Former Suzhou Customs Tax Department

The Former Suzhou Customs Tax Department is a building made of granite and brick with Doric columns and an octagonal dome featuring marble interior decorations. The structure combines Western classical architecture with local building elements and stands as a protected monument in the city center.

The building was constructed in 1927 and replaced earlier customs houses that were destroyed during uprisings in the 1850s and 1860s. The new structure was part of China's efforts to modernize its administrative systems during the transition to the modern era.

The building shows how Western and Chinese architectural styles came together during a period of growing international trade. Visitors can see on the facade and in the details how China's administration adapted to new global conditions.

The protected monument is located in central Suzhou and is accessible to visitors interested in historical administrative buildings. It is recommended to wear comfortable shoes and allow time to explore the details of the exterior and interior.

The building houses a mechanical clock tower with technology similar to Big Ben in London. This timekeeping masterpiece was a remarkable technological achievement for Asia during that period.