Passing the Bamboo Studio and a zigzag stone bridge, traveler arrive at the Lotus Breeze on Four Sides Pavilion, where the pools meet. Here, in mid-summer, luxuriant willows provide a cool shade, lotus flowers thrust upward from the water, and lotus-scented breezes caress people's faces. On two of the pavilion's columns hang an old couplet:“Lotus on four sides and willows on three, Half a pool of autumn water a picture of the hill sends thee.”
Located west of the pavilion is a winding bridge which leads to a long corridor, named the Willow's Shade and Winding Path. The bridge is of light and airy construction with low balustrades. Bridges have the effect of separating and integrating the water surface and the surrounding scenery, playing a big role in Suzhou's classical gardens. |