Liuting Pavilion

Introducing Liuting Pavilion

Liuting Pavilion, located in Suzhou's Humble Administrator's Garden, is a single-story pavilion with windows on all sides and a front platform. It is an ideal spot for enjoying the autumn lotus and listening to the rain. Its origins lie in the Tang Dynasty poet Li Shangyin's line: " Autumn clouds linger, frost flies late, leaving only the withered lotus leaves to listen to the sound of rain. "

The most worth seeing thing in the pavilion is the three-dimensional carving of pine, bamboo, plum and magpie flying canopy made of ginkgo wood from the Qing Dynasty. The carving is skillful with knife skills, superb craftsmanship and ingenious conception, blending the two patterns of " Three Friends of Winter " and " Magpie on Plum Blossom " together, making it a rare masterpiece among garden flying canopies.

Climate and best time to travel

Suitable for all seasons

Recommended number of days and locations for visiting

Recommended playing time: less than 1 hour

Tickets

Tickets are included in the Humble Administrator's Garden scenic area

Attraction opening hours

March 1st - November 15th ; 7:30-17 : 30

November 16th - February 29th ; 7 : 30-17 : 00

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Most Popular FAQs for Liuting Pavilion

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

Liuting Pavilion, originally built during the Tang Dynasty, is a historic structure that serves as a symbol of the region’s rich cultural heritage. It has long been a destination for scholars and poets, who visited to appreciate its beauty and the views it offers of Suzhou's landscape.

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

Liuting Pavilion is located in Suzhou, Jiangsu Province. It can be easily reached by taxi from Suzhou Railway Station or the city center. Public buses also serve the area, and visitors can walk from nearby attractions within the historic district.

What are the opening hours and best times to visit?

The pavilion is open daily from 8:00 AM to 6:00 PM. The best times to visit are early morning or late afternoon when the weather is cooler and the pavilion is less crowded. Spring and autumn are particularly pleasant times to visit.

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

The entrance fee is approximately ¥30-40. Tickets can be purchased on-site or online through local ticketing platforms.

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

It is not mandatory to book tickets in advance, but it is recommended during peak tourist seasons or holidays. A day in advance should be sufficient to secure tickets online.

How much time is needed to fully explore it?

Exploring the pavilion and its surroundings typically takes 1 to 2 hours. If you wish to enjoy a more leisurely visit, including a walk around the gardens, you might spend 2 to 3 hours in total.

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

The must-see highlights include the pavilion itself, which offers stunning views of the city and nearby landscapes, the historical inscriptions and carvings inside the pavilion, and the serene surrounding gardens.

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

Guided tours are available in Chinese. Audio guides in English and Chinese are available for a self-guided experience, providing insights into the history and architecture of the pavilion.

What are the best viewpoints or photography spots?

The best photography spots are from the pavilion’s observation deck, where you can capture panoramic views of Suzhou’s cityscape and the surrounding gardens. The pavilion itself, with its ancient architecture, is also a great subject for photography.

What is the recommended route or itinerary inside?

Start by exploring the pavilion itself, then take a walk around the surrounding gardens. Be sure to visit the nearby historical markers and enjoy the views from the observation deck before heading back to the entrance.

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

There are no night visits or light shows available at Liuting Pavilion. The attraction is a daytime destination focused on history, architecture, and natural beauty.

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

The pavilion can be crowded during weekends and public holidays. The least crowded times are weekdays, particularly in the morning hours before noon.

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

The pavilion has basic facilities, including public restrooms, water stations, and a few rest areas where visitors can relax. There are also small shops selling souvenirs and refreshments near the entrance.

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

The attraction is mostly accessible to elderly and disabled visitors, with paved paths leading to the pavilion. However, the historical nature of the site means some uneven surfaces may be present in the surrounding gardens.

Is cash needed or are cards/mobile payments accepted?

Both cash and mobile payments (Alipay, WeChat Pay) are accepted at the pavilion. Credit and debit cards are accepted at the main ticket office and in souvenir shops.

What restaurants or cafes are available inside or nearby?

There are a few local restaurants and cafes near the pavilion offering traditional Suzhou cuisine. For a wider variety, visitors can head to the city center, where more options are available.

Are there vegetarian/vegan/halal food options?

Vegetarian options are available at some of the nearby restaurants. Vegan and halal options may be limited but can be found in larger areas of Suzhou.

What hotels or accommodations are close to the site?

There are several hotels nearby, ranging from budget to mid-range options. For more luxurious stays, the city center of Suzhou offers a variety of high-end hotels.

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

Nearby attractions include the famous Humble Administrator’s Garden, Tiger Hill, and the Suzhou Museum. These sites can easily be combined in a full-day itinerary.

Are there souvenir shops and what are the typical souvenirs?

There are souvenir shops at the pavilion selling traditional Suzhou items such as silk scarves, handicrafts, and postcards. You may also find some historical artifacts and miniature pavilions as souvenirs.

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

After visiting Liuting Pavilion, visitors can take a taxi, bus, or metro to other parts of Suzhou. Suzhou Railway Station is easily accessible for onward travel to other cities.