[2025 Suzhou Attraction] Travel Guide for Pearl Tower (Updated Apr)

Morning: Tuisi Garden - Lize Girls' School - Ancient Opera Stage - Wang Shao'ao Memorial Hall - Tuisi Garden: As a UNESCO World Heritage site, Tuisi Garden is the essence of Tongli Ancient Town. Known for its delicate design and well-arranged pavilions, the garden's architecture harmoniously blends with natural landscapes, offering picturesque views at every turn. Recommended visiting time: 1.5-2 hours. - Lize Girls' School: Featuring typical Republic of China-era architecture, this building combines Chinese and Western elements with an exquisite layout and tranquil environment. It showcases the educational style and cultural atmosphere of the Republican period. Perfect for photos and experiencing historical charm. Visiting time: about 0.5 hours. - Ancient Opera Stage: Located in the town center, it regularly features traditional opera performances like Kunqu Opera and Pingtan. Visitors can enjoy authentic Jiangnan opera arts and immerse themselves in the rich cultural atmosphere. Visiting time: 0.5-1 hour, depending on performance schedules. - Wang Shao'ao Memorial Hall: Located at 35 Fuguan Street, covering 500 square meters, this memorial hall honors Wang Shao'ao's spirit through artifacts, paintings, and photographs showcasing his achievements. Visitors can explore Tongli's historical and cultural heritage. Visiting time: 0.5-1 hour. Noon: Dining - Recommended restaurants: Visit restaurants near Ming-Qing Street or Zhongchuan Road, such as "Tongli Renjia" or "Water Town Restaurant" to taste Tongli specialties like Zhuangyuan Pork Knuckle, Wadi Su (sock-bottom pastry), Gordon Euryale Cake, Min Pancake, and Malt Flatbread. Afternoon: Pearl Pagoda Scenic Garden - Songshi Enlightenment Garden - Taihu Water Conservancy Exhibition Hall - Chongben Hall - Jiayin Hall - Family Values Museum - Three Bridges - Pearl Pagoda Scenic Garden: Also known as Chen Imperial Censor's Mansion, consisting of Chen Family Memorial Arch and Ancestral Hall, this is the origin of the "Pearl Pagoda" love story. Features exquisite architecture and clever layout. Visiting time: about 1 hour. - Songshi Enlightenment Garden: Home to the "Songping Stone Exhibition Hall," adjacent to Jili, Taiping, and Changqing bridges. Focused on decoding ancient texts and life enlightenment, it displays over 1,200 Songping stone plate paintings. Visiting time: 0.5-1 hour. - Taihu Water Conservancy Exhibition Hall: Originally the Taihu Water Control Office established in 1730 during the Yongzheng period. Features four exhibition sections including "Taihu Millennium" and "Smart Water Conservancy," systematically displaying the water management history of Taihu Basin through photos and artifacts. Visiting time: 0.5-1 hour. - Chongben Hall: Located at the north end of Changqing Bridge on Fuguan Street, built in 1912. Features over 100 wood carvings, including complete stories from "Romance of the West Chamber" and "Twelve Beauties of Jinling." Now serves as a specialized museum for Jiangnan water town wedding customs. Visiting time: 0.5-1 hour. - Jiayin Hall: Built during the Republic period with main architecture modeled after Ming Dynasty style, commonly known as "Official's Hat Hall." Features carved scenes from "Romance of the Three Kingdoms" and "Hidden Eight Immortals" bas-reliefs, showcasing exquisite Jiangnan architecture. Visiting time: about 0.5 hours. - Family Values Museum: Learn about Tongli's traditional family values and cultural heritage, experiencing the town's rich cultural and humanistic spirit. Visiting time: about 0.5 hours. - Three Bridges: Comprising Taiping Bridge, Jili Bridge, and Changqing Bridge, arranged in a triangular pattern at the intersection of three rivers. Local custom of "crossing three bridges" symbolizes peace, prosperity, and longevity. Visitors can experience local folk culture here. Visiting time: about 0.5 hours. Evening: Gengle Hall - Chuanxin Lane - Nanyuan Tea House - Gengle Hall: Located in the middle section of Lujia Dam, built by Ming Dynasty scholar Zhu Xiang. Features traditional Ming-Qing architecture with front house and back garden layout, including lotus pond, three-curved bridge, and Three Friends Pavilion. Visiting time: about 1 hour. - Chuanxin Lane: A characteristic narrow, long alley in Tongli Ancient Town, flanked by ancient buildings. Walking through feels like stepping back in time. Visiting time: about 0.5 hours. - Nanyuan Tea House: Built during the Qing Dynasty, originally named "Fu'an Tea House." Besides serving various teas and snacks, it features Jiangnan silk and bamboo music, storytelling, and Pingtan performances. Visitors can enjoy tea while watching performances, experiencing leisurely water town life. Visiting time: about 1 hour. Night: Luoxing Island - Luoxing Island: A small island in Tongli Lake combining Buddhism, Taoism, and Confucianism. Accessible by boat, the island appears particularly serene and mysterious at night under the lights. Visitors can enjoy night views of Tongli Lake. Visiting time: about 1 hour.

The rear garden of the Pearl Tower in Tongli Ancient Town is a truly unique and captivating destination. Visiting the Pearl Tower is, in essence, a journey through what was once a private garden. Strolling through its grounds, you'll be transported back in time as the ancient architectural style blends seamlessly with the exquisite landscaping. Within the garden, lush trees provide ample shade, and the air is filled with the sweet fragrance of flowers. Winding paths, artfully arranged rockeries, and crystal-clear ponds all showcase the ingenuity of ancient craftsmanship. Every step you take brings you closer to nature, and every breath you draw allows you to experience the weight of history and the richness of culture. The private garden of the Pearl Tower is a must-see attraction in Tongli Ancient Town. Visitors often find themselves captivated by the scenery, lingering and admiring the views. Ancient legends and stories add a touch of mystery and charm to this enchanting place. A visit here not only offers breathtaking natural beauty but also provides a glimpse into the profound historical and cultural heritage of the region. The Pearl Tower's rear garden eagerly awaits every visitor, inviting them to explore the endless charm of this ancient and beautiful private sanctuary!

#favouriteitinerary Pearl Tower is not an actual tower, but rather a complex of buildings that include the former residence and back garden of Ming Dynasty Censor Chen Wangdao. This architectural ensemble showcases the elegance and refinement of traditional Chinese residential design. Personal Opinion: In my opinion, Pearl Tower is a fascinating destination for those interested in historical architecture and cultural heritage. The combination of the residence and garden offers a unique glimpse into the lifestyle and aesthetic sensibilities of the Ming Dynasty, making it a captivating and enriching experience for visitors.

From the old alley at the entrance of the inn where I stayed in Tongli, I went to the center of the ancient town. There was a signpost for the scenic spot at the entrance of the alley. Turning to the left in the alley, there was a scenic spot called the Pearl Tower. I went in. This was the residence of the Censor. I thought there was a tower inside, but I didn't expect that [Sun] "Pearl Tower" was just a story. I had never heard of it. [Shrine] The predecessor of the Pearl Tower Garden was the residence of Chen Wangdao, the Nanjing Dao Supervisory Censor during the Jiajing period of the Ming Dynasty. The story of "Pearl Tower" took place here. [RedHeart] "Pearl Tower" is a story about a scholar named Fang Qing. As his family fell into poverty, he went to Xiangyang to live with his aunt, but was met with cold ridicule. His cousin Chen Cui'e gave him the ancestral Pearl Tower, and with the help of his uncle Chen Shance, he finally passed the imperial examination and married his cousin. ‌‌ [Pushpin]The historical fact of Chen Wangdao marrying off his daughter has been passed down in Tongli for a long time, making the Chen Mansion a household name at that time. Only some remains of Chen Cui'e's library remain in the entire scenic spot. [Shrine] This building is mainly composed of the ceremonial gate, Honglue Hall, Miss Chen Cui'e's embroidery building, the study, Yulan Hall, Ruguzhai, the dock and the back courtyard. [Pushpin] The Censors are equivalent to today’s Central Commission for Discipline Inspection and National Supervisory Commission officials. There is a back garden on the west side of the Shrine, with pavilions, terraces, winding paths and changing scenery, which is very exquisite and beautiful. The river leads directly into the courtyard, and boats can be taken in and out from here. [○] Ticket price for Tongli Ancient Town: RMB 100. [○]Recommendation index: [Star][Star][Star][Star]

Pearl Tower Garden: The former residence of Chen Wangdao, the Nanjing Censor during the Jiajing and Wanli periods of the Ming Dynasty, also known as Fujitang. It was first built in the Ming Dynasty and flourished during the Qianlong period of the Qing Dynasty. The story of the Pearl Tower took place in this garden. In the 18th year of the Wanli reign, Fang Qing, a descendant of an official, suffered a misfortune in his family. He had no choice but to borrow money from his aunt Chen to go to Beijing to take the exam, but was ridiculed instead. Chen's daughter Cui'e was originally engaged to Fang Qing, so she secretly gave him silver and a pearl tower, a treasure handed down from generation to generation, to help him study. Later, Fang Qing won the top spot in the imperial examination and entered Chen's residence disguised as a Taoist priest. He sang Taoist songs to mock his aunt, and Chen felt extremely remorseful. Fang Qing finally married Cui'e.

You must visit Jiangnan in March at least once. After visiting numerous ancient towns, I finally found the true 'spring beauty that cannot be shut behind gates' in Suzhou ¥ Compared to the Humble Administrator's Garden, I prefer this thousand-year-old ancient town recommended by National Geographic. Little bridges over flowing water, winding boats, and exquisite pavilions There are still many residents who retain the lifestyle of the water town and the fullness of life's simple pleasures 'Tongli Ancient Town' Take Metro Line 4 to 'Tongli Station', then transfer to the Tongli Ancient Town Zhi Rail special line. If it's your first visit, you might as well follow this route. Zhongchuan Bridge Entrance - Retreat & Reflection Garden - Chongbentang - Gengletang - Pearl Tower Garden - Jiayintang - Luoxingzhou - Tongli Wetland Park ·Retreat & Reflection Garden Listed in the 'World Cultural Heritage List'! A small and exquisite late Qing Dynasty style Suzhou garden, filled with Chinese aesthetics. Truly interprets 'the garden full of spring colors'~fire ▪Gengletang Also in late Qing style, one of the eight scenic spots of Tongli, with a beautiful garden view ▪Pearl Tower Garden Closer to the 'Fuguan Bridge Entrance', connected to several gardens, very large, with a pond full of koi. ·Luoxingzhou A secluded island in the center of the lake, with courtyards on the island, very niche and special, suitable for aerial photography! ▪Tongli Wetland Park It's recommended to stay for one night and visit the wetland park the next day. A large and plant-rich natural oxygen bar. Take a boat through the green wonderland Local snacks: Scholar's Hoof, Retreat Cake, Red Bean Cake, Ox Nose Crisp, Taihu Three Whites, Sock Bottom Crisp... I guess everyone has a dream about the ancient water towns of Jiangnan in their heart And such a niche and stunning Tongli Ancient Town is definitely not to be missed!

When visiting the ancient town of Tongli, do not forget to see the Pearl Tower Garden. The Pearl Tower Garden in Tongli ancient town is not an actual tower, but the birthplace of the famous Xi opera story 'The Pearl Tower'. This love story, which tells of persistent love and a happy marriage, is beloved by the local people. It has been adapted into several films and TV dramas, and the romantic tale is widely known among the people in the Jiangnan region, deeply rooted in their hearts. The Pearl Tower, also known as the residence of Imperial Censor Chen, was the former home of Chen Wangdao, a Nanjing supervisory censor during the Jiajing and Wanli periods of the Ming Dynasty. It mainly consists of four parts: the censor's residence, the rear garden, the archway, and the ancestral hall. The Pearl Tower Garden is a beautiful and exquisite private classical garden, which is closely connected with the love story of 'The Pearl Tower', thus filling the garden with an atmosphere of aesthetic romance. The Pearl Tower Garden is located at No. 16 Shipi Alley in Tongli ancient town, and a ticket is required for entry.

The Pearl Tower Garden in Tongli Ancient Town, Suzhou, also known as Shiyu Ancient Square, was the former residence of Chen Wangdao, who served as the Imperial Inspector in Nanjing during the Jiajing and Wanli periods of the Ming Dynasty. Visitors might mistakenly think that this is a scenic spot centered around an ancient tower, but in fact, there is no tower; it is a private garden. What we see now as the Pearl Tower Garden has been restored and rebuilt on the basis of the original historical relics. It consists of several parts including the Imperial Inspector's Residence, the Chen Family Archway, the Magnolia Hall, and the Back Garden. The charm lies in not only preserving the existing cultural relics and the historical connotations but also restoring the names of the scenic spots mentioned in the story of the 'Pearl Tower'. Although the Pearl Tower Garden may seem 'low-key' among the ancient town's attractions, its profound historical heritage and exquisite garden landscape are not to be overlooked. For tourists who like to explore history and cultural charm, this place is undoubtedly a treasure worth in-depth exploration.

Three of the six ancient towns in Jiangnan are located in Zhejiang, and the other three are in Suzhou, namely Tongli Ancient Town, Zhouzhuang Ancient Town, and Luzhi Ancient Town. Among them, Tongli Ancient Town is located in Wujiang District and forms an independent plate. There are many scenic spots worth visiting inside. 👍Most recommended: 1. Tuisi Garden Tuisi Garden is one of the nine representative gardens of Suzhou World Heritage. It is on par with Humble Administrator's Garden, Lion Grove Garden, and Master of the Nets Garden. Because of the addition of Tuisi Garden, Tongli Ancient Town has become more valuable and is worth a visit. 2. Pearl Tower This is also an old house with garden architecture as the main body. The interior area is large, and a large number of red goldfish are raised in the large pond, which is very eye-catching when swimming in the water. 3. Other celebrity residences Including the residences of modern popular novelist Fan Yanqiao, garden master Ji Cheng, etc., are located here, it's worth a look. 📝Note tips: About tickets, you can buy them at the entrance. The ticket is 100 yuan, and other platforms may offer a 20% discount. In addition, you can use the Suzhou Leisure Card to enter various scenic spots, including Tuisi Garden. After buying the ticket at the entrance, you can enter various paid places in the scenic area. 🚉Transportation strategy: In terms of transportation, it is not particularly convenient. The nearest subway station is about three kilometers away, and it takes about an hour to come from the city.

Suzhou·Tongli 📝Tourist Keywords: Two Gardens, Two Halls, Three Bridges Two Gardens: ✅Retreat & Reflection Garden: The only Jiangnan garden by the water listed as a World Cultural Heritage site, also known as the 'Garden by the Water' ✅Pearl Tower Scenic Garden: A forgotten exquisite garden with very few tourists, where the love story of 'Pearl Tower' took place Two Halls: ✅Chongben Hall, Jiayin Hall: Experience Suzhou-style residences and wedding customs Three Bridges: ✅Jili Bridge, Taiping Bridge and Changqing Bridge. Taiping Bridge and Changqing Bridge are beam bridges, while Jili Bridge is an arch bridge. There are bridge couplets on both sides of the bridge; Changqing Bridge is commonly known as Xie Family Bridge, formerly known as Fujian Bridge. Tongli has the custom of 'walking the bridge'. The purpose is to avoid disasters and seek blessings. Every time there is a wedding celebration or an elderly person's 66th birthday, the people of Tongli will 'walk the three bridges' to seek good luck and fortune.

The Pearl Tower sounds like a very ordinary sight. It is actually not a tower but a private garden with the characteristics of a royal family. This is Chen Yushis home and leisure place. The Pearl Tower is a core area for Tongli Ancient Town. In addition to the private garden architecture, it can also see the scenery like Suzhou Garden and Lion Forest. After entering the gate, it is a neatly arranged old house. From the perspective of pattern, feng shui and decoration, it is based on the traditional Feng Shui theory and architecture of the motherland. It can be said that the building in the Pearl Tower is Tongli Ancient Town. Very historical and cultural features. The building here was built in the Ming Dynasty. It flourished during the Qing Emperor Qianlong period. Because of the suspense of the Qianlong Emperor and the Han nationality, it has always been considered that the Emperor Qianlong helped the construction of the Emperor Qianlong. Therefore, as early as 1990, the famous film and television drama was also part of the historical film "The Ballads of Qianlong". The scene in the scene of "Jiangnan Baju" was taken in the Pearl Tower. So, why is it called Pearl Tower, the reason is not without. There is a historical plot: According to legend, the number room of the Nandu Gongyuan is covered with a reed, the value of the wind and the rain, the soil is unbearable, he played the easy to the tile, so deeply loved by the scholars. It is said that after his wife died with his wife, he continued his wife. The folklore "Pearl Tower" is the story of Chen Wangdao's marriage to a woman. That's how the name of the Pearl Tower came. When it comes to the back garden, the entire back garden is very large, which is equivalent to two retreats. There are rockeries, ponds, observation decks, study houses, walks along the water and dance performances. All the facilities and construction inside are really perfect, and it is amazing now. So, come here to see the scenery here, the harvest is definitely great. About the Raiders of the Pearl Tower: 1, about the ticket: already included in the ticket of Tongli Ancient Town, no need to buy another ticket. 2, ticket discount policy: Regarding the ticket preferential policy, you can refer to the preferential policies for the big tickets in the Tongli Ancient Town Scenic Area, which will not be repeated here. 3, scenic opening hours: from morning 7

Tongli naturally has a story about "Pearl Tower" telling the story of a mother-in-law's marriage, and the story of the rebelliousness of the silkworm, - with the electronic curtain of the Suzhou garden, and the red car escape - the acrobatics of the theater, it is very beautiful!

The Pearl Tower Scenic Area is adjacent to Yushidi. Looking for a long time pearl tower, I found the doorway and found that it was actually Yushidi, and it was circled at that time. After a question, I realized that "Pearl Tower" is a love story, and the story takes place here. There is a wax figure in Lan Yuntang to restore the scene in the drama. This scene is the scene when the male protagonist comes to find aunt to borrow money. I turned around in Yushi, I think this yard is very big, but through a small door, I am amazed! This big family in the same place is too low-key, and they all like to hide the big garden behind the house. If you are not familiar with the road, you can't find the private garden of this scenery!