Jinji Lake is where Suzhou shows its twenty-first-century side. Lying in Suzhou Industrial Park, on the eastern side of the city, it is a large urban lake, covering roughly eleven and a half square kilometres, that was once connected to the greater Taihu Lake system and is now ringed by landscaped parks, walking and cycling paths and a modern skyline. Where the old city is about walls, canals and gardens, the lake side is about open water, big sky and contemporary buildings, with one of the best-known skyline views in the region. The area is laid out in distinct zones, with lakefront promenades, small parks focused on wetlands and wildlife, art and culture buildings and a central island for birds. The lake has also been given a top scenic-area rating, which reflects the scale of the landscaping. Joggers, cyclists, families and couples use the paths every day, and in the evening the skyline lights up and reflects on the water, which makes the lakeside a pleasant place for a walk after dinner. It is a very different Suzhou from the one in the guidebooks, which is the reason to go.
What to do
The simplest plan is a walk or cycle along the waterfront promenades, taking in the skyline views, the parks and the water. Popular spots include the causeway and promenade areas that run out into the lake, the lakeside parks with their wetlands and reed beds, and the cultural buildings on the shore.
Bicycles can be hired in several places, and boat and sightseeing options operate on some stretches. Individual attractions around the lake, such as ferris wheels, galleries, shopping and dining districts and a cultural and arts centre, each have their own opening times and charges, so check for what you want.
When to go
Late afternoon through the evening is the best time, as the temperature drops and the lights come on. Weekday mornings are very quiet and good for cycling. Summer evenings are warm and busy, and spring and autumn are the most comfortable seasons. Winter evenings are cool and clear, and good for photography but not for lingering.
Getting there and where to stay
The lake is a quick metro or taxi ride east of the old city, and several metro stations serve the lakeshore. Many business hotels and some of the city’s modern international hotels sit around the lake, so it is an option for those who want a contemporary base, although the old-city gardens and canals are a longer ride away. Novotel Suzhou SIP is a few minutes’ walk from the water, with a metro station nearby.
Who it suits
Travellers who enjoy city skylines and waterfront walks, cyclists, families who want open space, and anyone who wants to see the modern, prosperous side of Suzhou. It is less suited to visitors with only a day or two, who will usually want to spend their time on the classical gardens, but it is a good addition on a longer stay, or a final evening, and it is free to enter and walk.
Tips
Bring a light jacket for the breeze off the water, take photographs from the opposite shore for the best skyline view, and eat in the lakeside dining areas, where choices range from simple noodle shops to polished restaurants.
What to expect
The experience
A free, self-guided walk or cycle along landscaped lakeside promenades, parks and viewpoints.
Best time
Late afternoon into the evening, when the light is soft and the skyline lights come on.
How long
One to three hours, longer if you cycle or stop for dinner.
Tips
Bring a light jacket for the breeze, rent a bike if you like cycling and photograph the skyline from the opposite shore.
Quick picks
- Best for
- Anyone who wants a modern, open-air contrast to the classical gardens, and cyclists and joggers.
- Families
- Flat, open and safe for strolling, with parks and play spaces, though some attractions have separate charges.
- Couples
- A sunset walk along the promenade, followed by dinner in a lakeside restaurant.
- Pair with
- The Suzhou Museum for a modern-versus-classical contrast, or a quiet final evening after a day of gardens.
- Time needed
- One to three hours.
Good questions
Is Jinji Lake free?+
Walking the lakeside promenades and parks costs nothing. Some individual attractions, boats and rides around the lake charge their own fees.
Where is Jinji Lake?+
It is in Suzhou Industrial Park on the east side of the city, a short metro or taxi ride from the old town.
How big is the lake?+
It covers roughly eleven and a half square kilometres, so most visitors walk or cycle a section rather than the whole shore.
What is the best time to go?+
Late afternoon and evening, when the temperature drops and the skyline lights reflect on the water.
Is it worth a visit on a short trip?+
On a day or two, the gardens come first. On a longer stay or a last evening, it is a pleasant and very different side of Suzhou.
