Yuyuan GardenYuyuan or Yu Gardens are situated in Old Shanghai, a pleasant walk and ferry ride from the Park Hyatt, where we were staying (alternatively use Subway Line 10). Situated next-door to Yuyuan Tourist Market, the two attractions together make for an interesting day out in Shanghai.
We started with the market, which seemed to offer everything you may want and many other things beside! In addition to tourist traps, there are some traditional quality items available if you search. Mrs d2t was determined to buy a small tea pot for green tea, a new found passion of hers, so we trawled the stalls searching for an item that would suit. In a corner, near to a fast-food stand, was a small shop with a huge array of tea-pots, so mission accomplished, we allowed ourselves to wander through the bewildering array of retail booths, shuddering a little at the local specialities available to eat (e.g. whole fried baby chickens for example). |
In contrast to the busy bazaar, the gardens are a tranquil space to wander around or simply sit on one of the many benches. Although only 5 hectares in size, the gardens place host to a variety of attractions and it is easy to pass an hour or so within the garden walls. The gardens were first constructed in the 16th Century by a government official of the Ming Dynasty as a peaceful place for his parents to relax in their old age. Over the years, the gardens have been redesigned many times and now are arranged in six main areas (Sansui Hall, Wanhua Chamber, Dianchun Hall, Huijing Hall, Yuhua Hall and the Inner Garden). Beautiful pavilions mingle with calming water features, shaded pathways and the 12-metre high Grand Rockery. Many of the halls contain shops selling Chinese tea, curios or antiques. The gardens are open year-round (last admission 5 pm) with admission costing 30 or 40 CNY, depending on the month of your visit (higher fee April-June and September-November). |