Yu Garden (with baby)
How Baby-Friendly is Yu Garden?
What makes it 45% Baby-Friendly: Strollers fit only on main paths, no nursing rooms or diaper tables, many steps and open ponds pose risk; usable with planning, but most parents prefer the flatter bazaar area.
Positives:
- Stroller-friendly routes: The bazaar streets are flat and wide, ideal for most strollers.
- Free baby entry: Children under 1.3 m enter inner garden free (if you choose to enter).
- Nearby shops: Bazaar stalls sell water and basic supplies but not diapers.
Challenges:
- Inner garden access: Narrow, uneven paths and steps make stroller use inside the paid garden difficult.
- Lack of baby facilities: No changing stations or nursing rooms inside the garden grounds.
- Crowds: Midday peak crowds can be hard to navigate with a stroller.
What is Yu Garden?
- Ming dynasty officials commissioned Yu Garden in 1577 as a private retreat, and it now occupies two hectares within Shanghai’s historic Old City
- The garden integrates Ming and Qing dynasty pavilions, meandering rockeries, ornamental ponds and arched bridges into a cohesive landscape
- The site showcases traditional horticulture and landscape art through engraved calligraphy plaques, intricate stone carvings and preserved Ming and Qing architectural elements
What is so special about Yu Garden for with baby?
- Wide, flat bazaar paths suit strollers and babies.
- Free bridge-side photos at Nine-Turn Bridge after dusk.
- Relax with affordable tea and bun deals at Huxinting Teahouse.
- No garden entry fees for children under 1.3 m.
- Bring a compact stroller and portable changing kit.
Note: Yu Garden is 45% Baby-Friendly. You may want to consider other Baby-Friendly Things to Do in Shanghai for a more suitable experience.
Recommended visit duration: 1-2 hours
Why 1-2 hours visit duration is ideal for with baby: Allows time to stroll the stroller-friendly bazaar, enjoy a bridge photo stop, and rest for tea at a relaxed pace.
Baby-Friendly Activities in Yu Garden
Stroll Yuyuan Bazaar:
Walk the flat, wide market streets next to the garden with your stroller.
Tip: Go early or late to avoid peak crowds and keep the route smooth for your baby.
Evening photos at Nine-Turn Bridge:
Snap family photos on the lit-up bridge north of the garden’s main gate.
Tip: Visit after dusk when lanterns glow. Stay close to the railing for safety.
Tea break at Huxinting Teahouse:
Relax in indoor seating and taste jasmine or oolong tea near the garden entrance.
Tip: On Mondays, order the tea and vegetarian bun special for 10 CNY per set.
How to Make the Most of Your Visit to Yu Garden
- Beat the crowd: Arrive at opening time to enjoy quieter streets and shorter lines.
- Portable baby kit: Pack a changing mat, wipes, extra clothes, and snacks for on-the-go care.
- Find nursing rooms: Use the Suishenban WeChat mini-program to locate nearby public nursing rooms.
Reviews of Yu Garden
Soudamini Mohapatra
Yu Garden, Shanghai is a 400-year old garden built during the Ming Dynasty as a private garden. The garden has very intricate design structures, with traditional buildings, bridges, ponds and pavilions and the most beautiful Dragan wall. There are many scenic areas and each one is a big photo opportunity. The famous Yuyuan Bazaar is located right next to Yu Garden. The Chinese architecture and...
David Lee
Yu Garden is a magnificent Ming Dynasty oasis in Shanghai — an absolute essential for first-time visitors!! Inside, the classical Chinese architecture, meticulous rockeries, and the famous Nine-Turn Bridge offer a serene escape from Shanghai's modern pace, a must walk through for blissful life journey. The 'Yu' (Peace) in its name is well-earned. However, the immediate surrounding area, the Yuyua...
Yeo Choon Kuan (Jackson)
I was not able to get into the garden as I thought it will still be opened in the night. But fortunately the buildings outside the garden were awesome. It lighted up with great figurines on the water. It is indeed an amazing sight😀😀😀😀😀😀
Andrea Pasin
Yu Garden is definitely worth a visit to see a classic Ming Dynasty garden. It's beautiful and has some stunning architecture, especially the zigzag bridge. But be ready for the crowds, it can get packed, which takes a little away from the peaceful vibes. Overall it’s a great taste of historical Shanghai.
Edoardo Carta
A stunning garden in the center of Shanghai, where you can lose yourself in the beautiful buildings reconstructed in an ancient style. There's a wonderful perspective between the old buildings and the ultramodern skyscrapers that surround the garden. I always recommend a guide to point out any hidden gems in the garden.
When is the best time to visit Yu Garden (Shanghai, China)?
Visit in spring (Mar–May) or autumn (Sep–Oct) for mild weather. Avoid summer heat and slick stone paths after rain.
Explore These Activities
Typical Budget for a Family of 3 (2 Adults + 1 Baby)
| Item | Cost (Approx.) |
|---|---|
| Yuyuan Bazaar stroll | CNY 0 |
| Tea & bun at Huxinting Teahouse | CNY 20 |
| Snacks in Yuyuan Bazaar | CNY 50 |
| Total Estimated | CNY 70 |
Note: All prices are indicative and may vary. Please check directly with the venue for the most accurate and up-to-date information.
Content Notice: This content combines editorial expertise with AI assistance to ensure comprehensive and up-to-date information. Our team regularly curates and reviews all content for accuracy and relevance. Help Us Improve
Map of Yu Garden
Address: 四牌楼 Huangpu, Shanghai, China, 200000
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About Yu Garden
Opening Hours
Hours may vary during holidays, special events, and peak seasons. Please check the official website for the most up-to-date information.
Website
Official WebsitePhone Number
+86 21 6326 0830Explore Popular Things to Do
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