Guobao Check-in: Ouyuan (National Level V)

Ouyuan is located on the east side of the Pingjiang Historic and Cultural District, east of the intersection of Cang Street and Daxinqiao Alley, and is a fifth batch national key cultural relic protection unit from the Qing Dynasty, classified as an ancient architectural site. Ouyuan was initially built during the Yongzheng era of the Qing Dynasty. From the Tongzhi to Guangxu periods, Shen Bingcheng renamed it to 'Ouyuan', symbolizing the idea of a couple retiring together, living in harmony, and spending their twilight years in joyous union. The couple lived happily here for eight years. The central part of Ouyuan is a residence, with one garden on each of the east and west sides. The East Garden is centered around a mountain pool, with a double-eaved building called Chengqu Grass Hall to the north; a pavilion built over water to the south, named 'Between Mountains and Waters'; and a small building in the southeast corner overlooking the inner city river across from the ancient city wall, called 'Listening to the Oars Building'. The rockery is made of yellow stones, stacked to create steep and lofty mountains with a majestic presence, realistically imitating ridges, cliffs, and valleys. The West Garden is smaller, centered around the study 'Weilian Old House', with corridors and pavilions constructed in the front and back courtyards, interspersed with various flowers and trees, and scattered with lake stones, creating a secluded and interesting landscape. The entrance fee for Ouyuan is 25 yuan, but with the Suzhou Garden Card, you can swipe your ID card for free admission. Considering Ouyuan's history as a haven for couples, there is now a marriage registration office within the garden, and newlyweds come in an endless stream to register. Like other Suzhou gardens, the garden is filled with many Hanfu-clad beauties taking photos.