Lingering Garden
Jiangsu Sheng
The Lingering Garden, located in Suzhou, Jiangsu province, China, is one of the finest examples of classical Chinese gardens, originally created in 1593. Spanning over 23,000 square meters, it is divided into four distinct thematic sections-East, Central, West, and North-connected by approximately 700 meters of covered walkways. The garden features a central pond surrounded by buildings and a grotto made from yellow stone granite, crafted by the artist Zhou Binzhong. Throughout its history, the garden has undergone several reconstructions and name changes, reflecting the tastes and influences of its various owners. Notably, it contains a remarkable collection of Scholar stones, including the "stone forest," and architectural highlights such as the Celestial Hall of Five Peaks. The garden is celebrated for its artistic landscaping, combining natural elements with elegant pavilions, rockeries, and water features, embodying the aesthetic ideals of Chinese garden design. Recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site since 1997, it also preserves intangible cultural arts like Pingtan storytelling and Guqin music, enriching the visitor experience. The Lingering Garden remains a major cultural and tourist attraction, admired for its serene beauty and historical significance.
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Astuce: Visitors are advised to visit during spring or autumn for the most pleasant weather and vibrant scenery. It is recommended to purchase tickets in advance to avoid queues, especially during weekends and holidays. Guided tours can enhance understanding of the garden's rich history and design. Discounts may be available for students and seniors. Comfortable walking shoes are suggested due to the garden's extensive pathways and varied terrain.
Faits intéressants
- •The Lingering Garden contains 700 meters of covered walkways connecting its four sections.
- •It houses a grotto made of yellow stone granite created by the artist Zhou Binzhong.
- •The garden features a "stone forest" with 12 additional Scholar stones collected by owner Liu Su.
- •It was praised by notable scholars such as Yuan Hongdao and Yu Yue for its exceptional design.
- •The garden is part of the Classical Gardens of Suzhou UNESCO World Heritage Site since 1997.
- •Pingtan storytelling and Guqin music, both UNESCO Intangible Cultural Heritage arts, are performed at the garden.
Histoire
The Lingering Garden was originally commissioned in 1593 by Xu Taishi and designed by stonemason Zhou Shicheng as the East Garden.
In 1798, under owner Liu Su, it was extensively reconstructed and renamed Cold Green Village, adding pine and bamboo groves and the stone forest.
From 1823, it was opened to the public as a renowned resort.
In 1876, after repairs from Taiping Rebellion damage, it was renamed Lingering Garden by owner Sheng Kang.
The garden fell into disrepair during the Sino-Japanese War but was renovated and reopened to the public in 1954 by the Suzhou government.
It was inscribed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1997, affirming its cultural and historical importance.
Guide du lieu
Central Garden and Grotto1593
The oldest part of the garden, featuring buildings encircling a pond and a grotto made of yellow stone granite by Zhou Binzhong, showcasing exquisite craftsmanship and traditional Chinese garden aesthetics.
East Garden and Stone Forest1593, expanded 1798
Originally the East Garden, this section includes the cloud-capped peak stone and the Small Court of Stone Forest, displaying a collection of 12 Scholar stones admired for their shapes and textures.
Western Garden and Penzai
A mostly natural area with few pavilions, a large artificial hill, and a Penzai (bonsai) garden, providing a tranquil contrast to the more structured central and eastern sections.
Contact
Téléphone: 0512 6557 9466