Suzhou (苏州), Jiangsu Province

Suzhou is famous for its formal gardens, some of which are more than one thousand years old. It is sometimes called China’s Venice because of the canals that wind through the city. The city was also a historical center of silk production in China, and its Silk Museum has interesting displays of ancient textiles — and live silkworms!

Superfast D trains make it possible to get to Suzhou in 40 minutes. Trains depart from the main Shanghai Train Station throughout the day. You can search for the exact schedules here.