a city of China, in the province of Kiangsu, on the Great Canal, near Lake Tai-hou, 55 miles W.N.W. of Shanghai. Like Venice it is built on islands, and interpenetrated by canals, which are navigable for large vessels. It is surrounded by fortifications, 10 miles in circuit; and beyond these there are four large suburbs. Here are numerous fine temples and other buildings; manufactures of silk, nankeen, and other goods are carried on, and there is an active trade. Su-chew is not only the residence of the richest merchants of China, but a flourishing seat of art and science, taste and beauty, for here are to be seen the most beautiful women in China; and hence it has received the name of the paradise on earth. Pop. 600,000.