A Journey Through Suzhou's Classical Garden- Lingering Garden

#chinatrip The Lingering Garden in Suzhou is a renowned classical garden located in Suzhou, Jiangsu Province, China, and is one of the four most famous gardens in the country. Known for its exquisite garden art and unique architectural style, the Lingering Garden was inscribed on the UNESCO World Heritage List in 1997. Originally built during the Wanli era of the Ming Dynasty (16th century), the garden was initially a private garden of Xu Taishi. After changing hands and undergoing expansions multiple times, it took its present form during the Qing Dynasty. Covering an area of approximately 2.3 hectares, the Lingering Garden features a delicate layout that embodies the quintessential characteristics of Jiangnan-style gardens, including rockeries, ponds, pavilions, bridges, corridors, and lush flora. The garden is divided into four sections—east, central, west, and north—each with its own distinctive scenery and style: 1. **The Eastern Section** is dominated by architecture, with highlights such as the "Five Peaks Immortal Hall" and the "Forest and Spring Hall," showcasing intricate carvings and exquisite designs. 2. **The Central Section** revolves around a water feature, with a pond surrounded by rockeries, pavilions, and winding corridors, creating a picturesque landscape. 3. **The Western Section** is characterized by rockeries and bamboo groves, offering a tranquil and natural ambiance. 4. **The Northern Section** features a pastoral landscape, with a variety of flowers, plants, and trees, exuding vitality. The design of the Lingering Garden fully embodies the ancient Chinese garden philosophy of "scenery changing with every step." As visitors stroll through the garden, they encounter ever-changing views at every turn. The harmonious integration of architecture and natural scenery showcases the refinement and elegance of Jiangnan-style gardens. As one of the masterpieces of Suzhou's classical gardens, the Lingering Garden is a treasure of Chinese traditional culture and garden art, attracting countless domestic and international tourists to admire its beauty.