Shanghai to Huzhou in 55 Minutes: A High-Speed Connection

The new Shanghai-Suzhou-Huzhou High-Speed Railway makes reaching Huzhou easier than ever, cutting travel time to just 55 minutes. To attract visitors, Huzhou is offering free entry to select attractions and special discounts on hotels, dining, and entertainment for travelers arriving by train.

With its historic water towns, scenic lake views, and nature retreats, Huzhou offers a quieter yet equally captivating alternative to its neighboring cities. Now, with faster access and exclusive travel perks, there’s never been a better time to visit.

In this Pacific Prime article, we explore how this new high-speed connection is transforming tourism in Huzhou, what makes the city worth visiting, and how you can take advantage of the limited-time offers available.

The Shanghai-Suzhou-Huzhou High-Speed Railway: A Game Changer for Travelers

The new Shanghai-Suzhou-Huzhou High-Speed Railway cuts the journey from Shanghai to Huzhou to just 55 minutes, revolutionizing travel in the Yangtze River Delta. This upgrade enhances accessibility, boosts tourism, and offers a faster, more convenient way to explore Huzhou.

In this section, we’ll cover the benefits of the new railway, key stops along the route, and how it enhances travel to Huzhou’s top attractions. Whether you’re planning a day trip or a longer getaway, this high-speed connection makes visiting Huzhou easier than ever.

A Faster and More Convenient Travel Option

The Shanghai-Suzhou-Huzhou High-Speed Railway, launched in July 2024, is a significant upgrade to China’s transport network, especially within the Yangtze River Delta. Spanning 164 kilometers, it reduces travel time between Shanghai and Huzhou to just 55 minutes, down from the previous 2+ hours.

Before the railway, visitors relied on highways or slower trains, often facing delays due to traffic and longer travel times. With the high-speed rail, passengers can now enjoy a smooth, comfortable journey, making day trips and weekend getaways to Huzhou much more practical.

This development is a win for more than just tourists—Huzhou’s local economy, businesses, and hospitality sector are set to benefit. With easier access, more people will visit the city’s historical sites, scenic lakefront, and cultural experiences, boosting both tourism and local industries.

As part of the effort to attract visitors, Huzhou has even introduced special travel promotions, including free admission to select attractions and discounts on hotels, dining, and entertainment for those arriving via the high-speed rail.

For both frequent travelers and first-time visitors, this railway is a game changer, offering a faster, more reliable, and more enjoyable way to explore the rich heritage and natural beauty of Huzhou.

Railway Route and Key Stops

The Shanghai-Suzhou-Huzhou High-Speed Railway makes multiple stops between Shanghai Hongqiao Station and Huzhou Station, allowing passengers to explore various cities along the way. Here’s a breakdown of its key stops:

• Shanghai Hongqiao Station – A major transport hub, seamlessly connected to metro lines, long-distance trains, and flights from Shanghai Hongqiao International Airport.
• Shanghai Songjiang – A historic district known for its ancient pagodas, museums, and cultural sites.
• Liantang – A gateway to Jiashan’s ancient towns, famous for their traditional architecture and waterways.
• Suzhou South – A must-visit for those wanting to explore Suzhou’s classical gardens, canals, and historic streets.
• Shengze – A small town famous for its silk industry, where visitors can learn about China’s silk-making heritage.
• Huzhou Nanxun – The stop closest to Nanxun Ancient Town, one of the most well-preserved water towns in China.
• Huzhou East – A strategic stop near the city’s business district, convenient for professionals and business travelers.
• Huzhou Station – The final stop, providing direct access to Taihu Lake, Huzhou’s cultural landmarks, and luxury resorts.

Top Attractions in Huzhou

Huzhou is an underrated gem in the Yangtze River Delta, offering a mix of historical landmarks, nature retreats, and modern attractions. Thanks to the high-speed rail, visitors can now reach these destinations more conveniently than ever.

Nanxun Ancient Town: A Hidden Gem Among China’s Water Towns

Nanxun Ancient Town is one of China’s best-preserved water towns, less commercialized than Zhouzhuang and Wuzhen. Once a silk-trading hub, it blends traditional Chinese elegance with Western influences, thanks to wealthy merchants who built grand mansions during the late Qing Dynasty.

Highlights of Nanxun Ancient Town:

• Liu’s Family Compound – This sprawling estate showcases a rare mix of European-style architecture and classic Chinese design, reflecting the town’s affluent history.
• Little Lotus Garden – A stunning private garden estate, featuring traditional pavilions, lotus ponds, and rock formations.
• Jiaye Library – One of China’s oldest and most well-preserved private libraries, housing thousands of ancient texts and manuscripts.
• Baijian Lou (One Hundred Houses Complex) – A residential area lined with historic white-walled homes, giving visitors a glimpse of what life was like in ancient Nanxun.
• Boating on the Canals – A must-do experience that allows visitors to enjoy the town’s tranquil waterways, lined with ancient bridges and well-preserved homes.

Located just a short ride from Huzhou Nanxun Station, this town is a perfect day-trip destination, offering an immersive cultural experience without the overwhelming crowds of more commercialized water towns.

Taihu Lake: A Scenic Retreat for Nature Lovers

One of China’s largest freshwater lakes, Taihu Lake is a breathtaking natural destination offering panoramic views, serene boat rides, and outdoor adventures. Huzhou’s lakeside setting makes it one of the best locations to experience Taihu’s beauty up close.

Here, visitors can enjoy:

• Boat Cruises – Explore Taihu’s islands, fishing villages, and picturesque shorelines on a scenic boat tour.
• Taihu Longemont Paradise – A lakeside amusement park featuring gardens, entertainment areas, and family-friendly attractions.
• Mogan Mountain – Famous for its bamboo forests, historic stone villas, and cooler climate, this area is perfect for hiking and nature retreats.
• Sheraton Huzhou Hot Spring Resort – Also known as the “Moon Hotel” due to its unique ring-shaped design, this luxury resort offers hot springs, lakefront views, and fine dining.

Yuanxiang Town: A Haven for Eco-Tourism

Yuanxiang Town, located in Miaoxi Town, Wuxing District, spans nearly one million square meters and is perfect for eco-tourism. The town’s centerpiece is Asia’s largest butterfly ecological museum, where visitors can enjoy exhibits and observe butterflies in their natural habitat.

Besides the museum, Yuanxiang offers outdoor activities such as rock climbing, ziplining, and kayaking for those seeking adventure. It’s an ideal spot for nature lovers and adrenaline junkies alike. The town also boasts a stunning plum blossom garden that blooms beautifully in spring.

In addition to outdoor fun, Yuanxiang Town represents sustainable tourism. Visitors can experience a harmonious blend of relaxation and adventure, while the town’s dedication to environmental preservation offers an unforgettable nature-focused retreat.

Giraffe Manor: A Unique Wildlife Experience

Located in Xisai Shan National Tourism Resort, Giraffe Manor is a must-visit for animal lovers. Visitors can interact with giraffes, feeding them and observing them in their natural surroundings. It’s a one-of-a-kind wildlife experience in Huzhou.

The manor is also home to a wetland reserve, which is a haven for diverse bird species. Birdwatchers can enjoy a calm, serene environment that is perfect for photography. This adds an extra dimension to Giraffe Manor’s appeal as a destination for nature enthusiasts.

For families, the petting zoo offers a chance to meet friendly animals like goats and rabbits. The combination of wildlife interaction, educational opportunities, and fun activities makes Giraffe Manor a well-rounded experience for visitors of all ages.

Xiaoxi Street: A Vibrant Cultural and Food Hub

No visit to Huzhou is complete without a trip to Xiaoxi Street, a vibrant cultural and food hub. Known for its traditional Huzhou snacks, the street offers delights such as thousand-layer cake and Taihu white shrimp. Local eateries provide an authentic taste of the region.

Xiaoxi Street blends traditional Chinese art with modern fashion. Boutique shops line the street, offering everything from handmade crafts to contemporary clothing. It’s an excellent spot for unique gifts and souvenirs, combining local culture with modern style.

As the day transitions to night, Xiaoxi Street comes alive with tea houses, bars, and street performances. The area’s energy shifts as visitors enjoy tea, catch live shows, or simply wander through the bustling atmosphere, making it a dynamic spot for evening exploration.

Special Travel Discounts for High-Speed Rail Passengers

To celebrate the launch of the Shanghai-Suzhou-Huzhou High-Speed Railway, Huzhou is offering special travel incentives for visitors arriving by train.

What’s Included?

• Free entry to select scenic attractions within 72 hours of arrival.
• Discounts on hotels, restaurants, and entertainment venues.

How to Redeem?

Passengers simply need to present their high-speed rail tickets at participating locations. This promotion is valid until December 31, 2025, making it a great time to plan a trip to Huzhou.

Why You Should Visit Huzhou Now

With the introduction of the Shanghai-Suzhou-Huzhou High-Speed Railway, visiting Huzhou is easier and faster than ever. The city offers a unique mix of history, nature, and modern attractions, making it an ideal escape from the hustle and bustle of Shanghai.

Take advantage of free entry to top attractions and exclusive discounts before December 31, 2025. Whether you’re drawn to ancient water towns, scenic lakes, eco-tourism adventures, or vibrant cultural streets, Huzhou has something for everyone.

Protect Your Journey with Pacific Prime

The new high-speed railway to Huzhou offers a fast and convenient way to explore this vibrant city. Whether you’re visiting for a short trip or planning to settle in, the journey becomes even more enjoyable when you have the right support in place, ensuring a safe and smooth experience along the way.

That’s why Pacific Prime is here to assist you with finding a travel or individual health insurance plan that suits your needs. With over 25 years of experience as an insurance intermediary, we provide impartial advice and tailored solutions to expats in China.

Our international health insurance plans ensure you have access to medical care while living or traveling abroad. Whether you’re venturing through Huzhou’s cultural spots or navigating life as an expat, our solutions help you feel secure, knowing you’re covered in any situation.

Contact us today for a free quote and expert guidance!

Disclaimer: Pacific Prime solely represents, operates, and manages locally regulated insurance products and services in the territory of PR China. Any references to Pacific Prime Global Company or Group, the international services, insurance products, or otherwise stated, written or verbally, are for introduction purposes about our overseas network only as each entity is fully independent.