There are nine Suzhou Gardens, four of which are to be noticed during your trip. The first is the Garden of the Master of the Nets, laid out in the 12th century and restored in the 18th century. It is the smallest in the city and is renowned for displaying all the traditional features of ►
There are nine Suzhou Gardens, four of which are to be noticed during your trip. The first is the Garden of the Master of the Nets, laid out in the 12th century and restored in the 18th century. It is the smallest in the city and is renowned for displaying all the traditional features of classical Chinese gardens: you can admire the bodies of water, trees and rocks with original shapes. Performances of the Suzhou Opera House are given for visitors, especially at night, thanks to the lighting making the visit magical. You will be able to attend demonstrations and explanations on the tricks of Chinese opera.
Now head to Suzhou's second iconic garden, that of the Humble Administrator. This garden is the largest in the city, with 5.2 hectares of bamboo forest, ponds, bridges and terraces. A stone's throw from the garden stands the Suzhou Museum, whose collection and exhibitions promote the city's art and culture. The Lion Forest Garden is also known for its steep rock formations and caves, while the Liu Garden ("lingering garden") boasts a beautiful pond surrounded by an alley and bridges, where shows and concerts are held.
Liu Garden is located at the eastern end of Shantang Old Street, a large pedestrian street in the city center along three kilometers, where you can admire traditional Chinese architecture. At the western end of this street, bordered by a navigable canal, you will find Tiger Hill, a symbolic place of almost 600 hectares on which folk traditions are practiced, such as flower exhibitions in spring and night illuminations. You will see the Tiger Hill Pagoda, a symbolic building of Suzhou.
The city and its surroundings are known for the multitude of canals that crisscross them, and from which Suzhou takes its nickname "Venice of the East." Some villages on the outskirts are built entirely around a navigable network. It is the case of Zhouzhuang, the most famous water town, where you can enjoy row boat cruises on the canals and the traditional architecture of the small streets. There is also Tongli, a small village that has retained all its original charm where you can admire ancient bridges spanning the rivers, and the famous Tuisi Garden, a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
During your trip to Suzhou, you must stroll along Pingjiang Road, which crosses the old city for two kilometers. This cobbled street is lined with many traditional shops and restaurants offering dishes of local gastronomy. In some tea rooms, you can attend traditional pingtan shows.
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