A Model of Classical Gardens in the Jiangnan Region｜Half-Day Tour of Guyi Garden

👍Introduction: Guyi Garden is one of the five classical gardens in Shanghai. Originally built during the Jiajing period of the Ming Dynasty (1522–1566), it was first named “Yiyuan,” inspired by the phrase “green bamboo yiyi” from the Book of Songs, highlighting its bamboo scenery. The garden was designed by Zhu Sansong, a renowned bamboo carving artist from Jiading. In the eleventh year of the Qianlong Emperor's reign (1746), Ye Jin purchased the garden and renamed it “Guyi Garden,” meaning “ancient garden from a past era,” and carried out extensive renovations. The garden has undergone multiple destructions and restorations due to wars. For instance, the Japanese invasion in 1932 caused significant damage, and during its reconstruction in 1933 by patriots, the “Quejiao Pavilion” (with its northeast corner missing, symbolizing the fall of Northeast China) was intentionally built to represent national humiliation. In 2006, it was designated as a National AAAA Tourist Attraction. Precious cultural relics such as the Tang Dynasty scripture pillar and the Song Dynasty Putong Pagoda are still preserved within the garden. 📍Recommended Tour: Recommended Spots 1. Yiye Hall: The main hall of the garden, built in the Ming Dynasty style, once served as a gathering place for literati. Inside hangs a plaque inscribed by Dong Qichang with the words “Huayan Mohai.” In front of the hall, the unusual peaks and the lotus pond complement each other, creating a poetic scene, especially during the Mid-Autumn Festival when appreciating osmanthus flowers. 2. Xie’e Pond and Buxizhou: White geese play in the pond, and on the bank sits the Ming Dynasty stone boat “Buxizhou.” Surrounded by water on three sides, with exquisite carvings, it symbolizes the charm of the Jiangnan water towns. 3. Quejiao Pavilion (Buque Pavilion): Built in 1933, the pavilion's roof is uniquely missing its northeast corner, symbolizing the pain of the fall of Northeast China. The other three corners are sculpted with raised fists, demonstrating national integrity, making it an important symbol of patriotic education. 4. Qingqing Garden and Bamboo Culture: “Qingqing Garden” features bamboo landscaping, with over 20 rare bamboo species planted, including Buddha's Belly Bamboo and Golden-striped Jade Bamboo. Structures like the Hefengzhulu Pavilion and the Cuiai Tower are nestled among the bamboo shadows, fully displaying the classical charm of “yiyi green bamboo.” 5. Nanxiang Mural and the Legend of the White Crane: The relief mural depicts the legend of “White Crane Flying South”: A Tang Dynasty farmer unearthed a crane while digging, and after a monk built a temple, the crane flew south, giving Nanxiang Town its name. The White Crane Pavilion echoes the Xie’e Pond, adding a touch of mythology. Half-Day Tour Route: Enter through the South Gate → Nanxiang Mural → Yiye Hall → Xie’e Pond → Quejiao Pavilion → Qingqing Garden → Yuanyang Lake, taking approximately 2–3 hrs. 🚗Transportation: - Subway: Take Line 11 to Nanxiang Station, Exit 1/2 and walk for 15 mins, or transfer to Nanxiang Bus No. 1/2 for direct access. - Bus: Take Bus No. 62, 821, or the Hutang Special Line to “Guyi Garden Station.” - Car: Take the S5 Hu-Jia Expressway from the Middle Ring Road to the Nanxiang Exit, and follow Huyi Highway to reach the garden. 🎟Opening Hours and Tickets: Tickets: Full price: CNY 12; Student ticket: CNY 6; Free for seniors aged 65 and above. Opening Hours: - South Gate: 7am–6:30pm (May 1–Oct 31); 7am–6pm (Nov 1–Apr 30) - North Gate: 5:30am–7:30pm (Summer); 6am–5pm (Winter) 💗Other Tips: Plum Blossom Viewing: Plum blossoms are currently in bloom. The best spots for plum blossom viewing in the garden are near the Weiying Pavilion and along the Plum Blossom Gallery to the Plum Blossom Hall, where various plum blossoms are in full bloom. Bees are actively collecting nectar, so please be cautious when taking photos. Photography: Wear *hanfu* or *cheongsam* for photos. The bamboo paths, stone boat, and lotus pond are ideal photo spots. Food: Try authentic Nanxiang *xiaolongbao* at the “Guyi Garden Restaurant” to the left of the South Gate.