Finding Serenity Amidst the Hustle and Bustle: A Day at Yu Garden
Shanghai is a city that never sleeps. The hustle and bustle of the city can be overwhelming, but there are still pockets of serenity to be found. One such place is Yu Garden, a classical Chinese garden located in the heart of Shanghai’s old town.
Yu Garden was built during the Ming dynasty and has been renovated many times since then. It covers an area of 2 hectares and is divided into six areas, each with its own unique features. The garden is a maze of winding paths, ponds, pavilions, and bridges.
As soon as you enter the garden, you are transported to another world. The noise of the city fades away, replaced by the sound of water trickling from the fountains and birds chirping in the trees. The air is filled with the scent of flowers and the rustle of leaves.
One of the most impressive features of Yu Garden is its architecture. The garden is full of traditional Chinese buildings, including pavilions, halls, and bridges. Each building has a unique design and is decorated with intricate carvings and paintings. One of the most famous structures in the garden is the Exquisite Jade Rock, which is said to be the largest piece of green jasper in the world.
Despite its popularity, Yu Garden is surprisingly peaceful. Even on weekends, when the garden is packed with tourists, it’s possible to find quiet spots where you can sit and enjoy the scenery. The garden is also a great place for photography, with many beautiful spots to capture the perfect shot.
In addition to its natural beauty, Yu Garden is also home to many cultural events throughout the year. During the Chinese New Year, the garden hosts a lantern festival, where visitors can admire thousands of colorful lanterns hanging from the trees. There are also traditional Chinese performances, such as dragon and lion dances, that take place in the garden.
If you’re feeling peckish after exploring the garden, there are plenty of food options available. The Yu Garden Bazaar is located next to the garden and offers a wide range of snacks and souvenirs. You can try local delicacies such as fried dough sticks, steamed buns, and sugar painting.
Overall, spending a day at Yu Garden is an excellent way to escape the hustle and bustle of Shanghai. The garden’s serene atmosphere and beautiful scenery provide a much-needed break from the city’s chaos. Whether you’re interested in history, architecture, or just want to relax in a peaceful environment, Yu Garden is definitely worth a visit.
I hope you’re as excited as I am for what’s next, see you tomorrow.
Mary