The History and Anecdotes of Suzhou's Humble Administrator's Garden

Located in the heart of Suzhou, the Humble Administrator's Garden is one of the most famous classical gardens in China. Its history can be traced back to the Ming dynasty, when it was built by a retired government official named Wang Xiancheng.

Wang Xiancheng was known for his love of literature and gardening, and he built the garden as a retreat from the stresses of political life. He named it the 'Humble Administrator's Garden' to reflect his modesty and simplicity.

Over the centuries, the garden has undergone many changes and renovations, but its basic layout and design have remained true to Wang Xiancheng's original vision. The garden is divided into three main sections: the eastern garden, the central garden, and the western garden. Each section has its own unique features, such as pavilions, bridges, and ponds.

One of the most famous anecdotes about the garden involves a poet and scholar named Dong Qichang. Legend has it that Dong was so enamored with the garden that he refused to leave, even when his wife came looking for him. Instead, he wrote a poem titled 'Staying Overnight at the Humble Administrator's Garden' to express his love for the garden.

Another famous story involves the garden's famous 'Waveless Boat' pavilion. According to legend, a group of scholars once held a boat race on the nearby lake. The winner was awarded a large sum of money, but he declined the prize and instead donated it to the construction of the Waveless Boat pavilion.

Today, the Humble Administrator's Garden is a popular tourist attraction, drawing visitors from all over the world. Its serene beauty and rich history make it a must-see destination for anyone visiting Suzhou.