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At South Garden, visitors can stroll through beautifully landscaped gardens, enjoy the serene atmosphere, and admire the traditional Suzhou-style architecture. It’s an ideal location for photography, relaxation, and experiencing the elegance of classical Chinese garden design.
Nanyuan, located in the urban area of Taicang City, Jiangsu Province, is also known as "Taishi Mansion" by the locals. Originally built during the Wanli period of the Ming Dynasty, Nanyuan was where Wang Xijue, then the Prime Minister, admired plum blossoms and planted chrysanthemums. The garden originally covered 18 mu (approximately 18 acres). In the early Qing Dynasty, painter Wang Shimin, grandson of Emperor Wensu, expanded the garden and invited Zhang Nanyuan, a master of rock formations at the time, to oversee its construction. The collaboration of these two masters, painter and craftsman, transformed Nanyuan into a historic garden that blends garden design and painting.
The park is arranged around the lake, with scenic spots scattered around it and a Jade Belt Bridge dotting the center. The plaque on the gatehouse reads "Nanyuan" by Dong Qichang. To the south, a small rockery has been built on the site of the former Taicang city wall, shrouded in lush greenery. Lotus blossoms sway on the lake, creating gentle ripples. The park's most exquisite building is the Hemeixian Pavilion, also known as the Flower Hall. The Dahuan Pavilion was rebuilt in memory of Xu Shangying, a Ming Dynasty guqin master from Taicang. The main hall upstairs displays the master's "Dahuan Qinpu," "Xishan Qinkuang," and "Wanfeng Pavilion Fingering Secret Notes," as well as rare and valuable guqins. It is reputedly hailed by guqin practitioners as the world's finest guqin pavilion.
Subtropical monsoon climate;
Suitable for all seasons, the best time to visit is summer and autumn
It is recommended to play for about 2 hours
25 yuan/person
7:30-17:00
South Garden is one of Suzhou's most famous classical gardens, known for its peaceful ambiance and traditional landscape design. It represents the essence of Chinese garden culture, with winding paths, ponds, rockeries, and pavilions designed to harmonize with nature.
South Garden is located in the city of Suzhou, Jiangsu Province. It can be easily accessed by taxi or bus. The nearest metro station is Line 1, and the garden is a short walk from there. Walking is a great option if you are nearby as it offers the chance to explore the local area.
South Garden is open daily from 7:30 AM to 5:30 PM. The best times to visit are early in the morning or late in the afternoon to avoid crowds and enjoy the peaceful environment. The garden is especially beautiful in spring and autumn when the flowers bloom or the leaves change color.
The entrance fee for South Garden is typically around 30 RMB. Tickets can be purchased on-site or online through various platforms, especially during peak seasons to avoid long queues.
While booking tickets in advance is not mandatory, it is highly recommended during peak seasons like holidays or weekends. Booking a few days in advance is ideal to ensure entry and avoid long waiting times.
Visitors typically need around 1 to 2 hours to fully explore South Garden. This allows time to stroll through the various sections, relax, and appreciate the tranquil beauty of the garden.
The must-see highlights include the garden’s central pond, the traditional pavilions, and the lush plant life that surrounds the pathways. The rockeries and meticulously placed stone arrangements also provide an excellent opportunity for photos and contemplation.
Guided tours are available in Mandarin and English. Audio guides are also offered for a more self-paced experience, available in multiple languages, including English, Mandarin, and other popular languages.
The best viewpoints are around the central pond and near the pavilions that overlook the water. The bridges and stone pathways also offer excellent photo opportunities, especially during sunrise or sunset when the light is soft and warm.
It’s recommended to start your visit from the entrance and explore the eastern part of the garden, which features the main pond and pavilions. Afterward, wander through the rockeries and end your tour by crossing the bridges and taking in the views from the west side of the garden.
Currently, there are no light shows or special night tours at South Garden. However, the garden is beautifully lit in the evenings, offering a tranquil atmosphere for those who enjoy a quiet walk after hours.
South Garden can get crowded during weekends and holidays. The least crowded times are weekday mornings and late afternoons. Visiting in the early spring or late autumn also ensures fewer tourists and more space to enjoy the surroundings.
Facilities include public restrooms and small shops around the entrance. There are a few places to buy water and snacks, but it's a good idea to bring your own if you plan to spend an extended period in the garden.
South Garden is relatively accessible for elderly visitors and children, with wide paths and flat surfaces. However, the terrain may not be entirely wheelchair-friendly due to some uneven stone steps and narrow walkways in certain areas.
While cash is accepted, mobile payments like Alipay and WeChat Pay are more commonly used. Credit card acceptance may be limited in smaller shops within the garden.
There are several local restaurants around the South Garden area, offering Suzhou cuisine such as noodles, dumplings, and local teas. Small cafes nearby also serve snacks and drinks perfect for a quick break.
Vegetarian and vegan options are available at most local restaurants, with several dishes featuring tofu, vegetables, and rice. Halal food options are available at specific eateries catering to Muslim customers in Suzhou.
There are a variety of hotels near South Garden, including the Suzhou Grand Metropark Hotel, Courtyard by Marriott Suzhou, and smaller boutique guesthouses within walking distance of the garden.
Other nearby attractions include the Humble Administrator's Garden, Suzhou Museum, and the famous Shantang Street. These can easily be combined for a full day of exploring Suzhou’s cultural landmarks.
Yes, there are souvenir shops around the garden selling traditional Suzhou silk, embroidery, tea sets, and local handicrafts. Popular souvenirs also include small ceramic items, calligraphy, and Suzhou-style paintings.
After visiting South Garden, taxis, buses, or the metro are excellent options for continuing your trip. Suzhou's metro network is convenient for traveling to other districts, while taxis are readily available for further exploration.
