Suzhou Attractions

Heritage Sites: Classic Gardens of Suzhou
Inscribed: 1997,2000 Criteria: C (i) (ii) (iii) (iv) (v)

Classical Chinese garden design, which seeks to recreate natural landscapes in miniature, is nowhere better illustrated than in the nine gardens in the historic city of Suzhou. They are generally acknowledged to be masterpiece of the genre. Dating from the 11th-19th century, the gardens reflect the profound metaphysical importance of natural beauty in Chinese cultural in their meticulous design.

The Humble Administrator's Garden
As the largest garden of Suzhou, the Humble Administrator's Garden has an extensive network of paths and bridges following streams that culminate in a magnificent lake. The garden has many pavilions for resting and taking in the striking views and also a lovely home that features the Mandarin Duck Hall.

The Lingering Garden
The large Lingering Garden is quite lovely. The Surging Waves Pavilion is smaller and less dramatic but boasts an abundance of fine stone and woodcarving.

Tiger Hill
Located in the urban area of Suzhou and built in 961, the Tiger Hill is where the King of Wu was buried after his death and enjoys a reputation as the "first scenic spot in the state of Wu". Suzhou city was once the capital of the State of Wu during the Spring and Autumn Period. Today, flower exhibitions and temple fairs are held here regularly each year.

Pan Gate
Pan Gate is the only remained city gate in Suzhou and also the only existing water and land gate. The Pan Gate dates back to the 12th century and built over Suzhou's former moat. The canal outside the Pan Gate is the oldest section of the Grand Canal which built 2,500 years ago. Pan Gate has become the most distinctive scenic site in Suzhou.

Hanshan Temple
Constructed from 502, the Hanshan Temple is located in the urban area of Suzhou city. The temple became well-known after the Tang poet's poem "Outside the Suzhou city wall, I heard the sound of the Hanshan Temple's bell onboard the boat and felt its midnight spell." Nowadays, the Hanshan Temple holds the event of Striking the 108 beats of New Year's Bell on Dec 31 regularly.

Water Village-Zhouzhuang & Tongli
If Suzhou is too large for your tastes, each of these 2 water village has its own characteristics and famous attractions. Zhou Zhuang has Double Bridge, Shen's Family House and Zhang's Family House. Tongli's architecture is a mix of Ming and Qing Dynasty style. This charming village boasts over 40 arched bridges and numerous temples and preserved homes.

The Master of Nets Garden
This small and simple garden may appeal to those limited in time or mobility. The garden has the evening musical, acrobatic and theatrical performances from spring to autumn.