The Blue Wave Pavilion (Canglangting) is one of Suzhou's most famous and classic gardens. The use of space and combinations of water, rock and plants here, epitomize the art of Suzhou gardening.

The Blue Wave Pavilion is the oldest garden in Suzhou, originally built in the Tang Dynasty. Winding streams, beautiful trees and fragrant lotus blossoms are all framed between white walls and gray walkways, making this garden quite unforgettable.

The garden is rather small and if you plan to enjoy Canglangting's quiet and elegant side, make sure you go at a quiet time. Winter is Suzhou's off season, while Spring and Summer are the busiest. Visiting this garden in the morning may also keep crowds to a minimum.

Tour tips: the entrance fees of these gardens have been hiked greatly these years, so just remember to have a tour in a few as these gardens look quite similar. 3 or 4 are quite enough.