How to Get to Yuyuan Garden: Metro & Walking Guide

If you’re planning a trip to Shanghai, chances are Yuyuan Garden is already on your must-see list. And honestly, it should be.

This classical Chinese garden is in the city center. It offers a peaceful break from the tall buildings, traffic, and bright lights.

In this guide, I will show you how to get to Yuyuan Garden. I will explain what to expect when you arrive. You will learn how to enjoy your visit without feeling rushed or overwhelmed.

What Is Yuyuan Garden and Why Does It Matter?

Before we dive into directions, it helps to understand why this place is so special.

Yuyuan Garden is a classical Chinese garden dating back over 400 years to the Ming Dynasty. They first built it as a private garden for a government official's family. The intention was to bring peace and harmony to aging parents. Today, it stands as one of the most important historical landmarks in Shanghai.

What makes the garden special is not just its age. The careful mix of buildings, water features, rock gardens, pavilions, and meaningful designs creates a harmonious environment. Every bridge, corridor, and courtyard tells a story. Even though it is near a busy commercial area, the garden feels calm and timeless.

Where is the Yuyuan Garden Located in Shanghai

Yuyuan Garden sits in Huangpu District, one of Shanghai’s most central and historic areas. Part of a larger cultural zone includes traditional markets, tea houses, and old-style architecture.

The garden is in a central location. This makes it easy to connect with other famous areas of the city. You can easily include it in a full-day sightseeing plan.

Yuyuan Garden Station and Metro Access

The easiest way to reach the garden is by metro.

La station Yuyuan Garden est desservie par la ligne 10 et la ligne 14 du métro de Shanghai. Une fois que vous quittez la station, prenez la sortie 1. C'est la plus pratique. Ensuite, il vous faudra environ 5 à 8 minutes à pied pour atteindre l'entrée principale.

Shanghai’s metro system is clean, safe, English-friendly, and clearly marked. Even if you don’t speak Chinese, station signs, maps, and announcements make navigation straightforward.

Walking Distance From The Bund

If you’re already exploring the Bund, you’re closer than you think.

From the riverside promenade, it’s roughly a 15–20 minute walk to Yuyuan Garden. The walk itself is enjoyable—you’ll pass historic buildings, small shops, and local street life. A great way to experience Shanghai beyond tourist hotspots exists.

Many travelers choose to visit the Bund in the morning and head to the garden before lunch. That combination works surprisingly well.

How to Get to Yuyuan Garden From Major Shanghai Landmarks

If you are planning your route in the city, here are the best ways to reach Yuyuan Garden. These routes come from some of Shanghai’s most popular landmarks.

From Nanjing Road

Nanjing Road is Shanghai’s most famous shopping street and is located relatively close to Yuyuan Garden.

If you are near East Nanjing Road Station, take the Shanghai Metro Line 10 and get off at Yuyuan Garden Station. From there, it’s a short 3–5 minute walk to the garden entrance.

Many visitors walk from Nanjing Road to Yuyuan Garden. This walk usually takes about 15 to 20 minutes. The time depends on where you start along the street. This route allows you to experience the transition from modern commercial areas to the historic old city.

From People’s Square, Shanghai

People’s Square, Shanghai, is one of the city’s main transportation hubs.

From People’s Square Station, take Metro Line 1 or Line 2 to East Nanjing Road Station. Once there, transfer to Line 10 and travel one stop to Yuyuan Garden Station.

The total metro journey typically takes 10–15 minutes, followed by a short walk from the station to the garden. You can walk directly from People’s Square. It usually takes 20 to 25 minutes. This option is less convenient for first-time visitors.

From The Bund

If you’re visiting the Bund, walking is often the simplest option.

The distance is about 1.5 to 2 kilometers. The walk usually takes 15 to 25 minutes. This depends on where you start. The route passes through historic streets and offers a more local view of Shanghai.

If you like public transportation, you can walk to East Nanjing Road Station. From there, take Metro Line 10. Get off at Yuyuan Garden Station and walk a few minutes to the entrance.

Do You Need Tickets for Yuyuan Garden

This is one of the most common questions travelers ask: Do you need tickets for Yuyuan Garden?

The short answer is yes—but with some exceptions.

The surrounding Yuyuan Bazaar area is free to enter and open to the public. You can explore shops, snack streets, and photo spots without paying anything.

However, to enter the inner garden, you’ll need to purchase a ticket.

Ticket prices are affordable and vary slightly by season. You can buy tickets at the entrance or through official online platforms. During peak travel seasons, it’s smart to arrive early to avoid lines.

Yuyuan Garden Opening Hours

Yuyuan Garden opening hours generally follow a daytime schedule.

Typically open from 8:30 AM to 5:30 PM
Last entry is usually about one hour before closing.

Hours may change on public holidays or special events. A good idea is to check the official notice before your visit.

Morning visits tend to be quieter and more relaxing, especially for photos without crowds.

Best Time to Visit Yuyuan Garden

Timing matters more than most people realize.

Best seasons:

Spring (March–May): mild weather, flowers in bloom
Autumn (September–November): cooler temperatures, clear skies

Best time of day:

Early morning for fewer crowds
Late afternoon for softer light and atmosphere

Avoid weekends and national holidays if possible. The garden is popular with both tourists and locals, and it can get extremely crowded during peak times.