Guo's Villa

First built between 1851 and 1861, this garden is named for Guo Shilin whose private residence this was.  This is considered to be most characteristic of the classic gardens in eastern China, and it sits on the edge of West Lake.  It's also the best example of a private traditional garden in Hangzhou.  It fell into disrepair for many years, and in 1991 it was re-opened after renovation.

Peter took this picture of me admiring the garden which is split into two halves - the "Living in Quietness" section where the host used to meet guests, and the "Sky in the Mirror" section harboring a large pond.


A small pagoda perched upon a rock face for a view of the Su Causeway.


Peter and Jack loved this huge maple that provided a shady respite on this warm day.


We spied this group of ladies playing mahjong and they tried to get their grandson to come out and see Peter and Jack, but he was too shy.  I tried coaxing him out too, but he would have no part of it!


Peter always enjoys being outside, especially in these manicured gardens.


Jack went for the art shot this time :)


Of course wherever there are beautiful gardens and sunshine, you're bound to see couples doing wedding pictures!  Here's one I snuck...


Next door to the gardens we found several boats available for rent.  It was such a nice day that we hopped on and he brought us to a calm inlet and rowed us around for an hour.  Very relaxing!  Jack even got out his book and read awhile.


Jack on the boat, sporting the new buzz-cut he got yesterday.  He's loves having a buzz-cut and he's the only one in our family that can pull it off (maybe Sue could too, but Peter and I have weirdly shaped heads)!


Paddling through the new Spring greenery on a 75 degree day.  Nice!


I use tongue twisters in class a lot to help teach pronunciation.  Here's one I thought of for this picture:  "Sue's son seldom shuns the sun!"  Try saying that 3 times quickly!