With a history of more than 2,500 years, Suzhou has set a good example in maintaining thriving culture. The local government and people never stop their efforts to carry forward the traditional local culture and add to it new elements.

For a city like Suzhou, heritage protection should be given absolute priority. The city has so many tangible and intangible cultural heritages to protect. Among the most cherished ones are the Suzhou-style classical gardens, a list of traditional operas such as Kunqu opera (one of the oldest Chinese operas) and pingtan (storytelling and ballad singing in Suzhou dialect), and a variety of folk handicrafts like embroidery and folding fan making. 

Obviously, the city has done a good job in inheriting historical heritages. This is proved by the effectively enforced regulations designed to protect ancient architectures and antiques, the non-stop efforts in preserving and restoring them as well as diverse events like public lectures and experience activities to increase people’s understanding of traditional culture. 

At the same time, the local culture is increasingly enriched with modern cultural elements. In this aspect, SIP is an epitome. It boasts a host of fashionable facilities including commercial complexes, theatres and galleries that always give the visitors great opportunities to get close to global culture and art. For example, Suzhou Ballet Theatre stages throughout the year a list of widely acclaimed performances featuring oriental and western characteristics. 

Moreover, the city government encourages projects that help convert local cultural resources into economic benefits. This has enabled the city to see a prosperous development of cultural tourism and cultural and creative industry over the past years.