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At Strange Stone Culture Park, visitors can admire unique rock formations that resemble various animals and objects. Explore the scenic walking paths and enjoy the peaceful environment. There are opportunities for photography, particularly capturing the strange stones, as well as enjoying the local flora and fauna. It’s a great spot for nature lovers and those interested in geology.
The Strange Stone Cultural Park is located on the bank of the Bian River in the southwest of the county seat. It is a theme cultural park with Hui-style architecture as its main feature. The pavilions and towers in the park are scattered in an orderly manner. Nearly 1,000 garden stones, represented by the " Nine Dragons " stone and the " Always Smiling " stone , are scattered in the park like pearls. The five functional areas built around the lake complement each other.
The Cultural Park is divided into five sections. The central section, known for its waterscape, is the centerpiece of the park. Bianyang Tower, the main viewing structure of the Stone Garden and home to the Lingbi Museum, was inscribed with the Chinese characters "Bianyang Tower" by Tang Qingming, the current county party secretary. Named after the ancient county seat, which was located on the south side of Bian, the tower, built during the Tang and Song dynasties, stands as a dazzling pearl above ancient Bian.
Suitable for all seasons
Recommended play time: 1-2 hours
30 yuan/person
8:00-17:30
Strange Stone Culture Park is famous for its geological formations, with a variety of unique stone shapes that are said to resemble animals, plants, and even human figures. The park serves as both a cultural and natural heritage site, showcasing the fascinating interaction between nature and imagination. It also provides insight into the region's geological history.
Strange Stone Culture Park is located in Suzhou, Anhui Province. The park is accessible by taxi or private vehicle, and there are also public buses that can take you to the park. It's a short walk from the nearest bus stop. There is no metro service to the park, so taking a taxi is the most convenient option.
The park is typically open from 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM daily. The best times to visit are during spring and autumn when the weather is most pleasant. Early morning or late afternoon visits can help avoid the crowds, offering a more peaceful experience.
The entrance fee to the park is around 30-50 RMB, depending on the season and any special events. Tickets can be purchased on-site at the park entrance. There are currently no online ticketing services available.
Booking tickets in advance is not necessary. You can purchase them directly at the entrance of the park. However, during peak tourist seasons or holidays, it might be a good idea to check if advanced bookings are required to avoid long queues.
To fully explore the Strange Stone Culture Park, including walking along the paths and taking time to appreciate the rock formations, you will need approximately 1.5 to 2 hours.
The must-see highlights are the unique stone formations that resemble animals, plants, and various figures. There are also scenic areas around the park's lake and wooded paths. Don’t miss the viewing platforms offering great views of the stone formations and surrounding landscape.
Guided tours are available in Chinese, and there may be English-speaking guides upon request, though availability may vary. Audio guides are not generally offered, so it is recommended to explore the park at your own pace or with a guide if available.
The best photography spots are around the central area where the most striking stone formations are located. There are several elevated viewpoints where you can capture both the stones and the surrounding landscapes. Early morning and late afternoon light are ideal for photography.
Start at the main entrance and walk along the pathways that lead to the largest and most unique stone formations. Afterward, take time to explore the surrounding natural areas before heading to the lake for a scenic break. If you have time, relax at the park's rest areas before concluding your visit.
Night visits are not typically available, and there are no light shows or special tours in the evening. The park is best visited during daylight hours to appreciate the natural formations and scenery.
The park can get crowded during weekends and holidays. The least crowded times to visit are on weekdays or early mornings, especially during the off-peak seasons like late autumn or early spring.
The park has basic facilities including toilets and rest areas. There are also a few small shops selling souvenirs and snacks. Water fountains are available throughout the park, and you can purchase bottled water or refreshments from vendors.
The park has some paved paths and benches, making it accessible for elderly visitors and families with children. However, some areas with rocky terrain may be difficult for those with mobility challenges. It is recommended to contact the park in advance if special accommodations are required.
Cash is commonly accepted, though mobile payment methods like Alipay and WeChat Pay are widely used in China. Credit cards may be accepted in the souvenir shops, but it’s advisable to carry some cash for minor expenses.
There are a few small restaurants and cafes near the entrance of the park where visitors can enjoy local Anhui cuisine. The area around the park also offers several dining options, including family-friendly restaurants and tea houses.
Vegetarian and vegan options are available in most restaurants in the nearby area. However, halal food options are limited in this region, and it is recommended to check menus ahead of time.
There are several hotels in Suzhou, Anhui, including budget and mid-range options. Some of the closest accommodations to Strange Stone Culture Park are located in the city center or near the park’s outskirts, which are a short drive away.
Nearby attractions include the Suzhou Ancient City Wall, Suzhou Museum, and Taoyang Ancient Village. These sites are within a short driving distance and can be easily combined in a day trip.
There are souvenir shops inside and near the park selling local crafts, such as miniature stone replicas, traditional Anhui handicrafts, and postcards. Local specialty items like tea and calligraphy items are also popular souvenirs.
Taxis, buses, and private vehicles are the best options for continuing your trip after visiting the park. The park is well-connected by road, and public transport options can take you to other nearby attractions or back to the city center.
