
Xu Garden is an ancient Chinese garden dating back to the Qing Dynasty. Located within Slender West Lake Park in Yangzhou City, Jiangsu Province, Xu Garden's "garden within a garden" is a hallmark of Slender West Lake. Constructed on the site of the former "Taohuawu" (Peach Blossom Vault), Xu Garden is situated at the northern end of Chunliu (Spring Willow) Causeway near Slender West Lake, formerly the site of Taohuawu (Peach Blossom Vault) at Han Garden in the early Qing Dynasty.
Suitable for all seasons
2-3 hours
free
7:30-17:30
Changdi Xu Garden is a historic classical Chinese garden in Yangzhou, known for its traditional design and cultural heritage. The garden is a prime example of Jiangnan garden style, which combines natural beauty with architectural elegance. It was designed to offer a space for scholars and officials to relax and reflect.
Changdi Xu Garden is located in the central area of Yangzhou, Jiangsu Province. It can be easily accessed by taxi, bus, or walking from the city center. There is no metro system in Yangzhou, so taxis and local buses are the most common options for visitors.
The garden is typically open from 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM daily. The best times to visit are during the spring and autumn months when the weather is pleasant, and the garden's flora is at its peak. Visiting early in the morning or later in the afternoon also helps avoid larger crowds.
The entrance fee for Changdi Xu Garden is usually around 30-50 RMB. Tickets can be purchased at the entrance of the garden, and some online platforms may also offer tickets in advance.
Booking tickets in advance is generally not necessary unless you are visiting during a busy tourist season or public holidays. For peak times, it is advisable to book tickets 1-2 days in advance to ensure entry.
You can fully explore the garden in about 1-2 hours, depending on your pace. This allows enough time to walk around, take photos, and enjoy the peaceful surroundings.
Guided tours are available in Mandarin, but English-speaking guides may be limited. Audio guides might also be available, primarily in Mandarin. It’s recommended to check in advance or arrange a private guide if you prefer information in English.
The best photography spots are by the central pond and near the stone bridges. The traditional pavilions, rockeries, and paths are also excellent spots for capturing the beauty of the garden, particularly in early morning or late afternoon light.
Begin your visit by walking along the main pathway toward the central pond, then explore the surrounding areas, including the pavilions and rockeries. Afterward, stroll along the edge of the garden to enjoy views of the surrounding plants and ponds.
Night visits are not commonly available at Changdi Xu Garden, and there are no light shows. However, the garden is beautifully illuminated at night, offering a serene atmosphere for evening strolls, although public access may be limited.
The garden can be crowded on weekends and during holidays. The least crowded times are weekday mornings, especially during off-peak seasons like winter and early spring.
Basic facilities such as toilets and rest areas are available within the garden. There are also small kiosks selling snacks and drinks. For a wider range of food and drink options, visit nearby restaurants in Yangzhou city.
The garden has paved pathways, making it accessible for elderly visitors and children. However, some areas may have steps or uneven ground that could be challenging for disabled visitors. It’s advisable to check with staff for specific accessibility information.
Mobile payments such as Alipay and WeChat Pay are widely accepted in the garden. Cash is also accepted, but mobile payment is preferred for convenience.
There are small food stalls inside the garden, but for more substantial meals, you can head to Yangzhou city center, where a variety of restaurants and cafes offer both local and international cuisine.
Vegetarian food options are available in local restaurants, and Yangzhou is known for its vegetarian cuisine. Vegan and halal options may be limited within the garden itself but can be found in the city.
There are several hotels near the garden, ranging from budget options to mid-range accommodations. For luxury stays, you can find higher-end hotels in the city center, such as Yangzhou’s upscale international hotels.
Souvenir shops in the area sell traditional Chinese crafts such as silk products, tea sets, calligraphy, and local artwork. Items related to the garden, like postcards and small art pieces, are also popular souvenirs.
After visiting the garden, you can take a taxi, bus, or private transportation to continue your trip. The Yangzhou bus station and train station are easily accessible for onward travel.