Located roughly 60 miles from Shanghai and entrenched as one of China’s key economic centres, Suzhou is an energetic, enterprising city bridging with aplomb a long and distinguished history with its modern-day status as a global business boomtown.

Nicknamed the “Venice of the East” due to the many scenic canals and bridges crisscrossing the old city, Suzhou has roots as a capital of Chinese industry dating back thousands of years, to the Tang Dynasty, when it was a leading silk manufacturer. Silk production continues today, alongside thriving commercial developments centred in the Suzhou Industrial Park and Suzhou New District.

It’s not all about business here, however. Suzhou’s lovely classical gardens carry UNESCO World Heritage Site status and are the city’s top attractions. Serene temples and impressive pagodas dot the atmospheric old city. Naturally, this is a perfect place to shop for exquisite silks and textiles, too.

Indeed, whether visiting for business or pleasure, visitors will find plenty of appeal in vibrant Suzhou.