Suzhou's Most Exquisite Classical Garden - The Master of the Nets Garden

Although the Master of the Nets Garden is not one of Suzhou's Four Famous Gardens, it doesn't diminish my love for it. Originally built during the Southern Song Dynasty and initially named "Fisherman's Retreat," the garden was later purchased by Qing Dynasty official Song Yuan Zong, who renamed it "Master of the Nets Garden." The name "Master of the Nets" symbolizes the owner's desire to retire from officialdom and live a reclusive life. The Master of the Nets Garden is a residential-style garden. Most of its structures are built along the water. Though not large in size, it is compact and exquisite, with a clever layout. Pavilions, terraces, towers, ponds, rockeries, decorative windows, and long corridors create picturesque scenes everywhere. Walking around the Caixia Pond, you'll find yourself stopping every few steps to take photos. Whether it's the elegant eaves of the pavilions, the serene lotus flowers on the pond, the delicate Yinjing Bridge (the smallest stone arch bridge in Chinese gardens), or the uniquely shaped rockeries, every spot is worth capturing. When visiting Suzhou, this is a must-see destination to experience the essence of Suzhou's classical gardens. Address: No. 11, Kuojiatou Lane, Gusu District, Suzhou Opening Hours: 7:30 AM - 5:30 PM (Admission: ¥40) Transportation: Take Metro Line 5 to Nanyuan North Road Station, Exit 4, and walk about 10 minutes.