Cycling China: Suzhou

It is difficult to tell where Shanghai and Suzhou overlap Both are enormous metropolis areas with skyscrapers, traffic, and millions upon millions of people. Suzhou has a lot to offer, though, that Shanghai just doesn't have. Like hills, for example. Three of the most popular areas to cycle in Suzhou are Yangcheng Lake, Lake Tai (Taihu), and Lingyanshan Scenic Area near the ancient town of Mudu. Yangcheng is known for its giant buddha and hairy crab restaurants and a cycle around the lake can be an easy cruise. Dongshan, located on the edge of Lake Tai, is a lush, forested area with some steep, challenging climbs. Lingyanshan is one of the few mountain bike destinations within reasonable distance from Shanghai. There are also a number of ancient towns and small lakes in Southern Suzhou between Shanghai and Tai Lake that offer scenic opportunities for exploration.

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