Stone Lake

Introducing Shihu

Shihu, a tributary of Taihu Lake, lies at the eastern foot of Shangfang Mountain, on the shores of Taihu Lake. It is located 5,000 meters southwest of the ancient city of Suzhou in Jiangsu Province and 5,000 meters east of Taihu Lake. Shihu is a scenic area renowned for its Wu and Yue relics and idyllic scenery. It is part of the Taihu National Scenic Area and was the site of the Song Dynasty poet Fan Chengda's later years.

Shihu Lake boasts ancient temples, pagodas, and tombs, as well as villas owned by renowned Song Dynasty poets such as Fan Chengda. Other scenic spots include the Fishing Village, Tianjing Pavilion, Xingchun Bridge, Yuecheng Bridge, the Tomb of King Gu Ye, the Stone Age cultural relics of Yuecheng Bridge, and the Shihu Stream Moon. On Shangfang Mountain to the west, visitors can also find the Wuwang Worshiping Platform, the Wuwang Well, the Military Cave, the Lengjia Pagoda, the Fan Family Ancestral Hall, and the Chaoyin Temple.

Climate and best time to travel

Subtropical monsoon climate, with short spring and autumn, long winter and summer, and four distinct seasons;

Suitable for all seasons

Recommended number of days and locations for visiting

Shangfang Mountain

Shangfang Mountain, also known as Lengjia Mountain, stands at 92.6 meters above sea level on the west side of Shihu Lake. Lengjia Temple is located at the foot of the mountain, while Lengjia Pagoda stands on the top of the mountain, offering panoramic views of the surrounding mountains, waters, and countryside.

Xingchun Bridge

Located east of Chamo Island and to the right of Yuecheng Bridge, in the northern part of Shihu Lake, Xingchun Bridge is also known as the Long Bridge and the Nine-Hole Bridge. It boasts heavy stone railings. The bridge deck is constructed entirely of stone, with nine interconnected holes through which the lake water flows. Every night at midnight on the 17th day of the eighth lunar month, when the moon is westward, its light shines through the nine holes, illuminating the water to the north. This phenomenon is known as "Stone Lake Stringing the Moon."

Hundred Lions Bridge

The Hundred Lions Bridge, located on a stone embankment, stretches between West Stone Lake and South Stone Lake. Over eighty small lions of various shapes stand on the bridge railings, while two large stone lions, one male and one female, stand at each end. Because there are nearly a hundred stone lions, it's called the "Hundred Lions Bridge." The bridge has nineteen arches of varying sizes, evenly spaced, and is sometimes called the "Nineteen-Arrow Bridge." As the highest bridge on the Stone Lakes, it offers panoramic views of the entire Jinji Lake.

It is recommended to play for 1 to 2 hours

Tickets

free

Attraction opening hours

All day

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Most Popular FAQs for Stone Lake

What is the history and significance of this attraction/city?

Stone Lake (Shihuo Lake) is a scenic area renowned for its unique rock formations and tranquil waters. The lake has been an inspiration for poets and artists for centuries and is an important cultural site in Suzhou, reflecting the region’s natural beauty and ancient traditions.

Where is it located and how do I get there (metro, bus, taxi, walking)?

Stone Lake is located in the northeastern part of Suzhou, Jiangsu Province. It is accessible by taxi or bus from the city center. The nearest bus stop is about a 10-minute walk from the entrance.

What are the opening hours and best times to visit?

The lake is open from 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM daily. The best time to visit is early morning or late afternoon to avoid crowds and enjoy the scenic views during the soft light of sunrise or sunset.

What is the entrance fee/ticket price, and how to buy tickets (online/offline)?

The entrance fee is approximately 30 RMB per person. Tickets can be purchased at the entrance; there are currently no online booking options.

Do I need to book tickets in advance, and how far in advance?

No need to book tickets in advance. However, if visiting during a public holiday, booking ahead is recommended to avoid long queues.

How much time is needed to fully explore it?

A visit typically takes about 2 to 3 hours to fully explore the lake, surrounding gardens, and rock formations.

What are the must-see highlights or main areas inside?

Key highlights include the stone formations by the lake, the walking paths around the water, and the peaceful garden areas. The reflection of the stones on the water provides excellent photo opportunities.

Are guided tours or audio guides available (and in which languages)?

Guided tours in Mandarin are available on-site, but audio guides in English may not be provided. It's best to check at the entrance if available.

What are the best viewpoints or photography spots?

The best photography spots are around the lake's stone formations, especially during early morning or late afternoon when the light creates beautiful reflections on the water.

What is the recommended route or itinerary inside?

Start by exploring the stone formations along the lake, then take a walk through the surrounding gardens before concluding your visit by enjoying the view from one of the higher points by the water.

Are night visits, light shows, or special tours available?

There are no night visits or light shows available at Stone Lake. It is a day-time destination, and visits are best during daylight hours for the best experience.

Is it crowded, and when are the least crowded times/days to visit?

The lake can get crowded during weekends and holidays. To avoid crowds, visit on weekdays or early in the morning, especially during off-peak seasons.

What facilities are available (toilets, food, water, rest areas, shops)?

Basic facilities such as toilets, rest areas, and a small kiosk offering snacks and drinks are available. There are no full-service restaurants or large shops inside the park.

Is the attraction accessible for elderly, children, or disabled visitors?

The attraction is accessible for elderly and children, though some areas may require walking on uneven terrain. Disabled access may be limited to certain paths, so assistance might be needed in some areas.

Is cash needed or are cards/mobile payments accepted?

Cash is accepted, but mobile payment options like WeChat Pay and Alipay are also widely available on-site.

What restaurants or cafes are available inside or nearby?

There are no restaurants inside the park, but several local restaurants offering traditional Suzhou cuisine can be found nearby, especially around the city center.

Are there vegetarian/vegan/halal food options?

Vegetarian food options are available in some nearby restaurants, but halal food may be harder to find in this area.

What hotels or accommodations are close to the site?

There are several hotels in Suzhou city center that are within a 15-minute drive of Stone Lake. Options range from budget hotels to luxury accommodations such as the Suzhou Marriott Hotel and Jinji Lake Grand Hotel.

What other attractions or landmarks are nearby and easy to combine in a day trip?

Nearby attractions include the Suzhou Museum, the classical gardens of Suzhou, and the famous Lingering Garden, all of which can be easily combined into a day trip.

Are there souvenir shops and what are the typical souvenirs?

Yes, there are small souvenir shops near the entrance selling traditional Suzhou crafts such as silk items, tea, and small stone carvings that reflect the local culture.

What are the best transportation options to continue the trip after visiting?

After visiting, taxis or buses are available for further exploration of the city. Alternatively, rent a bike to explore more of Suzhou's picturesque surroundings.