Exploring Lingering Garden in picturesque Suzhou, China

The first Chinese garden courtyard we encountered—modeled after a classical garden in Suzhou—was at The Metropolitan Museum of Art in New York City. Wandering through the Asian wing, we unexpectedly came upon the courtyard and were immediately taken by its tranquility and understated charm. After navigating the crowds surrounding the museum’s vast Egyptian collection, the garden felt like a welcome pause—quiet, balanced, and deeply calming.

Chinese garden courtyard at The Met in New York City

Last month, we had the opportunity to tour an authentic classical garden in Suzhou, one of the cities we visited during our time in China. The 425-year-old Lingering Garden (留園) narrowly escaped demolition in the 1930s, and thanks to its designation as a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1997, it has been beautifully preserved ever since.

At one point, the garden belonged to a family with the surname Liu (留), a character that means “to stay” or “to linger”—hence the name Lingering Garden. Liu’s Garden might have been more appropriate, don’t you think?

We learned that there are 4 elements to a classic Chinese garden: water, rocks, plants and architecture, all harmoniously blended to create a flowing energy. It was a sanctuary for emperors, government officials, scholars and poets, who came to find respite, reflection and inspiration.

Lingering Garden, Suzhou

Suzhou is often called the “Venice of China,” a description that naturally raised our expectations. While the city’s canals were abundant, we were slightly disappointed to find many of them lined with dilapidated homes. From time to time, we saw residents washing laundry along the riverbanks—scenes that felt more lived-in than romantic. 

doing laundry on the river

As our boat cruised along the canals, a beautiful bridge would occasionally come into view, offering a fleeting moment of charm.

a nice reflection of an exquisite bridge

We passed restaurants adorned with lanterns and found ourselves wishing the boat would pause long enough for a closer look. Alas, the short ride offered no such opportunity.

Traffic on the canal

In a way, we’re glad Suzhou hasn’t been developed like many other Chinese cities. It has managed to retain much of its original character and charm—how long that will last is anyone’s guess.

Have you been to Suzhou? What was your impression?

This post is shared on Weekend Reflections and Through My Lens.

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