"A Glimpse into the Humble Administrator's Garden ( 拙政园 )"
Dec 10, 2024
by orient china travel
"Introduction to the Garden"
The Humble Administrator's Garden is one of the most famous gardens in China. Located at Dong Bei St. in Suzhou, it covers an area of 5.2 ha. In 1961, it was listed as a cultural relic of national importance and was inscribed on the World Heritage List by UNESCO in 1997.
This garden is a masterpiece of classical Chinese garden design. It is divided into three main sections: the eastern, central, and western parts. The eastern part is rustic and extensive, giving the appearance of a village settlement of Jiangnan. The middle part is the cream of the garden, featuring Venetian scenes. With a winding and undulating roofed walkway, the western part of the garden is noted for its sumptuousness.
The garden boasts the wild expanse of lotus ponds. Water occupies one fifth of the total garden area. All the kiosks, terraces and pavilions were laid out by the water. More than 10 buildings were named after lotus blooms. Its annual Lotus Blooms Festival gains world-wide fame.
The Humble Administrator's Garden holds significant cultural and historical value. It is not only a fine example of classical Chinese garden design but also embodies profound philosophical and poetic meanings. The garden's layout reflects the traditional Chinese concept of harmony between man and nature, creating a space for contemplation and spiritual rejuvenation.
For visitors, exploring the Humble Administrator's Garden is a delightful and immersive experience. Walking along the meandering pathways, admiring the poetic scenery, and discovering the hidden nooks and crannies of the garden offer a sense of tranquility and appreciation for the timeless beauty of Chinese garden art.
"Features of the Garden"
The Humble Administrator's Garden is renowned for its unique features. The eastern part exudes a rustic charm and is extensive, resembling a Jiangnan village settlement. One can wander through this area and feel a sense of tranquility and simplicity.
The middle part is truly the cream of the garden. It showcases Venetian scenes that are both captivating and enchanting. The winding roofed walkway adds an element of elegance and mystery, inviting visitors to explore and discover the hidden beauty within.
The western part is known for its sumptuousness. Here, the architecture and landscaping are more elaborate and luxurious, creating a different atmosphere from the other two sections.
The garden also boasts a wild expanse of lotus ponds. Water makes up one fifth of the total area, and it gives the garden a refreshing and serene quality. Many buildings are named after lotus blooms, highlighting the importance of this beautiful flower in the garden's design. The annual Lotus Blooms Festival is world-famous, attracting tourists from all over the world to witness the magnificent display of lotus flowers.
Each part of the garden has its own distinct character and charm, making the Humble Administrator's Garden a must-visit destination for those who appreciate the beauty of classical Chinese gardens.
"Ticket Information and Opening Hours"
The ticket prices for the Humble Administrator's Garden vary depending on the season. In off season, which includes January, February, March, June, November and December, the ticket price is RMB 70. During busy season, namely April, May, July, August, September and October, the ticket price is RMB 90.
The opening hours are as follows: from March 1 to November 15, the garden is open from 7:30 to 17:30. From November 16 to February 29 of the next year, it is open from 7:30 to 17:00.
"Transportation and Notice"
- Transportation: Tourists can choose from various transportation options when visiting the Humble Administrator's Garden. Tour buses and regular buses are convenient choices for those who prefer a guided or more traditional mode of transport. Additionally, light railway is also an option, providing a modern and efficient way to reach the destination.
- Notice: Tourists visiting the Humble Administrator's Garden must abide by laws and regulations. This includes respecting the environment and protecting the precious resources of the garden. Smoking is strictly prohibited to maintain a clean and healthy atmosphere. Setting up stands without permission is also not allowed as it can disrupt the beauty and order of the garden. In general, visitors are expected to be responsible and respectful during their visit to ensure a pleasant experience for everyone.