Location & How to Get There

Chen Shan Botanical Garden - Rare Plant Pavilion is tucked away in the southwestern corner of Shanghai, near the historic town of Sheshan. The address is 3888 Luxu Road, Songjiang District, right next to the Chen Lu Tower Highway. If you’re coming from downtown Shanghai, it’s about a 40-minute metro ride (take Line 9 to Songjiang University Town Station, then a short taxi or bus ride). By car, it’s a breeze—just follow the signs to Sheshan and look for the garden’s lush greenery. Parking is free, which is a nice bonus!

Natural Wonders: A Tropical Oasis

The heart of Chen Shan Botanical Garden - Rare Plant Pavilion is its massive greenhouse, packed with plants from every corner of the planet. Think towering palms, carnivorous pitcher plants, and flowers that look like they’re straight out of a sci-fi movie. One section mimics a tropical rainforest—hot and humid—while another feels like a dry desert with spiky succulents. My favorite? The “Butterfly Garden,” where colorful wings flutter around blooms. Pro tip: Visit on a sunny day, and you’ll see the plants truly come alive!

Cultural Highlights: Gardens with a Story

Beyond the greenhouse, the pavilion blends nature with Chinese tradition. Stroll through rock gardens inspired by Song Dynasty poetry or relax in pavilions overlooking lotus-filled ponds. There’s even a miniature replica of an ancient herb garden, complete with medicinal plants used in traditional Chinese medicine. It’s like stepping into a living museum, but with fresh air instead of stuffy exhibits.

Practical Perks: Food, Rest, and More

After exploring, grab a snack at the garden’s café, which serves decent coffee and snacks (try the green tea ice cream!). Families will love the kids’ play area, where little ones can dig for fossils or learn to plant seeds. The pavilion is also super stroller-friendly, with wide paths and plenty of shaded rest areas. Bonus: Free Wi-Fi in the visitor center, so you can post those plant pics without eating into your data.

The Full Experience: What to Expect

A visit to Chen Shan Botanical Garden - Rare Plant Pavilion feels like a mini-adventure. Start in the greenhouse, where the humidity hits you like a wave. Then wander the outdoor gardens, snap photos of bizarre plants (like the “corpse flower” if you’re lucky), and end with a quiet moment by the koi pond. Bring comfy shoes—there’s a lot to see! And check the seasonal events: They often host night-time flower shows or orchid festivals that light up the pavilion like magic.

Whether you’re a plant nerd, a casual visitor, or traveling with kids, this spot has something quirky and relaxing. Just remember: The best photos are early morning or late afternoon, when the light shines through the glass roof!