Enjoy China

Nestled in the heart of Shanghai, right next to the bustling Chenghuang Temple area, Yu Garden stands as a magnificent gem of Jiangnan garden art and one of Shanghai’s most iconic classical gardens. For international readers, Yu Garden is more than just a tourist attraction; it’s a window into traditional Chinese culture and a taste of elegant Jiangnan life. Here, you’ll experience a tranquility and harmony distinctly different from modern Shanghai, as if stepping back in time to the Ming and Qing dynasties centuries ago.

A Rich History

Yu Garden was first constructed in the 38th year of the Jiajing reign of the Ming Dynasty (1559 AD). It was built by Pan Yunduan, a high-ranking official from Sichuan, to please his parents, taking eighteen years to complete. Initially named “Yu Garden,” it means “to bring joy to one’s parents.” Despite enduring wars and multiple renovations, today’s Yu Garden, though not exactly as Pan’s family once knew it, remains a prime example of Jiangnan gardens due to its intricate layout and profound cultural heritage.

The Essence of the Garden: The Art of Changing Views

Yu Garden may not be vast in size, but its designers ingeniously employed the garden techniques of “seeing the large in the small” and “changing views with every step (in Chinese 移步换景)“, allowing the limited space to present an infinite array of landscapes. The garden is divided into six main scenic areas, each with its own unique character and charm:

Sansui Hall (Hall of Three Tares): The main hall at the garden’s entrance, symbolizing “three harvests a year and auspicious abundance,” it was a venue for important events.

Wanhua Chamber (Ten Thousand Flower Chamber): Renowned for its exquisite brick and wood carvings, surrounded by rockeries and ponds, it showcases the rich layering of the garden.

Dianchun Hall (Hall of Heralding Spring): Once the headquarters of the Small Swords Society uprising, it carries significant historical weight, with a unique and distinctive architectural style.

Huijing Lou (Gathering Scenery Pavilion): The highest point in the garden, from which you can overlook the entire garden and even glimpse the bustling Chenghuang Temple in the distance, creating an interesting contrast.

Yuhua Hall (Hall of Jade Magnificence): Named for a treasured Ming Dynasty grotesque rock called “Exquisite Jade,” this unique rockery is considered the garden’s most precious treasure.

Inner Garden: The last part of Yu Garden to be completed, its style is more refined and elegant, serving as the owner’s private retreat, full of the charm of secluded paths leading to serene spots.

As you stroll through the garden, you’ll discover a harmonious coexistence of pavilions, bridges over flowing water, grotesque rockeries, and lush flora. Every window lattice, every brick carving tells a story, all reflecting the ancient Chinese people’s profound understanding of nature and art. Among its most famous features is the Dragon Wall, winding and lifelike, one of Yu Garden’s iconic sights.

A Blend of Culture and Local Life

Yu Garden is more than just a garden; it’s intricately connected to the surrounding Chenghuang Temple tourist area, together forming a unique cultural district of Shanghai. After visiting Yu Garden, you can leisurely explore Chenghuang Temple, soaking in the flavor of traditional Shanghai street life. Here, a dazzling array of snack stalls (like the famous crab roe soup dumplings at Nanxiang Steamed Bun Restaurant), traditional handicraft shops, and souvenir stores will enrich your journey. Sampling authentic snacks and picking out special souvenirs are great ways to understand Shanghai’s local customs and charm.

Helpful Tips

• Best Time to Visit: To best experience the garden’s tranquility, avoid peak holiday periods. Weekday mornings or early afternoons are ideal.
• Comfortable Footwear: There are many winding paths within the garden, so comfortable shoes are recommended.
• Book Tickets in Advance: Especially during peak tourist seasons, consider purchasing tickets online beforehand to save time.
• Transportation: Yu Garden is easily accessible by taking Metro Line 10 to Yuyuan Garden Station.

For overseas friends eager to delve into the art of Chinese classical gardens and experience Shanghai’s unique cultural charm, Yu Garden is undoubtedly a must-visit destination. It will transport you away from the urban bustle and immerse you in a poetic historical tapestry.