Hall of Loving the Sun

Hall of Loving the Sun

The Hall of Loving the Sun is a cultural heritage site protected by Suzhou City.

The Hall of Loving the Sun is located in Xicai Village, Jinting Town. Also known as New Hall Corridor, it served as the ancestral home of the Dongting Cai family. Built in the 30th year of the Qianlong reign (1766), its name is derived from the phrase "a filial son cherishes the sunlight" in the Confucian text “Fayan · Xiaozhi” (“The Model Sayings · On Filial Piety”), reflecting the intention to honor ancestors and cherish time.

The residence and garden were built along the contours of the mountain. Currently, the main hall has been demolished, leaving only a garden situated to the west of the house. The garden features a study, Moon-Inviting Pavilion, and a dry boat structure. The study consists of three rooms. The garden measures 13.4 meters in width and 11.5 meters in depth, covering an area of approximately 150 square meters. The garden is dominated by a yellow-stone rockery. The dry boat is located in the courtyard in front of the study. On the west wall of the study, there is a detailed line drawing titled “Panoramic View of West Lake,” measuring two meters square, showcasing fine craftsmanship. As a fine piece of Qing Dynasty art, the painting clearly depicts Fish Buying Bridge, Broken Bridge, and Leifeng Pagoda. However, due to the passage of time, most details have faded and become blurred.