Suzhou No. 92 Garden.
by Ara Rolfson
Nov 22, 2024
Guide to Watching Black-headed Gulls and the Sunset at Muke Bookstore in Suzhou
**Location**: Muke Bookstore (Laitoufu, Chongshan Village)
A hidden gem by Taihu Lake, with a 270-degree lake view and an extended pier, where you can see both black-headed gulls and the sunset!
**Highlights**
1. **Black-headed Gull Interaction**: From November to March, black-headed gulls from Siberia come to Taihu Lake for the winter, with the most in January! Bring some bread, stand by the pier, and throw it into the air to watch them catch it. It's fascinating! Remember to use a telephoto lens to capture the moment.
2. **Best Sunset Spot**: The pier at the bookstore faces Taihu Lake. At dusk, the sunset colors the lake red, and flocks of black-headed gulls fly by. Every shot is a masterpiece! We recommend arriving around 4 pm to get a good spot.
3. **Bookstore Atmosphere**: Originally a private studio, it has a retro and artistic vibe. When you're tired of walking, you can order a cup of coffee, read a book, or just stare at the lake, listening to the gulls and feeling the lake breeze. It's very healing!
**Transportation Tips**
- **Self-driving**: Navigate to "Muke Bookstore" (Laitoufu, Chongshan Village, Wuzhong District). There are parking spaces nearby.
- **Public Transport**: Take Metro Line 5 to Taihu Xiangshan Station, then transfer to a bus or take a taxi (about 10 km).
**Reminders**
- Feed the gulls with sugar-free bread, don't litter, and protect the environment!
- It's windy by the lake in winter, so dress warmly and wear a hat and scarf to keep warm.
**Nearby Attractions**
If you have time, visit Yugang Village in Guangfu Town (a 15-minute drive), where you can also see black-headed gulls and experience the fishing village atmosphere. You can also try the "Three Whites" of Taihu Lake.
Hurry up and go while the black-headed gulls are still there!
Post by Price_Scarlett_47 | Feb 17, 2025



















