New York Chinese Scholar's Garden
An authentic Ming Dynasty-inspired garden offering a tranquil escape with pavilions, koi ponds, and rock sculptures.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more peace
New York Chinese Scholar's Garden
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more peace
Highlights
Must-see attractions
An authentic Ming Dynasty-inspired garden offering a tranquil escape with pavilions, koi ponds, and rock sculptures.
"Stepping into this garden feels like entering another world—tranquil ponds and graceful bridges transport you straight to China."
🎯 Find the Hidden Entrance
Look for Cottage E; the sign is small! It's the gateway to this serene escape.
📸 Perfect Photo Spot
The light and colors are magical, especially by the bridges and pavilions. Great for photography!
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Tranquil Ponds & Koi
Throughout the garden
Serene water features with graceful bridges and vibrant koi fish create a calming atmosphere.
Elegant Pavilions
Various locations
Intricately designed pavilions offer shaded resting spots and picturesque views.
Rock Sculptures
Throughout the garden
Artfully arranged rock formations evoke the grandeur of Chinese mountains.
Bamboo Groves
Specific pathways
Winding paths through dense bamboo forests offer a sense of seclusion and natural beauty.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Escape the City Bustle
Affordable Admission
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎯 Find the Hidden Entrance
Look for Cottage E; the sign is small! It's the gateway to this serene escape.
📸 Perfect Photo Spot
The light and colors are magical, especially by the bridges and pavilions. Great for photography!
👟 Comfortable Shoes Recommended
You'll want to explore every corner, so wear comfy shoes for walking the paths.
🧘♀️ Embrace the Calm
This garden is designed for quiet contemplation. Slow down and soak in the peaceful ambiance.
Tips
from all over the internet
🎯 Find the Hidden Entrance
Look for Cottage E; the sign is small! It's the gateway to this serene escape.
📸 Perfect Photo Spot
The light and colors are magical, especially by the bridges and pavilions. Great for photography!
👟 Comfortable Shoes Recommended
You'll want to explore every corner, so wear comfy shoes for walking the paths.
🧘♀️ Embrace the Calm
This garden is designed for quiet contemplation. Slow down and soak in the peaceful ambiance.
💰 Budget-Friendly Escape
With admission around $5, it's an incredibly affordable way to experience Chinese culture.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors rave about the New York Chinese Scholar's Garden as an 'absolute hidden gem' and a 'tranquil oasis' in Staten Island. The authentic Ming Dynasty-inspired design, serene atmosphere, and affordable admission are consistently praised, offering a peaceful escape and beautiful photo opportunities. Some note the entrance can be a bit hidden and the garden is smaller than expected, but overall, it's highly recommended for its unique cultural experience and calming ambiance.
"The New York Chinese Scholar’s Garden at Snug Harbor is an absolute hidden gem in Staten Island. Walking through the entrance feels like stepping into another world — tranquil ponds, graceful bridges, bamboo groves, and carefully designed rock formations that make you feel transported straight to a classical Chinese landscape painting.
The architecture is stunning, with beautifully detailed pavilions and winding corridors that invite you to slow down and take it all in. It’s clear how much thought and artistry went into the layout — every angle seems to reveal a new perspective.
I was lucky enough to experience the garden while it was raining, and it was one of the most peaceful moments I’ve had in the city. The soft sound of raindrops on the pavilions and water features made the garden feel even more meditative and calming. Walking through the bamboo groves, the gentle rustle of the stalks swaying in the breeze added another layer of serenity that made the whole experience unforgettable.
Whether you’re visiting for a quiet afternoon, photography, or to experience a piece of Chinese cultural heritage right here in New York, this garden is worth the trip. It’s serene, thoughtfully maintained, and offers a rare chance to experience beauty and calm in the middle of the city.
This was super affordable at just $5, it’s $4 if you’re a student."
nishka monteiro
"The entrance is at a nearby cottage and was a bit hidden - the sign in front was quite small. I enjoyed the short bamboo forest pathway leading towards the back side of the garden. The streams surrounding the garden are full of koi with occasional mini waterfalls.
The area is fairly well maintained with occasional cobwebs in the bushes and lots of descriptions stored in the closet. The bathroom is quite accessible
While the garden is a bit smaller than I would like, I still spent a good amount of time admiring it's glory and look forward to visiting the sister garden in China"
Andrew Lam
"We just love the New York Chinese Scholar’s Garden! For only $5, it’s such a peaceful escape and a perfect spot for beautiful pictures. The light and colors here are just right, making every corner feel magical. Walking through the bridges, pavilions, and gardens feels like stepping into a painting. Such a hidden gem in Staten Island—we could spend hours here without ever feeling rushed."
Eric A
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The garden is located at Snug Harbor Cultural Center on Staten Island. You can take the Staten Island Ferry from Manhattan, which is free! From the ferry terminal, you can take a bus or a taxi/rideshare to Snug Harbor.
Yes, the Staten Island Ferry is a popular and easy way to reach the island from Manhattan. Once on Staten Island, public buses and taxis are available to get to attractions like Snug Harbor.
While buses are available, many visitors find taxis or rideshares convenient for reaching specific spots like Snug Harbor, especially if they are not driving.
Yes, cycling is a great option! Some visitors enjoy cycling around Staten Island and stopping by the garden.
Snug Harbor is a large cultural center. The Chinese Scholar's Garden is within the botanical gardens, and signage can be helpful, but it's good to know the general location.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Admission is very affordable, typically around $5 for adults and $4 for students and seniors.
The garden is generally open Wednesday through Sunday. It's always a good idea to check the official Snug Harbor website for the most current hours before your visit.
Advance booking is usually not required for general admission, but it's wise to check their website, especially during peak seasons or special events.
The entrance is a bit hidden and located at Cottage E within the Snug Harbor complex. Look for a small sign.
Yes, discounts are often available for students and seniors.
📸 📸 Photography & Experience
Absolutely! The garden's design, pavilions, ponds, and rock formations offer stunning photographic opportunities. The light and colors are often praised.
Visitors describe the atmosphere as incredibly peaceful, tranquil, serene, and meditative. It's a perfect escape from the city's hustle.
Yes, many find it to be a romantic and beautiful spot for a date, offering a unique and tranquil setting.
While the garden is not vast, many visitors find they can spend a good amount of time admiring its beauty and finding peaceful spots to relax.
It's one of only two authentic classical outdoor Chinese gardens in the United States, built with traditional techniques and materials shipped from China. 
🎫 🌳 Onsite Experience
The garden features pavilions, winding corridors, bamboo forests, koi ponds, waterfalls, and unique rock sculptures inspired by Chinese landscapes.
Generally, the garden is well-maintained, though occasional minor issues like cobwebs might be noted. The overall impression is one of thoughtful care.
Yes, restrooms are available and generally accessible within the Snug Harbor complex.
While beautiful year-round, fall offers lovely foliage. Summer can be lush and green, and even a rainy day can enhance the garden's serene atmosphere.
Food options are typically found within the broader Snug Harbor Cultural Center or nearby Staten Island restaurants, rather than directly inside the garden itself.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
While the garden is designed for quiet enjoyment, its manageable size means younger children can explore without becoming overly fatigued. The visual elements – the colorful fish, the unique rock formations, and the traditional buildings – are engaging for all ages. Remember to encourage respectful behavior to maintain the garden's peaceful atmosphere.
💰 Budget Travelers
Combine your visit with the free Staten Island Ferry for a day of sightseeing that won't break the bank. Pack a picnic to enjoy in the surrounding Snug Harbor area, further minimizing costs while maximizing your experience of this cultural gem.
couples
Stroll hand-in-hand through the bamboo groves, share a moment of quiet reflection by the pavilions, and enjoy the beautiful scenery together. It's a unique and memorable way to spend time away from the usual city crowds.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
A Glimpse into Ming Dynasty Design
The design emphasizes harmony between man and nature, with elements like winding paths, strategically placed rocks resembling mountains, and water features that symbolize tranquility and flow. Visitors often describe the experience as stepping into a living painting, where every view is carefully composed. The garden's layout encourages slow exploration, inviting contemplation and appreciation of the subtle details.
Beyond its aesthetic appeal, the garden serves as a cultural bridge, offering New Yorkers a tangible connection to Chinese heritage. It's a place where art, nature, and philosophy converge, providing a unique and enriching experience that transports visitors far from the urban landscape.
+1Navigating to This Staten Island Gem
Once you disembark in Staten Island, the garden is located within the Snug Harbor Cultural Center. Public transportation options include buses that run from the ferry terminal to the vicinity of Snug Harbor. For those seeking more direct access or traveling with companions, taxis and rideshare services are also readily available.
Many visitors appreciate that the garden is accessible without a car, highlighting the convenience of the ferry and local transit. Some even combine their visit with cycling tours around Staten Island, enjoying the borough's diverse landscapes before finding solace in the garden's tranquility.
Photography and Serenity
Beyond its visual appeal, the garden is celebrated for its profound sense of peace and tranquility. Visitors often describe feeling transported to another world, a welcome respite from the city's constant energy. The gentle sounds of water features, the rustling of bamboo, and the quiet atmosphere contribute to a deeply meditative experience.
Even experiencing the garden on a rainy day can be a highlight, with the soft patter of raindrops enhancing the serene ambiance. This blend of visual beauty and calming atmosphere makes it an ideal spot for quiet reflection, mindful walks, or simply escaping the everyday.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit