Gardens in Suzhou (taobao.com)Suzhou is famous for its garden not flowers. It has the best gardens on earth.
The name of a novel by Gulong, Plum Blossoms・ Misty Rain・ South of the Yangtze River, happens to have described the beauty in the areas south of the lower reaches of the Yangtze River. The enchanting scene with peach and plum blossoms in full bloom in fine, drizzling rain only appears in these areas.
For instance, at Suzhou's Dongshan Yuhuatai, in late spring (between April and May) every year, people will see such a scene: in a misty drizzle, numerous flower petals drop as if in a rain of flowers from the heavens. It is said that Emperor Qianlong of the Qing Dynasty (1644-1911) was also deeply touched by this scene and called it "a place commanding a glorious view of flower rains."
Of course, few people come to Suzhou without going to the four most famous gardens in China: the Zuozheng Garden, Liuyuan Garden, Wangshi Garden and Huanxiu Mountain Villa. To reach these gardens, going by tricycle is more fun than by bus. Firstly, it costs less (2 yuan/l kg) and; secondly, many of the narrow lanes in the city do not allow buses to enter. Touring by tricycle, one can get a good view of the old-style local residences. Rain is typical in the area and, if passing Taijian lane or Jiayu Lane, there are many reasons to stop for a while, both streets being famous as areas with many outlets for snacks.
It is suggested that one should go to Zuozheng Garden during April and May when the annual azalea display is held there. In Wangshi Garden, one can enjoy performances of local operas every night.
Zhouzhuang, Tongli, Luzhi, Xitang, Wuzhen and Nanxun are six world-recognized ancient towns in Jiangnan, a region of rivers and lakes. Every other hour, a bus goes to these ancient towns from Suzhou.
(Source: Women of China English Monthly April 2004)
