Plum Blossom Cottage

Introducing Plum Blossom Cottage

Plum Blossom Thatched Cottage is located in Liuhe Park, Taicang. It is the studio where the contemporary centenarian master of painting, Mr. Zhu Qizhan, practiced painting when he was young. It was built before the Anti-Japanese War. After the completion of the thatched cottage, many celebrities gathered here. More than ten artists including Qi Baishi, Shen Yinmo, Huang Binhong and Pan Tianshou wrote poems and painted pictures for the "Plum Blossom Thatched Cottage".

Zhu Qizhan began painting at a young age and traveled twice to Japan to study oil painting and observe art education. At the age of 27, his oil paintings were exhibited at the inaugural Suzhou Fine Arts Competition. After the founding of the People's Republic of China, Zhu Qizhan was employed as a curator at the Shanghai Museum of Literature and History and later as a painter at the Shanghai Chinese Painting Academy. He subsequently traveled extensively abroad for sketching, creation, and solo exhibitions, becoming a renowned master of traditional Chinese painting. He authored numerous works, including "Collection of Zhu Qizhan's Paintings," "Pisiju Painting Talks," and "Selected Paintings of Zhu Qizhan." His works are collected by numerous museums and art galleries both domestically and internationally.

Climate and best time to travel

Subtropical monsoon climate;

It is suitable for all seasons, but the best time to visit is in March and April, when the plum blossoms in front of the hall are in full bloom.

Recommended number of days and locations for visiting

It is recommended to visit for about half an hour

Tickets

free

Attraction opening hours

8:00-19:00

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Most Popular FAQs for Plum Blossom Cottage

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

Plum Blossom Cottage is famous for its historical connection to scholars and poets in ancient China. It is a place where the art of poetry, calligraphy, and painting were often practiced. The cottage itself represents classical Chinese garden design and has become a symbol of tranquility and cultural heritage in Suzhou.

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

Plum Blossom Cottage is located in Suzhou, Jiangsu. You can easily reach it by taxi, bus, or a short walk from the nearest metro station, which is a 10-minute walk away.

What are the opening hours and best times to visit?

Plum Blossom Cottage is open daily from 8:00 AM to 6:00 PM. The best time to visit is during the spring when the plum blossoms are in full bloom, but it is also beautiful to visit in the autumn for a peaceful retreat.

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

Admission costs around 40 CNY. Tickets can be purchased on-site at the entrance or online through local ticketing platforms.

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

Booking tickets in advance is not required, but it is advisable to book online during peak tourist seasons or weekends to avoid long waits.

How much time is needed to fully explore it?

You will need around 1 to 1.5 hours to explore Plum Blossom Cottage, depending on your pace and how much time you spend enjoying the scenery and taking photos.

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

The main highlights include the plum blossom gardens, the traditional tea house, and the cultural exhibitions inside the cottage showcasing Suzhou's art and literary history.

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

Guided tours are available in Mandarin, and there may be limited availability for English-speaking tours. Audio guides are also available for rent in multiple languages.

What are the best viewpoints or photography spots?

The best viewpoints for photography are near the lake, under the plum trees during the bloom, and around the traditional pavilions. The landscape offers beautiful reflections in the water and stunning shots at golden hour.

What is the recommended route or itinerary inside?

Start by exploring the plum blossom garden, then visit the main cottage and tea house. Finish by walking along the peaceful lakeside paths to enjoy the serene atmosphere.

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

Night visits and light shows are not typically offered. However, visiting in the early morning or late afternoon allows for a more tranquil experience and better lighting for photography.

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

It can get crowded during weekends and the plum blossom season. To avoid crowds, visit on weekdays, especially in the early morning or late afternoon.

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

The site has basic facilities such as toilets, rest areas, and water stations. There are no large food outlets, but there are small local vendors near the entrance offering snacks and drinks.

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

The attraction is accessible to elderly visitors, children, and those with limited mobility, with paved pathways and benches for resting. Some areas may have stairs, so assistance may be needed in those spots.

Is cash needed or are cards/mobile payments accepted?

Mobile payments like WeChat Pay and Alipay are widely accepted. Cash is also accepted for tickets and small purchases on-site.

What restaurants or cafes are available inside or nearby?

There are no restaurants inside Plum Blossom Cottage. However, there are several restaurants and tea houses nearby that offer local Suzhou cuisine and tea.

Are there vegetarian/vegan/halal food options?

Vegetarian options are available at nearby restaurants, but halal food options may be limited in the area. It's best to check in advance if you have dietary preferences.

What hotels or accommodations are close to the site?

Several hotels are located near Plum Blossom Cottage, ranging from budget options to mid-range hotels. Popular choices include hotels in the Suzhou city center, which are easily accessible by taxi or bus.

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

Nearby attractions include the Lingering Garden, the Master of Nets Garden, and the Suzhou Museum. These can easily be visited as part of a day trip around Suzhou.

Are there souvenir shops and what are the typical souvenirs?

Souvenir shops are available near the entrance selling Suzhou silk products, traditional Chinese art, and local tea. Plum blossom-themed items are also popular souvenirs.

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

Public buses, taxis, and metro stations are available nearby for easy travel to other parts of Suzhou. Renting a bike or using a ride-hailing app like Didi is also a convenient option.