Tomb of Shen Zhou

Introducing Shen Zhou's Tomb

To the west of Shenzhou Village, Xiangcheng Town, Wuxian City, lies the tomb of Ming Dynasty painter Shen Zhou. A renowned Ming Dynasty painter, he was born into a family of calligraphers and painters in Xiangcheng Town, Changshu County (present-day Wuxian City). He studied under the renowned scholar Chen Mengxian and the renowned painters Du Qiong and Zhao Tonglu. He learned calligraphy from Huang Tingjian, prose from Zuo Qiuming, and poetry from Bai Juyi, Su Shi, and Lu You. Shen Zhou diligently painted for over 70 years and, along with Tang Yin, Wen Huiming, and Qiu Ying, is known as one of the "Four Masters of the Ming Dynasty" and a key member of the "Wumen School of Painting."

Shen Zhou's tomb is quite large, covering approximately 5 mu (approximately 1.5 acres) and surrounded by a small river. A bluestone rampart surrounds the tomb, and the mound is approximately 3 meters high. Two bluestone pillars, remnants of a tomb archway, stand in front of the tomb. In 1928, Shen Zhou's descendant, Shen Yanliang, rebuilt a stele pavilion on the top of Jingshan Mountain. Inside, there are inscriptions such as "Epitaph of Mr. Shen Shitian, the Hermit" written by Wang Fan of the Ming Dynasty, "Epitaph of the Late Shen Liangzhuo's Wife, Mrs. Xu" (Epitaph of the Late Ruren, Mrs. Xu) written by Zhang Xuan of the Ming Dynasty, "Notes on the Shen Family Stele Pavilion" written by Shi Zhaolin in 1928, and "The Tomb of Mr. Shen Shitian, the Hermit of the Ming Dynasty," inscribed in 1921 by Wu Yinpei, a relic of the late Qing Dynasty. All of these inscriptions are now preserved within the pavilion.

Climate and best time to travel

Subtropical monsoon climate;

Suitable for all seasons

Recommended number of days and locations for visiting

It is recommended to visit for 20 minutes

Tickets

free

Attraction opening hours

All day

---

Most Popular FAQs for Tomb of Shen Zhou

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

The Tomb of Shen Zhou is the burial site of Shen Zhou, a renowned Ming Dynasty painter and calligrapher. The site is significant for its historical value and the influence Shen Zhou had on Chinese art, particularly in the development of the Wu school of painting. The tomb is surrounded by beautiful natural landscapes, adding to its cultural and historical importance.

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

The Tomb of Shen Zhou is located in Suzhou, Jiangsu Province. It can be reached by taxi or public transportation. Local buses and taxis offer convenient access, and the site is within walking distance from nearby attractions in the city.

What are the opening hours and best times to visit?

The Tomb of Shen Zhou is typically open from 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM. The best times to visit are in the early morning or late afternoon when it is less crowded and the light is ideal for photography.

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

The entrance fee is modest, and tickets can be purchased on-site at the entrance. It is also possible to buy tickets online during peak seasons or for group tours.

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

It’s not usually necessary to book tickets in advance, but it’s recommended to do so during busy seasons or for large groups to avoid long queues.

How much time is needed to fully explore it?

Exploring the Tomb of Shen Zhou will typically take around 1 to 1.5 hours. This allows time for reflection, photography, and enjoying the peaceful surroundings.

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

The main highlight of the Tomb of Shen Zhou is the tomb itself, surrounded by traditional Chinese architecture and beautiful landscapes. The serene atmosphere of the garden area, with its trees and historical features, is also a must-see.

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

Guided tours in Mandarin are available, with some tours offered in English during peak tourist seasons. Audio guides may also be available, but it’s best to check with the site for availability.

What are the best viewpoints or photography spots?

Some of the best photography spots include the tomb itself, the surrounding gardens, and the traditional architecture. The scenic pathways and natural beauty provide excellent opportunities for capturing the tranquil environment of the site.

What is the recommended route or itinerary inside?

Begin at the entrance and explore the tomb area, then move to the garden and surrounding landscapes. Take time to enjoy the atmosphere, and end your visit by taking in the panoramic views of the site from a high vantage point.

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

Night visits and light shows are not typically available at the Tomb of Shen Zhou. However, the serene and tranquil atmosphere makes it a peaceful place to visit during the daytime.

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

The Tomb of Shen Zhou can get crowded during weekends and holidays. To avoid crowds, visit early in the morning or on weekdays when the site is quieter.

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

There are basic facilities available, including toilets, water stations, and rest areas. There are no major food outlets inside the tomb area, so it’s recommended to bring water and snacks.

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

The site is accessible to elderly and children, though there may be uneven paths and steps in certain areas. Disabled visitors may need assistance in some parts of the garden or tomb area.

Is cash needed or are cards/mobile payments accepted?

Cash is accepted at the entrance, but mobile payments like WeChat Pay and Alipay are more commonly used. Credit cards may not be accepted at all locations within the site.

What restaurants or cafes are available inside or nearby?

Nearby restaurants serve traditional Suzhou cuisine, including local snacks and tea. There are also small cafes where visitors can relax after exploring the tomb area.

Are there vegetarian/vegan/halal food options?

Vegetarian options are available in nearby restaurants, and some local eateries may offer vegan and halal food choices, especially in tourist-friendly areas.

What hotels or accommodations are close to the site?

Several hotels are located near the Tomb of Shen Zhou, ranging from budget to luxury options. Many hotels are located within a short distance, making it easy to access the site.

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

Nearby attractions include the Suzhou Museum, the Lingering Garden, and the Master of Nets Garden. These sites can easily be combined in a day trip to explore the cultural heritage of Suzhou.

Are there souvenir shops and what are the typical souvenirs?

Souvenir shops near the tomb offer items such as traditional Chinese art, local silk products, and cultural trinkets. Handcrafted items and Suzhou-style art are popular purchases for visitors.

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

After visiting the Tomb of Shen Zhou, you can take a taxi, bus, or metro to other nearby attractions. Suzhou’s high-speed train station offers easy access to other cities if you plan to continue your travels.