Tucked away on the northern slope of Tiger Hill, far from the bustling paths leading to the pagoda, lies one of Suzhou’s most elegant and intellectual gardens—the Garden of the Water-side Pavilion, also known as Yōngcuì Shānzhuāng, which translates to "Mountain Villa Embracing Emerald Green." Unlike the vast park at the summit, this is a classic private garden from the Qing Dynasty, representing an ideal miniature world and showcasing the highest principles of Chinese garden art.
History and Owner: A Revival from the Qing Era
Though not as ancient as the pagoda, the Garden of the Water-side Pavilion boasts a rich and fascinating history. It was founded not in antiquity but in 1886, during the Qing Dynasty. Its creator was Hóng Yūnxuán, a highly educated official and connoisseur of the arts.
The idea for the garden emerged as an act of heritage preservation. Hóng Yūnxuán and his like-minded companions, experts and enthusiasts of antiquities, discovered remnants of foundations and ruins of an ancient temple from the Northern Song Dynasty (960–1127 CE) at the northern foot of the hill. Inspired by the spirit of the place and driven by a desire to create a space for secluded conversations and contemplation of nature, they established this garden, drawing inspiration from the classical garden design principles of the Ming Dynasty.
Thus, the garden did not belong to a king or emperor but was the creation of an enlightened secular elite—scholars, officials, and poets—for whom the garden was a physical embodiment of their philosophical and aesthetic ideals.
Key Features of the Garden
Water Channel: The garden literally "grows" out of water. It is situated on the bank of an ancient canal encircling the base of Tiger Hill. This canal sets the initial tone of tranquility, and its waters reflect the pavilions and bridges.
Internal Water Features: In addition to the large external canal, the garden features its own small, artfully crafted ponds and streams. Though not deep, they are essential for creating a microclimate, playing with reflections, and evoking a sense of coolness.
System of Terraces and Pavilions: As visitors move deeper into the garden, they encounter pavilions, each with a poetic name and purpose:
• A pavilion for listening to the sound of rain on bamboo leaves.
• A pavilion for observing fish in the pond.
• A gazebo for playing the qin (a Chinese zither) or chess.
Small, elegant stone arched bridges span the internal streams. These not only connect the pathways but also serve as architectural accents that complete the composition.
Philosophical Concept
The Garden of the Water-side Pavilion is a meticulously designed model of an ideal world, built on the principles of Yin-Yang (the balance of water and stone, light and shadow, open and enclosed spaces) and Shanshui (mountains and waters).
Be sure to visit the Garden of the Water-side Pavilion after exploring the main attractions of Tiger Hill. Step inside to experience the contrast. This place offers a glimpse into what the private gardens of Suzhou’s scholarly elites were like—intimate, symbol-rich, and designed for slow, deep contemplation. Sit in one of the pavilions, listen to the rustle of leaves and the murmur of water, and feel the authentic spirit of old Suzhou.
