Shanghai: Yuyuan Garden

Located in Huangpu District, the center of Shanghai City, Yuyuan Garden was originally built in 1959 by a government officer of the Ming Dynasty (1368-1644) named Pan Yunduan. It is a private garden which is specially built for Pan’s parents as a place for them to enjoy a tranquil and happy time in their old age.

The garden gives a full display of Chinese classical garden architectural and design style. Covering an area of 20,000 square meters (about five acres), Yuyuan Garden is one of the famous classical gardens in lower Yangtze River area. With its long history and beautiful sceneries, it has been one of the popular tourists attractions in Shanghai and has attracted numerous visitors every year. There are six main scenic areas in the garden: Sansui Hall, Wanhua Chamber, Dianchun Hall, Huijing Hall, Yuhua Hall and the Inner Garden. Each area features several scenic spots within its borders.

I went there during my Shanghai Xian tour last year in March, and I remember it was time for Plum blossoms. Chinese people are particularly fond of plums, while traveling in Xian, you will see another group of Japanese Sakura in Qinglong Temple, which usually blooms in early April.