Lion Grove Garden

The Kingdom of Rockeries, a Zen-inspired gem among Suzhou's四大名园

4A National Scenic Area

07:30-17:30

Last entry: 17:00Hours are 07:30-17:30 from Mar 1 to Oct 31, and 07:30-17:00 from Nov 1 to Feb 28. Closing time may be extended by half an hour during major holidays like Tomb-Sweeping Day, Labor Day, Mid-Autumn Festival, National Day, and Chinese New Year. Please check the official notice for updates.

About This Place

Established in 1342, the Lion Grove Garden is one of Suzhou's四大名园 (Four Great Gardens) and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. It is famed for its vast and labyrinthine rockeries made of Taihu stones, earning it the title 'Kingdom of Rockeries.' The stones are sculpted into myriad forms resembling lions. The garden masterfully blends Zen Buddhist philosophy with classical Chinese landscaping, and features intriguing Western-style stained-glass windows added in modern times. It's a miniature landscape full of surprises. Wear comfortable shoes for exploring the rockeries.

Highlights

Navigate the Rockery Maze: Wander through the multi-layered Taihu stone formations, experiencing the fun of a real-life hide-and-seek adventure.

Hunt for Stone Lions: Look closely at the bizarre rock shapes – legend says there are 500 lion-like figures hidden throughout the garden.

Visit the Yan Yu Hall and True Interest Pavilion: Admire the main hall's traditional grandeur and the pavilion with its plaque inscribed by Emperor Qianlong.

Admire the Fusion Stained-Glass Windows: Spot the colorful stained-glass windows镶嵌 in classical buildings, adding vibrant light plays to the serene garden.

Climb for a Panoramic View: Ascend to the top of the rockeries for a bird's-eye view of the harmonious layout of rocks, ponds, and pavilions.

Best Time to Visit

November-February

Winter is the off-peak season with lower ticket prices and fewer crowds, offering a more tranquil experience. The best visiting window is between 8:00 AM and 11:00 AM for softer light ideal for photography. Wear flat, comfortable shoes for safe climbing on the rockeries. In the maze-like rockery area, following a fixed turning rule (e.g., always turn left) can help you avoid getting lost.

Avoid Chinese Holidays

Strongly avoid Golden Week (Oct 1-7), Chinese New Year (late Jan/Feb), and Labor Day (May 1-5). Crowds are extreme and tickets often sell out weeks in advance.

Ticket Information

CNY 40per person

Tickets can be purchased on-site at the garden entrance. Standard fare is 40 RMB during peak season (typically Mar-Oct) and 30 RMB during off-season (Nov-Feb). Half-price discounts are available for children over 1.4m tall, minors aged 6-18, full-time students, and seniors aged 60-70 with valid ID. Day tour packages including the garden can be booked via travel platforms like Mafengwo. Exercise caution when climbing the complex rockery formations.