hill Pagoda, the oldest pagoda in the city. Built during the Northern Song Dynasty (959-961), this seven-story octagonal building has the distinction of being China’s Leaning Tower as, for the past four hundred years, the pagoda has leant 3.59 degrees to the northwest.

Take a tour of the Suzhou Silk Museum, the first museum in China that specializes in silk. Founded in 1991, the museum documents the history of silk production from its earliest stages in 2000 B.C. Guests can view historic looms, and ancient silk samples and patterns. Exhibits on mulberry planting and silkworm breeding are also featured.