Rainbow Drinking Mountain House

Introducing Hongyin Mountain House

Hongyin Mountain House, located on Shantang Street in Mudu Ancient Town, Wuzhong District, Suzhou City, was the private garden of Xu Shiyuan, a scholar from Mudu in the early Qing Dynasty. Whenever Emperor Qianlong visited Mudu during his trips to the south of the Yangtze River, he would first disembark here and enter the garden for a tour.

Emperor Qianlong visited this place six times. Its magnificent architecture and well-known legends have fascinated tourists from home and abroad. The Imperial Edict Museum in the garden houses 20 authentic imperial edicts of the Qing Dynasty, and the Imperial Examination Hall houses provincial, metropolitan and palace examination papers and cheating materials, which are eye-opening and fascinating to tourists from home and abroad.

Hongyin Mountain House, named for its proximity to Rainbow Bridge, boasts an architectural style that blends the beauty of Jiangnan literati gardens with the grandeur of northern imperial gardens. It is a collaboration of two Ming Dynasty gardens, Xiuye ​​Garden and Xiaoyin Garden. Centrally located within the two gardens is the main hall for receiving guests, resulting in a dignified and rigorous layout. From south to north, the entrance hall, dance hall, and stage form the main structure.

Climate and best time to travel

Subtropical monsoon climate;

Suitable for all seasons

Recommended number of days and locations for visiting

It is recommended to play for about 2 hours

Tickets

25 yuan/person

Attraction opening hours

8:30~17:00

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Most Popular FAQs for Rainbow Drinking Mountain House

What is the history and significance of this attraction/city?

The Rainbow Drinking Mountain House is a historically significant site in Suzhou, known for its distinctive architecture and connection to traditional Chinese garden design. The name reflects the colorful scenery surrounding the house, making it a popular destination for those seeking peace and inspiration in nature.

Where is it located and how do I get there (metro, bus, taxi, walking)?

Rainbow Drinking Mountain House is located in the outskirts of Suzhou, about 30-40 minutes by taxi from the city center. It is accessible by bus from major parts of Suzhou, though walking may not be ideal due to the distance and terrain.

What are the opening hours and best times to visit?

The attraction is open daily from 8:00 AM to 6:00 PM. The best time to visit is during the morning or late afternoon when the weather is pleasant, and the area is less crowded. Avoid weekends and holidays for a quieter experience.

What is the entrance fee/ticket price, and how to buy tickets (online/offline)?

The entrance fee is approximately ¥50-¥80, depending on the season. Tickets can be purchased at the entrance or online via local travel platforms like Trip.com or WeChat.

Do I need to book tickets in advance, and how far in advance?

Booking tickets in advance is recommended during peak tourist seasons or holidays. A few days in advance should be sufficient for most visitors.

How much time is needed to fully explore it?

It typically takes around 2-3 hours to fully explore the Rainbow Drinking Mountain House and its surroundings, depending on how much time you wish to spend enjoying the natural views and local culture.

What are the must-see highlights or main areas inside?

• The main house, which offers panoramic views of the surrounding mountains and rivers.
• The colorful gardens surrounding the house, showcasing traditional Suzhou landscaping techniques.
• The nearby tea houses where visitors can relax and enjoy the local tea culture.

Are guided tours or audio guides available (and in which languages)?

Guided tours are available, with most guides speaking Mandarin. English-speaking guides can be requested, but availability may vary.

What are the best viewpoints or photography spots?

• The terrace at the Rainbow Drinking Mountain House offers the best panoramic views of the area.
• The surrounding gardens, especially during spring and autumn, provide vibrant backgrounds for photography.
• Near the tea houses, you can capture traditional Suzhou elements with the natural landscape in the background.

What is the recommended route or itinerary inside?

Start by exploring the gardens surrounding the main house before heading to the terrace for the panoramic views. Afterward, visit the tea houses for a relaxing break and enjoy the local tea varieties while taking in the surroundings.

Are night visits, light shows, or special tours available?

There are no regular night visits or light shows at Rainbow Drinking Mountain House. However, special cultural events or festivals may occasionally take place, so it is worth checking the schedule in advance.

Is it crowded, and when are the least crowded times/days to visit?

The site can become crowded during weekends and public holidays. For a more relaxed visit, try to go during weekdays or in the early morning hours.

What facilities are available (toilets, food, water, rest areas, shops)?

• There are clean public toilets available throughout the site.
• Small food vendors and water stations are scattered around the area.
• Rest areas are available for visitors to relax after exploring.
• Souvenir shops offer local crafts and traditional Suzhou items.

Is the attraction accessible for elderly, children, or disabled visitors?

The main pathways and gardens are relatively accessible for elderly and children, but the terrain around the house may be challenging for disabled visitors. It's best to check with staff for specific accessibility services.

Is cash needed or are cards/mobile payments accepted?

Mobile payments like Alipay and WeChat Pay are widely accepted, and credit cards are also commonly used. Cash is still accepted but less common for purchases in the area.

What restaurants or cafes are available inside or nearby?

There are a few local cafes and restaurants near the site offering traditional Suzhou cuisine and tea. Additionally, several more dining options can be found in downtown Suzhou.

Are there vegetarian/vegan/halal food options?

Vegetarian and vegan food options are available in most local restaurants in Suzhou. Halal food options are available at designated halal restaurants in the city.

What hotels or accommodations are close to the site?

• There are several mid-range hotels and guesthouses near the attraction.
• For luxury accommodations, visitors can stay at the Suzhou Marriott Hotel or similar high-end hotels in the city center.

What other attractions or landmarks are nearby and easy to combine in a day trip?

• The Humble Administrator’s Garden is a must-visit and is relatively close to Rainbow Drinking Mountain House.
• The Lingering Garden, another famous Suzhou garden, is also nearby and can be combined in a day trip.

Are there souvenir shops and what are the typical souvenirs?

Yes, there are souvenir shops near the entrance selling traditional Suzhou silk, tea, and handcrafted items. Popular souvenirs include silk scarves, traditional Chinese teapots, and calligraphy materials.

What are the best transportation options to continue the trip after visiting?

• From Rainbow Drinking Mountain House, you can easily take a taxi or bus to nearby attractions or the city center.
• The Suzhou metro is also a convenient way to continue your journey, with a station located near the city center.