Turtle Head Isle (Yuantouzhu) and Taihu

Turtle Head Isle (Yuantouzhu) is a peninsula park on the northwest shore of Taihu Lake, off Lihu Road in Binhu District, Wuxi, Jiangsu. The name refers to a rocky headland that resembles a turtle's head extending into the water. It has long been considered one of the finest lakeside viewpoints in the Jiangnan region. The park is best known for its cherry blossom, when thousands of trees bloom in late March and early April and draw large crowds. Other features include lakeside walking paths, a pavilion and lookout points, traditional-style buildings, gardens, bridges and a small temple. A footpath follows the shoreline, and visitors can see long views across the lake and its islands, with sunset especially popular for photography. Boats and ferries operate to nearby islands, and the wider Taihu area includes other viewing points. A typical visit takes about three hours, and longer during blossom season. Weekday mornings are calmer, and the park is quieter in other seasons, when the lawns, ponds and tree-lined avenues provide relaxed walks. Weekend visits during cherry blossom season can be very crowded, and queues form at the entrance. The park is served by Bus 1 and Didi from Wuxi Railway Station, taking about thirty minutes, and a ticket price is higher in peak season. Visitors interested in the lake environment can also visit the nearby Sanshan Island or Meiyuan, a plum garden, in a longer excursion. Comfortable shoes and sun protection are advisable.