Xihui Park (锡惠公园) is located on the western outskirts of Wuxi, Jiangsu Province, covering an impressive 90 hectares. It is a comprehensive and extensive garden that seamlessly combines numerous historical relics with serene leisure and recreational amenities. Historically, this area was known as Huashan, Lishan, and Xizhaoshan, but it gained its name as Huishan during the Tang Dynasty, believed to be the residence of the monk Huizhao from the Western Regions.
Xishan, rising abruptly from the eastern peak range of Huishan, stands at a modest height of 75 meters. Legend has it that during the Zhou and Qin dynasties, it was a significant source of tin, giving it its name “Xishan” (Tin Mountain).
In 1958, with the creation of the Yinshan Lake, Xishan and Huishan merged into what we now know as Xihui Park. This park offers a harmonious blend of history, culture, and nature, making it an invaluable scenic destination in Wuxi. Visitors can stroll among ancient cultural relics, temples, and stone carvings while enjoying the beautiful natural surroundings by the lake. Xihui Park is a must-visit gem in Wuxi, inviting you to explore its rich heritage and tranquil landscapes.
Table of Contents
- Basic Information
- Location and Transportation
- Highlights of Xihui Park
- Vlog about Xihui Park
- Attractions near Xihui Park
Basic Information
| Estimated Length of Tour | 3 hours |
| Ticket Price | The Park: 10 RMB Combined Ticket including Jichang Garden, Second Spring Under Heaven, and Huishan Ancient Town: 70 RMB |
| Opening Hours | 8.00 – 17.00 |
| Telephone Number | 0086-0510-83333833 |
Location and Transportation
Huishan Park is located in the western outskirts of Wuxi, a city in Jiangsu Province, China. It is approximately 2 kilometers away from Wuxi’s city center, specifically from the Sanyang Square. The park’s geographical coordinates are approximately 31°35’10” north latitude and 120°15’46” east longitude. To get there, you can choose the following ways:
Bus: Take bus No. 2, 10, 26, 27, 56, 59, 71, 87, 98, 139, 158, or 359 and get off at Xihui Park Stop (锡惠公园站) to reach the south gate of the park.
Metro: The closest metro station to Xihui Park is Huishan Ancient Town on line 4. After getting out of the station from Exit 5, you will be standing at the west gate of the park.
Highlights of Xihui Park
Jichang Garden
Jichang Garden, formerly known as “Fenggu Shanzhuang,” is a historic gem within Xihui Park in Wuxi. Dating back to the early 1520s, this garden was originally monks’ residences associated with Huishan Temple. It later came into the possession of Qin Jin, the Minister of War in Nanjing and known as “Fengshan,” who transformed it into a garden.
Jichang Garden boasts several notable attractions, including the picturesque Seven Star Bridge, breathtaking mountain vistas, serene creeks, and a collection of precious calligraphy works. It stands as a testament to classical Chinese garden design and offers visitors a glimpse into the historical and cultural richness of the region.
Second Spring Under Heaven
The “Second Spring Under Heaven,” originally named Huishan Quan, is a renowned natural treasure located within Xihui Park in Wuxi. This spring earned its illustrious title during the Tang Dynasty when the tea sage Lu Yu visited Wuxi to see a friend and stayed at the Huishan Temple. After tasting the refreshing and sweet waters of Huishan Quan, he was captivated by its purity and taste. Lu Yu ranked it as the second-best spring in the world, thus bestowing upon it the title of the “Second Spring Under Heaven.” This pristine spring continues to draw visitors with its legendary history and crystal-clear waters.
Huishan Temple
Huishan Temple, with its origins tracing back to the Southern and Northern Dynasties, holds a rich history within Xihui Park. It began as the “Lishan Caotang” during the reign of the Southern Dynasties, under the patronage of Zhan Ting. Over time, the Caotang was transformed into a monastery known as the “Huashan Jingshe.” In the year 537 AD, it adopted its present name, Huishan Temple.
Today, the temple boasts a wealth of ancient artifacts, including Tang and Song stone sutra pillars, ancient ginkgo trees, and the iconic Yunqi Tower. Huishan Temple stands as a testament to centuries of spiritual devotion and cultural heritage, offering visitors a glimpse into the profound history of the region.
Azaleas Garden
The Azaleas Garden, meticulously crafted in the late 1970s on the eastern slopes of Huishan Mountain within Xihui Park, is a vibrant horticultural haven. This garden boasts an impressive collection of over 300 varieties of azaleas, creating a stunning tapestry of colors and blooms. It comes to life each year from April to June during the Azalea Flower Festival, where visitors can immerse themselves in the breathtaking displays of these vibrant flowers. The Azaleas Garden is a seasonal spectacle that celebrates the beauty of nature and showcases the meticulous landscaping efforts that make it a cherished attraction within Xihui Park.
