Lingering Garden (Liu Yuan)

The basics

Lingering Garden is the second largest in Suzhou. It’s divided into four sections: the central part contains most of the garden’s buildings situated around a large pond; the eastern part is known for its miniature mountain; the western part is known for its rockery; while the northern part is known for its bonsai trees. A long hall with calligraphy inscribed in stone connects the various sections.

Many people visit the Lingering Garden as part of a day trip from Shanghai. Additional attractions may include other gardens in Suzhou, Tiger Hill, or Panmen Gate. It's also possible to combine a trip to Suzhou with visits to the famous water towns of Zhouzhuang or Tongli.

Things to know before you go

• The garden is ideal for those with an interest in nature, horticulture, history, or architecture.
• There’s a small gift shop on-site.
• The garden is not wheelchair accessible.

How to get there

Lingering Garden is located outside Changmen Gate in Suzhou. By Rail transit, take Line 2 and exit at the Shilu Station. A number of buses also stop nearby, including Tourist Bus no. 1, and bus nos. 7, 34, 85, 317, and 933. Suzhou is about 62 miles (100 kilometers) west of Shanghai and is connected by high-speed trains.

When to get there

Visit Lingering Garden in the spring to see flowers and cherry trees in bloom, in the summer to see lotus on the ponds, and in the fall for the fall colors. The entrance fee is higher during the high season (mid-April to October). It’s a popular destination with tour groups; visit first thing in the morning or late afternoon to beat the crowds.

Other Gardens in Suzhou

Suzhou is home to more than 50 gardens, nine of which have been designated UNESCO World Heritage sites, including the Humble Administrator’s Garden and the Master of Nets Garden. Like Lingering Garden, the Humble Administrator’s Garden is considered one of the top four classical gardens in China. It’s the largest garden in Suzhou and one of the most popular. The Master of Nets Garden is the smallest in Suzhou, but also popular for its design and beauty.