Guyi Garden Nanxiang
A serene 16th-century classical Chinese garden offering a peaceful escape with pavilions, ponds, and bonsai, far from Shanghai's usual crowds.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Sakura in full bloom
Guyi Garden Nanxiang
Best Time
Sakura in full bloom
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A serene 16th-century classical Chinese garden offering a peaceful escape with pavilions, ponds, and bonsai, far from Shanghai's usual crowds.
"Much bigger and nicer than Yuyuan Garden. Lovely design, gorgeous Sakura trees and charming bonsais."
Wear comfy shoes! 👟
You'll be walking for hours to explore this expansive and beautiful garden.
Pack snacks & water 💧
Bring your own provisions as you'll spend a whole day here and need to refuel.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Serene Garden Landscapes
Throughout the garden
Wander through meticulously designed pavilions, shrines, and tranquil ponds. A true oasis of calm.
Charming Bonsai Collection
Various sections
Admire the artistry of ancient bonsai trees, showcasing delicate craftsmanship and natural beauty.
Traditional Architecture
Throughout the garden
Explore beautifully reconstructed ancient town streets and admire the classic Chinese garden buildings.
Sakura Blossom Spectacle
Throughout the garden
During spring, the garden bursts with vibrant Sakura trees, creating a breathtaking floral display.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Escape the Crowds, Embrace Tranquility
Getting There & Entry
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Wear comfy shoes! 👟
You'll be walking for hours to explore this expansive and beautiful garden.
Pack snacks & water 💧
Bring your own provisions as you'll spend a whole day here and need to refuel.
Visit Nanxiang Old Town
Explore the reconstructed ancient streets next to the garden for a fuller experience.
Capture the beauty 📸
Hundreds of photo opportunities with trees, flowers, buildings, and water features.
Tips
from all over the internet
Wear comfy shoes! 👟
You'll be walking for hours to explore this expansive and beautiful garden.
Pack snacks & water 💧
Bring your own provisions as you'll spend a whole day here and need to refuel.
Visit Nanxiang Old Town
Explore the reconstructed ancient streets next to the garden for a fuller experience.
Capture the beauty 📸
Hundreds of photo opportunities with trees, flowers, buildings, and water features.
Enjoy local life 🎶
See locals playing music and games, adding to the authentic charm.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors rave about Guyi Garden's serene beauty and spaciousness, often calling it underrated and a peaceful escape from Shanghai's hustle. Many appreciate its traditional architecture, charming bonsai, and the opportunity to see locals enjoying the space. While some mention it's a bit further out, the tranquility and affordability make it a highly recommended destination.
"Very underrated. Much bigger and nicer than Yuyuan Garden. Lovely design, gorgeous Sakura trees and charming bonsais. Though a tourist destination, it’s not nearly as crowded as other gardens and you can see locals playing music and games. The temple and reconstructed ancient town streets right next to it are worth a visit too."
Ana
"Unbelievably beautiful garden with amazing buildings.
I spent one whole day in this garden and I can say it was not even enough to see the whole area completely.
The first thing I recommend is to carry enough food and water with you because you will spend a whole day and you have to walk for hours. so you will need to refill your energy.
I hardly can describe its beauty and the peace you feel there.
I took hundreds of pictures.
And I saw young girls with traditional costumes taking pictures there.
Trees flower buildings the sound of the wind birds bridges river everything was just wow.
I really say it was a true heaven on the earth!
If one day I go to Shanghai again for 100% I will visit this garden again.
The interesting thing is that I accidentally found this place.
You do not need to buy a ticket in advance and you do not need to wait to enter the garden.
Just go and enjoy this heavenly place!"
Mahdiyeh Zamankhanpour
"One of my favourite gardens of Shanghai. It's a little bit further from the city centre, but it's definitely worth a visit. Line 11 will take you towards Nanxiang Station, from there it's a 15 minute walk to the entrance. Admission ticket is CNY 12.
Guyi Garden is very big, there's no dedicated path as far as I'm aware. But all the sections are numbered, so if you follow these numbers in order I guess there's some kind of path.
You can easily spend around two hours here, there's a nice variety of buildings, pagodas, ponds, trees and bamboo, and some cats wandering around."
Tim P.
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Take Metro Line 11 towards Nanxiang Station. From the station, it's about a 15-minute walk to the garden entrance.
Yes, Metro Line 11 provides direct access to Nanxiang Station, making it convenient to reach.
The metro is the most straightforward and cost-effective method. Plan for the walk from the station.
Information on specific parking facilities is limited, but public transport is highly recommended.
Travel time will vary depending on your starting point in Shanghai, but budget at least 45-60 minutes for the metro ride itself.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Admission is very affordable, typically around CNY 12. You can purchase tickets directly at the entrance.
No, advance ticket purchase is not necessary. You can buy tickets upon arrival without waiting.
Opening hours can vary seasonally, but it's generally open during daylight hours. It's best to check locally or closer to your visit date.
Yes, there is a main entrance where you can purchase your admission tickets.
Information on discounts is not widely available, but the standard admission price is very reasonable.
📸 📸 Photography
Everywhere! From the tranquil ponds and pavilions to the intricate bonsai and blooming Sakura trees, the entire garden is a photographer's dream.
Yes, you'll often see visitors in traditional attire, and capturing these moments adds to the charm of your photos.
Drone usage is typically restricted in most historical and garden sites in China. It's best to assume it's not permitted to avoid issues.
Early mornings offer soft light and fewer crowds, ideal for capturing the serene beauty. Springtime for Sakura is also spectacular.
Generally, standard photography is allowed. Be mindful of other visitors and avoid intrusive behavior.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
While the garden itself is focused on natural beauty, there are restaurants and shops within the adjacent Nanxiang Old Town area, including the famous Guyi Garden Restaurant for Xiao Long Bao.
The Nanxiang area is renowned for its Xiao Long Bao (soup dumplings). Guyi Garden Restaurant is a historic spot to try them.
It's highly recommended to bring your own food and water, as exploring the large garden can take a full day and options inside might be limited.
While the primary focus is the garden, there might be limited refreshment options. It's safer to rely on bringing your own or dining in the nearby town.
Nanxiang Old Town offers a traditional culinary experience, with many eateries serving local specialties like Xiao Long Bao.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Pack plenty of snacks and drinks as options within the garden might be limited, ensuring kids stay happy and energized. The adjacent Nanxiang Old Town offers opportunities to try local treats like Xiao Long Bao, which can be a fun culinary adventure for the whole family.
🚶 Budget Travelers
To keep costs down further, bring your own food and water instead of purchasing them inside or at nearby tourist traps.
📸 Photography Enthusiasts
Aim for early morning visits to capture the soft, golden light and avoid crowds, which can detract from the serene atmosphere.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Exploring the Expansive Beauty of Guyi Garden
One of the garden's most striking features is its collection of beautifully preserved bonsai trees and the vibrant Sakura trees that paint the landscape with color in spring. The traditional Chinese architecture, including reconstructed ancient town streets adjacent to the garden, adds another layer of historical and cultural richness. Many visitors find themselves spending an entire day here, captivated by the harmony of nature, art, and history. The presence of locals enjoying music and games further enhances the authentic, lived-in feel of the garden.
For those seeking a genuine taste of classical Chinese garden design without the overwhelming crowds, Guyi Garden is an exceptional choice. Its off-the-beaten-track location contributes to its peacefulness, allowing for a more immersive and personal experience. Whether you're a history buff, a nature lover, or simply seeking a moment of calm in Shanghai, Guyi Garden promises a rewarding visit.
Culinary Delights in Nanxiang
Beyond the renowned dumplings, the Nanxiang Old Town adjacent to the garden offers a broader culinary landscape. Visitors can explore various eateries and taverns that provide a taste of local Shanghainese cuisine. Given the extensive nature of Guyi Garden, it's a wise tip from travelers to pack your own snacks and water to ensure you stay energized throughout your exploration.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit