Roger Gary
As one of China's most scenic corners Suzhou is home to some of the country's most ancient and landmark attractions. From famed gardens to iconic temples here are some of the area's top highlights.
Tipped to be one of Suzhou's most famous sites Tiger Hill is both a cultural attraction as well as a historic point of interest. Resembling a crouching tiger in appearance the hill is connected with local folklore in the area as well. According to legend a white tiger came to the mountain soon after the funeral rites of King Helü to guard the burial site. Another highlight atop Tiger Hill is of course its namesake pagoda which is also known as the Yunyan Pagoda or Huqiu Tower. A popular cultural attraction the pagoda is also known as the Leaning Tower of China.
Revered as one of the most exquisite gardens spaces in all of China the Master of the Nets Garden occupies pride of place down Dai Cheng Qiao Road in Suzhou's Gusu District. Declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site the classical style garden is a must-visit highlight for all visitors exploring Suzhou. As a pristine combination of nature, art and age defying architecture the garden showcases the skills of Chinese artistry and the ingenuity of the designers.
With its name literally translating to the Cold Mountain Temple Hanshan Temple is a one of a kind Buddhist spiritual hub in Suzhou. As a functioning religious institution and a monastery the Hanshan Temple proudly sits in Fengqiao town a mere 5km from Suzhou's old city.
Also known as Panmen Gate or the Pan Men, the Pan Gate as it is widely known is a well-known cultural landmark in Suzhou. Situated on the south-western fringes of Suzhou's Main Canal the Pan Gate dates back to the Warring States era which makes the structure an impressive 2500 years in age. As an integral landmark of the Pan Gate Scenic Area the gate is renowned as one of the three landmarks of Pan Gate with the Wu Gate Bridge and the Ruiguang Pagoda serving as the remaining two.
In spite of its name the Couple's Retreat Garden is not a horticultural space devoted merely for the romantically inclines as the UNESCO World Heritage Site is the other famed classical garden in Suzhou. Breathtaking in its beauty and complex simplicity the conveniently located garden is a proud reminder of Suzhou's status as one of China's classical garden capitals.
Often known as the Venice of the East, Tongli is a charming town located on the outer reaches of Suzhou. Resembling its European counterpart thanks to the vast network of canals that run through the town the area in Wujiang county is another tranquil corner of Suzhou that is worthy of exploration.
Strategically located down Dongbei Street the Humble Administrator's Garden is not only a famous horticultural enclave in Suzhou but also the most expansive garden in the area. Often regarded as the most picturesque classical garden in all of South China the attraction is another scenic corner visitors must-explore on a tour of Suzhou. Visitors based at the Somerset Emerald City Suzhou or any other centrally located Suzhou apartments will be within close range of the gardens.
