Wuxi is one of the less well-known cities in China, which seems strange to those who live here. Interestingly, only three or four years ago expatriates were rarely seen in the city, and not many cars were privately owned. Now Wuxi is listed as one of the 15 economic central cities in China as well as one of the ten leading tourist cities.

 

The first thing visitors will notice when approaching Wuxi, especially when arriving by train or bus from the west, is the lush vegetation and the abundance of water in the many rivers, lakes and canals. Wuxi is located in the rich, fertile, low-lying area of the Yangtze River delta, often referred to as the “land of fish and rice”.

 

The main tourist attraction is Tai Hu (Lake Tai), one of China’s four main freshwater lakes. There are a number of sites to visit and activities to enjoy in and around the lake, including islands and boat rides, parks and gardens, and even a movie set. For tourists who choose to make the lake the centre of their visit, there are plenty of hotels and resorts near the lake.

 

Near Tai Hu visitors can also enjoy the beauty and tranquility of the Plum Garden, and closer to the city, Li Yuan (Li Garden) on the shores of the smaller Li Hu (Li Lake). At 88 metres in height the bronze Ling Shan Buddha at Ma Shan (Ma Hill) is another one of Wuxi's most spectacular sites.

 

Very close to the city centre is the hilly area of Xihui Park. The park contains many attractions including a small zoo, a cable ride, and a pottery museum. Xihui Park is located just across the Grand Canal, the largest and busiest canal that crisscrosses the city.

 

The central business district is very modern and compact. Public transportation is abundant, as are taxis, but the area is small enough to walk around for those who enjoy a healthy stroll. The railway station is north of the shopping district with frequent trains running along the Nanjing-Shanghai rail line.

 

Those who come to Wuxi for more than its tourist attractions find it a progressive, ever-expanding commercial and industrial centre. An ever-increasing amount of multi-national companies are setting up operations in the new industrial districts on the southeast side of the city. There is ample accomodation available in the city itself and at very reasonable rates in the New District.