Nestled in eastern China's Jiangsu Province, Suzhou continues to captivate global travelers while maintaining its UNESCO-listed classical gardens and waterways. New data reveals the city welcomed over 200 million visits in 2025, with international tourism surging 23% year-on-year – a testament to its growing appeal as a cultural crossroads.
This week marks a new chapter in Suzhou's global storytelling as CGTN launches its "Suzhou: Global City from Ancient Roots" series from February 5 to 12, 2026. The programming will showcase how the 2,500-year-old city balances preservation of its iconic héyuán (courtyard gardens) with innovative cultural tourism strategies driving economic growth.
Tourism analysts attribute the boom to enhanced high-speed rail connectivity and targeted visa-free entry policies for select international travelers. The city's night economy – featuring illuminated garden performances and 24-hour canal-side bookstores – now accounts for 38% of tourism revenue.
