Yu Garden
A classical Chinese garden from the Ming Dynasty, featuring pavilions, rockeries, ponds, and traditional architecture.
Highlights
- Ming Dynasty Garden
- Traditional Design
- Bazaar Area
The Story
Yu Garden, also known as Yuyuan Garden, was built in 1559 during the Ming Dynasty by Pan Yunduan, a government officer, as a private garden for his father. The name 'Yu' means 'pleasure' or 'satisfaction,' reflecting the garden's purpose as a place of peace and tranquility. The garden was damaged during the Opium Wars and the Taiping Rebellion but was restored in 1956. Covering 2 hectares, the garden is divided into six main areas, each with its own character and features. The design follows traditional Chinese garden principles, creating a series of intimate spaces connected by winding paths, bridges, and corridors. The garden features artificial hills, ponds, pavilions, and rockeries, all carefully arranged to create different perspectives and moods. The surrounding Yuyuan Bazaar offers a vibrant contrast with its traditional architecture and bustling market atmosphere.
Visual Journey
Don't Miss
Grand Rockery
12-meter artificial mountain with caves and paths
Huxinting Teahouse
Famous teahouse on a small island in the pond
Hall of Heralding Spring
Main hall with traditional architecture
Yuyuan Bazaar
Traditional market with shops and street food
Photography Guide
Huxinting Teahouse
Classic view of the teahouse reflected in the pond
Garden Details
Intricate carvings, windows, and architectural elements
Traditional Architecture
Ming Dynasty buildings and pavilions
Nearby Dining
Nanxiang Steamed Bun Restaurant
$$Shanghai
Famous xiaolongbao (soup dumplings)
Yuyuan Bazaar Food Street
$Street Food
Local snacks, candied fruits, and traditional treats
