China’s YuYuan Gardens, Shanghai (Travel)

YuYuan Gardens, old Shanghai Chinese Classical Gardens

I love gardens. I especially love gardens with winding paths accentuated with bridges crossing over tranquil ponds of water and quaint spots to rest and absorb the ambiance of it all. The Yu Gardens include all this – and much much more!

Shanghai YuYuan Gardens, a classical Chinese garden in Old Shanghai, was a magnificent stop during our recent trip to China, even (or especially?) in the rain. The rain provided an ethereal mood – and also thinned the crowds of visitors a bit.

Picturesque bridges are a highlight of the garden. They wind and zig zag through the peaceful streams of water, connecting buildings and gardens throughout the five acres.

Gardens

The Yu Gardens were commissioned by the Ming Dynasty over 400 years ago. It encompasses five acres packed with pavilions, halls, rockeries, ponds and cloisters.

After a colorful history of ownership, Yu Gardens were opened to the public in 1961 and declared a national monument in 1982. It is one of my favorite places, despite being rushed by the tour guide, and hampered by the rain.

The entrance to the garden includes islands with classical statuary (old/traditional and fanciful new/contemporary) and a picturesque tea-house.

The Yu Garden is also known as “Garden of Peace and Comfort” – and it truly is! I wish we’d had more time to pause periodically for reflection and to sit to enjoy a cup of tea during our visit.

Crowned as “Mountain Forest in the City,” the rockeries, an intricate part of the landscape, were my favorite part of the garden along with the water, of course.

Terraces and waters reflect the style and features of the gardening art of the Ming and Qing dynasties south of the Yangtze River

The huge rockery is the essence of the scenery in Yu Garden. Here it showcases the Mid-lake Pavilion jetting out over the water, a favorite stop mid-way through the garden.

Walking by the tranquil water, amidst the exquisite Chinese architecture and rockeries, was peaceful – even with the crowds. The ducks even had their special place in the garden – in a Chinese red “pavilion” of course!

Classic Chinese Architecture

Classical Chinese architecture and vibrant colors throughout the gardens are a highlight. I especially loved those that were tucked among the rockery!

The stage performance area within the gardens has provided a idyllic venue for various public performances held in the garden over the years.

Doorways & Windows

Curious doorways guide the visitor from one garden to the next in the maze of surreal passageways. Gateways and zigzag corridors connect each area.

This “moon gate” circular opening was traditionally reserved for nobility. Within a garden wall, it represents happiness for those entering through it. While not being able to claim “nobility,” we could claim happiness!

Openings shaped like vases add intrigue and interest and carry special meaning in classic Chinese architecture. The vase is a classic Chinese symbol of plenty, much like the cornucopia of the west.

Landscaping with rockery and water was visible everywhere.

Impressive Interiors

Seeing the interior of the buildings was also impressive. Each was created for a special function and with symbolic features in architecture and furnishings.

Sansui Hall is a main one in Yu Garden. It was used for ceremonies and as a gathering place for scholars. Sansui means “lucky” in Chinese.

Yuhua Hall (“Jade Magnificence Hall”) is another impressive building. It is furnished with rosewood pieces from the Ming Dynasty.

Yuyuan Bazaar

The busy Yuyuan Bazaar is located right next to and as an entrance to the gardens. Beautiful Chinese architecture houses cafes and shops for just about anything. It provides a picturesque entrance and exit from one of the main garden gates. The rain made it difficult to window shop, but added to the ethereal ambiance.

The YuYuan Gardens were a highlight for me in our trip to China. It incorporated things I love: luscious gardens, tranquil water, interesting winding paths with bridges – and ROCKERY! It was magical – even in the rain. The ever-present crowds were a bit distracting. Trying to keep up with our group prevented me from a more desirable, leisurely stroll while I paused to take photos around every corner! Nevertheless, recalling the experience brings a smile to my face and peace to my heart.

Visit

There is a cost for visiting the garden. Our admission, tour and guide were included with our Viking tour excursion. My research revealed that entrance is reasonably priced and available with a variety of options, depending on your wishes/needs. I would recommend allowing about 2-3 hours to fully appreciate and experience this exquisite place. Add a bit more time to explore the shops and eateries in the bazaar.

Sources

• Viking tour guide commentary through the gardens. 10 Sept 2024
• DK Eyewitness Travel: China (ed. 2012) pp 192-193.

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