Yu Yuan Gardens of Shanghai

Located in the Old Town of Shanghai, The Yu Yuan Gardens were built in the Ming Dynasty and are 400 years old.  For anyone planning a trip to Shanghai the Yu Yuan Gardens are a must see.  A classical southern style Chinese garden.  Also known as the Garden of Leisurely Repose, Yu Yuan is the only Ming garden left in Shanghai. 

Upon entering the gardens you will be struck by the sheer beauty of the landscaping. Small ponds surrounded by rocks, trees and shrubbery.  Wonderful sculptures abound as well.  There is also a vibrant bazaar and shopping area where you can barter for souvenirs and gifts.

You will also find Sansui Hall in Yuyuan Gardens.  Sansui Hall was built in 1760 and was originally used to entertain guests. Later it became a place to hold ceremonies for the gentlemen and bookmen. With a height of nine meters (about 30 feet) and featuring five halls, it is the largest and most commodious structure in the garden.

The true treasure of Yuyuan Garden is the Exquisite Jade Rock. Located across from Yuhua Hall.  The rock is 3.3 meters (about 10.8 feet) in height and has 72 holes. What is interesting about this rock is that if you burn a joss stick just below the rock, the smoke will magically float out from all of the holes. Similarly, when you pour water into the rock from top, the water will flow out from each hole creating a spectacular sight to see.

The Inner Garden was a separate garden built in 1709, but is now a part of Yuyuan Garden in the south. The Inner Garden is compact and exquisite, and the rocks, pavilions, ornamental ponds and flower walls offer some of the most attractive sceneries in Yuyuan Garden.