The Suzhou classical gardens, also known as "Suzhou gardens," are a general term for the classical gardens located in Suzhou, Jiangsu Province, China. The Suzhou classical gardens originated in the Spring and Autumn period, developed in the Jin and Tang dynasties, flourished in the Northern and Southern Song dynasties, and reached their peak in the Ming and Qing dynasties. Suzhou has long been known as the "City of Gardens." The construction of private gardens within its territory began in the 6th century BC. By the late Qing dynasty, there were more than 170 gardens inside and outside the city, and more than 50 survive today.
The Suzhou classical gardens integrate residence and garden into one, offering spaces that can be appreciated, toured, and lived in. The formation of this architectural form was a creation of humankind in densely populated cities lacking natural scenery, driven by an attachment to nature, a pursuit of harmony with nature, and a desire to beautify and improve their living environment. The Chinese philosophy, history, and humanistic customs embodied in the Suzhou classical gardens are a symbol and distillation of the humanistic and historical traditions and local customs of Jiangnan. They showcase the essence of Chinese culture and hold a unique historical position and great artistic value in the history of world garden-making. Represented by the Humble Administrator's Garden and the Lingering Garden, the Suzhou classical gardens are praised as "recreating a universe within a foot's space" and are the outstanding exemplars and pride of Chinese garden culture.
In 1997, the Humble Administrator's Garden, the Lingering Garden, the Master-of-Nets Garden, and the Mountain Villa with Embracing Beauty in the Suzhou classical gardens were inscribed on the World Cultural Heritage List; in 2000, the Canglang Pavilion, the Lion Grove Garden, the Couple's Retreat Garden, the Garden of Cultivation, and the Retreat and Reflection Garden were also listed as World Cultural Heritage sites as extension projects of the Suzhou classical gardens.