Take China Group Tours in 2025 to enjoy 30% discount compared to a private tour. Same Experience & Lowest Price!
Shanghai Yu Garden Facts, Yu Yuan History
Chinese name: 豫园 (Yù Yuán)
Address: 218 Anren Street, Huangpu District, Shanghai, China
Age: More than 400 years old, built during the Ming Dynasty
Area: 5 acres
Highlights: Exquisite layout, beautiful scenery, and the decorative and historical artifacts
Visiting Time: 1-2 hours
Yuyuan Garden History: Over 400 Years
Its history begins way back in the Ming Dynasty, over 400 years ago. A government official named Pan Yunduan started building the garden in 1559.
He wanted to create a peaceful and happy place for his parents to enjoy in their old age. That's why it's called "Yu" Garden, as "Yu" can mean peace, pleasure, or satisfaction.
Over the many centuries, the garden has seen good times and hard times. It has been damaged, repaired, and changed hands, reflecting the ups and downs of Shanghai's own history.
And it finally reopened to the public in 1961. Since then, it's been a popular spot for visitors from both China and other countries.
What to See in Yu Garden: Highlights & Things to Do (With Map)
Yu Garden in Shanghai has 6 main areas: Sansui Hall, Wanhua Hall, Dianchun Hall, Huijing Hall, Yuhua Hall, and the Inner Garden. Each one has its own charm.
The garden is carefully designed, with rocks, ponds, paths, and pavilions placed just right. Even the plants and trees are arranged with care. When you visit this classic Jiangnan-style garden, make sure to slow down and enjoy its highlights, including:
Grand Rockery (Sansui Hall): Best Spot for Overview of Yu Garden
When you walk through the main entrance of Yu Garden in Shanghai, the first thing you’ll see is the huge Huangshi Grand Rockery. It stands 14 meters tall and is made from tons of Wukang stones.
This rockery is one of the garden’s top sights. It’s also the biggest and oldest of its kind in the Jiangnan area. If you climb to the top, you’ll get a great view of the whole garden.
Ginkgo Tree (Wanhua Hall): See the 400-Year-Old Ginkgo Tree Planted by the Founder
About a 5-minute walk northeast of Sansui Hall, Wanhua Hall is famous for its ginkgo tree. This tree was planted by the garden’s first owner and is now over 400 years old.
It stands 21 meters tall and is one of the most well-known old trees in Yu Garden. Around December, its leaves turn golden yellow, making it one of the most beautiful sights in the garden.
Fulang (Wanhua Hall): Covered Walkway
Not far from the ginkgo tree is the Fulang Corridor (复廊). In its eastern part, a wall divides the path into two walkways. The wall has many small windows in different shapes.
Through these windows, you can see pavilions on one side and streams and rocks on the other. It feels both open and hidden at the same time. Visitors can walk along either side and enjoy the views.
Dragon Wall (Dianchun Hall): On the West Side of Yu Garden
Dianchun Hall is on the west side of Yu Garden. One of the garden’s highlights is the dragon wall just next to it. This wall runs 26 meters long and separates the garden into six parts.
The wall is covered with grey tiles that look like dragon scales, and it ends with a tall dragon head. A fun little detail is a small toad hidden under the dragon’s tail—try to find it when you visit.
Yulinglong Stone (Exquisite Jade Rock): Highlights of Yu Yuan
Right in front of Yuhua Hall stands the Jade Rock(玉玲珑石), one of the most treasured sights in Yu Garden. It is known as one of the most famous rocks in Shanghai and one of the top three in the Jiangnan region.
This tall and strangely shaped rock came from Lake Tai, a place known for its beautiful stones used in many Chinese gardens. The rock is full of holes and cracks. When incense is lit at the bottom, smoke rises through these gaps, creating a stunning effect.
Jiyu Water Corridor: Near Tingtao Pavilion
Keep walking south, and near Tingtao Pavilion, you’ll find the Jiyu Water Corridor. This covered walkway is 100 meters long and is the longest of its kind in any classical Jiangnan garden.
It winds with the shape of the land—its south part is on dry ground, and the north part runs over water. Walking through it feels like moving from land into water.
Ancient Theater Stage (Inner Garden): On the South Side of Yu Garden
The old theater stage has a special ceiling shaped like a dome. It has 22 rings and 20 curved lines. This design helps sound travel well. People can hear clearly without microphones.
Explore Yu Garden Area: Yuyuan Bazaar, Old City God Temple & More
Yu Garden Bazaar: Lively Market & Shopping Hall
Just to the left of the peaceful Yu Garden in Shanghai, you’ll find Yuyuan Bazaar. It’s a large, lively market filled with shops and shopping malls, all in traditional Chinese buildings. That make you feel like you’ve stepped into old Shanghai.
In the narrow lanes, you’ll see all kinds of souvenirs, crafts, jewelry, and tea. It’s also a great place to enjoy famous local snacks. The popular Nanxiang Steamed Bun shop is here too.
Nine-turn Bridge & Huxinting Tea House
The Nine-turn Bridge, near the main entrance of Yu Garden, is one of the most eye-catching spots. This zigzag bridge is not only great for photos, but also full of meaning in Chinese culture.
The number nine is seen as lucky, and the twists are believed to keep away bad spirits. At night, the bridge lights up with colors, making it a magical sight you shouldn’t miss.
When you cross the bridge, you’ll reach the Huxinting Teahouse. This beautiful old teahouse is a peaceful place to sit and enjoy tea. It has welcomed many important guests, including the Queen of England, and is a must-see in Shanghai.
Old City God Temple (Chenghuang Miao)
Next to southern Yu Garden is the Old City God Temple, also called Chenghuang Miao (城隍庙). And located inside the Yuyuan Bazaar and is another top place to visit near the garden.
As one of the most important Taoist temples in Shanghai, it’s both a busy place of worship and a cultural site. The temple has beautiful old buildings and a calm, peaceful feel. After visiting Yu Garden, it’s worth stopping by this temple, which has stood for over 600 years.
How to Visit Yu Garden, Shanghai (Recommended Route)
Exploring Yu Garden, Yu Garden Bazaar, and City God Temple typically takes around 2-3 hours. You can follow the suggested itinerary below to ensure you don't miss out on the highlights:
South Gate of Yu Garden - Sansui Hall - Wanhua Chamber - Dianchun Hall - Huijing Hall - Yuhua Hall - Inner Garden - West Gate of Yu Garden - Nine-turning Bridge - Huxinting Pavilion - Yuyuan Bazaar - Old City God Temple
When planning a Yu Garden visit during your Shanghai tour, consider spending at least half a day to explore the garden and its surrounding areas thoroughly. It's ideal to visit in the morning when it's less crowded, giving you ample time to soak in the tranquil atmosphere.
Yu Garden Opening Hours & Tickets
The opening hours of Yu Garden in Shanghai are from 9:00 AM to 4:30 PM, with the last entry at 4:00 PM. The garden is closed on Mondays.
The entrance fee is CNY 40 from April to June and September to November, and CNY 30 during other months. Yu Garden offers both online and offline ticketing services. Online ticketing is available through platforms such as WeChat Official Account, Ctrip, Meituan, Qunar, and Tongcheng.
Shanghai Yu Garden Location & How to Get to Yu Garten
Yu Garden is located in the historic district of southern Shanghai, forming part of the renowned Yu Garden area along with Shanghai City God Temple and Yu Garden Bazaar. The precise address is No. 168 Fuyou Street, Huangpu District, Shanghai.
Moreover, Yu Garden is conveniently situated within a 3-kilometer radius of other popular Shanghai tourist attractions, including the Bund, Nanjing Road, and Shanghai Tower, allowing for easy access to these sites.
How to Get There
You can easily reach Yu Garden by bus, subway, or taxi. The most recommended methods of transportation are taxis or the subway.
Subway: The nearest subway station to Yu Garden is Yuyuan Station (豫园站) on Line 10 of the Shanghai Metro. Take Exit 7 and walk for approximately 6 minutes to reach the garden.Bus: Buses such as No. 11, 26, 64, 66, 126, 715, 920, 926, 929, 930, and 969 will take you to Yuyuan Station. Additionally, you can also take Shanghai Sightseeing Bus Line 1 to reach Yu Garden.
Taxi: It is advisable to avoid taking a taxi during weekdays between 4 PM and 6 PM, as well as on weekends, due to the one-way streets and potential traffic congestion in Shanghai.
Best Time to Visit Yu Yuan Garden?
The best time to visit Yu Garden is during spring (April to June) and autumn (September to November). During these seasons, the weather in Shanghai is most pleasant. In spring, the garden comes alive with blooming flowers, creating a vibrant and refreshing atmosphere. On the other hand, autumn brings a different charm to Yu Garden. The golden ginkgo leaves paint a picturesque scene, casting a warm and enchanting glow throughout the garden.
The garden is also less crowded on weekdays and in the early mornings, making these ideal times for a visit during your Shanghai tour.
Where to Eat near Yu Yuan Shanghai?
When it comes to dining, the area around Yu Garden does not disappoint. You'll find numerous restaurants and food stalls serving up local Shanghainese cuisine, as well as dishes from other regions of China.
The most famous among these is the Nanxiang Bun Restaurant, renowned for their Xiao Long Bao, a type of soup dumpling that is a specialty of Shanghai. The dumplings are delicate, with a rich broth and succulent filling that is simply mouth-watering.
If you're looking for something more substantial, head to Lu Bo Lang Restaurant, a favorite among locals and tourists alike. This restaurant is famous for its Shanghai-style dishes, including the popular Braised Pork Belly and River Shrimp with Crab Roe. With its elegant decor and views of the bustling Yuyuan Bazaar, it's the perfect place to relax in Shanghai and enjoy a meal after exploring the garden.
For a quick snack, try the street food vendors around the Yuyuan Bazaar. They offer a variety of tasty bites, including fried dumplings, roasted chestnuts, and scallion pancakes. These are perfect for munching on as you explore the bustling market or relax in the tranquil garden.
How to Plan Shanghai Tours with Yu Garden?
If you only have one day in Shanghai, maximize your time by visiting the top attractions in Shanghai. Start at the Shanghai Museum to delve into art and history. Then, head to Yu Garden and Shanghai City God Temple, followed by lunch at Yuyuan Bazaar.
Afterward, take a leisurely walk from Nanjing Road to the Bund, enjoying the bustling atmosphere. From there, hop on a ferry to Lujiazui and marvel at the renowned skyscrapers.
As the "City That Never Sleeps," Shanghai offers a vibrant nightlife. Experience traditional life in Xintiandi or catch a captivating Shanghai Acrobatic Show.
Explore the Yangtze River Delta with Asia Odyssey Travel (AOT)
Embark on a captivating journey through the heart of China's economic and cultural powerhouse with Asia Odyssey Travel (AOT). The Yangtze River Delta offers a compelling blend of rapid modernization and rich cultural heritage, and AOT is your perfect partner to tailor a tour that reflects your unique travel interests.
Useful Yangtze River Delta Travel Guide:
Hangzhou: West Lake, Things to Do in Hangzhou
Suzhou: Things to Do in Suzhou, Suzhou Gardens
Shanghai: The Bund, Yu Garden, Shanghai Itineraries, Things to Do in Shanghai,
Best Time to Visit Shanghai, How to Plan a Shanghai Tour
Yangtze Delta:
China Water Town, How to Plan a Shanghai Hangzhou Suzhou Tour
Tour Packeges:
Shanghai Tour, Hangzhou Tour, Suzhou Tour, Huangshan Tours,
Shanghai Day Trips, Shanghai Layover Tours, Museum Tour, Biking Tour, Shanghai Private Tours,
Walking Tour, Disneyland Tour,China tour packages from Shanghai
Contact us today to start planning your adventure, and let us show you the dynamic beauty and enduring traditions of this extraordinary region.
Data in submission...
