Tourist Spot - Yu Gardens Yuyuan Bazaa

December 12, 2009

Introduction to Yuyuan Bazaar or Old Town:

Known by lots of different names such as the Yu Gardens, Yuyuan, Yuyuan Bazaar, and Old Town, the area that surrounds Shanghai's most famous classical garden is tourist central. Flocks of domestic and foreign tourists alike head to the area to get their fill of culture. It can be kitschy but it's always fun. All kinds of treasures are located in this small area that was once a walled enclave of Chinese-only when Shanghai was divided into foreign concessions.

Location:

The garden itself, Yu Yuan, (豫园 "yoo yooahn", which literally means Yu Garden), is in the center of Nan Shi (南市, "nahn shih") the old Chinese part of town. Chinese cities were traditionally walled and the Nan Shi walls date from the 16th century but were torn down in 1912. (A remnant remains on Renmin Road.) Surrounding the garden is the bazaar and surrounding the bazaar is a maze of old laneways and alleys where locals live. On a map, it's quite easy to find as Renmin and Zhonghua Roads make a circle around the area.

The old city is located just south of Yan'an Road and the Bund.

Features:

Here is a quick list of the main things to see in Old Town and the Bazaar, but much of the fun is just to wander through the lanes. Arm yourself with a map. Many of the small alleys aren't labeled but eventually you'll find a main street.

* Yu Yuan (garden) - the classical Ming garden that was built originally in the 16th century.
* Huxingting Tea House - the stately floating structure sits outside the gardens in a pond and is accessed by the "nine-turning bridge".
* Nanxiang Dumplings - just sidle up in the line (that can take over an hour) for some xiao long bao.
* Central Fangbang Road - a main artery full of curio shops.

Getting There:

Best to take a taxi. Many of the streets are one-way or blocked on weekends. The taxi will drop you in the area and then you can wander around. You'll know you're in the right place when you see classical Chinese architecture.

How Much Time to Spend:

Plan to spend a nice half-day wandering around, especially if you also want to see the garden and do some shopping. It's nice to go in the morning and then stop somewhere for a dumpling lunch.

Tips:

* Don't try to leave the area on a weekday between 4-6pm. Trying to get a taxi out of the area can be a nightmare.
* The area is fun to see at night. All the eaves of the buildings are lit up and you can get some fun night photos.
* Try some of the Shanghai snacks that can be found in the bazaar around the garden and Huxingting Tea House.
* Be careful with your valuables, it's a crowded place and easy pickings for pickpockets.

Source: Shanghai Tour, Shanghai Tourist Spot at About.com