The Timeless Beauty of Yuyuan Garden in Shanghai

In the vibrant heart of Shanghai, the allure of Yuyuan Garden is unparalleled. As a place where history collides with urbanity, its significance reverberates throughout the city’s tapestry.

History’s Resounding Echo

Founded during the Ming Dynasty, Yuyuan Garden stands as a testament to China’s rich past. It’s more than a garden; it’s a journey. Over 400 years of history seep through its walls, with every stone narrating a tale. Visitors often find themselves immersed, resonating with the ancient spirits that once graced the garden.

Architectural Beauty in Every Corner

Every step within Yuyuan is an encounter with architectural elegance. The garden’s layout is deliberate, guiding visitors through pavilions, corridors, and bridges, each telling their unique story. Among these, the Huxinting Teahouse remains a pinnacle. As one of the oldest teahouses, it beckons with tales of royal tea ceremonies and high-profile meetings. If walls could talk, Huxinting would speak volumes.

Nature’s Paintbrush at Work

Yuyuan isn’t just stones and structures. It’s a living canvas where nature showcases its best. Jade-green ponds reflect the sky, creating harmony with the surroundings. The vibrant and lively koi play tag, enhancing the garden’s serenity. Trees, plants, and flowers, all meticulously curated, change their attire with the seasons. Their blooms and hues make Yuyuan a dynamic masterpiece, forever evolving, never the same.

Taste the Authenticity of Shanghai

What’s a journey without tantalizing your tastebuds? As you step out of the garden, the nearby markets extend an invitation. Their stalls, bursting with aromas and colors, offer traditional Shanghainese delicacies. Dive deep into the flavor journey with soup dumplings, munch on sweet red bean buns, or take a moment to savor the locally sourced teas. Every bite, every sip, is Shanghai whispering its secrets.

Concluding this trip through Yuyuan Garden, one cannot help but marvel. In the midst of Shanghai’s modernity, Yuyuan serves as a gentle reminder. A reminder of a time when tradition took the front seat, where every stone, every petal, and every pond was a story waiting to be told.

For those seeking more than just a sightseeing experience, Yuyuan Garden in Shanghai promises a soulful dive into the depths of Chinese culture and history. And as you leave, with memories etched and stories gathered, a piece of Yuyuan lingers with you forever.

Where to Stay in Shanghai near The Bund

If you are okay with basic accommodation, I highly recommend staying at Yuhang Hotel. It’s just a 5-7 minutes walk to the Waibaidu Bridge and another 2 minutes to the Bund. It is accessible, especially if you want to wake up early to watch the sunrise and visit the Bund at night. The room is small but clean, and you have your bathroom. It is also accessible to two metro/subway stops. There’s a 24-hour Family Mart at the corner and cafes along Suzhou Creek overlooking the Shanghai Skyline. The hotel is well-priced for such a great location! You can book Yuhang Hotel via Trip.com and Booking.com.

Why Book via Trip.com when in China? I found it the most accessible website to navigate when booking hotels, trains, and flights in China. I found other websites difficult (or slow) to navigate due to the Great Firewall. Also, this is the most reliable booking service for train tickets with the same amount you pay at the train station. Do not fall for other English websites for train bookings in China – I’ve tried them all, and they’re $8-15 more expensive!