Chenshan Botanical Garden
Shanghai's vast botanical oasis, featuring stunning glasshouses, a unique quarry garden, and vibrant seasonal blooms.

Highlights
Must-see attractions

Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Cherry blossoms & pleasant weather
Chenshan Botanical Garden
Best Time
Cherry blossoms & pleasant weather

Highlights
Must-see attractions
Shanghai's vast botanical oasis, featuring stunning glasshouses, a unique quarry garden, and vibrant seasonal blooms.
"A dreamy wonderland of colorful flowers and lush landscapes, totally unexpected and totally worth it!"
Plan for Travel Time 🚇
It's a long metro and bus ride from downtown, so allocate ample travel time.
Explore the Domes First 🌿
Head to the impressive glasshouse conservatories early to avoid crowds and enjoy the best light.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

The Dazzling Glasshouse Conservatories
Indoor Domes
Three massive domes housing exotic plants, flowers, and even waterfalls. A tropical paradise awaits!

The Enchanting Quarry Garden
Quarry Area
A unique landscape carved into a former quarry, offering dramatic views and diverse flora.

Seasonal Flower Displays
Various Garden Areas
From vibrant cherry blossoms in spring to colorful blooms throughout the year, witness nature's artistry.

Hidden Waterfalls
Within Glasshouses and Gardens
Discover serene waterfalls tucked away, adding a magical element to the lush scenery.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Plan Your Escape to Nature
Embrace the Domes and Gardens
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Plan for Travel Time 🚇
It's a long metro and bus ride from downtown, so allocate ample travel time.
Explore the Domes First 🌿
Head to the impressive glasshouse conservatories early to avoid crowds and enjoy the best light.
Wear Comfortable Shoes 👟
You'll be doing a lot of walking across the expansive gardens.
Check Seasonal Blooms 🌸
Visit during peak bloom seasons like spring for cherry blossoms for a truly magical experience.
Tips
from all over the internet
Plan for Travel Time 🚇
It's a long metro and bus ride from downtown, so allocate ample travel time.
Explore the Domes First 🌿
Head to the impressive glasshouse conservatories early to avoid crowds and enjoy the best light.
Wear Comfortable Shoes 👟
You'll be doing a lot of walking across the expansive gardens.
Check Seasonal Blooms 🌸
Visit during peak bloom seasons like spring for cherry blossoms for a truly magical experience.
Pack Snacks & Water 💧
While there are facilities, bringing your own can be convenient for a full day of exploration.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors rave about Chenshan Botanical Garden as a stunning natural escape from Shanghai's urban sprawl, particularly praising its impressive glasshouse conservatories and unique Quarry Garden. While the journey can be long, most agree the beauty and tranquility of the gardens make it well worth the effort. Some note that it can get crowded during peak bloom seasons.
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Getting to Chenshan Botanical Garden involves a metro and bus journey. Take Metro Line 9 to Dongjing Station, then transfer to Bus Songjiang 75 or 95 to reach the garden. It's a significant travel time, so plan accordingly.
Yes, it is accessible by public transport, primarily via Metro Line 9 and connecting buses. Be prepared for a longer commute compared to attractions closer to the city center.
For a day trip, combining the metro and bus is the most common and cost-effective method. Ensure you check the latest bus schedules to optimize your travel time.
Direct transport options are limited. The most efficient route typically involves Metro Line 9 followed by a bus transfer.
The journey from downtown Shanghai can take anywhere from 1.5 to 2 hours, depending on your starting point and connection times.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Chenshan Botanical Garden typically opens around 8:00 AM and closes at 5:00 PM or 5:30 PM, with last entry usually an hour before closing. It's always best to check their official website for the most up-to-date hours, especially for seasonal events.
Admission fees are generally affordable, often around 15-20 RMB for general entry. Special exhibitions or night events might have separate ticketing.
While on-site purchase is common, it's advisable to check if online booking options are available, especially during peak seasons or for special events, to save time.
Information on discounts for students, seniors, or children is usually available at the ticket counter or on the garden's official communication channels. It's worth inquiring upon arrival.
Visiting on weekdays, especially in the morning or late afternoon, can help you avoid the largest crowds. Spring and autumn are popular, so consider mid-week visits during these seasons.
📸 📸 Photography
The glasshouse conservatories offer stunning architectural and botanical shots. The Quarry Garden provides dramatic landscapes, and during bloom seasons, the cherry blossoms and flower fields are incredibly photogenic.
Drone usage is typically restricted in botanical gardens and public parks to ensure the safety and enjoyment of all visitors. It's best to assume drones are not permitted unless explicitly stated otherwise.
The 'golden hours' – shortly after sunrise and before sunset – offer the most beautiful natural light for photography. Midday can be harsh, but the glasshouses provide diffused light.
Yes, during events like the cherry blossom festival or night illuminations, unique photographic opportunities arise, offering a different perspective of the gardens.
Generally, personal cameras and tripods are allowed. However, for professional shoots or large equipment, it's advisable to contact the garden administration beforehand to inquire about permits or regulations.
🎫 🌿 Onsite Experience
The three massive glasshouse conservatories are a highlight, featuring diverse plant life and waterfalls. The Quarry Garden offers a unique landscape, and seasonal flower displays are spectacular.
Absolutely. With its vast size and diverse attractions, you can easily spend a full day exploring the different themed gardens, conservatories, and scenic spots.
Yes, the garden is equipped with restrooms and usually has cafes or snack bars available for visitors.
You'll find an incredible variety, from tropical plants and desert flora in the domes to local species and seasonal blooms throughout the outdoor gardens.
While many main paths are paved, the expansive nature of the garden and some uneven terrain in areas like the Quarry Garden might present challenges. It's best to inquire about specific accessibility routes.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Consider visiting during less crowded times, like weekday mornings, to make the experience more enjoyable for younger children. The sheer variety of plants and the unique landscapes like the Quarry Garden can spark curiosity and wonder in kids of all ages.
🚶♀️ Nature Enthusiasts & Photographers
Photographers will appreciate the varied landscapes, from the architectural beauty of the domes to the naturalistic settings of the outdoor gardens. Visiting during the 'golden hours' or during seasonal blooms like cherry blossoms will yield the most stunning shots. Remember to check for any specific photography regulations if you plan on using professional equipment.
💑 Couples Seeking a Romantic Escape
Pack a picnic to enjoy amidst the lush greenery, or simply find a quiet bench to soak in the peaceful ambiance. The glasshouse conservatories also offer a unique, almost tropical, setting for a romantic outing, especially on a cooler day.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Marvel of the Glasshouse Conservatories
Each dome offers a unique sensory experience. The sheer scale and diversity of plants within these structures make them a highlight for any visitor, providing a glimpse into ecosystems that might otherwise be inaccessible. It's a fantastic opportunity to see rare and exotic plants up close, making it a must-visit for plant enthusiasts and curious travelers alike.
These conservatories are not just for viewing; they are educational spaces that showcase the importance of biodiversity and conservation. The careful maintenance and presentation of the plants ensure a visually stunning and informative visit, regardless of the season outside.
Exploring the Unique Quarry Garden
Walking through the Quarry Garden feels like stepping into a different world. The natural contours of the quarry have been artfully integrated with botanical displays, creating a sense of discovery around every corner. It’s a place where nature has reclaimed an industrial space, resulting in a visually striking and memorable experience.
This area is particularly interesting for its geological features and the resilient plant life that thrives there. It’s a testament to how nature can adapt and flourish, offering visitors a unique perspective on landscape design and ecological recovery.
Seasonal Spectacles: Blooms and Night Views
Beyond the spring blooms, the garden offers a continuous display of color. Visitors can expect to see various flowers and plants in bloom during other seasons, making it a year-round destination for nature lovers. The garden's horticulturalists work diligently to ensure there's always something beautiful to behold.
Adding another layer of magic, the garden sometimes offers night viewing events, particularly during cherry blossom season. Imagine wandering through a wonderland of pink blossoms illuminated by gentle lights – a truly dreamy and romantic experience that transforms the garden into an enchanted space.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit