Wangshi Yuan was built in 1140 and
rebuilt in 1770. The 18th-century owner,
a retired government offi cial, placed new
structures on old foundations around
the central pond. The small, 1-acre gar-
den consists of a series of interlocking
courtyards and pavilions, each with a dif-
ferent character and confi guration. The
illusion of space is created by concealing
and framing views along a circuitous
route around the pond. Views to scenic
spots and planting areas are disclosed
in sequence. The full extent of the pond is
not visible from any one point.