Yu Garden Shanghai
A 5-acre Ming Dynasty garden showcasing classical Chinese architecture, pavilions, ponds, and rockeries, surrounded by a vibrant bazaar.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, peaceful atmosphere
Yu Garden Shanghai
Best Time
Fewer crowds, peaceful atmosphere
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A 5-acre Ming Dynasty garden showcasing classical Chinese architecture, pavilions, ponds, and rockeries, surrounded by a vibrant bazaar.
"A must-visit in Shanghai! Yu Garden is a beautiful showcase of classic Chinese architecture, rich in history and charm."
🎟️ Buy Tickets On-Site
Tickets for the garden can be purchased on the spot. You might need to present your passport.
🚶♂️ Bazaar Over Garden?
Some find the bazaar more captivating than the garden itself. Explore both!
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Jiu Qu Bridge
Yu Garden
Walk this zigzag bridge for good luck and stunning views of the Mid-Lake Pavilion Teahouse.
Mid-Lake Pavilion Teahouse
Yu Garden
Shanghai's oldest teahouse, offering a serene spot to relax amidst beautiful scenery.
Yu Garden Bazaar
Surrounding Yu Garden
A lively marketplace with traditional architecture, souvenir shops, and delicious local street food.
Lantern Displays
Yu Garden and Bazaar
Especially vibrant during Spring Festival, these elaborate lanterns create a magical atmosphere.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Timing is Everything
Beyond the Garden Walls
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎟️ Buy Tickets On-Site
Tickets for the garden can be purchased on the spot. You might need to present your passport.
🚶♂️ Bazaar Over Garden?
Some find the bazaar more captivating than the garden itself. Explore both!
📸 Hanfu Photoshoot
Rent a hanfu for a memorable photoshoot, especially popular in touristy spots like Yu Garden.
🍜 Taste Local Delicacies
Don't miss trying famous xiaolongbao and other local snacks in the bazaar area. 
Tips
from all over the internet
🎟️ Buy Tickets On-Site
Tickets for the garden can be purchased on the spot. You might need to present your passport.
🚶♂️ Bazaar Over Garden?
Some find the bazaar more captivating than the garden itself. Explore both!
📸 Hanfu Photoshoot
Rent a hanfu for a memorable photoshoot, especially popular in touristy spots like Yu Garden.
🍜 Taste Local Delicacies
Don't miss trying famous xiaolongbao and other local snacks in the bazaar area.
🌃 Nighttime Magic
Experience the garden and bazaar illuminated at night for a truly enchanting view.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Yu Garden is a highly recommended attraction in Shanghai, praised for its beautiful classical Chinese architecture, rich history, and the vibrant surrounding bazaar. Visitors enjoy the scenic views, the opportunity to shop for unique souvenirs, and sample delicious local snacks. While it can get very crowded, the lively atmosphere is considered part of the experience.
"A must-visit in Shanghai! Yu Garden is a beautiful showcase of classic Chinese architecture, rich in history and charm. Beyond its scenic views, it’s a fantastic spot to shop for unique souvenirs and sample local snacks from the many food stalls. It does get very busy, especially in the evenings, so be prepared for crowds—but the lively atmosphere is all part of the experience."
Gee-man
"Good for see old heritage of china and if you have interest in old construction then it's best place to visit and if you are photography lover like me then must visit. No ticket. Food market is also there. Not for Muslim. Old ideal Shanghai silk their real Chinese stone, perfume stone live making of old jewelry all the culture of China you will be able to see there."
Zainab Khawaja
"Yu Garden is a beautiful and peaceful place in the heart of Shanghai. The classical Chinese architecture, ponds, bridges, and rockeries make it feel like stepping back in time. It’s well-preserved and offers great photo opportunities. The surrounding bazaar area is also perfect for shopping and trying local snacks. Definitely worth visiting if you enjoy culture and history."
Neranjan Prasad
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Yu Garden is easily accessible via Shanghai Metro. Take Line 10 or Line 14 to Yuyuan Garden Station. From there, it's a short walk to the entrance. Taxis and ride-sharing services are also readily available.
Yes, Yu Garden is located in the heart of Shanghai's Old City, making it convenient to combine with visits to nearby historical sites and the bustling豫园商城 (Yuyuan Mall) which surrounds it.
The area around Yu Garden can be quite busy. Using a navigation app on your phone is recommended. Be aware of your surroundings and keep valuables secure.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
You can buy tickets for Yu Garden on the spot. Some travelers suggest having your passport handy for ticket issuance.
Yu Garden typically opens around 8:30 AM and closes at 5:00 PM or 5:30 PM, though hours can vary seasonally. The surrounding bazaar often stays open later. It's best to check the official hours before your visit.
Yes, there is an entrance fee for the Yu Garden itself. However, the surrounding bazaar area is free to enter and explore.
Information on discounts is not widely publicized, but it's always worth inquiring at the ticket counter or checking official websites for any available promotions, especially for students or seniors.
📸 📸 Photography
The Jiu Qu Bridge, the Mid-Lake Pavilion Teahouse, and any of the intricately designed pavilions and rockeries offer fantastic photo opportunities. The bazaar's traditional architecture is also very photogenic.
While the garden itself may close, the surrounding bazaar is beautifully illuminated at night, offering a magical backdrop for photography.
Yes, you can rent traditional Chinese attire like hanfu for photoshoots in popular areas like Yu Garden. Compare prices as they can vary.
A versatile lens (like a 24-70mm) is great for capturing both wide shots of the gardens and details of the architecture. A wide-angle lens can be useful for the expansive bazaar.
🍽️ 🍜 Food & Dining
The Yu Garden Bazaar is renowned for its street food, especially the famous xiaolongbao (soup dumplings). You can also find a variety of other local snacks and traditional Chinese dishes.
While the garden itself doesn't have restaurants, the surrounding bazaar is packed with eateries, from casual street food stalls to more formal restaurants offering authentic Shanghainese cuisine.
Some reviews suggest that not all food options at Yu Garden are suitable for Muslim dietary needs. It's advisable to look for halal-certified vendors or inquire about ingredients if you have specific dietary restrictions.
Food prices in the bazaar can range from very affordable street snacks to mid-range restaurant meals. It's generally a good place to find delicious food without breaking the bank.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
While the garden itself is relatively calm, the bazaar can get quite crowded, so keeping a close eye on children is essential. The food stalls offer a variety of tastes, so even picky eaters might find something they enjoy. The historical context can be simplified for younger children, focusing on the beauty of the architecture and the stories behind the garden's design.
📸 Photography Enthusiasts
For a truly unique photographic experience, consider renting a hanfu (traditional Chinese clothing) and posing amidst the historic setting. The surrounding bazaar, with its bustling atmosphere and traditional buildings, provides excellent opportunities for street photography. Visiting during the golden hours (early morning or late afternoon) will enhance the lighting, and the evening illumination of the bazaar offers a completely different, magical perspective.
+1🛍️ Shoppers & Foodies
For foodies, the bazaar is a must-visit. It's famous for its street food, with xiaolongbao being a top recommendation. You can also find a wide variety of other local delicacies, from savory snacks to sweet treats. Exploring the food stalls is an adventure in itself, offering a true taste of Shanghainese culinary culture.
+1Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The History and Design of Yu Garden
The garden is divided into six main scenic areas, each with its own unique charm and architectural style. Visitors can marvel at the Exquisite Rockery, a towering, intricately carved stone structure, and the Grand Rockery, another impressive display of natural artistry. The Mid-Lake Pavilion Teahouse, one of the oldest in Shanghai, offers a picturesque spot to rest and soak in the atmosphere. The famous Jiu Qu Bridge (Nine-Zigzag Bridge) is designed to ward off evil spirits and provides iconic views of the garden.
While the garden itself is a historical gem, its preservation and accessibility have been a focus for decades. It has undergone several restorations to maintain its original splendor. The surrounding bazaar, while a more modern commercial development, has been designed to complement the traditional aesthetic of the garden, creating a cohesive cultural experience for visitors.
Experiencing the Yu Garden Bazaar
This area is a paradise for food lovers, famous for its street food offerings, most notably the delectable xiaolongbao (soup dumplings). Many visitors recommend sampling a variety of local snacks and delicacies as you explore. The architecture of the bazaar itself is a highlight, with many buildings designed in a traditional Chinese style, featuring ornate roofs, carved wooden details, and picturesque courtyards.
+1Many travelers suggest visiting the bazaar in the afternoon and staying until nightfall to witness its transformation. As dusk settles, the area becomes illuminated with colorful lanterns, creating a magical and romantic ambiance. This dual experience of daylight exploration and nighttime enchantment is a recurring theme in visitor feedback, making it a must-do for many.
+1
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from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit