Yu Garden

Yu Garden is a classical Chinese garden located in the heart of Shanghai's old city. Built during the Ming Dynasty, this 2-hectare garden exemplifies traditional Chinese landscape design with its rockeries, pavilions, ponds, and corridors. The surrounding bazaar area offers traditional crafts, snacks, and souvenirs.

Created between 1559-1577 by Pan Yunduan as a private garden for his father, Yu Garden represents over 400 years of Chinese garden artistry. Despite damage during wars and political upheavals, it has been carefully restored to showcase classical Chinese aesthetics and philosophy.

• Visit early morning or late afternoon to avoid crowds
• Explore the surrounding Old City God Temple area
• Try xiaolongbao (soup dumplings) at nearby Nanxiang Steamed Bun Restaurant
• Allow 2-3 hours to fully appreciate the garden and bazaar
• Bring cash as some vendors don't accept mobile payments