China - Shanghai (Suzhou really) - Day 17

It rained most of today.

We drove to nearby Suzhou and started at the very pretty and large Humble Administrator’s Garden. There was very little in bloom, or even in leaf, but still awesome to see again.

Initially built in 1509 by a former government servant and poet, the Humble Administrator’s Garden is the largest in Suzhou at nearly 52,000 square meters and is considered one of the most beautiful classical gardens in China. As is typical of gardens of the Ming Dynasty, the Humble Administrator’s Garden is home to ancient arched bridges and pavilions and a stunning array of trees and plants, all situated among a collection of charming ponds and islands.

Then we walked down Pingjiang Street, an old shopping street, and had a local specialty: freshwater crab noodles.

As we drove to our next stop, we stopped at the Silk Museum, where we learned about the entire process of making silk.

Then on to Tongli Water Town, a town with many canals, bridges, and another impressive garden. It was pouring.

Tuisi Garden, also known as the Retreat and Reflection Garden, was recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site along with Suzhou’s many gardens in 2001. As its name suggests, this elegant garden is a pretty place to stroll and appreciate some traditional architecture, including pavilions, pagodas, and bridges. Tongli Water Town also boasts stunning examples of historic architecture dating back to the Ming and Qing Dynasties

Back in Shanghai, we just walked down Nanjing Road. Owen bought a bunch of manga stuff at a pop-up Sega store, and we had dinner.

A WET but pleasant day.

• 
  ‹ ›
• 
  ‹ ›
• 
  ‹ ›
• 
  ‹ ›
• 
  ‹ ›
• 
  ‹ ›
• 
  ‹ ›
• 
  ‹ ›
• 
  ‹ ›
• 
  ‹ ›
• 
  ‹ ›
• 
  ‹ ›