Dongrong Garden

Introducing Dongrong Garden

Located on Dongguan Street in Yangzhou, Dongrong Garden, formerly the residence of a salt merchant, is now a municipally protected cultural relic. After renovations, the gatehouse now stands on Dongguan Street, and a sign explaining the garden's name has been hung next to the gate.

The buildings in Dongrong Garden are distributed along three axes, arranged vertically from east to west: the East Axis, the Central Axis, and the West Axis. There are two gardens, one large and one small, behind the East and West Axis. All houses face south, with a gatehouse built along the street. Beyond the gatehouse is a courtyard, and north of the courtyard are residential buildings. The East and Central Axis have five courtyards, while the West Axis has two courtyards. The East Axis is three rooms wide, and the five rooms are distributed along the same axis from south to north: the front hall, the reception hall, the main hall, the second hall, and the residence. The Central Axis, from the gatehouse to the back, has the reception hall, the main hall, the front residence, and the middle residence, all three rooms wide. The rear residence is five rooms wide, with a side hall to the east and a flower hall to the west. The West Axis is three rooms wide, housing the front residence and the rear residence.

The Dongrong Garden complex is large and well-planned. The brick-and-wood structures feature carvings on the central beams of the main hall's timber frame, while the main house's timber frame is made of lesser materials. The doors and windows are meticulously crafted, and the brick-carved gatehouse is exquisitely carved. The gatehouse's neatness, the hall's spaciousness, and the exquisite partitions are breathtaking.

Climate and best time to travel

Boasting a subtropical monsoon climate, Dongrong Garden is a magnificent mansion. Its towering gatehouse, despite having weathered centuries of wind and rain and generations of vicissitudes, still stands tall. It's a pleasant place to visit in all seasons.

Recommended number of days and locations for visiting

Dongrong Garden has a strong historical and cultural atmosphere and is magnificent. It is a typical private residence of a salt merchant and is worth a visit.

It is recommended to play for about 1 hour.

Tickets

free

Attraction opening hours

Exterior open all day

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Most Popular FAQs for Dongrong Garden

What is the history and significance of this attraction/city?

Dongrong Garden is a traditional Chinese garden in Yangzhou, designed to reflect harmony between nature and human creativity. It showcases elements of classical Chinese garden design, with ponds, rockeries, and elegant architecture. The garden's historical significance lies in its role as a cultural and aesthetic symbol of Yangzhou’s rich heritage.

Where is it located and how do I get there (metro, bus, taxi, walking)?

Dongrong Garden is located in Yangzhou, Jiangsu Province. It is accessible by taxi, bus, or private car. The city center is a short distance away, and walking is also a pleasant option if you're exploring other nearby attractions like Slender West Lake.

What are the opening hours and best times to visit?

The garden is open from 7:00 AM to 6:00 PM daily. The best times to visit are early morning or late afternoon, as the garden is less crowded and the temperatures are more comfortable during these hours.

What is the entrance fee/ticket price, and how to buy tickets (online/offline)?

The entrance fee is typically around ¥30-50. Tickets can be purchased on-site or online through various travel platforms.

Do I need to book tickets in advance, and how far in advance?

Booking tickets in advance is optional but recommended, especially during peak seasons. You can book tickets a few days in advance to guarantee entry.

How much time is needed to fully explore it?

You can explore Dongrong Garden in about 1–2 hours, depending on your pace and how much time you spend photographing the surroundings.

What are the must-see highlights or main areas inside?

The must-see highlights include the main pond surrounded by willow trees, the traditional pavilions, and the rockeries that are carefully arranged to represent natural landscapes. The garden’s symmetry and scenic beauty are key features to appreciate.

Are guided tours or audio guides available (and in which languages)?

Guided tours may be available in Mandarin. Audio guides are not commonly offered, but you can hire a local guide for a more detailed experience if needed.

What are the best viewpoints or photography spots?

The best photography spots are near the ponds, especially where the traditional pavilions reflect in the water. The intricate designs of the garden’s bridges and the surrounding greenery also provide excellent photo opportunities.

What is the recommended route or itinerary inside?

Start at the entrance and make your way around the main pond, stopping to explore the smaller rockeries and pavilions. Finish by walking through the bamboo groves, enjoying the peaceful ambiance as you leave the garden.

Are night visits, light shows, or special tours available?

Night visits are possible, but there are no light shows or special tours available. The garden is beautifully lit in the evening, providing a peaceful atmosphere to enjoy the night scenery.

Is it crowded, and when are the least crowded times/days to visit?

The garden can be crowded during weekends and public holidays. To avoid the crowds, visit on weekdays, preferably in the morning or late afternoon.

What facilities are available (toilets, food, water, rest areas, shops)?

The garden has basic facilities such as toilets, resting areas, and small shops selling local snacks and souvenirs. There are no major restaurants within the garden itself.

Is the attraction accessible for elderly, children, or disabled visitors?

The garden is generally accessible, with paved paths and some benches for resting. However, some areas may have uneven ground, which might pose challenges for elderly or disabled visitors.

Is cash needed or are cards/mobile payments accepted?

Cash, as well as mobile payments like Alipay and WeChat Pay, are commonly accepted. Credit cards are less likely to be accepted at smaller shops or vendors.

What restaurants or cafes are available inside or nearby?

There are several local restaurants and tea houses near the garden, offering Yangzhou-style cuisine. Popular dishes include Yangzhou fried rice and local dumplings.

Are there vegetarian/vegan/halal food options?

Vegetarian options are widely available at many local restaurants. Halal food options can be found in specific restaurants catering to Muslim visitors, although they are less common in the immediate area.

What hotels or accommodations are close to the site?

There are various hotels close to Dongrong Garden, ranging from budget to mid-range options. Luxury hotels near Slender West Lake are also within a short distance of the garden.

What other attractions or landmarks are nearby and easy to combine in a day trip?

Nearby attractions include Slender West Lake, the Daming Temple, and Yangzhou Museum. All of these can be easily combined into a full day of sightseeing in Yangzhou.

Are there souvenir shops and what are the typical souvenirs?

There are souvenir shops selling local handicrafts, traditional tea sets, and embroidered items. Yangzhou is famous for its silk products, which make for a great souvenir.

What are the best transportation options to continue the trip after visiting?

After visiting Dongrong Garden, taxis or buses are readily available. The city has an efficient public transportation network, and Yangzhou’s tourist sites are well connected.