The city of Wuxi is often referred to as the ‘Pearl of Lake Taihu’ and the lake itself is a scenic attraction in its own right. The best way to take in the tranquil loveliness of the lake is via the Yuantouzhu Gardens and its outlying islands. Literally, Yuantouzhu translates as ‘Head of the Dragon-Turtle’, a reference to the striking way in which this peninsula protrudes into the lake. Incidentally, Taihu Lake is the third largest lake in the whole of China.

Over the years, Yuantouzhu has been frequented by painters, poets and foreign visitors, all of whom have admired the picturesque beauty of the area. Poets have visited the area during almost every Chinese royal dynasty and have written verses expressing their admiration for the spectacular beauty of the environs. Several prosperous merchants of the area purchased sections of the gardens and made them their country retreats.

A unique aspect of Yuantouzhu Park is that the bridges, pavilions and ponds of these gardens have been designed with the intention of highlighting the natural splendour of the environs, rather than attempting to create an artificial appearance, as many Chinese gardens have been designed to do.

The tip of the peninsula has been identified as the most picturesque area of the park. Small ponds flourishing with exotic lotus blooms and spanned by handsome bridges are bordered by rocky cliffs inscribed with intricate calligraphy. Balustrades project into the lake; the immense lake can be seen stretching far into the distance, its farther shore out of sight. This part of the garden is particularly lovely when the cherry trees come into bloom, the colourful blossoms enhancing the loveliness of the gardens.

A Wuxi international hotel such as the Millennium Wuxi will enable visitors to conveniently access this beautiful attraction.