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Upon entry into the garden, a rockery obstructs the view, making it impossible to command the whole scene, which is called "barrier scenery". One sees the light only after bypassing the rockery to reach the key structure, the Yuanxiang Hall, in a sequence of withdrawal and release, fall first and then rise. This is the common treatment method for the entrance to gardens in Suzhou, making them more implicit and interesting. Going southward from the Yiyuxuan on the western side Hall through the vestibule, one can reach the gallery "xiaofeihong (small rainbow)" or the across-the-water small turret "XiaoCang Lang (small Azure Water)".

Looking northward across "Xiaofeihong", one finds that the waterscape is far-reaching and rich in layers. The structure named Xiangzhou, in the shape of a small boat, lies in the water to the north of "Xiaofeihong". It is beautifully shaped and it has both the meaning of "boat" and of violating construction rules.Looking eastward from the semi-pavilionnamed "Bieyou Dongtian" on the west of the water, one sees from a distance across the broad and deep water surface, the Fang Ting (square pavilion) on the east bank.Structures rise one after another on the southern bank, while trees and stones on the northern side set each other off, forming a contrast between scenery and color.

The Hefeng Simian Ting (Lotus Wind, Tetrahedral Pavilion) in the water and the Zhe Qiao (bending bridge) so close to the water Surface increases the level of landscape, called "GeJing (partition view)". Going northward from the Semi-Pavilion along the vestibule gallery, one can reach the jian Shan Lou (seeing the mountain building). The building is two-storied, deviating to the northwest corner, so that the structure will not be too Outstanding and no oppression will be formed on the water Surface. The Hefeng Simian Pavilion of the pond is located at the meeting point of two bridges and one dike. It is an ideal place to look around and enjoy the scenery. It is also the object for viewing near scenic spots on all sides and a foil for looking into the distance.