Co-organized by the Tourism Bureau of Jiangsu Province and the Suzhou tourism committee, the 2013 Suzhou Rural Tourism Carnival opened in Zhouzhuang recently. A series of activities were held in the ancient water town.

Picturesque scenery, small bridges and ancient dwellings along the river bring visitors a peaceful feeling.

In recent years, Zhouzhuang has combined tourism with culture, technology and creative ideas to deepen its cultural meaning, improve infrastructure and develop special experience projects for tourists. "The king of paper box" is China's first creative park with paper products as its theme, offering tourists an experience integrating technology and creative ideas. The romantic Aidu town is a place combining rural scenery with guest houses and outside training facilities. What's more, the special projects such as the Elegant Garden themed around Shen Wangsan culture and the Farmer Villa are gradually becoming highlights to attract visitors. Zhouzhuang's tourism has been developed to feature not only simple sightseeing attractions but also themed experience tours and leisure tours.

In recent years, Suzhou has sped up the development of rural tourism. More than 300 sightseeing spots have been built in rural areas, among which 30 resorts have been named national demonstration sites. Developing tourism in rural areas serves as a new way to promote the rural economy. Rural tourism has become an important engine to pass down ancient culture, enrich peasants and promote rural economic transition and upgrading.

The 2013 Suzhou Rural Tourism Carnival promotes appreciation for Suzhou culture and landscapes. Roughly 10 activities will be held in Shajiabang, Zhouzhuang, Qionglong Mountain, Tongli and Taihu Lake national wetland until Sept 20.

Source: ChinaDaily