Local Specialties of Suzhou

Suzhou boasts abundant local specialties. Dangshan crisp pears and Xiaoxian grapes each boast a cultivation history of over a thousand years. These premium fruits are renowned far and wide, serving as top choices for personal enjoyment and thoughtful gifts for relatives and friends.

Stone collectors are sure to know the Eight-Tone Stone, also called Lingbi Stone. Produced in Lingbi County of Suzhou, Lingbi Stone features a jade-like hue yet resonates with the clang of bronze when struck. Its shapes are wonderfully varied and fantastic; close observation reveals countless unique forms that captivate enthusiasts utterly.

The Leshi Inkstone, a coveted collectible among literati, earns its place among China’s famous inkstones thanks to its gorgeous, vivid coloration.

A celebrated inkstone dating back to ancient China, the Leshi Inkstone rose to great fame during the Tang and Song dynasties. Literary giants including Han Yu, Bai Juyi, Su Shi and Mi Fu all wrote praises of it. It is regarded as a rare treasure across China, Japan and Southeast Asia.

With a cultivation history spanning 2,000 years, Dangshan crisp pears are famous nationwide and overseas for their thin smooth peel, attractive appearance, sweet, crisp and juicy flesh. They were once imperial tributes to the royal court and rank among China’s Top Ten Premium Fruits.