Located in the environs of Suzhou, the renowned Panmen Scenery Area features a number of historically significant sites and the traditional layout of classical Chinese gardens. The area has become a noteworthy tourist attraction focusing on the distinctive historical and cultural highlights of Suzhou. Many picturesquely beautiful scenic attractions may be seen in the locality.
The famed Panmen City Gate lies at the centre of the scenic area. This gate was initially constructed at the time of the Wu Kingdom and has the distinction of being the sole comprehensively preserved city gate on the globe that features land and water passages. In addition to the land and water gates you will also see its tower and surrounding city walls on each side. In times past the location was of great importance militarily, as it controlled access in a strategic location.
The structure and mechanism of this gate are considered to be a pioneering work of architecture. Notably there is an effective sluice on the mechanism which may be opened or closed to vary the flow of water, and also resist military aggression. On top of the gate you will see a handsome tower. This construction was damaged on numerous occasions due to warfare and the structure which stands today was constructed in 1986 to mark the completion of 2,500 years since the creation of Suzhou.
Visitors will be fascinated by the array of antique weapons which may be seen on the tower’s first floor. The sightseer will also be able to admire the city wall which stands 5 m tall and is no less than 300 m in length. If you walk along the northern section of the city wall you will be able to enjoy panoramic views of the entire city gate.
Another attraction in the environs is the Ruiguang Pagoda, which is noteworthy for being the most ancient pagoda in the region. Standing 53 m tall this structure was constructed by a famous monarch, Sun Quan.
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Uditha Dharmawardhane is a travel writer who writes under the pen name Roland Lefevre. He specializes in creating features on leisure as well as business travel destinations across the globe. Google+
