The 2024 Suzhou Jinji Lake Half Marathon was held in SIP on Mar 10. The event greatly impressed the participants with not only the inspiring competitions but also the wonderful tour along the well-designed routes.

The half marathon started and ended at Suzhou Culture and Arts Centre Square where the Jinji Lake Walk of Stars and the sculpture of two hands holding up a frame are very impressive.

The Gate of the Orient is a good place to shop, enjoy delicious food and spend leisure time.

A tour by the water bus that recently came into service on Jinji Lake is worth a try. The water bus provides 21 services between Moon Habor and Wanghuge Pier from 9:00am to 10:00pm daily, each taking 40 people at most and the one-way trip takes about 15 minutes. No appointment is required, and the service is free.

“Harmony”, a 12-meter-tall sculpture on the west bank of Jinji Lake, was created by a Singaporean sculptor. It symbolizes the close partnership between China and Singapore.

The “Run for Fun”, part of the half marathon, ended at Yuelang Street, where sits the first branch of Taiwan-headquartered retail bookstore chain Eslite Bookstore in Chinese mainland. The 18-meter-high, 72-step stairway in it is magnificent.

The route of half marathon also passed by five beautiful small bridges in Ligongdi Cultural and Creative Block, where a replica of Le mur des je t'aime (also known as “Wall of Love”), a landmark in Montmartre, Paris, is located.

The Jinshuiwan Trestle, which zigzags its way on Jinji Lake, allows strollers to enjoy amazing views of the lake.

The buildings on the banks of the lake, like the Suzhou IFS, create a contrast to the natural scenery. As a sign of the modern prosperity, they showcase another kind of beauty, especially when they are lit up in the night.

The old Xietang Street is a good place to savor the traditional culture of Suzhou.

The Egrets Park on the east of Dushu Lake and the Christian church and camping site by the lake are also worth a visit.

Among other attractions are the Chongyuan Temple, Bicester Village Suzhou, and the Archaeological Site Park of Caoxieshan.

March 11, 2024