The tourism authorities of Zhouzhuang, the picturesque water town located near Suzhou widely considered to be the most exemplary of its kind in South China, organized a series of successful promotional events in several northern Chinese cities during the months of June and July.

The tour traveled to Beijing, Shenyang and Dalian, offering art performances that captivatingly transported the artistic charms of the Yangtze River Delta region to the appreciative eyes and ears of northerners.

While many northerners are familiar with Suzhou's mellow folk songs and local delicacies, such as the green sticky rice balls, the region still holds many hidden gems. Events provided information on several rural areas that have recently undergone development in an attempt to attract a greater number of visitors. The picturesque village of Qibang is one such example. The town offers guests the opportunity to stay in newly renovated farm houses and experience the flavor of rural life.

Also of relevance to the development of tourism in Zhouzhuang is the opening of Shanghai Disneyland Resort this past June. The major attraction should further boost the number of tourists that visit the region each year on account of the ease and speed of local transportation.

A performer playing the pipa, a traditional plucked stringed instrument. [Photo from Kunshan Daily]