If you’re wondering, “Is Yu Garden worth visiting?” you’ve come to the right place!
After living in China for over 3 years, including 1 year in Shanghai, I’m sharing all my honest experiences, practical tips, and real recommendations about visiting Shanghai’s most famous (and controversial) tourist attraction.
I included several videos to give you the best and most real insights.
Long story short: I’d say yes, Yu Garden is worth visiting!
It’s fascinating, overwhelming, and uniquely authentic in its own touristy way. Just adjust any expectations of a relaxed garden walk, and embrace the chaos! (In heavy movie trailer voice 😉 )
Let’s dive into the garden.
Yu Garden Shanghai: Essential Information at a Glance
Opening Hours 9:00 am – 5:00 pm daily
Best Time to Visit Yu Garden 9–10 am, weekdays (peaceful)
Entrance Fee 50 RMB (7 dollars) adults (worth it)
Shanghai Metro Line 10, Yuyuan Garden Station, Exit 1
Time Needed : 60-90 minutes
Location : Huangpu District of Shanghai
Nearby Attractions : Yuyuan Bazaar, Shanghai Museum, The Bund
Is Yu Garden Worth Visiting
Why it’s worth visiting
I’ve read in many blogs that Yu Garden isn’t one of the best places to visit in Shanghai, but what’s “best”, right?
Yes, it’s crowded and touristy. BUT here’s what other blogs don’t tell you:
99% of those tourists are domestic Chinese visitors, not foreigners. As a foreigner, you’ll actually have a genuinely Chinese cultural experience.
All those “touristy” things others talk about aren’t Western things. You will not find any Western stuff or brands, only souvenirs and items from all over China.
Most visitors are Chinese domestic tourists from other provinces, making this actually one of the most “Chinese” experiences you can have as a foreigner in Shanghai.
A Bit of History and Insights
In 1559! Pan Yunduan began creating what would become Shanghai’s most famous classical Chinese garden. This Ming Dynasty official’s son spent 18 years building this traditional Chinese garden as a gift for his parents. The name “Yu” (豫) means “peace and happiness”.
What makes this Shanghai attraction so special is that it has survived wars, revolutions, and Shanghai’s fast transformation into a modern city.
The space is around 2 hectares with six areas. Close to Yu Garden is the Yuyuan Bazaar, which is more focused on shopping and food.
Btw, Yu Garden / Yuyuan Garden / Yu Yuan Garden all refer to the same place. "Yuan" actually just means "park or garden". You might see signs on the street with "公园", which is "Gong Yuan". This means "public park". The second character of the Yu Garden is the same as you can see "豫园". The first symbol, Yu, means "peaceful or satisfying". So you could translate Yu Garden as "Peaceful Garden". And now you've suddenly learned some Chinese! ;)
The Crowd Reality
Yes, Yu Garden in Shanghai gets extremely busy. I think the Bund and Yu Garden are two of the most crowded places to visit in Shanghai. But like I said, there aren’t many international tourists, if any. You’re surrounded by Chinese families from all over China.
As a foreigner at this Shanghai attraction, you’re actually experiencing how Chinese tourists experience their own heritage. You’ll hear discussions in different Chinese dialects, watch Chinese grandparents explaining history to their grandchildren, and see Chinese tourists taking the same photos as you are. It’s touristy, yes, but it’s Chinese touristy, and that’s actually culturally fascinating.
There’s a big chance you’ll be walking shoulder to shoulder; that’s how busy it can get.
Notice in the video that there aren’t any foreign tourists. (Except for the lady coming in the screen at the end, who is my wife 😂 )
Definitely Worth Visiting If You:
Want to See How Chinese Tourists Experience China: This is fascinating. Yu Garden shows you Chinese domestic tourism in action.
Are Interested in Chinese Culture: While not one of the best places for peaceful contemplation, it’s perfect for understanding how modern China relates to its past.
As a first-time visitor: While Yu Garden isn’t the highlight of Shanghai, it provides context for understanding Chinese tourism and heritage preservation.
Enjoy People-Watching: The mix of Chinese tourists from different provinces is just a unique experience. I’ve been to over 40 different cities in China, and not many people from outside of China know that there are so many different backgrounds and cultures within China. So the chance to get a sense of that is pretty cool.
Consider Visiting Factors:
Limited Time: If you only have one day for things to do in Shanghai, consider if this tourist attraction fits your needs. However, it’s pretty easy to visit.
Crowd Sensitivity: Even at the best time to visit, you’ll share this place in Shanghai with many others.
Best Time to Visit
Yu Garden Opening Hours and Best Time to Visit Yu
Official Opening Hours:
- Daily: 9:00 am – 5:00 pm
- Last entry: 4:30 pm
- The Yuyuan Bazaar stays open until 9 pm
Best Time to Visit Yu Garden:
- 9:00–10:00 am weekdays: Peaceful, beautiful light
- 3:00–4:30 pm winter weekdays: Fewer crowds, golden light
- Rainy mornings: The garden is filled with a mystical atmosphere
Avoid:
- Chinese New Year
- Golden Week (first week of October), avoid Shanghai overall, actually!
- Weekend afternoons
- National holidays
Seasonal Guide for Your Shanghai Tour
Spring (March-May): The classical Chinese garden will have lots of flowers.
Summer (June-August): Hot and humid, some showers, but it’s not too bad.
Autumn (September-November): The best time to visit Yu overall. Perfect weather for exploring this place in Shanghai.
Winter (December-February): Fewer tourists make this a great time to visit Yu Garden in Shanghai, but obviously, it will be cold.
Things To Do Close By
Yu Garden is located in the heart of Shanghai, so it’s easy to combine a trip with other attractions in Shanghai.
Creating Your Shanghai Tour Itinerary
Keep in mind that sometimes on the map the distance might not look that far, but Shanghai really is a huge city, so walking from the Bund over Nanjing road, for instance, can easily take 1,5 hours with a few short stops.
For my parents, who are around 75 years old, the walk from Yu Garden to the Bund is just too long. Taxis are very affordable in China, so it might be smart to sometimes take a taxi to save some energy.
Shanghai Tour Route (relaxed walking pace, shopping time not included):
- 9:00 am – Explore Yu Garden (1,5 hours)
- 10:30 am – Browse Yuyuan Bazaar (45 minutes)
- 11:15 am – Walk to the south side of the Bund (10 minutes)
- 11:25 am – Walk along the Bund up to the start of Nanjing Road (45 minutes)
- 12:10 pm – Walk along the Bund up to Nanjing Road (1 hour)
- 13:10 pm – If you have energy left, visit People’s Square and museums ( exploring can take up to 2 hours, as there is a lot to see and do)
Nearby Yuyuan Attractions
Shanghai Museum (15-minute walk): Provides context for what you see in the classical Chinese garden. The museum’s garden furniture exhibit helps you understand traditional Chinese garden design.
City God Temple (next door): Another glimpse into Shanghai’s cultural heritage. While you’re there at Yu Garden, the entire surrounding area is pretty cool to explore, including the City God Temple.
Evening at the Yu Garden Bazaar
While you can’t visit Yu Garden itself after closing (5 pm), the surrounding Yuyuan Bazaar becomes magical after dark. The traditional Chinese architecture is beautifully illuminated, and the shopping area takes on a different character.
Cultural Events and Performances
Throughout the year, the Yu Garden area hosts some cultural events. One of them is the Lantern Festival, usually from January 1st to the beginning of February.
Getting Around
Getting to Yuyuan Garden is easy:
- Take the Shanghai Metro Line 10 to Yuyuan Garden Station
- Use Exit 1 and follow the signs to Yu Garden
- The walk from Yuyuan Station takes 3 minutes
Taxis in Shanghai also know “Yuyuan” (豫园) well. The Yu Garden area is well-connected to other Shanghai tour destinations.
Entrance Fee and Costs
The Yu Garden entrance fee is 50 RMB, which is around 7 dollars. You can pay in cash or use Alipay with your phone if you’ve connected your foreign credit card to it. The free digital credit card of Revolut, connected to Alipay, works perfectly as well.
Inside the Yu Garden area, prices are a bit higher of food and drinks than at most other convenience stores in the city:
You can bring your own water and food, or eat at restaurants outside the garden if it’s too crowded.
Yu Garden Tips
- Best time to visit Yu Garden: Arrive at opening hours (9 am) on weekdays
- How to get to Yu: Take Shanghai Metro Line 10 to Yuyuan Garden Station, Exit 1
- Time needed: Allow 90 minutes to properly explore the garden and the nearby Yuyuan Bazaar
- Know before you go: Bring water, comfortable shoes, and patience for crowds
Final Verdict
After countless visits to Yu Garden in every season and condition, here’s my honest assessment. Yu Garden is worth visiting!
As likely one of the only foreigners in a sea of Chinese tourists from every province, you’re getting an authentic modern Chinese experience.
Yes, the Yuyuan Bazaar is commercial. Yes, this Shanghai attraction can be overwhelming. But when you visit Yu Garden, understanding what it really is; a Chinese domestic tourist hotspot rather than an international tourist trap, as some people say, it becomes genuinely interesting.
Tip: If you're looking for more things to do in Shanghai, check out my largest travel guide yet: 57 best things to do in Shanghai!
Authentic Alternatives
If you do look for more relaxed and quiet places in Shanghai, here are some options:
Jade Buddha Temple (玉佛禅寺)
- Why it’s great: Active Buddhist temple where Shanghai locals actually worship
- Getting there: Metro Line 13 to Jiangning Road Station
- What makes it special: Real incense ceremonies, genuine spiritual atmosphere, beautiful jade Buddha statues
- My experience: Much quieter and relaxed environment
- Cost: Free entrance
- Best time: Any time, basically
Jing’an Temple (静安寺)
- Authentic experience: 1,800-year-old temple in the heart of modern Shanghai
- Location: Metro Line 2/7 to Jing’an Temple Station (literally named after it!)
- Why I love it: Perfect contrast of ancient buildings by skyscrapers
- What you’ll see: Local Buddhists, traditional architecture, active temple life
Tip: Visit during evening prayers (5–6 pm) for the most atmospheric experience
Tianzifang
Tianzifang is an area within the beautiful French Concession where you will find a lot of local bars, hand-made souvenir shops, coffee shops, and more.
- What’s special about it: Real Shanghai architecture with coffee shops and art studios
- Location: Metro Line 9 to Dapuqiao Station
- Authentic element: Artists actually live and work here, not just tourist shops
- Best time: Weekday afternoons when it’s less crowded
Yu Garden FAQ
What is special about Yu Garden?
500-year-old Ming Dynasty garden. Experience Chinese domestic tourism firsthand.
Is Yu Garden worth visiting?
Yes, but expect crowds. It’s more like cultural observation, not peaceful relaxation.
Can I visit Yu Garden at night?
No. Closes 4:30 PM. Yuyuan Bazaar open until 9 PM.
How long should I spend in Yu Garden?
60-90 minutes for the garden. Add 30 minutes for the bazaar.
What to see in Yu Garden, Shanghai?
Jade Rock, Grand Rockery, pavilions, and Chinese tourists from all over China.
Why should you visit Yu Garden?
To get real insights into the diversity of Chinese culture.
What time to visit Yu Garden?
9-10 AM weekdays. Try to avoid weekends and holidays.
Is Yu Garden open on Monday?
Yu Garden is closed on Mondays.
Do you need to buy Yu Garden tickets in advance?
No. You can pay at the entrance.
Do you have to pay to enter Yu Garden?
Yes. 50 RMB entrance fee. Yu Yuan Bazaar is free.
Share Your Questions
Planning to explore Yu Garden on your Shanghai tour? I’d love to hear your questions or share more specific tips about visiting this unique place in Shanghai. Feel free to reach out.
