Audio Guide of Yuyuan Bazaar

Yuyuan Bazaar is open daily from 8:30 AM to 9:30 PM (the garden area closes earlier, around 5:30 PM). It is located in Shanghai's historic center (218 Anren St, Huangpu). The best way to get there is by metro: Line 10 to Yuyuan Garden Station (Exit 3).

Access to the bazaar is free, but if you want to visit the adjacent Yuyuan Garden (its main attraction), admission costs 40 CNY (~€5) in low season and 60 CNY in high season. You can buy tickets on the official website.

Between 2 and 3 hours are recommended: 1 hour to explore the shopping bazaar, 1 hour for Yuyuan Garden, and additional time to try local food at the street stalls or have tea in a traditional teahouse.

This complex dates back to 1559, during the Ming dynasty, and is considered one of the most important classical Chinese gardens. Its design combines traditional Chinese architecture with symbolic landscaping, where every element—rocks, ponds, pavilions—has philosophical meaning.

The early morning hours (8:30–10:00 AM) are less crowded. Avoid Chinese public holidays such as Lunar New Year. The best time to visit is from March to May (spring flowers) or September to November (mild temperatures).

The bazaar has basic accessibility (ramps in commercial areas), but Yuyuan Garden has steps and narrow walkways in historic sections. It is recommended to call +86 21 6326 0830 to confirm specific accessible routes.

Within a 10-minute walk you will find: the City God Temple (1267), the Bund (a waterfront promenade with views of the Pudong skyline), and the Shanghai Museum. Use the metro at Yuyuan Garden Station to quickly reach Nanjing Road, the city's main shopping street.

1) Try the xiaolongbao at the food pavilion 2) Bargain in souvenir shops (start by offering 30% of the initial price) 3) Wear comfortable shoes: the ground is uneven stone in many areas.