Kunshan accommodation from AU$127

Kunshan is the birthplace of Kun Opera, which is aptly named the "father of all operas" in China. Visit the Museum of Kun Opera and you can see exhibits and scripts from real performances, as well as learn about the history of this great Chinese art. Visit the memorial of Gu Yanwu, who was a famous local scholar. You can see his former residence where many of his scripts and works are on display and learn about his extraordinary life.

Take a trip to Yangcheng Lake and see some of the most beautiful natural scenery in China. The lake teems with aquatic life, and the salmon, turtles, whitefish, eels, shrimps and crabs have been deemed the six treasures of Yangcheng Lake. The freshwater crabs, named Chinese Mitten Crabs have won fame internationally for their taste, so try them yourself at the dock or in Qianshuiwan Commercial Street. You can try fishing in the lake to catch your own dinner, or bring your golf clubs and have a round at the Golf Club of Great Shanghai. If you're feeling adventurous, why not have a round at the Paintball Centre?

Tinglin Park is a wonderful place to explore and has three main treasures for visitors to see. Check out the Kun Stones, which come from Kunshan Mountain and have been decorated with the image of a drifting cloud, and the other a flowing stream. The Eight Immortals flower is another rare treat that's unique to China. Each bloom is surrounded by eight flowers that represent the eight immortal figures from Taoist legend, which you can see in full glory every April and May. Don't miss the Twin Lotus flowers, which stand on a single stork. In Tinglin Park you can also explore a zoo, snake exhibits and a small amusement park, along with acres of walking paths and trails. Another great park for the afternoon is Kunshan Forest Park, where you can see horse racing as well as dedicated areas to see rare birds, wild deer and a garden dedicated to flowers.

Get out of the city and explore the nearby water towns. Zhouzhuang has the best preserved ancient residential houses in the area, which are surrounded by lakes, rivers and canals. Take a photo with the Twin Bridges, which are Shige Bridge and Yongan Bridge - most famous as the symbols of the town. If you're looking for a similar water town with a local atmosphere, visit Jinxi or Luzhi Town. Explore the Qiandeng Ancient Town to see architectural masterpieces from the Qing and Ming Dynasties, especially the Qinfeng Tower that was built in 503. Don't miss the Jade Buddha Hall underneath the tower, where you can see a reclining jade Buddha that's decorated with over 1500 rubies, sapphires and emeralds.

Kunshan is a fantastic destination for your next trip to China. Discover the rich heritage, fantastic national parks and some very unique villages that are unlike any other in China. Book your flight to China and find a great deal on Kunshan accommodation today, all that's waiting for your perfect holiday is you!

Image credit GurkenAli under Creative Commons