Shen's House

Introducing Shen's Residence

Shen's House is the former residence of Mr. Shen Baihan, an educator in Luzhi Town, Suzhou, Jiangsu Province. It was built in 1873 and has a history of 130 years. The original building area was 3,500 square meters, and only the 720 square meters in the west are now open to tourists. The Shen family owned many industries and wealth. Since the late Qing Dynasty and the early Republic of China, the saying "Shen owns half the town" has been widely circulated.

Climate and best time to travel

Suitable for all seasons

Recommended number of days and locations for visiting

1 hour

Tickets

free

Attraction opening hours

Some attractions are now open

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Most Popular FAQs for Shen's House

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

Shen's House is a historical residence that once belonged to the wealthy Shen family, known for their contributions to Suzhou's local economy and culture. The house is significant for its traditional Chinese architecture, featuring beautiful gardens, intricate wooden carvings, and ancient relics, making it an important representation of Suzhou's rich heritage.

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

Shen's House is located in Suzhou, Jiangsu Province. It is easily accessible by taxi from the city center, taking approximately 15 minutes. Public transportation options like buses are available, but taxis or private transport are recommended for convenience. It is within walking distance from other attractions in the historical district of Suzhou.

What are the opening hours and best times to visit?

Shen's House is open daily from 8:30 AM to 5:00 PM. The best time to visit is during the spring or autumn when the weather is pleasant, and the garden is at its most scenic. Weekdays and early mornings are less crowded, offering a more peaceful experience.

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

The entrance fee for Shen's House is approximately 50 CNY for adults. Tickets can be purchased at the entrance or online through platforms such as Ctrip or Alipay for convenience and to avoid queues.

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

Booking tickets in advance is recommended, especially during peak tourist seasons. A day or two in advance should suffice, but it is best to book earlier during holidays or weekends to ensure availability.

How much time is needed to fully explore it?

It typically takes about 1 to 1.5 hours to fully explore Shen's House, including the house, gardens, and exhibitions. If you prefer to take your time in the gardens or attend a cultural performance, consider spending up to 2 hours.

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

The must-see highlights include the main hall, the intricate courtyard gardens, and the traditional wooden carvings. The gardens are especially beautiful, with a pond and unique rock formations that showcase the classical Chinese garden design.

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

Guided tours are available in Mandarin, and audio guides in English are provided at the entrance. It's recommended to check the availability of English guides or audio devices before your visit.

What are the best viewpoints or photography spots?

Great photography spots include the serene garden pond, the intricately designed wooden doorways, and the traditional architecture. The combination of natural beauty and historical structures offers excellent photo opportunities.

What is the recommended route or itinerary inside?

Start your visit by entering the main gate and exploring the central courtyard. Proceed to the garden area, then explore the hallways and rooms, each showcasing traditional Chinese architecture. If available, attend a cultural performance or exhibition before concluding your visit with a tea break in the garden.

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

Shen's House does not offer night visits or light shows. The attraction is primarily a daytime experience, with cultural exhibitions and traditional displays throughout the day.

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

Shen's House can be crowded on weekends and during national holidays. The least crowded times are on weekdays, especially in the morning before noon, and during the off-peak seasons like winter.

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

Shen's House has basic facilities such as toilets and rest areas. There is a small café where you can enjoy traditional tea, and a few souvenir shops selling crafts and local products.

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

Shen's House is accessible to elderly visitors and children, though some areas may have uneven surfaces or steps. Disabled visitors may require assistance as some parts of the garden and hallways are not fully wheelchair accessible.

Is cash needed or are cards/mobile payments accepted?

Mobile payments like Alipay and WeChat Pay are accepted at the entrance and throughout the attraction. Credit cards are also accepted, but it’s recommended to use mobile payments for convenience. Cash is also accepted.

What restaurants or cafes are available inside or nearby?

Inside Shen's House, there is a small tea house offering traditional Chinese tea and snacks. Nearby, there are numerous local restaurants serving Suzhou-style cuisine, including dumplings and noodles.

Are there vegetarian/vegan/halal food options?

Vegetarian and vegan options are available in local restaurants around Suzhou, including dishes like vegetarian dumplings and stir-fried vegetables. Halal food options can also be found in some of the nearby eateries catering to Muslim visitors.

What hotels or accommodations are close to the site?

Several hotels are located near Shen's House, including the Suzhou Marriott Hotel and Garden Hotel Suzhou, offering both luxury and mid-range accommodations.

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

Other nearby attractions include the Humble Administrator’s Garden, Lingering Garden, and Tiger Hill. These are all within a short drive and can easily be combined in a day trip to explore Suzhou’s classical gardens.

Are there souvenir shops and what are the typical souvenirs?

There are souvenir shops near the entrance of Shen's House selling traditional Suzhou silk products, teapots, and handicrafts. Typical souvenirs include silk scarves, embroidered items, and tea-related products.

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

After visiting Shen's House, you can take a taxi or use public transport to reach other attractions. Taxis are convenient for visiting multiple sites in a day, while buses and trains are available for longer-distance travel within the city or beyond.