Has anyone heard of the Garden Of Happiness. Even I had not heard of until I visited Yu Garden in Shanghai, China. Yu is a Chinese word that means happiness. So, Yu Garden stands for the Garden Of Happiness.
Yu Garden, also known as Yuyuan Garden, is not just a garden, it is a treasure trove of heritage and cultural wealth. Believed to be built during Ming Dynasty, Yu Garden is exquisite and oozes out an aura of mystic. I felt truly happy and a sense of inner peace prevailed in me while I was strolling in Yu Garden. May be my happiness had something to do with the name, the garden of happiness.
Located in the center of Shanghai’s old city area, Yu Garden is spread over five acres. Its unparalleled beauty and historical significance have made Yu Garden one of the main highlights of Shanghai. There are many attractions to be explored in the garden. Within Yu Garden there are halls and chamber serving specific purpose. Centuries old exclusive items are on display in different halls. There is one inner garden, too, with many ponds and pavilions. Halls are separated by fabulous dragon shaped partitions. All spots are architectural delights. I was spellbound while looking at the mammoth Grand Rockery with winding caves, cliffs and gorges.
Lot of activities and exhibitions are held in Yu Garden, regularly. The day I visited Yu Garden, there was a show of classical music scheduled for the evening. I decided to attend that. Artists in traditional attire playing on musical instruments, touched my heart. Whole experience was enthralling.
Around Yu Garden there are many shopping streets selling handicraft items, souvenirs and many food stalls offering local delicacies. Chinese handicraft items are beautiful, colorful and not very expensive. Even a person like me, not really into shopping, indulged in shopping there as I am very fond of handmade items. Though I wanted to try some local food but not very sure of vegetarian items, I eventually set for local fruits. Anyway I like fruits more than cooked food so relished eating those.
I was fascinated with the feel of exotic and old world charm of Yu Garden. My one liner here, when visiting Shanghai you must include Yu Garden in your itinerary, you will love the experience.
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