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Shazhou Park is perfect for leisurely walks, enjoying the tranquil lake, and exploring the beautiful gardens. Visitors can take boat rides on the lake, admire the seasonal flowers, and relax in the serene environment. The park is also a great place for photography, particularly at sunrise or sunset.
Shazhou Park was expanded in July 1977 on the basis of the Martyrs Cemetery in the former Shazhou County (now Zhangjiagang City). It was moved out of the Martyrs Cemetery in 1991 and rebuilt in the architectural style of Suzhou gardens. It is a Jiangnan antique garden with exquisite conception, unique layout and rich historical and cultural heritage.
The park features memorial archways, relief sculptures depicting the "Eight Scenic Spots of the Cang River," an artificial river, a maple garden, two rockery hills made of yellow stone, and a marble boat. The boat's cabin is inscribed with the golden characters "Jianzhen's Eastern Voyage," and houses a bronze statue of the Tang Dynasty monk Jianzhen. A unique feature of the park is its miniature Jiuzhaigou Valley, with its perennial gurgling water. Over a hundred varieties of famous and ancient trees are found, including ginkgo, eucommia, Chinese thuja, five-treasure pine, white pine, golden pine, and ancient beech.
Subtropical monsoon climate;
Suitable for all seasons
It is recommended to play for about 1 hour
free
All day
Shazhou Park is a cultural landmark in Suzhou, offering a blend of natural beauty and historical significance. Originally a private garden, it has been transformed into a public park that reflects Suzhou's traditional landscape design, making it a popular spot for locals and tourists alike.
Shazhou Park is located in the western part of Suzhou. You can reach the park by taxi, bus, or walking from the nearby neighborhoods. The nearest metro station is Suzhou Railway Station, from which you can take a short taxi ride or bus to the park.
Shazhou Park is open daily from 6:00 AM to 6:00 PM. The best times to visit are early mornings or late afternoons, when the park is less crowded and the weather is more pleasant for outdoor activities.
There is no entrance fee for Shazhou Park. It is free to visit, but some special activities or exhibitions within the park may have a small charge. Tickets for those can be purchased at the entrance or online.
Tickets for the general park visit are not required in advance as entry is free. However, for any special events or exhibitions, it is advisable to book tickets a day or two in advance, especially during peak tourist seasons.
You can explore Shazhou Park in about 2 to 3 hours. This includes a walk around the lake, visiting the gardens, and stopping to enjoy the views at various points throughout the park.
Must-see highlights include the central lake, the well-maintained gardens, the lotus ponds in the summer, and the small bridges and traditional Chinese architecture scattered throughout the park.
There are no formal guided tours, but audio guides in Mandarin and English are available at the park’s visitor center. These guides provide historical context and information about the key features of the park.
The best photography spots are by the lake, especially at sunrise or sunset, and near the traditional stone bridges. The lotus ponds during summer also offer beautiful photo opportunities.
Start at the entrance and take a leisurely walk around the central lake. Explore the gardens on the southern side, cross over the stone bridges, and finish by relaxing in the park's rest areas or enjoying a boat ride on the lake.
Shazhou Park does not have light shows, but it is open for evening visits, offering a peaceful atmosphere at night. Special tours are not regularly available, but the park offers a tranquil setting for evening walks.
The park can get crowded during weekends and holidays. To avoid the crowds, visit early in the morning on weekdays, especially on Monday to Thursday.
Shazhou Park has public toilets, rest areas, and small kiosks offering snacks and drinks. There are also benches throughout the park where visitors can relax. However, the park does not have large restaurants or shops.
The park is relatively accessible for elderly visitors, children, and those with disabilities, with paved paths and easy access to most areas. However, some of the more natural areas with uneven terrain may be difficult for wheelchair users to navigate.
Cash is accepted in the park, but mobile payments such as Alipay and WeChat Pay are more commonly used for small purchases. Credit cards are not typically accepted in kiosks or small shops inside the park.
There are a few small cafes and tea houses inside the park. Nearby, you can find restaurants offering traditional Suzhou cuisine, including local specialties like Suzhou-style noodles and dumplings.
Vegetarian and vegan food options are available in the nearby restaurants. Halal food is available at specific restaurants that cater to Muslim customers, though options may be limited.
There are several hotels and guesthouses near Shazhou Park, ranging from budget-friendly options to more luxurious accommodations. Some of the nearby hotels include Suzhou Garden Hotel and Courtyard by Marriott Suzhou.
Nearby attractions include Suzhou Gardens, The Humble Administrator’s Garden, and Tiger Hill. These landmarks can be easily visited together as part of a day trip, as they are all within a short distance from the park.
There are small souvenir shops near the park's entrance, selling traditional Suzhou crafts such as silk products, fans, and calligraphy. The typical souvenirs are silk scarves, embroidered items, and small decorative items.
After visiting, you can take a taxi or bus to continue your journey to other attractions in Suzhou. The metro is also an option, with nearby stations connecting to other parts of the city.
