Suzhou, founded in 514 BC, has become a major Chinese city, particularly renowned for its economic and cultural development. Initially populated as a result of migrations from northern China during the Eastern Han dynasty, it experienced exceptional growth, becoming an economic and cultural centre as early as the 10th century.
Since the economic reforms of 1978, Suzhou has recorded GDP growth rates of around 14% over 35 years.
By 2023, it will have a registered population of 5 million.
It ranks 48th in the world for scientific output according to the 2022 Nature Index, and is home to prestigious institutions such as Soochow University and Xi'an Jiaotong-Liverpool University.
Suzhou's economy is dominated by industry, including steel, electronics and textiles.
The service sector, boosted by tourism, generated 152 billion RMB in 2013.
The city also attracts significant foreign investment thanks to its proximity to Shanghai and competitive operating costs.
The Suzhou Industrial Park, a Chinese-Singaporean project, is an example of this investment dynamic.
Agricultural production fell slightly in 2013, but the city remains a vital centre for silk production, a legacy of its imperial past.
Suzhou's embroidery techniques are particularly renowned, forming part of China's 'Four Famous Embroideries'.
Culturally, Suzhou is famous for its classical gardens, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and for its contribution to Chinese opera, with local forms such as Kunqu and pingtan.
The city is also an important centre for the production of Song brocade and other traditional arts.
Suzhou's cuisine, performing arts and the wealth of local museums, such as the Suzhou Museum designed by the Sino-American architect Ieoh Ming Pei, a native of the city, enrich its cultural offering.