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Visit the stunning classical gardens in Yangzhou, especially the Slender West Lake Garden. Enjoy a peaceful boat ride, stroll through the pavilions, bridges, and beautifully landscaped paths, and appreciate the traditional Chinese horticultural designs. Don’t miss the chance to experience the local culture and tranquil atmosphere.
Ge Garden, located at No. 10 Yanfu East Road in the northeast corner of Guangling District, Yangzhou City, Jiangsu Province, has been designated a "National Key Cultural Relics Protection Unit" in the third batch and a "National Key Park" in the first batch. This private garden, originally owned by a Yangzhou salt merchant during the Qing Dynasty, is renowned for its extensive bamboo plantings and its distinctive rockery throughout the seasons. Huang Zhiyun, the general manager of the Lianghuai Salt Industry, expanded the original Ming Dynasty "Shouzhi Garden" into a residential garden in 1818, the 23rd year of the Jiaqing reign of the Qing Dynasty.
Suitable for all seasons
1-2 hours
Peak season: 45.00 yuan Off-season: 30.00 yuan
8:00-16:30
Yangzhou is an ancient city with a rich history that dates back more than 2,500 years. The gardens here reflect traditional Chinese garden aesthetics, combining natural beauty with human craftsmanship. The Slender West Lake Garden is particularly famous for its cultural and architectural significance, and has been listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
The gardens are located in the city center of Yangzhou, Jiangsu Province. You can easily reach the site by taxi or bus. Public transportation and walking are convenient options, especially for exploring the nearby areas in the city center.
The garden is typically open from 8:00 AM to 6:00 PM. The best times to visit are early morning or late afternoon to avoid crowds and enjoy the peaceful ambiance. Spring and autumn are the most pleasant seasons for visiting due to the mild weather.
The entrance fee is usually around 50 RMB. Tickets can be purchased on-site or online through various local ticketing platforms. It's advisable to check in advance, especially during peak tourist seasons.
Booking tickets in advance is not strictly necessary, but it's recommended during peak seasons like national holidays. You can book tickets online a few days ahead to ensure availability.
It takes about 2 to 3 hours to fully explore the garden and its surroundings. If you plan to relax and take a boat ride or enjoy tea at a pavilion, allow extra time.
The must-see highlights include the main pavilion, the Long Corridor, the ancient bridges, and the picturesque West Lake. Don’t miss the boat ride along the lake for an unforgettable view of the scenic gardens.
Guided tours are available in Mandarin, and some may offer English-speaking guides, though they are less common. Audio guides in multiple languages, including English, can also be rented at the entrance.
The best photography spots include the bridges, particularly the one leading to the Pavilion on the Lake. The reflection of the gardens on the water creates beautiful photo opportunities, especially at sunrise or sunset.
Start by exploring the main pavilion and surrounding areas. Then, take a boat ride along the lake before strolling through the Long Corridor and the other garden sections. Be sure to stop at scenic spots for photos along the way.
While the garden is generally not open for night visits, certain festivals and holidays may feature special light displays and cultural performances in the evening. Check local listings for any events before your visit.
The garden can get crowded, especially on weekends and during public holidays. To avoid crowds, visit during weekdays or early in the morning. Late autumn and early spring are also less crowded times.
The garden is equipped with clean toilets, rest areas, and several kiosks selling food and drinks. There are also souvenir shops offering traditional crafts and local specialties.
The garden is generally accessible for elderly visitors and children, but some areas, such as narrow walkways and steps, may pose difficulties. For disabled visitors, it is advisable to check with the staff for the most accessible routes.
Both cash and mobile payment options (like WeChat Pay and Alipay) are accepted throughout the site. Credit cards may be accepted at some souvenir shops but are not common in food stalls.
There are several local restaurants near the garden offering Jiangsu cuisine. Popular dishes include Yangzhou fried rice and local seafood. Tea houses inside the garden offer a traditional experience.
Vegetarian and vegan options are available in some local restaurants, particularly in vegetable-based dishes. Halal food may be more limited but can be found at some nearby restaurants catering to Muslim visitors.
There are several mid-range and luxury hotels near the garden, such as the Yangzhou Guomao Hotel and the Holiday Inn Yangzhou, offering convenient access to the attraction.
Nearby attractions include the Daming Temple, Geyuan Garden, and the Yangzhou Museum. These can easily be combined in a day trip to explore the cultural and historical richness of the city.
Souvenir shops inside and near the garden sell local handicrafts such as tea sets, silk products, and traditional art pieces. Popular items include carved wooden figures and calligraphy scrolls.
After visiting the garden, taxis and buses are readily available for further exploration. The Yangzhou Railway Station is nearby, offering train services to other cities in Jiangsu and beyond.
