Yu Garden – An Architectural Miracle
March 26th, 2010 | 
Author: Yu Garden – An Architectural Miracle
Also known as the Yu Yuan Garden the Yu Garden is the most celebrated and lavish classical garden in Shanghai giving a great example of the traditional Chinese gardening as well as the ancient architecture in China. The recognition it has as “an architectural miracle in the region south of Yangtze River” makes it a mustvisit for any tourist for an enriched travel experience in Shanghai.
Located in the center of Shanghai’s Old City the Yu Garden shows every aspects of Ming Dynastys traditional style and Suzhou garden design. It features over 30 pavilions linked by a maze of corridors numerous rock and tree garden areas and zigzagging bridges over ponds. The major areas of interest include the Grand Rockery and the Exquisite Jade Rock a slender lucid rock with a wrinkled appearance. Another highlight is the famous “dragon walls” which separate the garden areas.
The 400yearold Yu Gardens has an interesting history which starts with a local official first building it as a private garden for his parents use. The garden is abandoned with the decline of the original family and during the 19th century it is bought by merchants. After being occupied by the British army and imperial troops it gets damaged by Japanese. Later the Shanghai government restores the garden complex and after being opened to the public for some time it is being declared as a national monument.
The Yu Gardens are one of the country’s most popular landmarks and is perfect for a relaxing stroll to get away from the modern Shanghai. A Shanghai traveler should certainly visit it especially during the springtime when the beauty of the landscape is at its peak. If you are planning to stay in a Shanghai Hotel during your visit Millennium Hongqiao Hotel Shanghai would be ideal for your stay which is located within 8 km from the Yu Gardens.
About the writer: Pushpitha Wijesinghe is an experienced independent freelance writer. He specializes in providing a wide variety of content and articles related to the travel hospitality industry.
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