Gaojing Garden

Gaojing Garden

　Gaojing Garden is located on a small island in the city surrounded by water on all sides. The overall layout boasts distinctive features of Suzhou-style gardens.

Upon entering the garden gate, you are greeted by a Taihu rock shaped like a phoenix, with the two characters “高静” (Gaojing) engraved on its surface. Legend has it that this rock was bestowed upon Zhao Kui, the Right Prime Minister who resided in Liyang, by Emperor Gaozong of the Song Dynasty.

The garden is shaded by lush trees and dotted with fragrant grass; ponds, rockeries, pavilions, and corridors are arranged in an artful layout. Attractions such as Jindou Garden, Peony Pavilion, Late Fragrance Pavilion, Qingsai Thatched Cottage, and the zoo each have their own unique charm and are scattered throughout the garden.

The most historically significant structure is the Taibai Tower, built on a high mound. The great Tang Dynasty poet Li Bai (courtesy name Taibai) visited Liyang three times. In the 15th year of the Tianbao era (756 AD), Li Bai bid farewell to the Sage of Cursive Script, Zhang Xu, at a Liyang tavern and composed the poem “The Fierce Tiger.” Inside the tower stands a full-body statue of Li Bai, capturing the majestic image of the great poet raising his cup in the wind and singing with heartfelt passion.