Shuzhuang Garden
A serene seaside garden on Gulangyu Island, blending natural beauty with traditional Chinese landscape design.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, serene atmosphere
Shuzhuang Garden
Best Time
Fewer crowds, serene atmosphere
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A serene seaside garden on Gulangyu Island, blending natural beauty with traditional Chinese landscape design.
"A tranquil escape with stunning ocean views and meticulously crafted gardens."
Book Ferry Tickets Early
Secure your ferry to Gulangyu Island in advance, especially during peak times. :ticket:
Wear Comfortable Shoes
You'll be doing a lot of walking on Gulangyu Island. :athletic_shoe:
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Seaside Pavilions
Southern end of Gulangyu Island
Delicate pavilions offering stunning ocean views, perfect for a peaceful moment.
Rock Garden & Zodiac Statues
Within Shuzhuang Garden
A unique rock garden featuring the 12 animal statues of the Chinese zodiac.
Penzai Garden
Within Shuzhuang Garden
A charming miniature garden showcasing intricate penjing (bonsai) artistry.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Timing Your Visit to Shuzhuang Garden
Getting to Gulangyu Island
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Book Ferry Tickets Early
Secure your ferry to Gulangyu Island in advance, especially during peak times. :ticket:
Wear Comfortable Shoes
You'll be doing a lot of walking on Gulangyu Island. :athletic_shoe:
Explore Beyond the Main Path
Discover hidden nooks and quieter spots within the garden. :camerawithflash:
Visit the Piano Museum
Combine your visit with the nearby Kulangsu Piano Museum. :musical_score:
Tips
from all over the internet
Book Ferry Tickets Early
Secure your ferry to Gulangyu Island in advance, especially during peak times. :ticket:
Wear Comfortable Shoes
You'll be doing a lot of walking on Gulangyu Island. :athletic_shoe:
Explore Beyond the Main Path
Discover hidden nooks and quieter spots within the garden. :camerawithflash:
Visit the Piano Museum
Combine your visit with the nearby Kulangsu Piano Museum. :musical_score:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise Shuzhuang Garden for its stunning seaside location and the ingenious blend of natural beauty with traditional garden design. The unique rock garden and charming pavilions are frequently highlighted as memorable features. Some visitors note that it can get crowded, especially during peak times, and recommend visiting during off-peak hours for a more tranquil experience.
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Shuzhuang Garden is located on Gulangyu Island. You'll need to take a ferry from Xiamen city to Gulangyu. Ferries depart regularly from the Xiamen Ferry Terminal. The garden is a short walk from the ferry terminal on the island.
No, Gulangyu Island is a car-free zone. All access is by ferry, and transportation on the island is primarily on foot.
Walking is the primary way to get around Gulangyu. The island is relatively small and very walkable.
While there are no cars, there are small electric buggies available for hire on Gulangyu, but they can be pricey. Walking is generally recommended for exploring the garden and island.
The ferry ride from Xiamen to Gulangyu typically takes about 20-30 minutes, depending on the terminal and type of ferry.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Yes, Shuzhuang Garden requires an entrance ticket. It's often bundled with other attractions on Gulangyu Island or can be purchased separately.
The garden is generally open daily, but hours can vary seasonally. It's best to check the most current opening times before your visit.
It's highly recommended to purchase ferry tickets and potentially island entry tickets online in advance, especially during peak travel seasons, to avoid long queues.
Yes, often there are combined tickets available that include Shuzhuang Garden and other popular sites on Gulangyu Island, offering better value.
Admission fees can vary. It's advisable to check official sources or local ticketing platforms for the most up-to-date pricing.
📸 📸 Photography
The seaside pavilions offer stunning ocean backdrops, and the rock garden with zodiac statues provides unique photo opportunities. The intricate penjing garden is also very photogenic. 
Drone usage is generally restricted in most tourist attractions in China, including Gulangyu Island, for safety and privacy reasons. It's best to assume it's not permitted.
Early mornings or late afternoons offer softer light, ideal for photography, and also tend to have fewer visitors.
While generally open for photos, be mindful of other visitors and avoid disruptive photography practices.
Yes, the zodiac statues in the rock garden are a popular spot for photos.
🎫 🌳 Onsite Experience
Shuzhuang Garden is renowned for its beautiful seaside setting, ingenious layout that blends natural landscapes with man-made structures, and its unique rock garden.
Plan for at least 1-2 hours to fully explore Shuzhuang Garden and appreciate its various sections.
Basic facilities like restrooms are usually available. Cafes or extensive dining options might be limited within the garden itself, but are available on Gulangyu Island.
The garden has varied terrain, including steps and uneven paths. While some areas are accessible, it might be challenging for those with significant mobility issues.
Originally built in 1913 as a private villa, Shuzhuang Garden was donated to the country in 1955 and is celebrated for its harmonious integration with the natural coastal landscape.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Consider combining the visit with a picnic on the beach area (if accessible) or exploring the car-free streets of Gulangyu Island, which are generally safe for children to walk around. The nearby Piano Museum might also capture the interest of older children.
📸 Photography Enthusiasts
+1Aim for the golden hours of early morning or late afternoon for the best light. The car-free nature of Gulangyu Island also contributes to a more peaceful photographic experience, allowing you to focus on capturing the essence of this beautiful garden.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Charm of Gulangyu Island
Beyond Shuzhuang Garden, Gulangyu boasts attractions like the Kulangsu Piano Museum, charming alleyways, and beautiful beaches. The island's unique atmosphere, combined with its rich history, makes it a must-visit destination for anyone exploring Xiamen.
Getting to Gulangyu involves a short ferry ride from Xiamen, and once there, the best way to explore is on foot. This pedestrian-friendly environment allows for leisurely strolls and the discovery of hidden gems around every corner.
Architectural and Landscape Design
The garden's design is characterized by its clever use of borrowed scenery and its ability to create distinct, yet connected, spaces. Visitors can wander through delicate pavilions, admire the intricate penjing (bonsai) displays, and explore the unique rock garden adorned with the twelve zodiac animal statues.
This thoughtful integration of natural elements with artistic design creates a serene and visually captivating experience. The sound of the waves often complements the tranquil ambiance, making it a perfect spot for reflection and appreciation of traditional Chinese garden aesthetics.
Social
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