A Leisurely Stroll Through the Lingering Garden in Suzhou

The roots of the Lingering Garden are deeply planted in the 21st year of the Wanli reign of the Ming Dynasty (1593 AD). Having weathered the vicissitudes of time, changed hands several times, and undergone numerous name changes, it finally settled on the name 'Lingering Garden.' The two characters seem to hold a secret language of time standing still, making one feel as if they are traversing through ancient and modern times. Reconstructed during the Qing Dynasty and meticulously restored in modern times, the Lingering Garden has transformed into a model of Suzhou gardens, standing unrivaled in Jiangnan. This garden spans over 23,000 square meters, with a clever layout that integrates the central, eastern, northern, and western sections harmoniously. It combines the spirit of mountains and waters, the elegance of rocks and trees, creating a series of flowing natural paintings. The buildings within the garden occupy only a corner, yet they fully display the elegance of the Qing Dynasty. Pavilions, terraces, and towers are arranged in an orderly manner, with winding corridors resembling a dragon roaming in the wild. As one walks through, the scenery changes with the heart, endlessly transforming. Of particular marvel is the Crown Cloud Peak of Taihu Lake Stone, towering majestically as if it would pierce the sky. It complements the surrounding mountains and waters, with jagged rocks and rippling waves, together capturing the essence of the Lingering Garden! The cultural charm is even more profound. Between the corridor walls, stone inscriptions and calligraphy paintings complement each other, exuding the fragrance of ink. The spirit of literati and scholars leaps off the walls, making one feel refreshed and delighted. The garden's design philosophy deeply understands the Dao of 'unity of heaven and man, transcending the mundane.' Within a limited space, it constructs an artistic natural space of harmonious coexistence, allowing one to forget the hustle and bustle of the world. Yet, the throngs of visitors bring one back to reality! There is a teahouse in the garden where one can take a rest.💤