Step into Kaixiangong Village and be transported to an authentic water town frozen in time! Whitewashed houses with black-tiled roofs line the canals where wooden boats glide by, offering glimpses of locals washing clothes just as described in Fei Xiaotong's seminal work Peasant Life in China. Don't miss steaming Ding Sheng cakes paired with Biluochun tea, and watch artisans hand-dyeing indigo fabrics—their centuries-old craft makes for unforgettable souvenirs!

Nestled in the heart of Zhenze Ancient Town, this Suzhou-style garden hotel blends retro Republic-era charm with modern luxury. Rooms feature premium silk bedding and 24-hour butler service, while spacious bathrooms (some with tubs) promise ultimate relaxation. The highlight? A classic Jiangnan courtyard with koi ponds where you can make a wish, alongside rockeries and blooming flora. Unwind in the tea room/library, or try unique family-friendly activities like tie-dyeing. Just 5 minutes’ walk to Ciyun Temple Pagoda and 30-minute drives to Nanxun/Wuzhen, it’s the perfect base to explore water towns. Pet-friendly with free parking and shuttle services!

This art-inspired boutique hotel, nestled by the picturesque Taihu Lake, offers a perfect retreat just a short distance from the bustling city. With 48 elegant rooms, children’s play area, and kid-friendly amenities, it's ideal for family getaways. The versatile banquet hall and spacious meeting rooms cater to both business and leisure travelers. Enjoy the serene courtyard garden and top-notch facilities like the fitness center and café—every detail ensures a memorable stay.


Nestled by the Changyang Lake, this hidden gem offers a unique immersive music experience where you can listen to the songs of frog princes and enjoy the romantic glow of fireflies. Perfect for families, the resort features a kids' playground, pet-friendly policies, and campfire barbecues. Try kayaking, shrimp fishing, or take a stroll through the vast rice fields to connect with nature. At night, unwind with KTV or mahjong—it’s the ultimate getaway!

Craving an escape from the city? This rustic-chic retreat nestled among golden rice fields and clear rivers offers family-friendly glamping, BBQ pits, and even a pet-friendly policy. Kids will love picking veggies at the organic garden or joining seasonal craft workshops, while adults unwind in the tea house or outdoor cinema. With nearby ancient water towns and amenities like 24/7 front desk and free parking, it's the ultimate countryside getaway near Shanghai. Don't miss stargazing by the bonfire!

This is not just a hotel, but a family paradise and holiday resort! Nestled by Taihu Lake, it offers unique stays like RVs and wooden cottages, along with fun activities like pottery and archery for both kids and adults. With 24-hour front desk and multilingual staff, your stay will be hassle-free. The kids' club and playroom are children's favorites. Surrounded by nature, you can enjoy BBQ by the lake or cycling, immersing in authentic countryside charm. Perfect for a family getaway!

This hotel is a perfect getaway! Whether you want to relax or have fun, it has everything you need. Spa massage and sauna will help you unwind, while the fitness center and game room keep you entertained. Traveling with pets? No problem! The hotel also offers free parking and 24-hour front desk for your convenience. The best part? Its eco-tourism and fruit-picking activities are perfect for family bonding. Highly recommended for its great value and excellent service. Don’t miss out!

Tucked away in a legendary watertown, this retreat blends Jiangnan charm with global flair—think embroidered fabrics from around the world adorning bespoke furniture. The 100-year-old memorial archway by the pool whispers tales of the past. Pet-friendly and perfect for families, with kid’s play areas, farming activities, and even a chess room. Only seven rooms, each uniquely detailed, offer cozy escapes. Sip coffee in the tea house or stroll through lush gardens—rated 4.8 for its thoughtful service, it’s an idyllic hideaway for couples and adventurers alike.

This hotel offers great value for money with a high rating of 4.9/5! Enjoy free parking and a 24-hour front desk for ultimate convenience. Perfect for both business trips and family vacations, it features multi-function halls, meeting rooms, and children's supplies. With laundry services and dryers, long stays are a breeze, plus you can check out at 2 PM for a relaxed morning. Located near Badu Community, the serene surroundings make it an ideal retreat.











Everything you need to know about Kaixiangongcun
Jiangcun Xiaoyuan is a must-visit boutique guesthouse nestled in the heart of Kai Xian Gong Village, offering authentic Jiangnan-style architecture with traditional brick-and-wood construction. Guests can participate in hands-on experiences like handloom weaving, Suzhou-style dim sum workshops, and evening Kunqu opera recitals by the riverfront teahouse. Located just 30 minutes from Suzhou Railway Station, it provides seamless access to the site where sociologist Fei Xiaotong conducted his seminal fieldwork. This stay offers unparalleled insight into China’s rural sociology roots and local craftsmanship.
Suzhou Taihu Holiday Hotel is just a 15-minute drive from Kai Xian Gong Village, featuring complimentary shuttle service for easy access. The hotel boasts lake-view rooms and a serene eco-garden, with modern facilities including a conference center and wellness spa. Its strategic location near the Grand Canal branch allows guests to enjoy evening boat tours along historic waterways, illuminated by traditional village lanterns. In collaboration with local intangible cultural heritage centers, the hotel hosts regular events such as Wu dialect lectures and Suzhou fan-making workshops, blending comfort with authentic cultural immersion.
Join a field research simulation workshop led by local scholars, reenacting Fei Xiaotong’s original community study methods. Activities include village resident interviews, hand-drawn map creation, and oral history recording, offering an academic lens into China’s rural transformation. Participants can also book a rice paddy transplanting experience, planting late-season rice firsthand to connect with seasonal farming rhythms. In the evening, enjoy a poetry gathering at a renovated ancestral hall, sipping freshly harvested Bai Lu tea, creating a deeply immersive Jiangnan cultural journey.
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