HUMBLE ADMINISTRATOR'S GARDEN

Suzhou is renowned for its numerous classical gardens, referred to by UNESCO as "masterpeices fo the genre" and designated as World Heritage Sites. Nine of these gardens are described here: http://whc.unesco.org/en/list/813/


Cam took a field trip to Suzhou's gardens during her summer in Shanghai and reported an almost spiritual experience of deep relaxation and bliss.


In part because of its delightful name, Cameron intends to visit the Humble Administrator's Garden in Suzhou. It is a classical example of the gardens of the Ming Dynasty and was created in 1509. It is the basis of many garden designs throughout China, and one can even find a replica in the New York Metropolitan Museum of Art!


According to a travel website: "The main scenic spots include Distance Fragrance Hall, Fragrance Islet, Lotus-viewing Pavillion, See-the-hill Building and Pipa Garden. In this well-preserved private garden, one will enjoy the original and ingenious design as well as the calmness that is within your mind."


For more on the art and design of the Ming garden, the Met has a publication that explains it well.
http://www.metmuseum.org/learn/for-educators/publications-for-educators/~/media/Files/Learn/For%20Educators/Publications%20for%20Educators/nature_chinese_garden.ashx


~ Posted by Pam Hughes