Yuyuan Garden (Yu Garden)

There are six main scenic areas to the garden, and each with several photogenic spots. Climb the 50-feet (14-meter) Great Rockery for a birds’-eye view of the whole garden. Don’t miss the Exquisite Jade Rock, a porous, spiky 5-ton rock with a fascinating history. Scattered throughout the garden are also numerous sculptures, carvings, calligraphies, paintings, and inscriptions.

Yuyuan Garden is a popular attraction and features on many guided tours, whether you want to explore for a half or full day. Most tours will include other top attractions such as the Bund, Nanjing Road, or Xin Tian Di. For a more customized and personalized experience, opt for a private guide.

• This is must for those with an interest in nature, history, and architecture.

• Plan to spend about an hour here—two if you’re not in a rush.

• Yuyuan Garden isn’t wheelchair accessible; there are several steps at the entrance and more throughout the garden.

Yuyuan Garden is located at No. 137 Anren Street, Huangpu District. Take the metro, Line 10, and get off at Yuyuan Station (Exit 1). Or take public bus nos. 11, 26, 64, 805, or 930 and get off at Xinbeimen Station, or City Sightseeing Bus, line 1, 3, or 5.

The garden is open year-round, although admission fees are higher in the spring and fall than in the summer and winter; spring, when the garden is in full bloom, is the best time to visit. The garden is a popular destination on weekends; visit during the week and early in the morning for fewer crowds.

Yuyuan Bazaar, located right next to Yuyuan Garden, is a bustling marketplace with shops, teahouses, and restaurants. It’s a great place to buy some souvenirs or to some local snacks, including xiaolongbao.