Yu Garden

Park
★ 4.8 (25K+ reviews) • 287K+ booked
Discover the enchanting beauty and rich history of Yu Garden, a serene oasis nestled in the heart of Shanghai's bustling Old City. Established in 1577 during the Ming Dynasty, this captivating classical Chinese garden offers a tranquil escape from the city's hustle and bustle. Originally built by Pan Yunduan as a peaceful retreat for his parents, Yu Garden invites visitors to immerse themselves in the harmonious blend of nature and architecture. With its intricate rockeries, lush greenery, serene ponds, and exquisite pavilions, Yu Garden is a must-visit destination for those seeking a glimpse into China's cultural heritage and the elegance of Ming and Qing dynasty garden design. Whether you're a history enthusiast or simply in search of a peaceful retreat, Yu Garden promises a timeless journey into the artistry and tranquility of ancient China.
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Yuyuan Garden, Shanghai, China
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Yu Garden Reviews

4.8 /5
25K+ reviews
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劉 **
1 Jul
Booking tickets was very convenient and fast, but I still had to wait a little while to check out the tickets on site. Maybe it was because I just met a new person and was not familiar with him...
2+
FreedomJustin *********
1 Jul
The Chinese people are amazing. I am so honored to watch them perform live and showcase their talebts.
2+
Liwanag **********
29 Jun
A highlight to our Shanghai trip for sure. Would recommend doing this at night for the ultimate experience. The buildings were lit up and it looked magical. Would do this again for sure!
2+
Nikolay ********
29 Jun
Excellent and tasty food. Wine, cola, juices - unlimited))) 👍 Along the aisle. 1. Go down to the central entrance. 2. On the left are the TICKET cash desks. There you show your PASSPORT. They give you paper tickets. + Free pass. (Do not join the general HUGE QUEUE!). An employee will come up to you and escort you to a SEPARATE ELEVATOR). 3. On the 118th floor, go up to 119. In the restaurant. They will give you a receipt indicating the time of your visit and the table number.
Pong *******
29 Jun
This is an amazing show. It has similarities with other aerobics but with a story plot. I watched many similar shows but this one did give me pleasant surprises in the use of the moving stage. I places the order about 1 week before the show and I received confirmation about 3 days before the show date. I was placed on row 6 of zone a which was very close to the stage. highly recommended !!
1+
Lindsay ***
28 Jun
Beautiful gallery. can get VERY busy and you’ll need to wait in line to get in. Great exhibition. Make sure you only use the weekday ticket on weekdays only. You cannot use it on a weekend.
2+
AMAL *****
28 Jun
It was a nice tour, I highly recommend this tour if you are visiting Shanghai. Yu Garden and Zhujiajiao Water Town is really beautiful places. It worth to see. Note: if you would like to try wearing the Chinese traditional clothes, you can enjoy the experience of wearing the Hanfu with a professional photo shots at Zhujiajiao Water Town.
HENDRA *****
23 Jun
easy ticket exchange just show the barcode number. great night cruise can see the beautiful lights of oriental tower and others. amazing. 1 hour doesn't feel like it. very enjoyable.

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Remarkable Landmarks and Must-Visit Sights

Exquisite Jade Rock

Step into the enchanting world of Yu Garden and discover the Exquisite Jade Rock, a captivating centerpiece with a storied past. This 3.3-meter tall, 5-ton marvel was once destined for the imperial gardens of the Huizong Emperor. Today, it stands as a testament to nature's artistry, with its porous structure and unique shape drawing visitors from around the globe. Don't miss the chance to witness the mesmerizing display of smoke and water flowing through its 72 holes, a sight that truly embodies the garden's serene beauty.

Sansui Hall

Welcome to Sansui Hall, a stunning showcase of Ming dynasty garden architecture nestled within the heart of Yu Garden. This magnificent hall, originally a venue for entertaining guests, now symbolizes prosperity and luck. With its five spacious halls and the breathtaking Grand Rockery—a 12-meter-high masterpiece of huangshi stone—Sansui Hall offers a dramatic landscape of peaks, cliffs, and winding caves that captivate all who visit. Immerse yourself in the rich history and architectural splendor of this remarkable attraction.

Great Rockery

Prepare to be awestruck by the majestic Great Rockery as you enter Yu Garden. Standing at an impressive 14 meters, it is the largest and oldest rockery in the southern Yangtze River region. This towering formation invites you to climb to its peak, where you'll be rewarded with a breathtaking bird's eye view of the garden's lush landscape. The Great Rockery is not just a visual delight but a testament to the intricate artistry and natural beauty that define Yu Garden.

Culture and History

Yu Garden was originally built by Pan Yunduan as a place of comfort for his father, Pan En, during the Ming dynasty. Over the centuries, it has witnessed significant historical events, including serving as a base during the First Opium War and the Taiping Rebellion. Today, it stands as a testament to Shanghai's rich cultural heritage. It serves as a living museum, preserving the artistry and craftsmanship of ancient Chinese garden design, reflecting the era's exquisite gardening art and architectural elegance.

Local Cuisine

Adjacent to Yu Garden is the Yuyuan Bazaar, where visitors can indulge in a variety of local snacks and delicacies. From savory dumplings to sweet pastries, the bazaar offers a taste of Shanghai's vibrant culinary scene. Don't miss the famous Nanxiang Steamed Buns, soft and juicy with thin skin, a must-try delicacy that offers a taste of the city's culinary heritage.

Historical Landmarks

Discover the historical landmarks within Yu Garden, including the iconic Jade Rock and the Hall of Heralding Spring. These sites offer insights into the garden's storied past and its significance in Chinese culture.