Garden of the Master of the Nets

The Master-of-the-Nets Garden, or Wang Shi Yuan, was first constructed during the Song Dynasty (960-1279). It was rebuilt in the 18th century by a retired official who renovated the gardens. Just Like many other scholar-officials, he liked the peace of mind and nature other than the fighting of Court life. He is said to have mentioned that he would rather be a fisherman than an official in a court, hence the garden's name. Similar to the Humble Administrator's Garden, this garden is sectioned into three parts: an eastern part, or living area; a middle part, or main garden; and a western part, or the inner garden. This garden is one of the smallest in Suzhou. It is only 1/10 of the size of the Humble Administrator's Garden.

The Garden of the Master of the Nets is really a masterpiece. The good use of space is the most effective thing about this garden. Rock arrangements and