Yu Garden

Historical Overview

Construction began in 1559 and took 18 years to complete, with Pan Yunduan sparing no expense to create a paradise for his aging father. The garden’s name, "Yu," symbolizes "fulfillment" or "joy," reflecting its purpose as a sanctuary of familial piety. Over centuries, it endured wars, neglect, and foreign occupation, falling into ruin by the 19th century. In 1956, a major restoration initiative revived its glory, and in 1961, it opened to the public. Notable historical events include its use as a British military headquarters during the Opium Wars and its transformation into a hub for merchants in the early 20th century. Today, it stands as a living testament to Ming Dynasty aesthetics and Shanghai’s cultural heritage.

Structural Layout

The garden is divided into six main sections, each with a distinct theme and architectural style:

Sansui Hall (Hall of Three Mountains): The grand reception hall, once used for imperial visits.

Wanhua Chamber (Chamber of Ten Thousand Flowers): A delicate pavilion overlooking a lotus pond.

Dianchun Hall (Hall of Enjoying Spring): Famed for its "Exquisite Jade Rock," one of China’s top four scholar’s rocks.

Huijing Hall (Hall of Embracing the Mirror): A serene space reflecting the garden’s beauty in its windows.

Yuhua Hall (Hall of Jade Magnificence): A study and library area for scholars.

Inner Garden (Neiyuan): A smaller, secluded retreat with rock formations and bamboo groves.

Key supporting structures include the Great Rockery (the garden’s oldest feature), Zigzag Bridge, Jiuqu Bridge, and Yuyuan Bazaar, a vibrant market adjacent to the garden.

Major Attractions

Exquisite Jade Rock (Yulei Stone): A 3.3-meter-tall limestone formation prized for its "slenderness, wrinkles, perforations, and transparency."

Grand Rockery (Dashan): A 14-meter-high artificial mountain offering panoramic views of the garden.

Zigzag Bridge (Jiuzhu Qiao): A winding stone bridge spanning the pond, symbolizing life’s twists and turns.

Five-Dragon Wall (Wulong Bi): A glazed-tile mural depicting five mythical dragons, representing imperial power.

Inner Garden Pavilion (Duxiu Ting): A hexagonal pavilion known for its intricate carvings and tranquil setting.

Yuyuan Bazaar: A bustling market selling traditional crafts, snacks, and souvenirs.

Suggested Itineraries

Classic Route (1–2 hours):

• Sansui Hall → Great Rockery → Wanhua Chamber → Zigzag Bridge → Dianchun Hall (Exquisite Jage Rock) → Inner Garden → Yuyuan Bazaar

Highlights: Iconic rockery, dragon wall, and shopping.Extended Route (2–3 hours):

• Sansui Hall → Wanhua Chamber → Huijing Hall → Yuhua Hall → Dianchun Hall → Grand Rockery → Inner Garden Pavilion → Yuyuan Bazaar

Highlights: Scholarly pavilions, hidden courtyards, and cultural markets.Comprehensive Route (Half-Day):

• Sansui Hall → Wanhua Chamber → Zigzag Bridge → Dianchun Hall → Grand Rockery → Huijing Hall → Yuhua Hall → Inner Garden → Tea House Experience → Yuyuan Bazaar

Highlights: Full garden exploration, tea ceremony, and local snacks.

Ticket Purchase

Online: Book via the official Yu Garden WeChat mini-program or Ctrip (up to 7 days in advance).

On-Site: Limited tickets available at the entrance, but queues are common.

Prices:

Peak Season (April–October): ¥40 (adults), ¥20 (students/seniors).

Off-Season (November–March): ¥30 (adults), ¥15 (students/seniors).

Free: Children under 1.3m, disabled visitors, and active military personnel.

Transportation

Subway:Line 10: Yuyuan Station (Exit 1), 3-minute walk to the garden.

Bus: Routes 11, 26, 64, 304, 736, or 920 to Yuyuan Garden Stop.

Taxi: Direct to "Yu Yuan Nan Men" (South Gate) or "Yu Yuan Bei Men" (North Gate).

Departure: Exit via the North Gate to the Bund or City God Temple.

Best Time & Tips

Peak Hours: Avoid 11 AM–2 PM; visit early (8:30 AM opening) or late (after 4 PM).

Crowds: Weekends and Chinese holidays (e.g., Spring Festival, Mid-Autumn Festival) are busiest.

Weather: Spring (March–May) and autumn (October–November) are ideal for strolling.

Essentials:

Wear comfortable shoes (10,000+ steps possible).

Bring water; snacks are available in Yuyuan Bazaar.

Photography allowed (no tripods in crowded areas).

Prohibited items: Drones, pets, and smoking.