Shigong Mountain in Suzhou

Shigong Mountain in Suzhou

Shigong Mountain in Suzhou is a cultural heritage site protected by the Suzhou Municipal Government.

Shigong Mountain is situated at the southeastern end of Xi Shan Island on Taihu Lake in Suzhou, within the Suzhou Taihu National Tourism Resort. In ancient times, two unusual rocks near the water at the mountain's base resembled an old man and an old woman, hence named Shigong and Shipo, which gave the mountain its name. Though not tall, Shigong Mountain is distinctive for its rocks. It is flanked by water on three sides and backed by a ridge of hills, densely covered with verdant cypresses. The verdant mountain resembles a green snail lying on the water or an emerald shimmering on the lake. With villages reflected in the water, the scenery is naturally breathtaking.

The mountain features pavilions, towers, terraces, and bridges, arranged in an artful and well-spaced layout. Attractions include Guiyun Cave, Fuyu Beitang, Laihe Pavilion, Duan Shan Pavilion, One-Line Sky, Mingyue Slope, and the rare “Sun-Moon Double Illumination” spectacle viewable on the evening of the 13th day of the ninth lunar month each year. The panoramic views of lake and mountain form a living painting. The renowned monk Haicheng once resided here for ten years. Qing Dynasty scholar Shen Pan wrote: “Of the seventy-two peaks of Taihu Lake, eight or nine are famous. Among the dozens of scenic spots on Bao Mountain, Shigong is the most renowned.” This is an accurate and vivid depiction of the beauty of Shigong.

Historically, Shigong Mountain has been a renowned destination for travelers. Since the Spring and Autumn Period, it has attracted throngs of visitors, drawing many scholars and literati. Figures such as Bai Juyi, Lu Guimeng, and Pi Rixiu from the Tang Dynasty; Li Mida and Fan Chengda from the Song Dynasty; Gao Qi, Wang Ao, and Tang Yin from the Ming Dynasty; Yu Yue from the Qing Dynasty; Li Genyuan from modern times; as well as national leaders including [names redacted], Li Peng, and others, have all visited here to explore the area’s history and enjoy the lake and mountain views. They left behind numerous valuable poems, travelogues, and cliff inscriptions that enhance the mountain’s cultural charm. With its unique geographical location and picturesque scenery, Shigong Mountain continues to captivate visitors from all over the world, past and present.

Address: Shigong Mountain Scenic Area, Jin Ting Town (formerly Xi Shan Town), Wuzhong District, Suzhou City

Type: Mountain & Lake

Recommended Visit Duration: 2–3 hours

Phone: 0512-66271164

Opening Hours:

8:00–16:30 (Ticket sales stop at 16:00)

Suzhou Xi Shan Scenic Area

Linwu Cave

Mingyue Bay Ancient Village on Taihu Xi Shan

Xi Shan Carved Flower Mansion (Renben Hall)

Shuiyue Temple on Taihu Xi Shan

Luohan Temple on Taihu Xi Shan

Piaomiao Peak Scenic Area on Taihu Xi Shan

Baoshan Temple