Shutai Park

Introducing Shutai Park

Shutai Park, also known as Reading Terrace, is located in Shimei, southeast of Yushan Mountain. It was newly built on the site of the ancient monument in 1977. The original site housed the Liang Zhaoming Prince Reading Terrace, Jiaowei Spring, Yaji Pavilion, Wugong Temple, and a group of cliff carvings at the eastern foot of Yushan Mountain.

The park boasts towering ancient trees and a diverse array of scenic spots, offering a poetic and picturesque setting for viewing mountains, listening to springs, and reading and socializing. A pair of granite lions, relicts from the former City God Temple, stand at the park's main entrance. A plaque inscribed with the words "Reading Terrace" (書台) by Qian Chiyun, a local calligrapher and painter, stands at the entrance. "Reading Terrace Covered in Snow" is one of the "Eighteen Scenic Spots of Yushan Mountain."

Climate and best time to travel

Subtropical monsoon climate;

Suitable for all seasons, best in summer

Recommended number of days and locations for visiting

Reading Desk

Built of rammed earth, the Study Terrace stands 3.54 meters high, 14.6 meters long from north to south, and 12.8 meters wide from east to west. It commands a commanding presence, towering majestically above. Embedded within the walls are several inscriptions, including a portrait of Prince Zhaoming, the "Study Terrace Inscription," and "Record of the Reconstruction of Prince Zhaoming's Study Terrace" written by Chen Cha, the Ming Dynasty's Chief Censor. Within the pavilion lies a large stone platform, with a horizontal inscription on its front, "Record of Yulu Garden," written by Ni Liangyao during the Daoguang reign of the Qing Dynasty.

Jiaoweiquan

Jiaowei Spring is located in Taipei. In ancient times, seven streams ran horizontally in front of and behind the Changshu County Office, like the seven strings of a guqin. To the west, another stream flowed to the foot of the mountain, resembling the tail of a guqin. The locals named it "Jiaowei Creek" in honor of Cai Yong, a guqin player from the Eastern Han Dynasty. The source of the stream is Jiaowei Spring.

Yaji Pavilion

The Yaji Pavilion, located at the northwest foot of Jiaoweixuan, was built by Yang Ziqi, the county magistrate during the Hongzhi reign of the Ming Dynasty. In 1504, the succeeding magistrate, Ji Zongdao, met with 19 prominent figures from Wumen and the county, including Yang Xunji, for a gathering at the pavilion. Ji Zongdao penned "Yushan Yaji Pavilion Record," while Shen Zhou painted "Yushan Yaji Picture." The combined poems and essays were then engraved on stone and embedded in the pavilion's walls, marking a significant literary event.

It is recommended to play for 1 to 2 hours

Tickets

10 yuan/person

Attraction opening hours

9:00-17:00

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Most Popular FAQs for Shutai Park

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

Shutai Park, located in Suzhou, is a beautiful urban park known for its serene landscapes and traditional Chinese garden features. It serves as a popular relaxation spot for locals and visitors alike, reflecting Suzhou's rich cultural heritage of classical garden design.

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

Shutai Park is located in the southeastern part of Suzhou. You can take metro Line 2 and get off at the Shutai Park Station. Alternatively, buses and taxis are readily available to take you there. Walking from nearby neighborhoods is also a good option.

What are the opening hours and best times to visit?

Shutai Park is open daily from 6:00 AM to 6:00 PM. Early mornings and late afternoons are the best times to visit to enjoy cooler temperatures and fewer crowds.

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

Shutai Park has free entry, so no ticket purchase is required.

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

No advance booking is required as the park is free to enter.

How much time is needed to fully explore it?

Plan for around 1 to 2 hours to explore the park at a relaxed pace, especially if you want to enjoy the scenery and walk around the lake.

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

The lakeside pavilions, scenic walking paths, and tranquil gardens are the main highlights of the park. Don't miss the small bridge and traditional architecture scattered around the park.

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

Guided tours and audio guides are not typically available in the park, but signage in Chinese provides helpful information about the park's features.

What are the best viewpoints or photography spots?

The best viewpoints are by the lakeside, where you can capture the pavilions and bridges reflecting in the water. The traditional architecture also provides excellent photo opportunities.

What is the recommended route or itinerary inside?

Start your visit by entering from the main gate, walk towards the lake, explore the pavilions and gardens, and enjoy a peaceful walk along the water. End your visit by relaxing near the central garden area.

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

Night visits are not typically available, and there are no light shows. However, the park’s serene atmosphere makes it a pleasant place to visit during daylight hours.

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

The park can get busy on weekends and public holidays. To avoid the crowds, visit on weekday mornings or later in the evening, especially outside the holiday seasons.

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

There are rest areas and public toilets available throughout the park. However, there are no food stalls or shops inside the park, so it’s best to bring your own water and snacks.

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

The park is accessible for elderly and children, with paved paths and plenty of resting spots. However, certain areas may be difficult for wheelchair users due to the terrain around the lake.

Is cash needed or are cards/mobile payments accepted?

No payment is required for entry. However, for any purchases near the park, it’s advisable to use mobile payments (WeChat Pay, Alipay), as cash and card options may not always be accepted.

What restaurants or cafes are available inside or nearby?

There are several restaurants and cafes near Shutai Park, offering local Suzhou dishes such as dumplings, noodles, and tea. Look for eateries along nearby streets.

Are there vegetarian/vegan/halal food options?

There are vegetarian and vegan options in some of the nearby restaurants, but halal food may be more limited in this area.

What hotels or accommodations are close to the site?

There are many hotels near Shutai Park, including Suzhou Marriott Hotel and Suzhou Garden Hotel. Budget-friendly options are also available in the area.

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

Nearby attractions include the famous Suzhou Gardens, Tiger Hill, and the Suzhou Museum. These are all easily accessible and can be combined in a day trip.

Are there souvenir shops and what are the typical souvenirs?

While there are no souvenir shops inside the park, you can find traditional Suzhou silk products, handicrafts, and tea in nearby markets and shops.

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

Taxi and metro are the best options to continue your trip after visiting the park. The metro station is nearby, and taxis are readily available.