The Classical Gardens of Suzhou were first created as early as the 6th Century in Suzhou a city to the west of Shanghai. More than 50 still exist and together are a World Heritage listed site.

You can read more about Classical Gardens of Suzhou in our article on the oldest surviving gardens in the world here.

Master of the Nets Garden

Reflection of the Pavillion at the Master of Nets Garden in Suzhou, one of a group of gardens called the Classical Gardens of Suzhou.

Originally called Ten Thousand Volume Hall, the garden was created in 1140 by Shi Zhengzhi. Image © Hauke Musicaloris @ Flickr.

Couple's Retreat Garden, Suzhou

Couple’s Retreat Garden. Image © François Philipp @ Flickr.

Humble Administrator’s Garden

A tree surrounded by flowers in the Humble Administrator’s Garden. Image © xiquinhosilva @ Flickr.

The Lingering Garden

An incredibly beautiful shot of ornamental chairs and a table alongside a wall and plants at the Lingering Garden. Image © Kirk K @ Flickr.

Humble Administrator's Garden

Humble Administrator’s Garden, image © xiquinhosilva @ Flickr.

Lingering Garden

The Lingering Garden. Image © 张骐/Wikimedia.

Classical Gardens of Suzhou

Image © Francesco Bandarin/UNESCO.

Read: 10 of the Oldest Surviving Gardens in the World