Canglang Pavilion

Canglang Pavilion is a classical garden in Suzhou featuring a stone hall with 108 small windows, surrounded by a lotus pond formed from a branch of the Fengxi Stream. The water surface creates reflections that connect the architecture to the natural landscape around it.

The pavilion was founded in 1044 by the poet Su Shunqin during the Song Dynasty on the site of a former imperial flower garden from the 10th century. This transformation from a royal court space to a poet's literary garden shows how the location changed in purpose and character.

The name comes from a poem about fishermen by Qu Yuan and represents the ideal of keeping one's integrity while staying away from political corruption. This meaning shapes how the space is designed and felt when walking through it.

The garden is easy to explore on foot with well-marked paths and paths that do not feel overly crowded. Comfortable shoes are recommended as you will walk a good deal and cross several small bridges throughout the visit.

Inside the garden stands a temple with engravings of 500 historical Chinese figures that was built in 1827. This collection of portraits was intended as a visual way to teach locals about important people from history.