The Solitary Crane Pavilion is the central feature of the Shen Garden’s architectural layout, also known as the place of ‘The Solitary Crane’s Lament,’ a self-metaphor for Lu You. The great patriotic poet Lu You, due to the incompetence of the Southern Song Dynasty court, found it difficult to fulfill his ambitions, thus he likened himself to a solitary crane, mourning in solitude. This metaphor conveys the poet’s life filled with personal loss, professional setbacks, and repeated demotions due to his love for his country and people.
Inside the pavilion, there are the remains of a ‘pavilion pool.’ During the archaeological excavation in 1985, the site revealed the remains of a Tang Dynasty pavilion and a Ming Dynasty rockery and fish pond. The plaque of ‘The Solitary Crane Pavilion’ is divided into two parts: an inner and an outer one. The inner plaque is inscribed by the renowned calligrapher, painter, and art appraiser Xie Zhiliu, while the outer one is respectfully written by Da Kang. The pavilion is open all year round and accessible 24 hours a day; however, the specific business status depends on the day’s opening conditions.The Solitary Crane Pavilion
The Solitary Crane Pavilion is the central feature of the Shen Garden’s architectural layout, [...]
