Changshu flies very much under the tourist radar but has many of the best features of Hangzhou and Suzhou combined: canals, ancient houses, a lake and mountains, albeit on a smaller scale. Go to the Shanghu Scenic Area and take a gondola ride through bamboo-lined waterways or hike to the top of Yushan (Mount Yu) which is full of traditional tea plantations and has a mini Great Wall plus views over Xingfu Temple and the neighbouring forest. Explore the old-style buildings and waterways of Shajiabang or go to the Square Pagoda in the city centre. Getting There: One and a half hours by bus from Shanghai South Long Distance Bus Station.

A far less-touristy alternative to Suzhou, this city was built on the wealth of its salt merchants. The Ge Yuan Garden is considered to be one of the four best in China and the south entrance backs on to Dongguan Street, which dates back 1,200 years and is dotted with Ming and Qing dynasty buildings. For an interesting juxtaposition between Chinese and Islamic architecture, visit the Tomb of Puhaddin, who is said to be a descendant of the Prophet Muhammad, and its surrounding gardens. Equally worth your time are peaceful Slender West Lake, and the wooden burial chamber of the first king of Guangling at The Mausoleum of the Western Han. Getting There: One hour high-speed train from Shanghai Hongqiao Railway Station to Zhenjiang South Station, and a 40-minute bus from the long-distance bus station next to Zhenjiang South Station.

You can read the full article here