Guyi Garden (古漪园), initially named Yiyuan, draws its inspiration from the line “lively bamboo” in the Book of Songs. It was built during the Ming Wanli era by Min Shiji, a judge from Henan. The renowned Ming bamboo carving artist Zhu Sansong designed and arranged the garden. The structures, including pavilions, terraces, towers, and pavilions, are adorned with intricate bamboo-themed patterns on pillars, beams, and long corridors. In the 11th year of the Qing Qianlong era (1746), it was renamed “Guyi Garden” and is one of Shanghai‘s five classical gardens.
The garden layout consists of two islands surrounded by water on all sides, connected by five flat bridges and linked to the shores by a winding bridge. It is divided into six scenic areas: Yiyetang, Xiegechi, Songhe Garden, Qingqing Garden, Yuanyang Lake, and Nanxiang Wall.
Guyi Garden boasts a diverse array of flowers that bloom in different seasons. In spring (March-April), visitors can enjoy the blossoming magnolias. Summer (June-August) brings the enchanting lotus flowers, creating picturesque scenes on the lake and in secluded corners. Winter (December-February) showcases fragrant plum blossoms and narcissus. The summer lotus flowers, whether in the expansive lake or intimate corners, are particularly renowned and attract numerous photography enthusiasts.
Table of Contents
- Basic Information
- Location and Transportation
- Highlights of Guyi Garden
- Vlog about Guyi Garden
- Useful Tips Summarized from Reviews
- Other Classical Gardens in Shanghai
Basic Information
| Website | https://www.guyigarden.com/ |
| Estimated Length of Tour | 2 – 3 hours |
| Ticket Price | 12 RMB |
| Opening Hours | 1st March to 31st November: South Gate: 7.00 – 18.30; Last admission: 18.00 North Gate: 5.30 – 19.30; Last admission: 19.00 1st December – 28th February the next year: South Gate: 7.00 – 19.00; Last admission: 18.30 North Gate: 6.00 – 17.00; Last admission: 16.30 |
| Telephone Number | 0086-021-59122225-4 0086-021-59127883-4 |
Location and Transportation
Guyi Garden is located in the Nanxiang Town of Jiading District in Shanghai, China. The exact address is No.218 Huyi Highway, Nanxiang Town, Jiading District, Shanghai, China.
Visitors can navigate to Guyi Garden by taking public transportation, such as the Shanghai Metro Line 11, which connects to Nanxiang Station (南翔站). From there, it is a short taxi ride or a pleasant walk to reach the garden.
Highlights of Guyi Garden
Classical Garden Architecture
The classical garden architecture in Guyi Garden is a testament to the timeless beauty and elegance of Chinese garden design. The meticulously crafted pavilions, bridges, and corridors seamlessly blend with the surrounding natural landscape, creating a harmonious and tranquil atmosphere. The architectural elements, adorned with intricate details and traditional craftsmanship, reflect the principles of balance, harmony, and symmetry. Each structure within Guyi Garden has been thoughtfully placed to enhance the overall aesthetic appeal and provide visitors with a captivating visual experience.
Wisteria Corridor
The Wisteria Corridor in Guyi Garden is a magical and captivating highlight that enchants visitors with its breathtaking beauty. When in bloom, the corridor becomes a mesmerizing canopy of vibrant purple wisteria flowers. The delicate cascades of blossoms create a dreamlike atmosphere, immersing visitors in a sensory wonderland. Walking through the Wisteria Corridor feels like stepping into a fairytale, where the fragrance of the flowers permeates the air and the gentle play of light and shadow adds to the enchantment.
Plum Blossom Valley
Plum Blossom Valley in Guyi Garden is a picturesque section that celebrates the enchanting beauty of early spring. This charming area is adorned with numerous plum trees, which burst into bloom with delicate blossoms in shades of white and pink. As visitors stroll through Plum Blossom Valley, they are treated to a feast for the eyes, with the vibrant colors and sweet fragrance of the plum blossoms creating a captivating spectacle. The valley symbolizes purity, perseverance, and hope, offering a serene and rejuvenating experience amidst nature’s beauty.
Lotus Pond
The Lotus Pond in Guyi Garden is a serene oasis that exudes tranquility and natural beauty. During the summer months, the pond becomes a captivating sight as it becomes adorned with elegant lotus flowers. The vibrant hues of the lotus blooms, ranging from delicate pinks to brilliant whites, create a picturesque landscape that delights the senses. Visitors can relax and immerse themselves in the peaceful ambiance, enjoying the calming presence of the lotus flowers and the gentle reflections on the tranquil water.
Teahouses and Dining
Guyi Garden offers a delightful culinary experience with its traditional teahouses and dining establishments. These venues provide a perfect respite for visitors to relax and rejuvenate while immersing themselves in the beauty of the garden. The teahouses offer a serene setting to enjoy a wide variety of authentic Chinese teas, allowing guests to savor the delicate flavors and aromas. Additionally, the dining establishments serve delicious Chinese cuisine, ranging from regional specialties to classic dishes. Whether it’s sipping tea amidst the peaceful surroundings or indulging in delectable local flavors, the teahouses and dining options in Guyi Garden provide a memorable gastronomic journey for visitors to savor.
Vlog about Guyi Garden
Useful Tips Summarized from Reviews
Enjoy the Night View: Guyi Garden is highly recommended for its beautiful night scenery, and compared to Yu Garden, it tends to be less crowded. Take advantage of the serene atmosphere and capture stunning photos, especially of the lanterns available in the souvenir shops.
Explore the Traditional Market: Near the South Gate, there’s a traditional market with a Chinese-style atmosphere. Note that it’s only open on weekends. Explore the market for local crafts, snacks, and cultural experiences.
Tea Houses: Guyi Garden boasts two tea houses offering different experiences. “Mingxuan Tea House (茗轩茶室),” located in the southeast corner of Yuanyang Lake, provides a picturesque setting along with snacks, albeit at a slightly higher price point (around 40 yuan per person). Alternatively, “Shouying Suiyue Tea House (瘦影岁月轩)” offers more affordable options and a cozy ambiance for reading or photography.
Dining Options: If you’re looking for authentic cuisine, consider dining at the Xiaolong Restaurant located outside the South Gate. You can either eat before entering the garden or after exploring. The food is known for its authenticity and delicious flavors.
Ticketing Information: Currently, tickets are not available for purchase online, so you’ll need to buy them on-site. Expect queues at the ticket counters, but since multiple windows are open, you can choose the one with the shortest line.
