
Yangzhou Chen Garden, located next to Ganquan Town in the northern suburbs of Yangzhou, was invested and built by Yangzhou folk collectors. Over a period of ten years, ancient houses were transported back from Anhui, Shanxi and other places and re- " assembled " into a garden in Yangzhou.
The garden lies quietly on the farmland, a tranquil and peaceful paradise. Deep courtyards, whitewashed walls and black tiles, towering ancient trees, winding paths, and Ming and Qing dynasty-style furniture, books, calligraphy, and paintings invite one to journey through time, engaging in a dialogue with history across time and space.
Chen Garden is mainly divided into three parts. One is the East Courtyard, known as the " Salt Merchant's Dream Garden " , which is mainly a museum that faithfully reproduces the life of salt merchants; another is the former residence of Gao Xiang, one of the Eight Eccentrics of Yangzhou, and the West Garden; and the third is Langyuan, which mainly houses the owner's collection of 17th-18th century European oil paintings.
Suitable for all seasons
Recommended playing time: less than 1 hour
50 yuan/person
8:30-17:00
Chen Garden was built during the Qing Dynasty and is renowned for its classical Chinese garden design. It showcases the traditional Chinese philosophy of harmony with nature and is one of the cultural gems of Yangzhou, attracting visitors with its historical architecture and beautiful landscapes.
Chen Garden is located in the central area of Yangzhou. It can be easily reached by taxi or bus from the city center. Walking is also an option if you're near Slender West Lake, which is about 20 minutes away on foot.
The garden is typically open from 8:00 AM to 5:30 PM. The best times to visit are early morning or late afternoon, as the weather is cooler, and there are fewer crowds.
The entrance fee is approximately ¥20-30 per person. Tickets can be purchased at the gate upon arrival or online through various travel platforms.
Booking tickets in advance is not necessary unless you are visiting during a busy season or public holiday. On-site ticket purchasing is generally sufficient.
To fully explore the garden, you will need about 1 to 2 hours. This gives you ample time to enjoy the landscaping, take photos, and relax in the tranquil environment.
Guided tours are available, and most guides speak Mandarin. Audio guides in English may also be available, depending on demand, but it's best to check ahead.
Start at the main entrance, wander along the central pond, and explore the rockeries and pavilions on either side. Conclude your visit with a stroll through the bamboo groves and find a quiet spot to relax.
Night visits are not common, but the garden is beautifully illuminated at night. It is best to visit during daylight hours to fully appreciate the beauty of the garden.
The garden can get busy on weekends and public holidays. To avoid the crowds, it is best to visit early in the morning or on weekdays.
There are toilets and rest areas within the garden. Food and drink are not widely available within the garden itself, but nearby cafes and shops offer refreshments.
The garden has some paved pathways, but there are also uneven surfaces, which might be challenging for elderly or disabled visitors. It's advisable to visit with assistance if needed.
Cash is accepted, but mobile payments (WeChat Pay, Alipay) are widely used. Credit cards are not typically accepted at the garden itself.
There are several traditional Chinese restaurants and small cafes near Chen Garden. Some serve local Yangzhou dishes like Yangzhou fried rice and soup dumplings.
Vegetarian options are available in most local restaurants, with vegetarian-friendly dishes such as stir-fried vegetables, noodles, and rice. Halal food is not commonly found in the area.
Yes, there are small souvenir shops around the garden, selling items like silk products, tea, and traditional Chinese crafts such as paper fans and calligraphy.
After visiting Chen Garden, taxis or buses are available to explore other attractions in Yangzhou. Alternatively, bike rentals are a great way to explore the city at your own pace.