Suzhou, a city with a history of 2500 years, has been known as a cultural hub since the Spring and Autumn period. A local specialty of Suzhou is the scholar-officials, indicating a long-standing tradition of literati and scholars. This cultural sentiment continues to the present day, permeating every aspect of modern life, from gardens to Kunqu Opera, Pingtan, and silk and bamboo music. The new Suzhou, with its modern and international flair, blends seamlessly with the ancient charm of the Wu region, creating a unique Suzhou ambiance.
The live performance, Dreams in Shantang, captures the essence of Suzhou’s sentiment. Wu Yipeng, a Ming Dynasty Minister of Rites from Shantang, had his son Wu Zixiao build a rear garden, ‘Zhenqu Garden’, to honor his parents. The garden is divided into four scenic areas based on the seasons, reflecting the characteristics of spring, summer, autumn, and winter, with features like Meilin Spring Dawn, Yuxi Wind Lotus, Golden Autumn Waiting for the Moon, and Wuzi Pavilion. These elements showcase the artistic features of Suzhou gardens, embodying the principle ‘made by humans, yet seeming as if created by heaven’.‘Talented ones understand the words of the infatuated, the scenery and emotions are not different at all. A smile upon touching a stone or a flower, the garden and the melody share the same root.’ In the evening, Zhenqu Garden is filled with the melodious sounds of flutes and gentle singing. Leaning on the railing, one can indulge in elegant music and ponder deep emotions. Complementing the experience is the soft and sticky Suzhou dim sum and a cup of fragrant jasmine tea.
How delightful! Looking back, the piano sounds, like springs and mountain paths, gently echo through the garden. A girl, like a lilac with a hint of melancholy, passes by us with an oil-paper umbrella, as if in a dream, floating beside us. Traveling through the river of time, immerse yourself in this cultural product filled with the warmth and nostalgia of Suzhou.
Opening hours: 04/02-10/31, Tuesday-Sunday, 19:00-22:00; 04/02-10/31, Monday, closed all day; New Year’s Day, Spring Festival, Qingming Festival, Labor Day, Dragon Boat Festival, Mid-Autumn Festival, National Day, 19:00-22:00, with three performances each night at 19:00, 20:00, and 21:00.
Preferential policies additional information: 1. Special groups such as the disabled, elderly, and military personnel do not enjoy preferential policies. 2. Free policy: Children under 1.4 meters in height enter for free. 3. The above information is for reference only; specifics are subject to the public notice of the scenic area.
