Tiger Hill

Introducing Tiger Hill
Tiger Hill is a renowned tourist destination located northwest of downtown Suzhou. Tiger Hill is famed for its architectural splendor and historical significance. Spanning a remarkable 475.9 hectares (1,175 acres), the hill is revered as one of the most beautiful spots in Jiangsu province. Its beauty even captivated the renowned Song Dynasty (960-1279) poet Su Shi (1037-1101), who famously remarked, “To see Suzhou and not Tiger Hill is to only see half the picture.”

The hill’s name is inspired by its resemblance to a crouching tiger, and legend claims that a white tiger appeared on the hill to guard the tomb of King Helü (阖闾) of Wu, who, according to historical records, was laid to rest here during the Spring and Autumn period (770-476 B.C.).

Among its many other attractions, what truly sets Tiger Hill apart are its undisputed stars: the Tiger Hill Pagoda (Yunyan Pagoda) and the Sword Pool. The pagoda, with a history spanning over 1,000 years, is known as the “Second Leaning Tower on Earth” and stands as a symbol of ancient Suzhou. The Sword Pool, said to conceal the tomb of King Helü, remains an unsolved mystery after 2,500 years, adding an air of intrigue to the location.

But Tiger Hill is more than just ancient wonders; the energy of its celebrations, from the colorful Flower Exhibition to the lively temple fair, creates an unforgettable cultural experience, making it a must-visit in the Lower Yangtze region.

Tiger Hill Fast Facts
• AKA: Hu Qiu, Surging Sea Hill
• Chinese Name: Huqiu 虎丘
• Best Time to Visit: All year around
• Recommended Visiting Hours: 2 - 3 x hours
• Things to Do: Photography, Architecture, History and Culture, Buddhism
• Opening Hours: 7:30 – 18:00 (Mar – Oct), 7:30 – 17:30 (Nov – Apr)
• Entrance Fee: CNY60 (Jan – Mar, June, Nov – Dec), CNY70 (Apr – May, July – Oct)
• Address: 8 Huqiushan Road, Gusu District, Suzhou, Jiangsu Province

What to Expect at Tiger Hill
If you’re fascinated by Chinese style, gardens, and spirituality, then this site is right up your alley. The look and feel of the area, with everything so picturesque and historic, will not leave you disappointed. Don’t forget your camera – countless unforgettable moments await!

The Sword Pool
The Sword Pool, a strikingly sword-shaped body of water nestled between high cliffs and connected by an ancient stone bridge, has long been steeped in legend. It is said that 3,000 priceless swords, along with the remains of King Helü of Wu, were interred here, sparking the curiosity of emperors for centuries. Despite numerous attempts to unearth the legendary swords and treasures, the tomb’s exact location has remained elusive.

Suzhou’s government’s excavation efforts at the Sword Pool have indeed provided compelling evidence of the tomb. During the investigation, they uncovered a triangular cave hidden among the rocks, its entrance guarded by three massive stone slabs. This discovery lends support to the long-standing rumors of the concealed entrance to King Helü’s tomb. Unfortunately, concerns about damaging the nearby Tiger Hill Pagoda and the entire scenic area halted further exploration, leaving behind the tantalizing possibility of uncovering the secrets hidden beneath.

The Thousand-Man Rock
Located right by the Sword Pool lies the Thousand-Man Rock. This colossal red rock, true to its name, is said to be massive enough to accommodate a thousand people. It is said that when King Helü passed away, his son, Fuchai (夫差), buried him on Tiger Hill. However, upon the tomb’s completion, Fuchai worried that the numerous workers aware of its location might, driven by greed, band together to plunder it. Thus He commanded his soldiers to kill every last worker. Their blood, stained the rock a gruesome red, a hue that deepens on rainy or overcast days.

However, the rock’s enduring redness isn’t truly a testament to this bloody massacre. The true culprit lies in Tiger Hill’s geological makeup. The hill is composed of acidic rhyolite, a rock naturally imbued with a reddish tint.

Tiger Hill Pagoda
The Tiger Hill Pagoda, also known as the Yunyan Pagoda, shares the spotlight with the Sword Pool as one of Tiger Hill’s top attractions. This impressive brick tower, designed to look like a multi-storied wooden pavilion, has been standing tall for over 1,000 years. With its octagonal base, the seven-story pagoda reaches a height of 47.7 meters (156.5 ft). However, it’s not just the height that’s captivating; the pagoda is also renowned for its noticeable tilt to the north-northeast. The top deviates a remarkable 2.34 meters (7.68 ft) from the center, with a maximum inclination of 3.6 degrees, earning it the nickname “Chinese version of Pisa.”

Broken-Beam Hall
Dating back to 1344, this structure boasts a rich history spanning over six centuries. Its unusual name derives from the distinctive construction of its main beam, which is not a single piece of wood but rather two separate pieces cleverly joined together. This design utilizes the principles of leverage, with strategically placed brackets beneath the beam transferring weight to the surrounding structure.

Remarkably, the entire hall was built without any metal. Bamboo, meticulously joined with wooden pegs and intricate techniques, forms the whole structure. Inside, four stone tablets provide visitors with a historical record, detailing the story of Tiger Hill and the creation of the iconic Tiger Hill Pagoda.

Sword-Testing Stone
Along the mountain path winding its way up to the Broken Beam Hall, you’ll come across the Sword-Testing Stone. This imposing, circular boulder, situated on the left side of the path, bears a deep gash right through its center, looking very much like the handiwork of a mighty sword or axe.

Legend has it that this dramatic cleft was made during the Spring and Autumn period. King Helü of Wu, consumed by his ambition for dominance, called upon the most celebrated swordsmith to forge him a weapon like no other. Upon the sword’s completion, the King, eager to put its sharpness to the test, swung the blade with all his might. The stone, split cleanly in two, bearing testament to the sword’s incredible power.

However, like many captivating tales, the reality is a bit more grounded. Geologically speaking, the Sword-Testing Stone is a volcanic tuff rock, shaped over millennia by the forces of nature. Weathering worked its magic along the stone’s natural fissures, gradually widening the crack and ultimately giving rise to the striking, sword-like gash we see today.

How to Get to Tiger Hill
• By Bus: Take bus 1 to Liuyuan Station.

Additional Travel Advice on Tiger Hill
• Tourist Center is at the north entrance of the scenic area, offering multiple services: Information Inquiry, Baby stroller /Phone charger/Wheelchair lending, Free Wi-Fi, etc.
• Annual Artistic Flower Show usually takes place from March to May. And Autumn Temple Fair will be held in from September to October.