Location & Transportation

Chen Shan Plant Arboretum-Rose Garden sits in the southwest of Shanghai, nestled within the Chen Shan Plant Arboretum complex at 3888 Luhua Road, Songjiang District. To get there, take Metro Line 9 to Yonggu Road Station, then transfer to the Songjiang Tourism Bus (Line 3)—it’ll drop you right at the garden’s entrance. If you’re driving, punch “Chen Shan Botanical Garden” into your GPS; there’s a large parking lot for cars and bikes. The garden is a 15-minute walk from Sheshan National Forest Park, so you can combine both spots for a full day of nature-themed fun!

Natural Scenery: A Rose-Filled Wonderland

The Rose Garden explodes with color from spring to fall, especially in May, when thousands of roses bloom. Unlike ordinary gardens, it’s designed to show how roses look in different settings—some climb trellises, others spill from hanging baskets, and a few even grow in shaded nooks. You’ll spot arched flower frames, rose-covered pergolas, and walls dressed in vertical vines. The best part? The garden mixes roses with other plants like lavender and boxwood, creating layers of texture and scent. Don’t miss the “Rainbow Walk”, a winding path where roses transition from red to yellow to pink—it’s perfect for photos!

Cultural Touches: Art Meets Nature

While roses are the star, the garden sneaks in clever cultural details. Look for traditional Chinese moon gates framing rose arches, and modern metal sculptures that contrast with old-school stone vases. The layout blends Chinese landscaping principles (like winding paths and hidden corners) with European-style symmetry. Even the plant labels are stylish—each one’s a mini-artwork with drawings of the rose’s petals or leaves. It’s like a botanical museum where everything’s alive!

Practical Tips: What to Bring

  • Wear comfy shoes: The garden sprawls across hills, so expect some gentle hiking.
  • Bring sunscreen: Even on cloudy days, the sunlight bounces off the white roses.
  • Pack a picnic: There’s a shaded rest area with tables, but no food vendors inside.
  • Download the official app: It has a map and audio guides that explain rare rose species.

Family-Friendly Fun

Parents, rejoice! The garden has a kid-friendly zone with a sun-dial playground and a “mini rose garden” where toddlers can touch (and smell!) low-growing bushes. There’s also a butterfly house nearby, filled with flitting insects that love rose nectar. For older kids, the maze of clipped hedges near the entrance is a hit—just watch they don’t lose their hats in the tall grass!

When to Visit: Timing Is Everything

  • Morning (8 AM–10 AM): Fewer crowds, soft morning light for photos.
  • Late Afternoon (4 PM–6 PM): Golden hour turns roses into sunset-colored art.
  • Weekdays: Avoid weekend rushes if you hate tourist crowds.
  • Rainy Days: Surprisingly magical—raindrops make the roses glow, and fewer people!

Bonus: Nearby Attractions

After the roses, walk 10 minutes to Sheshan Hill, a sacred Taoist site with a centuries-old tower. Or hop a bus to Jiu Ting Market in Songjiang Old Town for snacks like xiaolongbao (soup dumplings) and hongshao rou (red-cooked pork).

The Chen Shan Plant Arboretum-Rose Garden isn’t just about flowers—it’s a lesson in how art, culture, and nature can blend seamlessly. Whether you’re a rose aficionado or just looking for a peaceful escape, this garden will leave you smiling (and maybe sniffing your phone’s camera lens for leftover rose scent… don’t deny it!)