Audio Guide of Yu Garden

Yu Garden is open daily from 8:30 AM to 5:00 PM (last entry at 4:30 PM), though hours may vary on holidays. It is located in Shanghai's historic center, next to the City God Temple. The easiest way to get there is by metro: Line 10, Yuyuan Garden Station (Exit 1). More details on the official website.

General admission is 40 CNY (about 5.5 USD). Students and visitors over 60 pay 20 CNY with ID. Children under 1.4 meters enter free. You can buy tickets at the ticket office or in advance through official portals. Note: the surrounding shopping area is free to enter.

It is recommended to allow 1.5 to 2 hours to explore its 2 hectares at a relaxed pace. If you want to take detailed photos or visit the adjacent crafts market, plan for half a day. The best areas are the Great Rockery and the Hall of Heralding Spring.

It is one of the best-preserved classical Chinese gardens, built in 1577 by a Ming official for his elderly father. It combines traditional architecture with Taoist symbolism: its 30 scenic spots represent harmony between humans and nature. It was declared National Heritage in 1982.

Spring (March to May) is best for flowers, and autumn (September to November) for mild temperatures. Avoid summer because of rain and crowds. The best times are early morning (8:30 AM) or late afternoon (4:00 PM), when there are fewer tourists. Tuesdays and Wednesdays are the least crowded days.

It has limitations due to narrow bridges, steep steps, and uneven stone paths. Only the south area and Ting Tao Hall are accessible by wheelchair. The visitor center lends wheelchairs free of charge with advance reservation (+86 21 6326 0830).

We recommend: 1) Yuyuan Bazaar (shopping and xiaolongbao), 2) City God Temple (500 m west), 3) the Bund (15 minutes on foot), and 4) Shanghai Museum (20 minutes by taxi). Interactive map on Tripadvisor.

1) Wear non-slip shoes because floors can be wet, 2) Bring water (inside it costs 3 times more), 3) Do not visit on weekends because of overcrowding, 4) If you want a professional audio guide, we recommend IAudioguia with a detailed historical tour.