Mùdú

Introducing Mùdú

Mùdú is another of Jiāngsū’s much-touted canal towns, but less touristy than some of its more famous neighbours. Just 20 minutes by bus from Sūzhōu, the town dates back to the Ming dynasty and was once the haunt of wealthy officials, intellectuals and artists. Mùdú’s biggest claim to stardom is declared proudly on a sign near the entrance: ‘Emperor Qianlong of the Qing Dynasty (1644–1911) visited six times’. Certainly not the biggest or most interesting of the canal towns, it’s still an appealing enough place for a day trip from Sūzhōu. Within the old town, several of the traditional canal-side homes have been opened to visitors, giving a glimpse of the opulent lifestyles of the Ming and Qing well-to-do. Mùdú is best-known for its gardens, inspired by the classical gardens of Sūzhōu. Like other water towns, the best way to ditch the crowds is to venture into the warren of narrow streets that branch off of the canals and see what you find.

Last updated: Feb 17, 2009