Located at the eastern tip of Wanto Town in Yangzhou, China, the Zhuyuwan Scenic Area (茱萸湾景区) covers an area of approximately 50 hectares. The name “Zhuyuwan” derives from the nearby Zhuyu Village, known for its abundant groves of Zhuyu trees, and the meandering river that curves through the landscape. Historically, Zhuyuwan served as the gateway for the Grand Canal into Yangzhou during the Sui and Tang Dynasties, making it a vital inland port in China. This region also holds historical significance as it was visited by prominent figures such as the Japanese monks Eon Rong and Fuke in 642 AD and the Indian monk Yuanren in 839 AD, who all entered China through this area. Today, Zhuyuwan seamlessly combines the charm of a zoo and a botanical garden, with open enclosures for animals, a rich diversity of species, and an environment that’s perfect for family outings.
Table of Contents
- Basic Information
- Location and Transportation
- Highlights of Zhuyuwan
- Vlog about Zhuyuwan Scenic Area
- Useful Tips Summarized from Reviews
- Attractions near Zhuyuwan
Basic Information
| Estimated Length of Tour | 3 hours |
| Ticket Price | 45 RMB |
| Opening Hours | 7.00 – 16.30 |
| Telephone Number | 0086-0514-87291561 |
Location and Transportation
The Zhuyuwan Scenic Area is situated in Wanto Town, located at the eastern tip of Yangzhou, Jiangsu Province. To the north, it borders Shao Bo Lake, while the western boundary is defined by the Beijing-Hangzhou Grand Canal. To the east, it connects with Xianv Town.
To get there, tourists can take bus 32 and get off at Zhuyuwan Park Stop (茱萸湾公园站).
Highlights of Zhuyuwan
Crane Lake
Crane Lake is the scenic area’s aquatic centerpiece, originally a habitat for waterfowl. The lake can be divided into three main sections: the ecological waterfowl exhibition area, the wading bird exhibition area, and the pheasant exhibition area. Within the wading bird exhibition area, you can find the Crane Viewing Zone, the Flamingo Viewing Zone, and the Swan Viewing Zone. Crane Lake is home to over 30 different species and nearly 1,300 rare waterfowl, with cranes being the most prominent and captivating among them.
Lotus Wind Bridge
Lotus Wind Bridge is a picturesque bridge that meanders along the ancient Grand Canal, its design mimicking the shape of tree stumps. This bridge stretches over a hundred meters and has a legend associated with it, as it is believed to be the ideal spot for viewing lotus flowers during the Tang Dynasty. In the fishpond beneath the bridge, you can find tens of thousands of Japanese koi fish and other ornamental goldfish species, creating a delightful and serene atmosphere.
Monkey Island
Situated on the northern side of Crane Lake, Monkey Island is constructed in the image of Flower Fruit Mountain from the classic Chinese tale “Journey to the West.” Surrounded by water on all sides and lush pine trees encircling the area, Monkey Island features a “main peak” that reaches a height of ten meters. At the base of this “mountain” lies a stone carving with the three Chinese characters “水帘洞,” translating to “Water Curtain Cave.” Both the eastern and western sides of Monkey Island have wheelchair-accessible wooden observation platforms for visitors to enjoy the spectacle of the monkeys in their habitat.
Herbivore Area
The herbivore area can be reached by taking a left turn southwards from the Carnivore Enclosure. In April 2009, the new animal pens for herbivores were completed, allowing animals like spotted deer, zebras, muntjacs, and goats to coexist in a shared outdoor environment for visitors to observe.
Sea Lion Performance Hall
The Sea Lion Performance Hall serves as the central hub for marine animal displays. The hall features an open steel structure with a glass ceiling, providing ample natural lighting during the day. With a seating capacity of over 500, the grandstand offers 270-degree views, while a green translucent roof above the audience area shields the performances from inclement weather. The stage is adorned with a panoramic backdrop featuring the sea and sky, along with South African flora. The performances begin with a three-dimensional audio experience, immersing the audience in the sounds of the ocean.
Peony Garden
The Peony Viewing Area is the largest garden within the Zhuyuwan Scenic Area. It boasts hundreds of peony varieties and tens of thousands of peony plants, establishing itself as the host site for Yangzhou’s Peony Festival.
Plum Blossom Hill
Plum Blossom Hill is located in the central-western section of the Zhuyuwan Scenic Area and stands as the highest point within the park. The hill is enveloped in dozens of plum blossom varieties such as “Gu Hong,” “Wu Mei,” and “Yangzhou Yellow,” with thousands of plum blossom trees. It holds the distinction of being home to the largest number of plum blossom trees in Yangzhou.
Vlog about Zhuyuwan Scenic Area
Useful Tips Summarized from Reviews
Convenience for Families with Children: Baby Stroller Rental: For visitors with children, the scenic area provides the convenience of renting baby strollers. This can make your exploration easier and more enjoyable.
Parking Considerations: Early Arrival on Holidays: The parking lot at the entrance is relatively small, especially during holidays. It’s recommended to arrive early to secure a spot in the parking lot. If full, be prepared to park outside, which might be a bit farther away.
Animal Feeding Experience: Bring Your Own Food: Enjoy the opportunity to feed the animals by bringing your own food. Recommended items include apple slices, longer strips of cabbage, and carrots. Longer strips are safer for feeding, ensuring a more enjoyable and secure experience.
Panda Observation: Meet Moon and Lao Lao: The scenic area features two pandas named Moon (月亮) and Lao Lao (捞捞). Lao Lao is known for being particularly lively, while Moon may be found basking in the sun without moving much. It’s a unique chance to observe these adorable animals.
Boating Experience: Boat Ride on the Lake: Take advantage of the opportunity to row a boat on the lake. The water surface isn’t too large, allowing for close interaction with swans and mandarin ducks. Bring some food along, as you may have the chance to feed the swans during your boat ride.
Bring Snacks: Prepare Your Own Food: Some visitors suggest bringing your own snacks, as the available food options inside the scenic area may not meet everyone’s taste preferences.
