the cities many brightly lit skyscrapers. There was also a stage show
performance on the dock at the front of the ship. This city has over 23
million people in Shanghai and the port is the busiest in the world - I was
overwhelmed.
Got off the ship early this morning and headed for the Suzhou area. The city
dates back to the 6th century BC.
We stopped at the West Temple Garden and the Ancient Gate area (Pan Gate)
before taking the first canal ride of the day through the network of canals.
Also visited the Lingering Garden, which was originally a private garden
that is now open to the public. During the Ming Dynasty the Suzhou area was
someplace where the scholars and merchants could escape the city and they
built themselves elegant gardens here.
Ended the day with a visit to the Tongli Water Village, typical of the
region, and shows what Suzhou must have looked like in earlier days. The
houses open out onto a network of canals that are spanned by dozens of stone
bridges. Enjoyed another canal ride here and spent some time walking around
this very busy place.
Great day!
