Both provided exquisitely created universes with their balance between human and natural elements. As one walks through the garden, one sees the trees and rocks and pavilions and water from different angles, with each view carefully composed. Often the placement of windows and walkways gives tantalizing glimpses of the next section of the garden, or sometimes of the world outside. Thus the view, even in a very small area, is expanded to include what can be fleetingly seen through windows and passageways. Apparently these gardens were an inspiration for Japanese Zen gardens, although the Chinese gardens evoke a less reverential tone.
People walk and eat and talk on their cell phones and throw sticks in the ponds.
No sitting zazen on the viewing platform contemplating raked gravel or the location of the unseen rock, as in Kyoto. It would be great to go back on a midweek day when there would be a chance for a somewhat more restful feeling with fewer people around. No wonder the Chinese have produced such lovely poetry and paintings. I was also struck by the greater simplicity compared with the northern temples and gardens I've seen. In Suzhou the walls are whitewashed and the roof tiles are a dark gray, almost black.