Xishan Island: Exploring Suzhou's Taihu Lake

Xishan Island - Suzhou, China

Destination:ChinaCity:SuzhouPopulation:12.7 million
Xishan Island - Suzhou, China
James and Keli2020-06-247 min

For China's May Day Holiday we went to Xishan Island in Suzhou. The island is located on Taihu Lake, which is known for the tea and many different fruit that grow on the island.

We went to Linwu Caves and MingYueWan Ancient Village. It was an interesting day with challenges that we usually face while traveling within China.

--- James and Keli
June 24, 2020, Summer in China

Video Chapters

  1. 0:00Island arrival introduction
  2. 0:24Linwu Caves exploration
  3. 3:07Local lunch experience
  4. 4:10MingYueWan Village visit
  5. 6:03Day trip conclusion

James And Keli explored Xishan Island's Linwu Caves and MingYueWan Ancient Village in Suzhou, China. Despite language barriers, their cultural immersion created a memorable and rewarding experience.

Travel Guides & Tips in this video

  1. Tip 1Getting to Xishan Island from Suzhou takes about two hours via metro and Didi. Plan your transportation in advance for a smooth journey. (0:12)
  2. Tip 2Linwu Caves, also known as the Dragon Cave, is a must-visit attraction. Explore its unique rock formations and learn about its rich history as a sacred Taoist site. (0:24)
  3. Tip 3Embrace the local culinary scene! Try the recommended dishes at local eateries for an authentic taste of Chinese cuisine. Be open to trying new things. (3:07)
  4. Tip 4Explore MingYueWan Ancient Village. This hidden gem offers a glimpse into traditional Chinese life and architecture. Check local tourism maps for hidden gems. (4:10)
  5. Tip 5Visit a local teahouse for a relaxing tea ceremony and enjoy the local fruits. It's a great way to unwind after a day of exploring. (6:16)
  6. Tip 6Use ride-hailing apps like Didi to get around efficiently, especially when navigating unfamiliar areas. This can save you time and effort. (6:28)
  7. Tip 7Be prepared for unexpected challenges, like language barriers and heat. Embrace flexibility and adjust your plans as needed. It adds to the adventure! (6:54)

James And Keli's Xishan Island adventure in Suzhou, China, was a delightful mix of exploration and unexpected challenges. Their journey to the island, a short trip from Suzhou, started with a visit to the intriguing Linwu Caves, also known as the Dragon Cave. They navigated the ancient cave's unique formations and learned about its significance in Taoism. Lunch in a local village provided a taste of authentic Chinese cuisine, followed by a visit to the charming MingYueWan Ancient Village, discovered through a tourism map. Despite the language barrier and sweltering heat, their experience was enriching, pushing them outside their comfort zones and creating lasting memories.

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Xishan Island - Suzhou, China

This video follows James And Keli's day trip to Xishan Island in Suzhou, China, during the May Day holiday. Their journey begins with a scenic metro and Didi ride to the island, setting the stage for a day filled with exploration and cultural immersion.

First on their itinerary is a visit to the captivating Linwu Caves, also known as the Dragon Cave, famed for its unique flat roof and upright stones resembling a forest. The caves' history as a sacred Taoist site adds a layer of intrigue to their exploration. Navigating the cave's interior, they marvel at its beauty and significance.

Their culinary adventure unfolds with a delightful lunch at a local eatery, where they trust the chef's recommendations, experiencing authentic Chinese cuisine. This spontaneous decision highlights their willingness to embrace the unexpected during their travels.

Next, James And Keli discover the MingYueWan Ancient Village, a hidden gem found on a local tourism map. The village offers a glimpse into traditional Chinese life, with its unique architecture and atmosphere. They even indulge in a relaxing tea ceremony at a local teahouse.

Despite the challenges of navigating a foreign language and dealing with the heat, their journey is filled with enriching experiences and cultural discoveries. Their willingness to step outside their comfort zone and embrace the unknown is evident throughout their adventure.

The video concludes with reflections on their day, highlighting the rewards of embracing spontaneity and the beauty of unexpected encounters during travel. Their experience serves as an inspiration for viewers to explore the unknown and create their own unforgettable memories.

Xishan Island: Exploring Suzhou's Taihu Lake

For China's May Day Holiday we went to Xishan Island in Suzhou. The island is located on Taihu Lake, which is known for the tea and many different fruit that grow on the island. We went to Linwu Caves and MingYueWan Ancient Village. It was an interesting day with challenges that we usually face...

Xishan Island: Suzhou Caves & Ancient Village Exploration

James and Keli, a travel couple from Kansas, now based in China, explored Xishan Island in Suzhou during their May Day holiday. This captivating island, nestled on Taihu Lake, is renowned for its tea plantations and diverse fruit orchards. Their adventure included visits to the intriguing Linwu Caves and the historic MingYueWan Ancient Village. The trip presented the usual travel challenges, offering a glimpse into the realities of exploring China. Their video promises a delightful journey through this enchanting destination.

Attractions in this video: Linwu Caves, Mingyuewan Ancient Village