Don't Miss Out! The Ultimate Guide to Visiting the Couple's Garden (Ouyuan)

1. First Impressions of the Couple's Garden Located at No. 7 Xiaoxin Lane, Cang Street in Suzhou, the Couple's Garden was built in the early Qing Dynasty. It got its name from having two gardens on its east and west sides. "Ou" means "couple," symbolizing a husband and wife's retreat to a peaceful life. It's also known as the "Garden of Love." Covering about 7,740 square meters, while not as grand as the Humble Administrator's Garden, it has an exquisite and romantic charm like a delicate jade. Here, you can appreciate the unique scenery of Jiangnan gardens while experiencing a romantic love story. 2. Opening Hours and Tickets 1. Opening hours: 7:30 - 17:30 (last entry at 17:00). Recommended visiting time is 2-3 hours. Morning visits are suggested for better lighting and photos. 2. Ticket prices: CNY 25/person, half-price for students, free entry with Suzhou Garden Pass. Book tickets in advance through the "Suzhou Garden Tourism" WeChat account or major travel platforms to avoid queuing. 3. Transportation Guide 1. Subway: Take Suzhou Metro Line 6 to Lindun Road Station, Exit 1, then walk about 800m. This is the most convenient way. 2. Bus: Take bus routes 301, 305, etc., get off at Xiangmen Station and walk to the garden. 3. Driving: Parking is limited around the garden, especially during holidays. If you must drive, park at the Pingjiang Huafu underground parking lot and walk to the garden. 4. Recommended Routes 1. Classic Romance Route (Perfect for Couples): Enter through the main gate to the central residential area. Visit the entrance hall and sedan chair hall, noting the plaque "Xie Yin Shuang Shan" above, symbolizing the couple's retreat together. Next, visit the Wine-Loading Hall to experience where the owner once entertained guests. Pass through the Zouma Building to reach the East Garden. Stroll along the fragrant corridor, enjoying views on both sides, then visit the Chengqu Grass Hall, a gathering place. Climb the Double Reflection Building for views. Then explore the Inkstone Study, Moon-Viewing Pavilion, and My Love Pavilion, all filled with romance. Finally, visit the Mountain and Water Area to appreciate the exquisite floor screens and scenic views. 2. Cultural Exploration Route (Ideal for Culture Enthusiasts): Start with the three entrance halls featuring inscriptions "Peaceful Spring Retreat," "Virtue Brings Fortune," and "Poetry and Wine Gathering." Visit the West Garden to see the Crane and Longevity Pavilion and the Woven Curtain Old House, learning about the owner's admiration for the famous Jin Dynasty scholar Shen Linshi. Though the library isn't accessible, feel its historical atmosphere. Head to the East Garden to admire the yellow rock mountain, then visit the Wisteria Boat and No Vulgarity Pavilion to experience the owner's refined lifestyle. 5. Must-See Spots 1. Yellow Rock Mountain: A rare yellow rock mountain in Suzhou gardens, featuring steep cliffs on the east and gentle slopes on the west, creating an immersive mountain experience. 2. Sun and Moon Windows: Symbolizing the harmony of yin and yang, perfect for photos. 3. Marriage Registration Office: A unique feature of the garden, perfect for couples and photos. 4. Mountain and Water Area: Built by the water, featuring exquisite "Three Friends of Winter" floor screens made of Chinese cedar, a garden treasure and excellent viewpoint. 6. Nearby Food Recommendations 1. Dumb Waiter's Pan-Fried Buns: A Suzhou institution famous for crispy-bottomed buns filled with juicy meat, best eaten hot. 2. Suzhou Noodle Soup: Thin noodles in flavorful broth topped with braised pork and crispy fish. 3. Plum Blossom Cake: Plum blossom-shaped pastries with red bean or date filling, a sweet but not overwhelming local specialty.