This well-planned lakeside area is one of the city’s most popular leisure spots, offering outdoor activities as well as a diverse variety of shops and restaurants.
Jinji Lake is among the largest inland city lakes in China. The lake’s western and northern shores offer a concentration of entertainment and shopping complexes. Head to the eastern and southern shores to relax in tranquil green spaces.
Explore the paths that wind around the perimeter of the lake and stretch for a total of 9 miles (15 kilometers). Jog, bike or simply walk along these pleasant paths. If you don’t feel like walking, step aboard the special tour bus that runs around the lake.
Ride on the lake’s 390-foot-high (120-meter) Ferris wheel, nicknamed the “Eye of Jinji Lake.” The Ferris wheel is part of the larger Ferris Wheel Amusement Park, where you’ll find a variety of other roller coasters, merry-go-rounds and rides that are perfect for kids.
Browse the stores in sprawling Harmony Times Square, one of the lakeside area’s many high-end shopping centers. Above the mall’s walkway is a massive LED Sky Screen measuring 1,640 feet (500 meters) long and 70 feet (21 meters) high, said to be the largest in the world. Enjoy more shopping at Marina Cove, which carries major international brands, such as Armani and Nike.
Check out the latest exhibition being hosted at the Jinji Lake Art Museum, a nonprofit modern art museum located in the Suzhou Culture and Arts Center. The center also includes a Grand Theater, where you may be able to watch a dance, ballet or musical performance.
When you’re ready to eat, go to Li Gong Di, a dining and entertainment area lined with restaurants, bars and teahouses. This area is a particularly popular place to enjoy a spa treatment. Many believe that its proximity to the lake enhances the rejuvenating effects of various treatments.
To see the lakeside area at its prettiest, visit in the evening, when the lights of nearby buildings cast colorful reflections in the water. Go to Rainbow Walk on Friday or Saturday evening to see an impressive light and fountain show.
Jinji Lake is located east of Suzhou’s old city. Reach the area by bus with stops at Dongfangzhimen and Harmony (or Yuanrong) Times Square.
