Shiyuan

Introducing Shiyuan

Legend has it that during the Daoguang reign of the Qing Dynasty, the Chen Mansion on South Street produced a renowned painter, calligrapher, and connoisseur of painting and calligraphy, Chen Shijin, known as Mr. Jifang. His family was as wealthy as the Chengjiang River, boasting hundreds of houses. He was a kind and charitable person known for his generosity. One year, when a neighbor faced a crisis, Chen doubled his investment and purchased several acres of wasteland outside their east wall. Leveraging his ingenuity and skill as a painter and calligrapher, Chen skillfully directed the creation of a pond, "planting trees for birds and digging a pool for fish." This barren land quickly became a private garden ideal for calligraphy, poetry, painting, living, and leisure. It can be said that he "created it by accident without intending to build a garden," and so he joyfully named it "Shiyuan."

Climate and best time to travel

Climate: Subtropical monsoon climate

Best time to travel: All seasons

Recommended number of days and locations for visiting

Recommended places to visit:

Goose Exchange Monument

After Shiyuan was built, scholars from all over China flocked to it. It's said that during its heyday, Chen Shijin's collection of calligraphy, paintings, and inscriptions on stone tablets amounted to over 500 pieces. His most unique and boastful collection was that he commissioned craftsmen to carve 45 of these pieces into stone. Today, most of these carvings are gone, with only a Yuan Dynasty landscape carving by Ni Yuanlin and a few others, including Liang Tongshu and Dong Qichang, remaining.

On the wall of Shiyuan there is also a copy of the "Geese Exchange Stele" by Wang Xizhi of the Jin Dynasty, which was engraved in the 18th year of Daoguang in the Qing Dynasty (1838). It was moved from the Jiangyin Confucian Temple. The seal "Imperial Calligraphy Treasure" below the imperial calligraphy was the seal used exclusively by Emperor Qianlong. This also highlights the unique style and dignity of the Chen family, and adds a touch of Confucian elegance with the fragrance of calligraphy and painting to the quiet and solemn atmosphere.

Mirror Lake

The pond is named Mirror Lake, meaning "to reflect oneself in a mirror," embodying the principle of "cultivating oneself" in the Great Learning, which emphasizes self-cultivation, managing the family, and governing the world. Furthermore, the word "mirror" and "quiet" sound similar, highlighting the owner's tranquil and unpretentious state of mind. Therefore, a mirror reflecting the pond is hung on the wall of Deshuang Pavilion, symbolizing the preference for tranquility over restlessness.

Crape Myrtle Garden

Plants in the garden include: feather maple, palm, ancient vine, osmanthus, white magnolia, hackberry, boxwood, melon seed boxwood, banana, pomegranate, podocarp, bamboo, canna, wintersweet, Sichuan pepper, red bean, crape myrtle, weeping willow, etc. The garden offers scenery for all four seasons: white magnolia in spring, crape myrtle and pomegranate in summer, maple, osmanthus, red bean in autumn, and wintersweet in winter.

The keystone trees are camphor, Chinese elm, and palm. The tall Chinese elm, with its broad crown, is planted on the earthen hillock; the graceful camphor, with its graceful, swaying form, stands by the water's edge; and the straight, graceful palm, planted in front of the house, creates a contrasting horizontal and vertical composition. Weeping willows also flank the water's edge, ancient vines climb the walls, creepers scale the walls, bamboos cling to the walls, and banana trees stand in the corners. The garden's single red bean tree, planted by the local scholar Xie Longsheng, though small, holds a profound legacy. Crape myrtle patches are planted in front of Shi'an Zhai, then known as the Crape Myrtle Garden. Osmanthus is also primarily planted in patches, highlighting the fragrant autumn osmanthus. The garden's peaks and rocks are visible, not the rocks themselves, but are covered with trachelospermum, a unique sight in Jiangnan gardens. The abundance of palm trees is also unique in Jiangnan.

Recommended play time: 1~3 hours

Tickets

free

Attraction opening hours

All day (January 1st to December 31st, Monday to Sunday)

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Most Popular FAQs for Shiyuan

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

Shiyuan is a well-known cultural and historical garden located in Wuxi, Jiangsu. It has significant cultural value as a place that embodies classical Chinese garden design, showcasing traditional Chinese aesthetics and landscaping techniques.

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

Shiyuan is located in Wuxi, Jiangsu. You can take a taxi from the city center, or if you prefer public transportation, buses also serve this area. There’s no metro station directly nearby, so a taxi or bus is the most convenient option.

What are the opening hours and best times to visit?

Shiyuan is open daily from 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM. The best times to visit are in spring and autumn when the garden is at its most beautiful, with flowers blooming and the weather being pleasant.

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

The entrance fee is around 50 RMB per person. Tickets can be purchased onsite at the entrance. It’s also possible to check if tickets are available for pre-purchase online, especially during peak seasons.

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

Booking tickets in advance is not usually necessary, but it is recommended during public holidays or peak travel seasons to avoid long lines. Booking a few days ahead can ensure availability.

How much time is needed to fully explore it?

It typically takes around 2 to 3 hours to fully explore Shiyuan, depending on how much time you want to spend walking through the gardens and enjoying the surroundings.

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

The must-see highlights include the classic garden landscapes, historical temples, and peaceful ponds. The tranquil atmosphere and picturesque views are perfect for relaxation and photography.

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

Guided tours are available in Mandarin. English-speaking guides may be available upon request, but it’s not guaranteed. Audio guides in English may also be available for rent.

What are the best viewpoints or photography spots?

The best viewpoints are near the central pond, around the traditional pavilions, and by the main garden areas. Early morning or late afternoon provides the best lighting for photography.

What is the recommended route or itinerary inside?

Start by exploring the main garden area, then head to the historical temples and pavilions. End your visit with a peaceful walk around the pond area, where you can enjoy the most scenic views.

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

Night visits or special light shows are not typically available at Shiyuan. However, the garden's peaceful atmosphere in the evening makes for a calm, reflective visit.

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

Shiyuan can be crowded during weekends and public holidays. For a more peaceful experience, visit on weekdays, particularly in the early morning or late afternoon.

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

The garden has basic facilities including toilets, rest areas, and a few shops selling snacks and souvenirs. There are no major restaurants inside the garden, but you can find food options outside the park.

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

The garden has well-maintained paths, but some areas may be difficult for wheelchair users. Elderly visitors and children can easily enjoy the park, but be aware that there are some uneven paths and steps.

Is cash needed or are cards/mobile payments accepted?

Both cash and mobile payments (WeChat Pay, Alipay) are accepted at most points within the garden. It's advisable to carry some cash just in case.

What restaurants or cafes are available inside or nearby?

There are a few small local restaurants near the entrance of Shiyuan that serve traditional Jiangsu cuisine. For more variety, you can head to Wuxi city, where you will find a wide range of dining options.

Are there vegetarian/vegan/halal food options?

Vegetarian options are available in some of the local restaurants nearby. Vegan or halal food options are more limited, but you can find vegetarian-friendly dishes at most Chinese restaurants.

What hotels or accommodations are close to the site?

There are several hotels in Wuxi city, about a 15-20 minute drive from Shiyuan, including both budget and luxury options. Some hotels near Taihu Lake may also be a good choice if you want to stay closer to nature.

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

Nearby attractions include Taihu Lake, the Wuxi Museum, and Yuantouzhu. These can easily be combined into a day trip from Shiyuan.

Are there souvenir shops and what are the typical souvenirs?

There are souvenir shops near the entrance of Shiyuan, where you can find traditional Chinese handicrafts, tea, and local snacks as souvenirs.

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

After visiting Shiyuan, taxis and buses are the best options for continuing your trip. You can also use public transportation to reach other attractions in Wuxi, such as Taihu Lake or Yuantouzhu.