Suzhou Net Lion Garden | A small and beautiful place hidden in the alleys of the old city, a 1-hour stroll = immersive oxygen breathing

When I was researching my travel plans for Suzhou, I was always drawn to the fame of the Humble Administrator's Garden and the Lingering Garden. It wasn't until I stumbled upon the Net Lion Garden that I truly understood the essence of a "small garden." Covering less than 10 acres, it embodies the Jiangnan aesthetic of "curving, concealed, and transparent" to its fullest, perfect for those who want to avoid the crowds and savor the charm of a garden. 🌟Why do I recommend Net Lion Garden? 3 key reasons: 1. Less crowded, densely packed with scenery, less crowded for photos: Compared to the often long lines at larger gardens, Net Lion Garden feels more like a "private hidden gem." Visit on a weekday afternoon and take leisurely photos along the corridors and by the waterside pavilions without having to compete with the crowds for a spot. 2. A delight for the detail-obsessed: Every step offers a new perspective—the moon-shaped door frames Taihu rocks, the window lattices reveal banana leaves, and even the koi in the pond seem to animate with light and shadow, giving every shot a truly "Chinese" vibe. 3. The night tour is absolutely stunning (key point!): While the garden's elegance is stunning during the day, the "Net Lion Garden Night Tour" is truly the ultimate experience! With lights illuminating the pavilions and towers, accompanied by excerpts from Pingtan and Kunqu opera, walking along the stone pavement feels like stepping back into ancient times—an experience far exceeding expectations. 📸Must-Shot Camera Positions & Outfit Tips: "3 Photogenic Positions Even Beginners Can Capture" • Zhuoying Water Pavilion: Sit in the pavilion to capture a "person in a painting" moment, with the camera facing the lotus pond outside (the lotus blossoms are absolutely stunning in summer). Wearing plain clothes creates a gentle contrast with the green water and gray tiles. • Yuedaofenglai Pavilion: Visit in the evening when the setting sun casts long shadows on the corners of the pavilion. Standing sideways, you can capture the pavilion, water, and clouds in one frame, maximizing the sense of antiquity. • Corridor Next to the Tiyun Room: The narrow corridor creates a sense of depth. Shoot from one end to the other, with people walking in the middle, and the garden's greenery visible through the window lattices, creating a rich tapestry of layers. "Outfit Tips" • Prioritize light-colored Hanfu (Chinese traditional clothing), cotton and linen long skirts, or solid-color shirts and wide-leg pants. Avoid bright colors, which can easily clash with the elegant atmosphere of the garden. • Bring a round or folding fan as a prop; hold it in your hand when taking photos for a more natural look. 📍Practical Tips (Avoid Pitfalls + Save Time) "Basic Information" • Address: No. 11, Kuojiatou Lane, Gusu District, Suzhou (Get off at Nanyuan North Road Station on Metro Line 5, about a 10-minute walk. Parking is difficult in the alley, so public transportation is recommended). • Opening Hours: 7:30 AM - 5:30 PM (daytime); Night Tour: 7:30 PM - 9:00 PM (purchase night tour tickets in advance through the official WeChat account or Ctrip; last admission at 8:30 PM). • Tickets: 40 RMB/person during the day (half-price for students); 100 RMB/person for the night tour (includes a guided tour explaining the garden's story, well worth it). "Pitfalls to Avoid" 1. Don't just visit the main garden! The "Caixia Pond" and "Kansong Duhua Pavilion" next to it are even less crowded, and the waterscape is super beautiful, which many people will overlook. 2. Don't be late for the night tour! The tour is in batches, and you may miss some of the explanations if you are late. It is recommended to gather at the door 15 minutes in advance. 3. Nearby food: There is "Net Lion Garden Vegetable Wonton" in the alley after leaving the garden. Locals often go there. It costs 10 yuan a bowl. The skin is thin and the filling is rich. You can eat a bowl when you are tired of walking around. If you want to find a place to "slow down" in Suzhou, Net Lion Garden is definitely more suitable than the crowded big gardens - sit by the waterside and listen to the sound of the wind blowing through the leaves, watch the koi swimming across the water, and even time seems to slow down. Next time you come to Suzhou, don't just know about the Humble Administrator's Garden~

Post by _TI***wx | Oct 11, 2025