Location & How to Get There

Xiaolian Garden sits in the heart of Nanxun Ancient Town, a hidden gem in Huzhou, Zhejiang Province. The exact address is 129 Nanxi Street, Nanxun, Huzhou, so it’s easy to find once you’re in the town. To reach here, most visitors start from Hangzhou or Shanghai. Take a high-speed train to Huzhou Station (about 1 hour from Shanghai or 30 minutes from Hangzhou), then a taxi or bus to Nanxun. If you’re already in Hangzhou, day trips are popular, but spending a night in Nanxun lets you explore Xiaolian Garden at dawn or dusk—trust me, it’s worth it!

Natural Beauty: A Mini Suzhou

Xiaolian Garden isn’t just a garden—it’s a traditional Chinese landscape masterpiece. Imagine winding corridors, arched stone bridges, and pavilions reflected in crystal-clear ponds. The garden has two parts: the Outer Garden (open and spacious) and the Inner Garden (intricate and cozy). Lotus flowers bloom in summer, filling the air with fragrance, while autumn paints the trees gold. Unlike crowded cities, here you’ll hear birds chirping and water trickling. It’s like a mini version of Suzhou’s famous gardens, but with fewer tourists. Wander slowly—every corner has a new view!

History & Culture: The Liu Family’s Legacy

Xiaolian Garden was built by the Liu family, one of Nanxun’s wealthiest clans in the 1800s. They called it “Liu Garden” (the family’s surname). What’s special? The Lius spent 40+ years across three generations to perfect it. The garden includes their ancestral temple (for worshipping ancestors) and a charitable hall (where they helped poorer locals). Even today, you can feel their attention to detail: carved wooden doors, poetic stone inscriptions, and layouts designed for quiet reflection. It’s not just a pretty place—it’s a window into China’s gentleman scholar culture.

What to See: Highlights

  • Corridors & Bridges: Walk under covered walkways and cross tiny stone bridges. Perfect for photos!
  • Lotus Pond: Summer’s best-kept secret. Pink blooms and green leaves make it Instagram gold.
  • Paifang (Archway): The grand stone gate at the entrance is carved with blessings—touch it for good luck!
  • Ancestral Temple: Check out the ancient altars and family crests.
  • Charitable Hall: Learn how the Liu family gave back to the community.

Practical Tips: Visiting Xiaolian Garden

  • Tickets: Around 50-80 RMB (~$7-12 USD), cheaper online.
  • Hours: Open daily 8:00 AM–5:00 PM (best time: early morning or late afternoon).
  • Guides: Rent a audio guide for historic insights, or join a small tour group.
  • Dress Code: Wear comfy shoes—lots of walking on cobblestones!
  • Food: Nearby Nanxun Town has local snacks like rice cakes and soy milk. Try them after your visit!

Why You’ll Love It

Xiaolian Garden feels like stepping back in time. Unlike busy cities, here you can breathe, listen to cicadas, and snap photos without fighting crowds. The mix of nature and history makes it perfect for culture lovers, couples, or solo travelers. Pro tip: Visit on a weekday morning. Bring a tea set if you want to blend in with local retirees who come here to chat and relax.

In short, Xiaolian Garden isn’t just a sightseeing spot—it’s a peaceful escape with stories in every rock and plant. Whether you’re into photography, history, or just wanting a quiet walk, this place has magic. And hey, it’s way less crowded than those Suzhou gardens everyone raves about!