Li Garden
Li Garden, nestled on the shores of Taihu Lake in Wuxi, Jiangsu Province, is a masterpiece of classical Chinese garden design renowned for its intricate pavilions, winding corridors, and harmonious blend of nature and architecture. Established in 1927 and expanded over decades, the garden spans 123 acres and features iconic landscapes like the "Four Seasons Pavilion" and "Lotus Pond." With its rich history, poetic allure, and cultural significance, Li Garden is a UNESCO-listed treasure and a must-visit destination for lovers of Chinese art, nature, and philosophy.
Historical Overview
1927: Founded as a private villa garden by local businessman Wang Yuxun, inspired by Suzhou’s classical gardens.
1952: Opened to the public and expanded with new pavilions and bridges.
1980s–2000s: Restored to its Ming-Qing Dynasty glory, featuring authentic architectural details like carved wooden beams and moon gates.
2012: Designated a "National Key Cultural Relic Protection Unit" for its architectural and historical value.
2020s: Hosted international cultural exchanges, including collaborations with Japanese and Korean gardens.
Structural Layout
Li Garden’s design follows the principles of "borrowed scenery" and "hidden beauty," with each section offering a unique experience:
Four Seasons Pavilion: A central octagonal hall surrounded by bamboo, plum, pine, and lotus gardens, symbolizing seasonal transitions.
Lotus Pond: A tranquil water feature with stepping stones, water lilies, and a 17th-century "Cloud-Capped Bridge."
Moon-Viewing Platform: A wooden terrace overlooking the lake, ideal for autumn evenings and poetry recitals.
Corridor of 108 Windows: A 300-meter-long covered walkway with carved lattice windows framing garden vistas.
Major Attractions
Spring Blossoms: Cherry and peony gardens bloom from March to April, attracting photographers and painters.
Summer Lotus Festival: A celebration of lotus flowers with traditional music performances and tea ceremonies.
Autumn Moon-Viewing: The Moon-Viewing Platform hosts lantern displays and mooncake tastings during the Mid-Autumn Festival.
Winter Bamboo Groves: A serene landscape of wind-rustled bamboo, perfect for meditation.
Suggested Itineraries
Classic Route (1–2 Hours)
Start at the Four Seasons Pavilion (20 mins) → Stroll the Corridor of 108 Windows (15 mins) → Cross the Cloud-Capped Bridge (10 mins) → Relax at the Lotus Pond (20 mins).
Highlights: Iconic pavilions, seasonal blooms, and lake views.Cultural Depth Route (3–4 Hours)
Four Seasons Pavilion → Corridor of 108 Windows → Moon-Viewing Platform (20 mins) → Bamboo Grove Trail (30 mins) → Traditional Tea House (40 mins).
Highlights: Photography, poetry, and tea culture.
All-Day Exploration (Full Day)
Morning: Four Seasons Pavilion → Corridor of 108 Windows → Lotus Pond → Spring Blossom Garden (if in season).
Afternoon: Bamboo Grove Trail → Moon-Viewing Platform → Cultural Workshops (e.g., calligraphy, fan painting).
Evening: Attend a classical music performance or moon-viewing event.
Highlights: Comprehensive garden experience, workshops, and nighttime events.
Ticket Purchase
Online: Book via the official Wuxi Tourism website or WeChat mini-program (up to 7 days in advance).
On-Site: ¥45 (adults), ¥22 (students/seniors), free for children under 1.2m.
Guided Tours: ¥100–150 (1.5-hour English/Chinese tours).
Free Admission: Disabled visitors, veterans, and seniors over 70.
Transportation
By Subway: Line 2 to "Li Garden Station" (Exit 2), 5-minute walk.
By Bus: Routes 1, 20, 82, or 211 to "Li Garden Stop."
By Taxi: Direct to "Lǐ Yuán"
Parking: Limited on-site spots (¥10/hour); nearby public parking available.
Best Time & Tips
Avoid Crowds: Peak hours are 10 AM–2 PM (weekends/holidays). Best times: 8 AM opening or after 4 PM (weekdays).
Quietest Days: Tuesdays–Thursdays (Mondays closed).
Weather: Spring and autumn are ideal for outdoor activities; summer may be hot (bring hats/umbrellas).
Essentials:Download the garden’s AR guide app for interactive exhibits.
Wear comfortable shoes (20,000+ steps possible).
Stay hydrated (water fountains available; no food allowed in gardens).
Photography allowed (no flash); tripods prohibited.
Prohibited items: Selfie sticks, large bags, and drones.
FAQ
When is the best time to see lotus flowers in Li Garden?
July to August is the peak season for lotus blooms. The garden’s extensive lotus ponds, paired with traditional architecture, create a classic Jiangnan water garden scene, attracting many photographers and visitors.
What is the iconic landmark of Li Garden?
The Nine-Bend Bridge is the most recognizable feature. Stretching over the lake, its meandering design allows visitors to enjoy changing views of the garden and Taihu Lake at every turn, especially beautiful when lit up at night.
What traditional activities or cultural displays are held in Li Garden?
Spring Peony Festival: Featuring peony exhibitions and traditional music performances. Lotus Festival in summer: With lotus-themed cultural events, including calligraphy and painting displays. Traditional tea ceremonies in garden pavilions, showcasing Jiangnan tea culture.
Are there dining facilities in Li Garden?
Yes, there are small teahouses and snack bars in the garden, offering local snacks like Wuxi-style pastries, tea, and lotus seed soup. For more options, nearby Lihu Lake area has restaurants serving Taihu Lake seafood.
How to travel from Li Garden to Yuantouzhu?
Take bus route 9 or 87 directly, which takes about 40 minutes. Alternatively, take a taxi for a 25-minute ride, costing around CNY 40-60.
