Suzhou is known throughout China for their lovely "Gardens"
Costumed Band in front of a Temple...Performing!
Gardens not gardens as I was accustomed to
I am getting used to bright white overcast skies. The weather in China has not been supplying me the kind of days I was hoping for. The sights are still quite enjoyable to visit, but don't provide the great lighting that makes for breathtaking photos. But, I make the best of it and will enjoy a couple of sidetrips from Shanghai--Suzhou and Hangzhou. Suzhou is famous for it's gardens. There are three main ones and several other smaller, less well-known ones. The "gardens" are nice just to sit and have a cold drink, or hot tea if you prefer, and contemplate. The gardens are not what I think about when I hear the word: Garden. These are not just full of flowers and plants, but instead contain beautiful pools, rock gardens, dark paneled rooms that look out upon beautiful courtyards that were all designed with a specific purpose or particular season in mind. Once I got away from the train and bus station area is was a nicecity.
Had a beer at a "famous" bar fittingly called "The Pub". It is in an area of many bars and restaurants including one named, "Pulp Fiction". Not sure if Quentin T is receiving any income for using that name. The bartender was teaching me some more Mandarin, but it remains tremendously feeble. My Mandarin phrasebook at least helps a little bit.
