Baicao Garden in Shaoxing is a beautiful and peaceful spot, perfect for nature lovers and photographers. Recommended activities include strolling through its lush gardens, exploring the traditional Chinese architecture, and enjoying the serene atmosphere by the ponds. You can also visit the herb gardens, which highlight the local medicinal plants and flora of Zhejiang.

Baicao Garden, located behind Lu Xun's former residence, covers an area of nearly 2,000 square meters. Many people know Baicao Garden from Lu Xun's "From Baicao Garden to Sanwei Bookstore." The main part of Baicao Garden, the Dayuan, still maintains its original appearance.
This was Lu Xun's childhood paradise, where he often played and frolicked, savored purple mulberries and sweet-sour raspberries, caught crickets and pulled Polygonum multiflorum near the low mud walls, enjoyed the coolness of the garden in the summer, and hunted birds in the snow in the winter. These childhood memories left a deep and beautiful impression on Lu Xun, and he still fondly remembered them in his later years.
Suitable for all seasons
Recommended play time: 1-2 hours
Free admission with ID card
8:30-17:00
Baicao Garden is famous for its collection of medicinal plants and herbs. It reflects the traditional Chinese approach to health and wellness through natural remedies. The garden is also a symbol of Zhejiang’s rich cultural and ecological heritage, blending natural beauty with local knowledge of traditional medicine.
Baicao Garden is located in Shaoxing, Zhejiang Province. It can be reached by taxi from the center of Shaoxing, or by bus from nearby areas. Walking is also a great option if you're staying close to the garden. There is no direct metro line, so public transport or taxis are the best options.
Baicao Garden is open from 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM daily. The best times to visit are during spring (March to May) and autumn (September to November), when the weather is pleasant and the garden is in full bloom. Weekdays tend to be quieter than weekends.
The entrance fee for Baicao Garden is typically around 20-30 CNY. Tickets can be purchased on-site at the entrance, but there are no common options for online booking. It’s best to check for any seasonal changes in pricing when planning your visit.
Booking tickets in advance is generally not necessary for Baicao Garden. However, during peak tourist seasons or local holidays, it’s a good idea to book tickets a few days in advance to avoid long lines.
To fully explore Baicao Garden, allow 1-2 hours. This will give you enough time to wander through the herb gardens, enjoy the scenic views, and relax by the ponds. If you’re a photography enthusiast, you may want to spend a bit more time capturing the beauty of the surroundings.
The must-see highlights include the herb garden, which showcases a variety of medicinal plants, and the traditional Chinese-style landscaping with ponds and bridges. The tranquil atmosphere of the garden and the well-maintained paths are perfect for leisurely walks.
Guided tours are available at Baicao Garden, typically in Mandarin. There are no specific audio guides, but guides can provide detailed information on the medicinal plants and the garden’s cultural significance. It’s best to arrange a tour in advance if you require a guide.
Some of the best photography spots in the garden include the ponds surrounded by lush greenery, the traditional pavilions, and the scenic pathways. The herb gardens also offer interesting perspectives, particularly for those interested in botanical photography.
A recommended route would start with a stroll through the main entrance, where you can explore the medicinal herb sections. Then, follow the garden’s scenic paths that wind through ponds and traditional structures. End your visit with some time to relax in the peaceful areas of the garden, such as the tea garden or by the small lakes.
Baicao Garden does not typically offer night visits or light shows. It is a daytime destination that focuses on the natural beauty and traditional design of the gardens. Special tours may be available on request for groups or during festivals.
Baicao Garden is generally not overcrowded. The least crowded times are during weekdays, especially in the morning before noon. Weekends and public holidays tend to be busier, so it’s best to visit on weekdays for a more peaceful experience.
Basic facilities are available at Baicao Garden, including toilets, rest areas, and water stations. There are also small shops selling souvenirs and snacks, but there is no full-scale restaurant inside the garden.
The garden is relatively accessible for elderly visitors and children, with paved paths and gentle slopes. However, some areas may be challenging for those with mobility issues due to uneven terrain or steps, particularly in the herb garden areas.
Cash is accepted at Baicao Garden, but mobile payments via WeChat Pay and Alipay are more commonly used. Credit cards are generally not accepted at smaller shops within the garden.
There are a few local restaurants and tea houses nearby where you can sample Zhejiang cuisine, including dishes like Shaoxing rice wine and local delicacies. However, there are no full-service restaurants inside Baicao Garden itself.
Vegetarian options are available in the local restaurants near Baicao Garden. Vegan and halal options might be more limited, so it’s a good idea to ask at the restaurant for specific dietary preferences.
There are several hotels in Shaoxing, ranging from budget accommodations to mid-range options. For a more luxurious stay, you can choose hotels in the city center, which are easily accessible from Baicao Garden.
Nearby attractions include the famous Shaoxing Water Town, the Orchid Pavilion, and the ancient Lu Xun Memorial. These can easily be combined into a day trip to explore more of Shaoxing’s culture and history.
There are small souvenir shops near the garden selling traditional Shaoxing items such as silk products, local teas, and handicrafts. The typical souvenirs include tea sets, embroidered goods, and small decorative items inspired by the garden’s theme.
After visiting Baicao Garden, you can easily continue your trip by taxi or local bus to nearby attractions. For longer trips, Shaoxing has a well-connected train station and bus terminals offering services to other parts of Zhejiang and beyond.