More than a work of art: Exploring restorative experience in tourism at the Net Master’s Garden, Suzhou, China

Classical gardens in Suzhou were designed not only as an art of work but also for use daily life. This study explored the tourist experience Net Master’s Garden Suzhou, China, a restorative environment based on attention restoration theory. Analysis results on-site questionnaire survey revealed three dimensions perceived characteristics: “fascination-compatibility”, “being away” and “extent”. Using multiple correspondence analysis, we found types experiences influenced by different activities landscape impressions: salient sightseeing experience, immersive low experience. In when strolling visitors enjoyed varying picturesque views, they “fascination-compatibility” more strongly. tended to do leisure activities, acquired holistic sense garden, “extent” Visitors who acted passively perceive We think this provides clues expanding meaning garden visits from “appreciation” “restoration” both management visitors. The classical might play important role pleasure-derived local areas, especially during times COVID-19 pandemic.