Located on the southern bank of the Yangzi River, Jiangsu's Changzhou is conveniently situated between Nanjing and Wuxi. Known mostly for its high-tech, textile, and agricultural industries and nationally acclaimed universities, Changzhou is yet another city positioned on China's Grand Canal.

Initially developed as a shipping port due to its geography, Changzhou has slowly grown into an important mid-point between two of China's more economically advanced cities, Shanghai and Nanjing. Also known as the "Dragon City," Changzhou additionally boasts distinction for its famous "royal combs" and other handcrafts.

Initially founded in 221 B.C., during the Western Zhou dynasty, Changzhou (previously named Changchou, Yanling, Lanling, and Jinling) rose to prominence around 609 B.C. as a canal port for shipping locally-grown grains, tea, fish, and bamboo.

During the Taiping Rebellion of the 1850s, and also during the Japanese occupation of Shanghai in the 1930s, Changzhou became as safe haven for displaced peoples, both Chinese nationals and foreigners respectively.
 

Changzhou, like much of the rest of Jiangsu province, is extremely hot and humid during the summer months of July and August.  Its subtropical ocean monsoon climate is mild and temperate, with a yearly average temperature of 15-degrees Celsius and 1074mm of annual rainfall.  The spring and autumn seasons are by far the best times to visit Changzhou.