Suzhou works its charm on media guests, influencers

"I learned more about Suzhou culture through its many artistic forms of expression," said Jason Castleton, an internet influencer from the US. "The Kungqu Opera was unique in that it made me feel like I was sitting in the same chairs as the people in the ancient dynasties, watching depictions of the stories they held so close to heart.

"The part that impressed me most was how the poetry of Suzhou left such a lasting mark on the bridges and canals in the city. You could feel the beauty flowing through these bodies of water just by seeing how Chinese relate to and respect its history."